A clutch replacement is one of the bigger jobs on a manual car. It is not something you want to put off too long once the signs start showing. Here is what the work involves and what you can expect to pay.
How much does a clutch replacement cost?
On the Gold Coast, clutch replacement at an independent workshop typically starts from around $900 and can go up to $3500 or more depending on the vehicle. The main factors that affect the price are:
- The make and model of your car (some are significantly more labour-intensive than others)
- Whether you need a full kit including pressure plate and release bearing, or just the clutch disc
- Whether the flywheel needs machining or replacing at the same time
- The brand and quality of parts used
Getting to the clutch requires removing the gearbox, which is a significant amount of labour. For this reason, it is worth replacing the full clutch kit while the gearbox is out, rather than just doing the minimum and risking having to pull it all apart again in the near future.
What are the signs my clutch needs replacing?
- Slipping: the engine revs rise but the car does not accelerate in proportion
- A burning smell when driving, particularly on hills or when pulling away from a stop
- Difficulty getting the car into gear or gears crunching
- The clutch pedal sitting very high or very low compared to normal
- Vibration or juddering when moving off from a standstill
If any of these sound familiar, it’s recommended to get a diagnosis, before the clutch possibly completely fails. A slipping clutch can get worse quickly.
How long does a clutch replacement take?
Most clutch replacements take between 4 and 8 hours of labour. We will give you an accurate time estimate based on your specific vehicle when you contact us. In many cases, the job can be completed within a day.
Can you inspect my clutch first?
Yes. If you are not sure whether your clutch needs replacing or just an adjustment, text or call us to book a diagnosis. We will check the clutch, give you an honest assessment and quote the job properly before any work starts.
Clutch Hydraulics
Along with the mechanical side of the clutch, to make it work from the clutch pedal it is done via a cable or more commonly hydraulics which will incorporate the Clutch Master Cylinder, hoses, pipes, Clutch Slave Cylinder and sometimes a Clutch Dampener. These components can also contribute to clutch related issues.
