Clutch cable: functions, service and price

The clutch cable connects the clutch pedal to the clutch fork. When you depress the clutch pedal to disengage the clutch, it is this system that pulls out the clutch release bearing and activates the rest of the clutch kit. The clutch cable is usually changed at the same time as the clutch kit.

🚗 What is the clutch cable used for?

Le clutch cable included in the clutch kit. It consists of a sheathed metal cable. The role of the clutch cable is very simple: you can change gears while driving.

Indeed, the clutch cable allows the clutch pedal to be connected to fork... Thus, simply pressing the foot on the clutch pedal allows the cork grab who will click on Clutch disc : this is a grip.

Thus, thanks to the clutch cable, you can change gears without damaging Transmission... There are two types of clutch cables, depending on the vehicle model:

• Clutch cable with manual adjustment;
• Automatic clutch cable with constant play.

Manual clutch cable

To prevent constant contact between the clutch release bearing and the clutch disc, it is important to properly adjust the clutch free play. Indeed, the free play of the clutch is the adjustment of the play between the thrust bearing and the clutch disc.

To adjust it, all you have to do is screw or unscrew the adjusting nut, which changes the length of the clutch cable. Clutch play adjustment is checked at every service on your vehicle.

Automatic clutch cable with constant play

To make it easier to adjust the clutch cable free play, there are now spring-loaded ratchet cables. Thus, when you depress the clutch pedal, the latch locks onto the next notch to maintain the specified clearance.

Good to know : On the latest car models, it is not uncommon for the clutch cable to be replaced by hydraulic or robotic clutch control.

🗓️ What is the service life of the clutch cable?

The average service life of the clutch cable is 200 000 km, but keep in mind that it is possible that the latter will let you go earlier. Indeed, there are two main problems associated with clutch cable failure: jamming and breakage.

La clutch cable break this is the most common failure and, unfortunately, not uncommon. If this cable breaks, shifting will become impossible as you will no longer be able to disengage. Then your only solution is to replace the clutch cable yourself or with the help of a mechanic.

But this is not only a break, the clutch cable can also the procedure. This will happen gradually due to casing wear or water ingress. If it is not too tight, you can prevent it from changing by lubricating and cleaning with a penetrating oil.

?? What are the symptoms of the HS clutch cable?

You can identify the symptoms of a faulty clutch cable by looking at the clutch pedal. Indeed, if the clutch cable is simply caught, your the clutch pedal will be stiff work. Conversely, if your clutch pedal soft and falls to the floor, the clutch cable is cut off.

Therefore, check the clutch cable as soon as you see these signs or malfunctions. Note that a faulty clutch cable can lead to other more severe and costly breakdowns (release bearing, fork, clutch kit, etc.) if not replaced in time.

?? How much does it cost to replace the clutch cable?

On average, replacing the clutch cable costs about 100 € (spare parts and work). However, the price can vary greatly from one car model to the next. So check the price of replacing the clutch cable on your car model. Count only in part between € 30 and € 60 depending on the clutch cable of your vehicle.

Note : The clutch cable is generally changed when the clutch kit is replaced.

Feel free to consult Vroomly for the best price for your clutch cable replacement! With our garage comparator, you are guaranteed to get big savings onservicing your clutch kit.