The purpose of a vehicle clutch is to provide smooth shifting between gears. Usually, a clutch can last for over 70,000 km if the driver takes adequate care of it. However, clutches wear out much before that due to a few driving habits that aren’t healthy for the clutch. A worn-out clutch will make it hard to shift gears, and you will eventually have to replace it. Also, these driving habits can adversely affect your vehicle and repeatedly force you to call for Diesel Mechanics in Melbourne. Therefore, it’s better to recognise and correct such habits before they damage the vehicle. 

Below are the 8 driving habits responsible for killing your vehicle’s clutch-

Riding the Clutch

Riding the clutch can cause it  to wear out faster and eventually fail. It happens because it is partially engaged when you ride the clutch, causing friction between the clutch plate and flywheel. Over time, this friction can cause the clutch plate to wear out, reducing its ability to transmit power from the engine to the transmission. Riding the clutch can also damage the pressure plates, leading to failure. Here you will be forced to call for mobile truck repair in Melbourne to get it replaced.

Resting Foot on Clutch Pedal

Even if you’re not switching gears, resting your foot on the clutch pedal puts unnecessary pressure on it, which can cause premature wear and tear over time. Therefore, when driving, remember to  only use your foot when changing the gear. 

Quickly Changing Gears

When you abruptly engage gears without allowing enough time for the engine RPMs (Revolutions per minute) to adjust, you put too much strain on your vehicle’s transmission system, including its clutch plate. It can lead to severe damage over time. Ensure you allow enough time for engine RPM adjustments before changing gears for your transmission system (and your wallet) to thank you later. 

Not Using Both Feet

Not using both legs while operating a diesel truck can damage the clutch. By only using one leg to control the accelerator and brake pedals, the clutch is subjected to uneven pressure, causing excessive wear and tear. It can lead to a slipping clutch, decreased clutch life, and, eventually, clutch failure. A diesel truck mechanic in Melbourne can diagnose these issues and perform repairs or replacements of the clutch to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the vehicle. However, the operator needs to be mindful of their driving habits to prevent costly repairs and extend the life of the clutch.

Jerking Gear Shifts

Jerky gear shifts can cause significant damage to the clutch in a diesel truck. When shifting gears abruptly, the clutch experiences a sudden and forceful engagement, which can cause excessive wear on the clutch plate and pressure plate. Over time, this type of usage can lead to clutch failure. Diesel truck mechanics in Melbourne recommend smoothly engaging the clutch and shifting gears to extend the life of the clutch and prevent costly repairs. Abrupt shifting also places unnecessary stress on the transmission and drivetrain components, so it’s essential to follow proper shifting techniques to avoid damaging the truck’s mechanical components.

Overloading Car

Overloading a car can significantly impact the clutch, leading to wear and tear that can result in clutch failure. When a vehicle has a load beyond capacity, the clutch must work harder to transfer power from the engine to the transmission, which can result in excessive heat and friction. Over time, this can cause the clutch to slip, resulting in decreased performance and efficiency. Vehicle owners must load it within the capacity and regularly have it inspected by specialists from Mobile Truck Repair in Melbourne. During these inspections, the mechanic can assess the condition of the clutch and make any necessary repairs to ensure optimal performance and longevity. These precautions can minimise the risk of clutch failure and extend the vehicle’s life.

Poor Driving Conditions

Poor road conditions, such as potholes or bumps in roads, can increase stress on components like clutches over time if drivers do not take extra care while manoeuvering through them (such as taking routes with fewer bumps). Additionally, wet roads decrease traction, making it harder for drivers to control their cars. Therefore, increasing chances of placing extra strain upon certain parts within their vehicles due to sudden jerks made while manoeuvering through slippery surfaces.

Releasing Gas Too Early 

Releasing gas early during a shift causes an abrupt decrease in power supplied from engines onto transmissions & ultimately, clutches, leading towards premature wear & tear over time. Therefore, ensure that when shifting between gears, always let out just enough gas needed for engines to supply power smoothly onto transmissions, followed by a quick but gentle release afterwards. 

In a Nutshell

Taking adequate care while driving helps increase the life of your vehicle. We hope the article will help you eliminate such habits and extend the life of your vehicle. Also, remember to take regular inspections from diesel truck mechanics in Melbourne so you can nip the issues in the bud before they enlarge.