Has your car’s clutch pedal been giving you trouble lately? It might be time for a clutch cable replacement service. In this article, we will explain what a clutch cable is, how it works, and what you can expect from a replacement service. Keep reading to learn more!
What is a Clutch Cable?
The gearbox of your car is connected to the clutch with a cable known as clutch cable. It’s this cable that transfers the power from the engine to the gearbox. When you press the clutch, the clutch cable interrupts the power transmission to the gearbox for a while until you choose the right gear. The main function of a clutch cable is to allow the smooth transitioning from one gear to another while you are driving.
The clutch cable is made of a steel-wire core which is encased in an outer shell. This cable can wear out and break due to the high pressure exerted on the clutch pedal. In such cases, you might need a clutch cable replacement.
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Why is Clutch Cable Replacement Required?
When the clutch cable of your car is not functioning properly, it can slip and prevent you from accelerating. If you continue driving with a broken or damaged clutch cable for too long, it can damage the complete clutch kit or result in injuries caused by sudden stopping. To ensure the smooth functioning of your car, you should get the clutch cable inspected during every routine maintenance check.
Sometimes, it might just need a slight adjustment. While some cars come with built-in automatic adjustment systems in the gearbox, for others, you will need a mechanic to manually adjust the cable.
When Should You Replace the Clutch Cable?
Every day a lot of pressure is exerted on the clutch which makes the clutch cable wear out. However as the cable is extremely elastic, the wearing is usually gradual. Due to this, sometimes the cable might abruptly snap and break. To avoid such situations, you should get the cable inspected during routine car service.
Ideally, a clutch cable should last you 2 years. In some situations, you might need to replace or adjust it before that. If the clutch pedal doesn’t respond without exerting a lot of pressure, it might be time for clutch cable replacement. Another indication is when the clutch cable doesn’t regain its position even after releasing the pressure. Also, if it’s getting difficult to shift the transmission, you should get your clutch cables checked.
How is it Done?
If you find any of the above issues with your car, you should take it to an expert mechanic. They can replace the clutch pedal in the following manner
- Raise the vehicle on jack stands
- Remove the defective cable from the transmission and clutch pedal
- Install a new cable and connect it to the transmission and clutch cable
- Adjust and exercise the clutch to avoid binding and allow smooth operation
- Remove the car from the jack stand
- Road test to ensure everything is working properly
Wrapping up
A faulty clutch cable makes accelerating a car difficult. To ensure your car is always running smoothly, get it thoroughly inspected by an expert mechanic regularly. You can hire expert mechanics from your city for clutch cable replacement and all other maintenance and repair work on Swezo.
