Why does the clutch not spring back?
2 Answers
Clutch not springing back is caused by the reduced elasticity of the diaphragm spring in the clutch. When encountering this situation, the diaphragm spring needs to be replaced. The clutch is a crucial component in the vehicle's transmission system, connecting or disconnecting the engine from the gearbox. Every time you shift gears or start the car, you basically need to use the clutch. The clutch is fixed to the engine flywheel. After disconnecting the connection between the gearbox and the engine, you can see the clutch pressure plate, and beneath it is the clutch disc. The pressure plate has a diaphragm spring. If the diaphragm spring has been used for a long time, its elasticity will decrease, which affects the clutch pedal's springiness, requiring the replacement of the clutch's diaphragm spring.
I've been driving manual transmission cars for nearly twenty years, and a clutch pedal not returning is nothing new. The most common cause is rust or jamming in the clutch cable, especially after rainy seasons when dust and moisture accumulate, making the cable stiff. I've checked it myself several times—just pop the hood and see if the cable moves freely. If it lacks elasticity, a bit of lubricant spray usually does the trick. Another major issue is the hydraulic system; leaks in the master cylinder or air bubbles in the slave cylinder can cause the pedal to stick when pressed. Once during a summer road trip, the high temperature evaporated the fluid, nearly frying the clutch disc. Prevention is simple: avoid riding the clutch, as it accelerates wear, and lubricate the cable every six months. Safety first—if the pedal doesn’t return, pull over immediately to avoid costly damage to more components.
