Clutch Repair
How does a clutch work?
Although the term ‘clutch’ is usually associated with manual transmission cars, the clutch is present in automatic transmission vehicles as well. A clutch is needed in order to stop your car (stop the wheels from turning) without killing your engine. The clutch allows your car to smoothly engage a spinning engine to a non-spinning transmission by controlling the slippage between them.
A clutch works because of the friction between a clutch plate and a flywheel. The flywheel connects to the engine, and the clutch plate connects to the transmission. When your foot is off the pedal, springs push the pressure plate against the clutch disc, which in turn presses against the flywheel. This locks the engine to the transmission input shaft, causing them to spin at the same speed. When you press the clutch pedal to change gears, the pressure plate pulls back from the clutch plate, which then disconnects from the flywheel. If one or more of these parts is damaged or worn out, your clutch will not work properly. We at Woody's Auto Center can identify what the issue with your clutch is and repair it as efficiently as possible.
These days, clutches can last for many miles in normal driving conditions. Clutches on trucks that regularly carry heavy loads, however, can wear out much faster.
How do I know if my vehicle needs a clutch repair?
If your clutch is worn out or broken, you may require a clutch replacement. Some symptoms of a broken or worn-out clutch include:
- Strange noises when the clutch pedal is pressed.
If you hear grinding noises when you press your clutch pedal, this indicates the clutch is faulty or damaged or there is a low level of fluid in your vehicle.
- The clutch feels soft while pressing.
Because the clutch assembly is heavy, it should require some force to press the clutch pedal. If it is easier than usual to press the clutch pedal, there is an issue with your clutch.
- The clutch feels like it’s slipping.
If the clutch fails to engage even when the pedal is pressed fully, there is a problem. You may notice that the engine RPM is rising but the car is not going any faster. If you continue to press the clutch with no result, the other parts of your engine can overheat, causing more significant damage.
- The clutch pedal feels hard.
If the pedal feels hard and you have a hard time shifting gears, there is likely a problem with your vehicle’s hydraulic system.
If you are experiencing issues with your clutch, it is best to bring your car to a technician who can run a diagnostic test and efficiently make the pertinent repairs. If you are in the Columbia area or nearby, you can bring your car to Woody's Auto Center. In addition to clutch repair, we also offer other services such as Auto Repair, Engine Repair, and ongoing scheduled maintenance.
If you notice any of these signs in your vehicle, come to Woody's Auto Center in Columbia as soon as you can! Our Quality technicians will take a detailed look into your timing belt and resolve the issues you may be experiencing with your vehicle.
Your Reliable Shop for Clutch Repair
Serving communities in Boone County,Columbia, Pierpont, Prathersville, Deer Park, Midway and surrounding areas since 1957, our expertly trained and ASE certified technicians and owner Devin Kelley have a vast amount of knowledge on different types of engines and we provide thorough, high-quality service that will get you back on the road as soon as possible. :
- Locally owned and operated since 1957
- Only OEM and OEM-approved parts/components
- Shuttle on all services, loaner on major service, free towing (limited)
- We have a review score of 5 based on reviews from hundreds of satisfied customers.
- Comfortable, COVID-safe Waiting Area
If you are in the 65201 area or nearby, we’d love to see you stop by. Feel free to schedule an appointment with us online or give us a call at (573) 875-1442 today!

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We Are a Digital Shop
Our technicians use the latest technology to not only tell you if there are any problems with your vehicle, but show you. If we uncover an issue, we’ll email a photo of it to you for your review. At the end of every visit you’ll receive a detailed report regarding the general health of your vehicle. Our #1 goal is to keep you safe on the road.
Our Digital Shop puts clear communication in the palm of your hand!