Defective Clutch Release Bearing

The clutch release bearing separates the flywheel from the clutch disc. If the bearing is defective, it can cause two main problems: 1) The clutch disc will not be able to separate from the flywheel, enabling usage of only a single gear. 2) The clutch disc will disengage at random points while driving, cause the transmission to "slip".

Table of Contents

• 1. Symptoms
  • 1.1 Inability to change gears
  • 1.2 Transmission Slips

Symptoms

Inability to change gears

If no gear can engage, or if the vehicle is stuck on a single gear, the clutch release bearing may be the cause.

If no gear can engage, the release bearing may be stuck in the active position. This may also come from a problem in the linkage from the clutch pedal.

If the vehicle is stuck on a single gear, either the clutch pedal is not activating the release bearing, or the bearing is jammed and keeps the flywheel and clutch disc together.

Transmission Slips

If the clutch release bearing activates during driving without the clutch pedal being pressed, the transmission will separate from the engine. This will cause the engine rev up as it not longer has the clutch disc providing resistance. The speed, however, will not change.