Solve the Annoying Clicking Noise Problem in Your Clutch with These Tips

AvatarByCarl Frisch

Clutch making clicking noise is a common issue with manual transmission cars. It occurs when the clutch pedal is pressed and the car is in gear. The clicking noise is caused by worn out or damaged components in the clutch system, including the release bearing, flywheel, or pressure plate. It can also be caused by dirt and grime getting into the clutch system. The clicking noise can indicate a serious issue with the clutch system, so it’s important to have it inspected and repaired as soon as possible. In some cases, the issue may be minor and can be fixed with a simple adjustment to the release bearing. However, if there are other issues present, such as worn out parts or dirt in the system, then more extensive repairs may be necessary.

Automobile: Diagnosing a Clutch Making Clicking Noise

Clicking noises in a vehicle’s clutch can be an indication of a problem and should be checked out immediately. Diagnosing the source of the clicking noise can help you determine what action needs to be taken to address it. In this article, we will discuss the common causes of clutch clicking noises and how to diagnose them.

Excessive Wear of Clutch Components

Excessive wear of clutch components is one of the most common causes of a clutch making clicking noises. It is important to inspect all components for signs of wear and tear such as cracks, chips, or other damage. If any components are found with excessive wear, they should be replaced immediately in order to avoid further damage.

Sub-sub headings for this paragraph might include:
• Inspection for Signs of Wear
• Replacing Damaged Components

Loose Clutch Cable or Linkage

A loose clutch cable or linkage is another potential cause of a clutch making clicking noises. If the cable or linkage is too loose, it can cause rattling or other sounds as it moves around during shifting. To diagnose this issue, you should inspect the cable or linkage for signs of wear and tear and adjust it as necessary to ensure proper tension.

Sub-sub headings for this paragraph might include:
• Inspecting Cable and Linkage
• Adjusting Tension as Necessary

Worn Throw Out Bearing

The throw out bearing is responsible for disengaging the clutch when shifting gears. A worn throw out bearing can cause grinding or clicking noises when shifting gears, so it is important to inspect this component for signs of wear and tear. If the bearing appears worn or damaged, it should be replaced with an OEM-spec part in order to ensure proper function and performance.

Sub-sub headings for this paragraph might include:
• Inspecting Throw Out Bearing • Replacing Worn Parts With OEM-Spec Parts

Overheating Of The Flywheel

Overheating of the flywheel can also lead to clicking noises from the clutch due to heat expansion causing friction between components. To diagnose this issue, you should inspect the flywheel for signs of heat damage such as discoloration or warping. If any damage is found, replace the flywheel with an OEM spec part in order to restore proper operation and performance.

Sub-sub headings for this paragraph might include: • Inspecting Flywheel For Heat Damage • Replacing With OEM Spec Part

Worn Pilot Bearing Or Bushing

The pilot bearing or bushing can also cause clicking noises if it becomes worn over time due to friction between components during shifting operations. To diagnose this issue, you should inspect these components for signs of excessive wear such as cracks or chips in the material. If any damage is found, replace these parts with OEM spec components in order to restore proper function and performance.

Sub-sub headings for this paragraph might include: • Inspecting Pilot Bearing And Bushing • Replacing With OEM Spec Parts

Inspect the Flywheel for Warpage or Damage

When a clutch is making clicking noises, it is important to inspect the flywheel that is connected to the clutch. The flywheel can become warped over time due to wear and tear, and this can cause the clicking noise. It is also important to check for any damage such as cracks or chips in the flywheel. If any of these issues are present, then it is necessary to replace the flywheel.

Check for Excessive Play in the Linkage and/or Cable

Another cause of clicking noises when using a clutch can be due to excessive play in the linkage or cable that connects the clutch pedal to the transmission. If there is too much slack in either of these components, then it can cause a clicking noise when depressed. To remedy this issue, it may be necessary to adjust or replace either part depending on how severe the problem is.

Listen for Sounds from the Throw Out Bearing

The throw out bearing is responsible for separating the engine from the transmission when engaging and disengaging a clutch. If this bearing becomes worn out or damaged, then it may start making clicking noises as well. If this problem occurs, then it will be necessary to replace this component as soon as possible.

Check for Wear in Pilot Bearing or Bushing

Wear in either of these components can also lead to clicking noises when depressing a clutch pedal. The pilot bearing helps transfer power from the engine crankshaft to the transmission while bushing helps reduce vibration and act as shock absorbers during shifting gears. If wear occurs in either part, then replacing them may help reduce or eliminate clicking noises while using a clutch pedal.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What Causes a Clutch to Make Clicking Noise?
A: A clutch making clicking noise can be caused by excessive wear of clutch components, a loose clutch cable or linkage, a worn throw out bearing, overheating of the flywheel, or worn pilot bearing or bushing.

Q: How Do You Diagnose a Clutch Making Clicking Noise?
A: To diagnose a clutch making clicking noise, inspect the flywheel for warpage or damage, check for excessive play in the linkage and/or cable, listen for sounds from the throw out bearing and check for wear in pilot bearing or bushing.

Q: How Do You Troubleshoot a Clutch Making Clicking Noise?
A: To troubleshoot a clutch making clicking noise, replace any damaged flywheel if necessary.

Q: What Should Be Checked First When Diagnosing a Clutch Making Clicking Noise?
A: When diagnosing a clutch making clicking noise, inspect the flywheel for warpage or damage should be checked first.

Q: Is it Necessary to Replace the Flywheel If It is Damaged?
A: Yes, it is necessary to replace the flywheel if it is damaged when troubleshooting a clutch making clicking noise.

In conclusion, the cause of a clutch making clicking noise should be identified and addressed as soon as possible. Clutch problems can lead to costly repairs if they are not addressed in a timely manner. If the clicking noise is accompanied by a shuddering sensation or other symptoms of clutch failure, it is important to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic. Ignoring these warning signs can result in catastrophic damage to the clutch and other components of the vehicle.

Author Profile

Carl Frisch
Carl Frisch
With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics (at Palo Alto Bicycles) and later as a working partner in my own store.

As the shop owner of Spoke n’ Word Cycles in Socorro, NM, the success of the mission was my responsibility, which I pursued passionately since we opened in 2003 through the spring of 2011. I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.

As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigners, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.

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