Causes of clutch throwout bearing to break

1. Bad driving habits

   - Prolonged half-linkage: Keeping the clutch in half-linkage for a long time makes the bearing bearings under extra pressure and wear.

   - Improper operation of the clutch pedal: frequent pedalling or excessive force, causing impact and wear on the bearing.

2. Installation and maintenance problems

   - Improper installation: improper adjustment of the free travel of the clutch pedal or inaccurate installation position, resulting in abnormal wear.

   - Lack of lubrication: Insufficient lubrication or deterioration of lubricant accelerates bearing damage.

   - Inadequate maintenance: Neglect of regular inspection and maintenance, resulting in excessive wear or damage.

3. Quality problems

   - Bearing quality problems: manufacturing defects such as poor materials, inadequate machining accuracy, etc., resulting in early damage.

   - Mismatch of fittings: Use of mismatched or unqualified fittings adversely affects the bearings.

4. Other factors

   - Overloading or bad road conditions: overloading or bad road conditions increase the vehicle load and vibration, causing extra pressure and wear on the bearings.

   - Excessive use time: Long-term use leads to increased wear and tear of the bearing and eventual failure.

 Clutch release bearing damage judgement method

1. Listen to the sound

   - Strange sound: when depressing the clutch pedal, you can hear ‘rustling’ sound or metal friction sound, especially in the half linkage position.

   - If the sound disappears after the clutch is continuously depressed, it may not be a bearing failure; if the sound persists, the release bearing may be damaged. 

2. Observe the shifting condition

   - Difficulty in shifting gears: when the release bearing is seriously damaged, it may lead to difficulty in putting the clutch into gear and unsmooth shifting.

3. Check the clutch release effect

   - Incomplete separation: Damaged release bearing leads to contact between clutch disc and flywheel, power transmission is not smooth, and the vehicle slips when starting or shifting gears.

4. Professional Inspection

   - Measurement of axial clearance: Use professional tools to measure the axial clearance of the bearing, which needs to be replaced if it exceeds the specified value (e.g. 0.60mm).

   - Inner seat ring wear check: check the inner seat ring wear, more than the specified value (such as 0.30mm) need to be replaced.

5. Comprehensive judgement

   - Combined with the use of the vehicle: Consider the mileage, use time and the overall condition of the clutch system.

   - Professional Consultation: If you are unable to make a judgement on your own, it is recommended that you consult a professional repairer or mechanic.

 Clutch Release Bearing Replacement Costs

 Estimated basic cost

1. Domestic models

   - Approximately RMB 1,200 to 1,600.

   - Professional garages: RMB 900 to RMB 1200.

2. Imported models

   - Approx. RMB 1,600 to 2,200.

 Parts and Labour Costs

1. Spare parts

   - Release bearing: RMB 50 to 100.

   - Complete clutch three-piece kit (pressure disc, friction disc and bearing three-piece kit): RMB 300 to 500.

2. Labour hour charges

   - Labour hour charge varies with workshop pricing and regional differences, usually around RMB 800.

 Other potential costs

1. Additional maintenance costs

   - Additional system checks or repairs may be required when replacing the release bearing, and the cost will increase.

2. Regional differences

   - Repair costs vary from region to region and may be slightly higher in first-tier cities.

 Recommendations and precautions for clutch release bearing replacement

1. Choose a regular workshop

   - Consult a number of workshops to understand the quotation and service quality, and ensure the use of parts from regular channels to ensure the quality of repair and driving safety.

2. Regular inspection and maintenance

   - Regular inspection and maintenance of the clutch system, timely replacement of worn parts to ensure that the clutch works properly.

In summary, the cost of replacing the clutch release bearing varies according to many factors. It is recommended to estimate the cost according to the specific situation and choose a regular workshop for repair.

In conclusion, the causes of clutch release bearing damage include bad driving habits, installation and maintenance problems, quality problems, and other factors such as overloading, poor road conditions, and excessive use. Judgement methods include listening to the noise, observing the shift situation, checking the release effect and professional inspection. Replacement cost varies depending on the model, quality of parts and repair location, about 1,200-1,600 yuan for domestic models and 1,600-2,200 yuan for imported models. It is recommended that you choose a regular workshop and have your clutch system inspected and maintained regularly.