What Causes the Clicking Sound in Dual-Clutch Transmissions?
3 Answers
The clicking sound in dual-clutch transmissions is partly due to their inherent structural design. On the other hand, engineers optimize the driving experience by calibrating the coordination between the transmission and engine. The skill level of these engineers directly affects the smoothness of vehicle operation. The working principle of dual-clutch transmissions can be simply understood as one clutch handling odd-numbered gears while the other manages even-numbered gears. When the vehicle is in one gear, the other clutch and the corresponding next gear are already in a prepared state. As soon as the current gear is disengaged, the next gear can be immediately engaged. This mechanism allows dual-clutch transmissions to shift gears faster than conventional automatic transmissions and even manual transmissions.
When I first started driving a car with a dual-clutch transmission, I encountered the issue of clunking noises. Last year, my car made a clattering sound during low-speed gear shifts. I initially thought it was normal operation, but after two weeks, the noise became more frequent. I consulted a car-savvy friend, who suggested that the clutch plates might be worn or there was insufficient oil, as the dual-clutch system involves two clutches working alternately, and frequent switching can lead to friction noises. I took it to a 4S dealership for inspection, and it turned out that the transmission software needed an update, and the lubrication was also inadequate. The technician recommended changing the specialized oil every six months and avoiding stomping on the accelerator while stationary to prevent additional wear. Since then, I’ve paid attention to my driving habits, and the abnormal noises have reduced. Ignoring the clunking sounds could lead to gear failure, and sudden failure at high speeds could be dangerous, so never delay—early diagnosis and repair are key. Regular maintenance is crucial, and now I drive with greater peace of mind.
As someone who frequently works with cars, I understand that the clicking sounds in dual-clutch transmissions often stem from clutch wear or synchronizer issues. This type of transmission has a complex design, and noise is prone to occur when the clutch plates frequently engage and slip. Deteriorated oil or insufficient lubrication can also accelerate wear and cause abnormal noises. In daily work scenarios, I've encountered many cases where delayed shifting due to software bugs resulted in jerking sounds. Owners should regularly scan for trouble codes using diagnostic tools and check fluid levels. If clicking noises are accompanied by vibrations, immediately visit a professional shop to replace worn components. Avoid sudden acceleration and deceleration in daily use, and adjust oil change intervals appropriately—for example, shortening it to once a year in urban stop-and-go traffic—to prevent issues and extend lifespan. Neglecting repairs may eventually lead to complete transmission failure, resulting in higher costs.
