Is the Golf's Clutch Dry or Wet?
2 Answers
The Golf uses a dry dual-clutch transmission. Here are the characteristics of the Golf's dry dual-clutch: 1. Lightweight: This dry dual-clutch weighs approximately 70kg, while a conventional AT transmission weighs at least 100kg. The reason the dry dual-clutch is so much lighter is that its internal structure is very similar to a manual transmission. 2. Fast shifting: As the name suggests, the dry dual-clutch has two clutches—one controls the odd-numbered gears, and the other controls the even-numbered gears. When shifting, it essentially switches between the two clutches, allowing for extremely fast gear changes. 3. High transmission efficiency: Like manual transmissions, dry dual-clutch transmissions are known for their high transmission efficiency. This is because the dry dual-clutch uses friction plates for power transmission, and there is no transmission oil to create resistance, enabling it to achieve over 90% transmission efficiency.
As a long-time manual transmission car owner, I've driven several generations of the Golf. Its clutch is of a dry design, which is a common configuration for the manual version of the Golf. A dry clutch means it's not immersed in oil, featuring a simple structure and light weight, offering very quick response when driving, especially feeling smooth during low-speed starts or gear shifts. The advantage is lower maintenance and repair costs, with relatively inexpensive clutch plate replacements, making it practical for economical family cars. However, it has a minor drawback: if you frequently ride the clutch in heavy traffic, it heats up quickly and may wear out faster. I recommend checking the clutch condition every 50,000 kilometers and being mindful not to keep the clutch pedal depressed unnecessarily during normal driving. Compared to a wet clutch, it's more fuel-efficient and easier to handle, making it particularly suitable for city commuting. The Golf has maintained this tradition well, ensuring both beginners and experienced drivers can enjoy the fun of driving.
