Why is there no clutch when the car has been parked for a long time?
3 Answers
There is air in the pipeline, or pressure loss may be the cause. Here is the relevant introduction: 1. How the clutch works: It is generally divided into the engaged state and the disengaged state. The flywheel is fixed to the crankshaft, the pressure plate is fixed to the flywheel, and the clutch disc is sandwiched in between. Under normal circumstances, the clutch disc is tightly pressed by the pressure plate, and as long as the engine is running, it will continuously transmit power to the transmission (in neutral). Then, when shifting gears, pressing the clutch pedal causes the pressure plate to disengage, cutting off power output. 2. Typical clutch structure: Currently, diaphragm spring clutches are widely used in passenger cars. Among them, the diaphragm spring is used as the pressure mechanism, which can be divided into push-type and pull-type based on the force exerted by the separation lever on the diaphragm spring.
As someone who deals with various vehicle issues year-round, I've found that the most common problem with a non-functioning clutch after prolonged parking is clutch disc adhesion. When the vehicle remains stationary, the clutch disc and pressure plate can stick together like glue due to moisture and oil residue, causing the clutch to jam and fail to disengage when pressed. Additionally, rust on the flywheel surface can increase the risk of adhesion, especially when parked in humid environments. Another factor is the prolonged static pressure on the release bearing, which may lead to deformation or seizing. Preventive measures include taking short drives periodically to keep the clutch active or pressing the clutch pedal a few times before parking to release pressure. If adhesion has already occurred, try idling the engine in a safe area to warm it up, then gently attempt to shift gears to loosen the adhesion. In short, the clutch system requires moderate use to maintain proper functionality.
I had my own car parked for over a month without driving it, and the clutch got stuck, which was really frustrating. The main cause is usually an issue with the hydraulic clutch fluid. When left idle for too long, the hydraulic fluid may solidify or leak in the master or slave cylinders, allowing air to enter the system. This makes the clutch pedal feel like it has no pressure or won't move at all. Additionally, the release bearing might rust and seize due to lack of lubrication, especially in older car models. To prevent this, it's recommended to check the hydraulic fluid level and color before parking the car—replace it if it's expired. Also, avoid leaving the car parked in rainy areas to minimize corrosion. If you can't drive it, at least start the engine monthly to keep the system circulating. This situation is quite dangerous—if you encounter an emergency while driving and can't shift gears, it could lead to serious trouble.
