In cars with a hydraulic clutch, the flexible clutch hose is a major component of the system. Any time you press the clutch pedal of your car, the job of the flexible clutch hose is to deliver the necessary hydraulic liquid and pressure.
However, while depressing the clutch pedal or while shifting gears, if you hear noises, or find that the clutch is not springing back up, it could indicate a problem with the flexible clutch hose.
Some examples of car models that have a flexible clutch hose include:
- Honda CR-V
- 2009 GMC Sierra 1500
- 2009 Volvo S40
- 2011 Saab 9-4X
- 2006 Mini Cooper
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML550
- 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG
- 2011 Audi S5
- 2008 Chevrolet Aveo
It is important to note that the issue could be caused by problems with other components of the transmission system. Instead of second guessing the issue, or simply ignoring it, having your car checked up by a trained mechanic could help you avoid potential damage or a breakdown in the future.
Here are 4 Indications of a Bad Flexible Clutch Hose
The clutch hose is responsible for sending the hydraulic fluid and pressure to the clutch system whenever the clutch pedal is depressed.
The big advantage of a flexible clutch hose is that it can move in different directions. While most clutch hoses are designed to withstand the pressures of routine wear and tear, over time they do wear out and lead to problems. Here are 4 signs your clutch hose needs to be checked:
- Insufficient Transfer of Pressure and Hydraulic Fluid
You will notice that if all is well, any time you press the clutch pedal, it offers firm resistance and operates smoothly. A bad flexible clutch hose will offer little or no resistance.
- If there is a leak in the clutch hose, it could disrupt the transfer of fluid and pressure to the clutch system.
- A large enough leak or loss of fluid could easily impact the transfer of the required amount of pressure and hydraulic liquid to the clutch systems.
- Problem with Shifting Gears
Difficulty in shifting gears is one of the first possible indications that you have a bad flexible clutch hose. Two indicators of a compromised or leaking flexible clutch hose:
- One, is that it will not be able to transfer the clutch fluid, leading to difficulties in shifting gears. This means you will have trouble going forward or backward.
- Two, it could also lead to the transmission grinding any time you try to shift gears.
- The Clutch Pedal is Stuck to the Floor
Another important indication that the flexible clutch hose is unable to transfer the required fluid and pressure to the clutch system is when the following happens:
- Your clutch pedal is unable to spring back up.
- Low fluid in the master/slave cylinder could be a potential factor for this to happen.
- Insufficient Level of Clutch Fluid
Low clutch fluid is a major factor behind problems with a flexible clutch hose. As mentioned earlier, although the clutch hose is designed to withstand normal pressures of vehicle running, the rubber of the hose could wear-out over time. Here’s what you should know if this is the case:
- The leaky clutch hose will require either some repair work or it might have to be replaced completely.
- Once the repair/replacement is over, it will have to be filled with the clutch fluid for it to start functioning normally.
- If this is not done in a timely manner, the leaky hose could easily damage the clutch system, since the system cannot work without the required fluid and pressure quantity.
- A periodic check of the flexible clutch hose is one of the best ways of preventing any future damage.
Think Right, Do Right
If your car is equipped with a hydraulic clutch system, ensuring the flexible clutch hose is in prime working condition is crucial to the running of the entire clutch system.
If you notice any of the above-mentioned issues with your clutch hose, get your car inspected by a professional mechanic. Timely repairs and servicing can help improve the longevity of your car and save you hefty repair costs in the future.
Accurate Service Will Not Fail You
Our team of outstanding mechanics at Accurate Service in Tucson are trained and equipped to help you identify the exact problem with the flexible clutch hose and determine if the flexible clutch hose needs to be repaired or replaced. Give us call today at (520) 620-9129 or schedule an appointment online!
Accurate is the best in the business!