Clutch replacement cost

Clutch replacement is a much more common repair in the UK and Europe than in the US, because far more cars there have a manual gearbox. This guide is about manual cars. A conventional automatic has no clutch pedal and no clutch of this kind; some automatic-style gearboxes, such as dual-clutch types, do have clutches, but the job and price are different, so ask a specialist.

Price at a glance

Why the flywheel can raise the bill

The clutch presses against the flywheel, which is bolted to the engine. On many cars, especially diesels, it is a dual-mass flywheel (DMF): two discs with springs between them that soak up engine vibration. A DMF wears out too, and it is far more expensive than a simple solid flywheel.

• If the flywheel is in good condition, it can often be reused.
• If it is cracked, warped or badly worn, it should be replaced at the same time, because the gearbox is already out. ClickMechanic says this can add several hundred pounds.
• In FixMyCar's UK booking data, replacing a clutch and a dual-mass flywheel together cost about ≈ $1,400£1,083≈ €1,200≈ A$2,100 on average, compared with about £671 for a clutch alone.

A worn DMF can feel like a worn clutch: rattling or knocking at idle, or vibration when you pull away. Ask the garage to check it and tell you before they quote, so you are not surprised later.

Signs your clutch is wearing out

• Slipping. The engine revs rise but the car does not speed up to match, often uphill or under hard acceleration.
• High biting point. The clutch only bites near the top of the pedal travel.
• Pedal feels wrong. Spongy, soft, sticking or harder to press than usual.
• Trouble changing gear. Grinding or crunching, or a gear that goes in with the engine off but not with it running.
• Burning smell. A sharp, sweet burning smell after heavy traffic or hill starts; see burning smell from your car.

A clutch often lasts around 60,000 miles100,000 km. RepairPal, quoted by Synchrony, says some last 100,000 miles160,000 km. How you drive matters more than the number on the odometer.

What pushes the price up or down

• Your car. In UK booking data, average prices range from about £604 for a Toyota to about £899 for a Renault. Vans, 4x4s, SUVs and premium cars usually cost more.
• The flywheel. Adding a dual-mass flywheel added about £400 to the average UK bill in FixMyCar's data.
• Where you go. Dealers and specialists usually charge higher hourly rates than independent garages.
• Parts. Original-brand clutch kits cost more than good aftermarket ones.
• Extras. A new release bearing, clutch slave cylinder or hydraulic fluid may be added. Ask whether they are included.

How to avoid overpaying

1. Get two or three written quotes for your exact car, and ask whether they include a new flywheel.
2. Ask whether the quote includes the release bearing. It is usually sensible to replace it while the gearbox is out.
3. If a new flywheel is recommended, ask why. Ask to see the old one, or the measurement that shows it is worn.
4. Do not wait for it to fail completely. A clutch that gives up leaves you stranded and may mean a tow on top of the repair.

DIY or garage?

How to make a clutch last

• Do not rest your foot on the pedal while driving.
• Use neutral and the handbrake at long stops instead of holding the car on the clutch.
• Use the handbrake for hill starts rather than slipping the clutch.
• Change gear smoothly and fully press the pedal each time.
• Buying a used manual car? Test the biting point and check for slipping; our used car checklist covers the rest.