How to Deal with Clutch Not Disengaging?
2 Answers
Check the vehicle's clutch pedal and adjust if the free travel is excessive. Inspect whether the fluid reservoir is insufficient or if there is air in the pipelines, and perform necessary bleeding. If the release levers are too low or not on the same plane, make adjustments. Check if the driven plate is warped, deformed, or has loose rivets, and whether the driven plate's axial movement is obstructed.
The issue of the clutch not disengaging is something I've encountered several times over more than a decade of driving manual transmission cars. The most common cause is insufficient or leaking clutch hydraulic fluid, leading to inadequate pressure and failure to disengage. You should first stop and check the fluid level in the reservoir; if it's low, top it up with DOT 4 brake fluid (which is compatible with clutch fluid). If the fluid level is normal, try pressing the clutch pedal to see if it lacks elasticity, which could indicate a faulty slave or master cylinder. Another potential problem is worn or stuck clutch plates, common in older vehicles—don’t force gear shifts in this case, as it can damage the transmission. I recommend pulling over, turning off the engine, and waiting for a tow to the repair shop. Regular checks of the clutch system can prevent this, such as inspecting fluid levels and pedal clearance during annual maintenance.
