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Manual Transmission   How to Diagnose a Slipping Clutch in Your Car How to Check Manual Transmission Fluid How to Check Clutch Fluid Level    Manual transmission means that the driver of the car manually changes the gears by means of a lever called a gear stick. Most manual gear sticks have one to five forward gears, one reverse gear and a neutral position. To start the engine or to leave the car engine running, while the car is stopped, the driver must put the gear stick into the neutral position. To start the car moving the driver must put the car into the lowest or first gear. The first gear provides the high torque and low speed required to start the car moving. As the car accelerates the driver must move up through the gears to reach the highest gear required. How to Check Clutch Fluid Level  Clutches do not have fluid. If you are being told you need clutch fluid, get a different mechanic. 1.  Clarify that the mechanic is not suggesting you check your transmission fluid. 2.  If the mechanic specifies "clutch fluid," leave the shop.    How to Diagnose a Slipping Clutch in Your Car  The clutch on a manual transmission car usually lasts anywhere from four to seven years, depending on where you drive (in the city, on hills, etc.) and your personal driving habits. Steps: 1.  Note poor gas mileage.   2.  Notice if you need to downshift more frequently when going up hills.  3. Take note if the engine sounds like it's revving when you accelerate or start moving from a stop. 4.  Be aware if the clutch can no longer be adjusted to create more pedal "free play."  5.  Notice if the clutch pedal begins to feel stiff and requires more force to depress it.  6.  Make sure the clutch is properly adjusted: You should feel about 1/2 inch of free play (or slack) at the clutch pedal when you first put your foot lightly on the clutch pedal. 7.  Put the handbrake on.  8.  Turn the engine on.   9.  Depress the clutch pedal and put the transmission in fourth gear.  10.  Slowly let up on the clutch while stepping on the gas pedal.  11.  If you are able to completely release the clutch pedal without the engine stalling (or the car moving), your clutch is shot.   Tips:  A clutch that needs an adjustment will create the same symptoms as a clutch that needs replacing. Replacing the clutch is typically a 5- to 6-hour job (pricey!), while a clutch adjustment takes less than 5 minutes. WARNING:  Make sure the handbrake works well and be prepared to move your foot quickly to the foot brake in case the car starts moving or lurches forward.     Click the arrow above to go back where you just linked from The objective of this Web Page is to familiarize you with basic auto maintenance -  in some common emergencies - not to make you an expert in auto mechanics DISCLAIMER: PLEASE READ - By printing, downloading, or using you agree to our full terms. Review the full terms by clicking here. Below is a summary of some of the terms. If you do not agree to the full terms, do not use the information. We are only publishers of this material, not authors. Information may have errors or be outdated. Some information is from historical sources or represents opinions of the author. It is for research purposes only. The information is "AS IS", "WITH ALL FAULTS". User assumes all risk of use, damage, or injury. You agree that we have no liability for any damages. We are not liable for any consequential, incidental, indirect, or special damages. You indemnify us for claims caused by you.  I am in no way, shape, or form telling you to do this yourself. Your results may vary. If something goes wrong, it is not my fault! These are just guidelines.