Let’s face it, no car, no matter how luxurious, is perfect. Each brand >and manufacturer is synonymous with a part failure or two that drivers simply need to be aware of. In the case of Mini, it is well known among motorists that premature clutch failure is common. A failed clutch is particularly prevalent with manual transmissions in Minis. It is most common in the Mini Coopers manufactured between 2002 and 2015. A failed clutch can be a dangerous part failure which should be fixed as soon as possible. In this article, we will explore some of the common signs of failure and learn whether you should undertake home repairs or seek professional maintenance.
What is the clutch?
The clutch is one of the simplest systems of your Mini. The clutch connects power from the engine to the wheels. When gears are shifted, the clutch stops the engine for a split second, which allows the change to happen.
Home Fix or Professional Repairs
While the clutch is a simple system, it does have an essential role to play,and failure should not be overlooked. However, when it comes to repairing your clutch, unless you have mechanical experience or are confident in DIY, repairs really aren’t worth undertaking at home.
There are many different ways in which your clutch can fail, with some symptoms needing simple repairs and other total replacement. You could end up spending more money on unneeded parts, replacements,and your own labor than what a quality mechanic would charge you. Home fixes also mean there is a higher chance that your repairs were unsuccessful. A broken clutch can be very dangerous, as it dramatically reduces your Mini’s overall safety. It changes the way you can drive your car, making your Mini feel unpredictable and it can act as a distraction, which can cause accidents. Because of the above reasons, you should seek professional repairs for your clutch problems.
Repair or Replace
If you are set on attempting a home repair, or just want to get clued up on what might be the problem, then the next thing you need to know is when your clutch needs repairing and when it needs replacing.
A clutch is repairable if it:
- Struggles shifting gears
- Grinds the transmission when shifting gears
- Has a loose feeling pedal
- Has an under responsive pedal
- Rattles when the vehicle is in neutral and the pedal is lifted
Your clutch will have to be replaced if:
- Your Mini’s engine is revving excessively as you accelerate
- Your engine is slow to activate when the clutch is lifted
- Your Mini won’t move when the clutch is lifted
- Pressing the clutch pedal causes grinding noises
- The clutch vibrates when shifting
Causes of Clutch Failure
Knowing the causes of clutch failure will not only help you to prevent it from happening in the first place, but also help you to diagnose the problem quickly when it happens. The reasons listed below are the most common causes:
- Riding the clutch pedal too much
- Towing heavy loads
- Driving weighed down
- Spinning your tires
- Modified engines
- Worn out piston seals or piston sleak leaks
- Failure of the slave or master cylinder seals
- Leaking hydraulic fluid
- Clutch release mechanism failure
- Problems with the pivot fork
- Failed release bearing
- Failed pilot bushing
- Deterioration of the flywheel
Proper Maintenance
If you want to take an active role in the health of your car without resorting to repairs, then you should keep up with servicing and maintenance practices. Bringing your Mini to a trusted auto repair shopand perform weekly checks on the oil, coolant,and tire pressure. This will all make a huge difference in the longevity of not just your clutch but all the parts of your car.
Dart Auto
Dart Auto has been serving the communities 
of Englewood, Littleton, Centennial,and Denver, CO for many years. We specialize in servicing and repairing European cars such as your Mini and are dedicated to getting your vehicle back on the road as soon as possible. All work done is high-quality and thorough, and to prove this, we offer a 3-year/36,000 mile warranty as guarantee. Call our friendly team today to see how we can help you!
