December is here, which means winter officially begins this month. While we don’t get as cold in Phoenix as they do in other parts of the country, temperatures still drop, and that can not only impact you, it can play a role on how your vehicle handles as well. The weather can play a major part in how your vehicle operates and different components can be affected. The clutch is a vital part of any vehicle. It is the link between the engine and the transmission, which means it is task with many jobs in all vehicle’s everyday workings. Does colder weather affect your clutch?
Remind me, what is the clutch and why should I care about it?
If you have a manual transmission, you are likely more familiar with your vehicle’s clutch than those with an automatic transmission. Automatic and manual transmissions, all have a clutch; however, your interaction with the clutch, or lack thereof, will vary based on the type you have.
A clutch is a mechanical device that engages and disengages power transmission in your vehicle. The clutch acts as a mechanical linkage between the engine and transmission; and briefly disconnects, or separates the engine from the transmission system; therefore, the drive wheels, whenever the pedal is depressed, allowing the driver to smoothly change gears.
To put it simply, the clutch essentially transfers rotational power from the engine to the wheels. They also play significant roles in shifting, stopping, and turning the car or truck off. For instance, when you brake, the clutch temporarily breaks the connection between the engine and the wheels.
Does colder weather affect the clutch, and if so, how?
While there are common vehicle clutch issues that can occur at any time, brisk cold air can bring a new slew of problems. Colder weather can affect your clutch. If you notice your car, truck, or SUV struggling to shift gears or notice other new problems with the clutch, these ailments may be a symptom of the weather change.
Just like all of us may move a little slower when it’s cold outside, so may your clutch. Colder weather can cause vehicle fluids to become thicker and just simply cause components to work differently. If you have noticed your clutch acting up when the weather changes, let your vehicle run awhile and warm up and see if that resolves the issue. If not, a Phoenix automotive clutch repair expert can help you diagnose and resolve the problem.
Some common colder weather clutch issues include: having a difficulty shifting gears, struggling to shift in and out of reverse, or noticing a problem with your clutch becoming worse. The most frequent clutch problems we see all year round can be elevated when the weather becomes colder. Some of those include:
- Wear and Tear: With time and use, your clutch can wear out. The most common vehicle clutch problem is the material on the disc wearing out due to constant friction. The cold weather and use can speed up that process.
- Cable Issues: If your car has a cable-operated clutch and you find that the gears are difficult to engage, the pedal action is stiff, or there is any sign that the clutch pedal is reluctant to come back up again, then the chances are that the clutch cable is damaged (How A Car Works).
- Leaking Fluid: Your vehicle’s fluids are important, so anytime there is a leak, it is a signal that something isn’t right, and if not fixed immediately, larger problems are looming. If you notice leaky fluid around your clutch, visit a Phoenix auto repair shop right away.
- Slipping: When you release the clutch pedal, and your vehicle continues to rev higher, this may be a sign of your clutch pedal slipping. A slipping clutch is the result of friction that wears away at your clutch, so it has difficulty fully engaging. While your vehicle may still be drivable, this can lead to larger clutch and vehicle issues down the road.
- Loose or Hard Clutch Pedal: If you notice a difference in the feel when pressing your clutch, whether it seems less or more resistant, there is likely some type of problem with your clutch. These problems can be caused by numerous reasons and you should not try to self-diagnose.
Does colder weather affect your clutch? The answer is, yes, it can. The weather can play a part in your overall vehicle operation.
Advanced Transmission & Emissions has been Phoenix, AZ’s clutch repair leader for over 30 years. Our clients have trusted us to repair the clutch in their vehicle. With a knowledgeable and experienced team of licensed mechanics who have the right tools and equipment, you can feel confident that your automobile clutch repair service will be handled quickly and effectively.
As the area’s premier clutch repair shop, we guarantee that we’ll beat any other written repair quote in the valley. Ensure that your vehicle continues to provide you with reliable transportation. Contact our team today to get started with a free estimate.
