What does the clutch cable do?
In manual transmission vehicles, the clutch cable is what connects the clutch and transmission to the clutch pedal. When the clutch pedal is pressed down, the clutch cable pulls on the clutch and disengages it from the transmission system. This allows the driver to change gears without a problem.
The clutch cable is a steel braided cable that is designed to last a long time. However, it can be prone to snapping and breaking. When it breaks, there will be no connection between your clutch pedal and transmission system. This will result in your car being unable to engage or switch gears, rendering it undrivable until the problem is fixed.
Learn more about how a cable clutch system works
What can cause a snapped clutch cable?
- Bad clutch pressure plate – The clutch pressure plate applies pressure to the clutch, holding it against the flywheel. Sometimes, a bad or damaged pressure plate can put high levels of stress onto the clutch cable, leading to it snapping and breaking.
- Restricted movement – When a new clutch is installed, it should allow for a sufficient level of movement (or free play). If the free play is restricted, the clutch cable will regularly be put under high levels of pressure. This can lead to it breaking prematurely.
- Wear over time – Since the clutch cable is regularly put under pressure, it may eventually break due to wear. Taking care of your clutch will keep the cable in good condition, allowing it to last longer.
- Rust or corrosion – if the vehicle has been parked in long grass or any damp conditions where the clutch has not been used for a long period of time, then the clutch cable can seize up and the rust can weaken the clutch cable eventually accelerating its failure.
Common symptoms of a failing clutch cable:
When your car’s clutch cable begins to fail, you will notice the following symptoms. A failing clutch cable usually means it is under too much pressure and will eventually snap.
- Difficulty changing gears – When the clutch cable becomes too stretched, it can make it very difficult to change gears in the transmission. You may also struggle to be able to put the vehicle into first gear or reverse gear.
- Hard clutch pedal – Your clutch pedal may feel jammed, stuck or difficult to move. This will make it difficult to change gears. Continuing to apply pressure to the clutch pedal may cause the clutch cable to snap entirely.
Common symptoms of a snapped clutch cable:
- Clutch pedal sinks freely to the floor – When the clutch cable snaps, there will be no resistance when the pedal is pressed down. This will cause the clutch pedal to sink straight to the floor when pressed.
- Car will not change gears – When the clutch cable snaps, there will be no connection between the clutch pedal and the transmission. This will prevent you from being able to engage or change gears, making your vehicle undrivable.
Clutch Cable Replacement Service in Hamilton
Is your car in need of a clutch cable replacement? If so, we can help! At Grimmer Motors, our skilled mechanics can easily diagnose and install a new clutch cable in your manual transmission vehicle. This will restore clutch function to your vehicle, allowing you to smoothly change gears.
A snapped or damaged clutch cable can make your car very dangerous to drive. Therefore, it should be fixed as soon as possible. We can help with all clutch-related issues such as clutch cables, clutch discs and clutch hoses.
For new clutch cables in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!