Throw out bearing (clutch release bearing) is an important part of the automotive clutch system, which is located between the clutch pressure plate and the flywheel, and its main function is to ensure that the clutch can be smoothly engaged and disengaged. When the driver depresses the clutch pedal, the throw out bearing pushes the pressure plate backwards, thus separating the clutch from the engine.

 Common Symptoms of Throw Out Bearing Damage

The clutch throw out bearing is an important component in manual transmission cars that is responsible for temporarily separating the engine from the drivetrain during clutch operation. When there is a problem with this bearing, it will exhibit the following symptoms:

1. Abnormal sound

   - When the clutch is depressed: A distinct noise such as a clicking, squeaking or grinding sound may be heard; these sounds usually stop when the pedal is released.

   - Persistent noise: Even when the clutch is not being operated, a bad release bearing may produce a persistent abnormal rattling noise, especially noticeable when putting the gears in or changing gears.

2. Pedal Vibration

   - During clutch operation: The driver may feel an additional vibration in the pedal, especially when depressing or releasing the clutch pedal.

3. Difficulty in shifting gears

   - Difficulty in shifting gears: Due to incomplete disengagement, shifting gears may be obstructed, accompanied by friction sound between gears.

   - Noise during shifting: During shifting, the sound of gears grinding may be heard, indicating that the clutch has not been completely disengaged.

4. Change in clutch pedal feel

   - Heavy pedal: The clutch pedal may become harder to depress than usual, or feel like there is extra resistance when depressed.

   - Change in pedal travel: The clutch pedal travel feels looser or tighter than usual, which may be a sign of a release bearing problem.

5. Incomplete clutch release

   - Difficulty shifting gears: If the clutch does not fully disengage when you try to shift gears, making it difficult to shift gears or making noise from the transmission, it could be a release bearing failure.

   - Difficulty starting: When starting, you may feel a stuttering sensation or difficulty starting the vehicle smoothly.

6. Clutch slipping

   - Slipping while driving: If the vehicle feels the clutch slipping while driving after the clutch is fully engaged, this may be a problem caused by a damaged release bearing. Slipping can result in engine power not being transferred to the wheels effectively, affecting acceleration and fuel economy.

 Response to Throw Out Bearing Damage

1. Initial inspection and judgement of the clutch release bearing

   - Observe the symptoms: Listen carefully for abnormal noises in the clutch area, noting their timing and sound characteristics.

   - Check Pedal Feeling: Check if the clutch pedal is heavy or stuck, and if there is any change in travel.

   - Feel the shift situation: feel the vehicle's power performance when shifting gears, and whether there is any powerlessness or scuttling phenomenon.

2. Professional Inspection and Repair of Clutch Release Bearing

   - Go to a professional repair shop: Send the vehicle to a professional auto repair shop for detailed inspection.

   - Disassembly and inspection: Have the clutch release bearing disassembled and inspected by a professional technician to determine its wear level and whether it is damaged.

   - Replacement of damaged parts: If the clutch release bearing is indeed worn or damaged, it should be replaced with a new one in time. At the same time, check and replace other worn parts related to the clutch release bearing, such as the clutch pressure disc and friction disc.

   - Adjust the clutch gap: after replacing the bearing, the clutch gap needs to be adjusted to ensure that the clutch can engage and disengage smoothly. During the adjustment process, care should be taken to keep the clutch pedal stroke moderate and avoid too large or too small.

3. Clutch release bearing follow-up maintenance and precautions

   - Regular maintenance: Carry out regular maintenance on the vehicle, including checking the working condition of the clutch system. Replace worn parts in time to extend the service life of the clutch and transmission system.

   - Pay attention to driving habits: avoid prolonged semi-linkage or excessive use of the clutch to reduce the wear of the clutch and release bearing. Pay attention to the timing and strength of gear shifting to avoid excessive impact on the clutch and release bearing.

   - Keep clean and lubricated: Keep the clutch area clean to avoid mud and debris from entering the bearing. Regularly check and add the right amount of lubricant to keep the bearing lubricated.

In summary, when the clutch release bearing shows any of the above symptoms, the owner should go to a professional repair shop as soon as possible for testing and repair. At the same time, pay attention to maintain good driving habits and regular maintenance of the vehicle, in order to extend the service life of the clutch and transmission system and to protect driving safety.