Clutch Master Cylinder replacement & repair made easy

The clutch master cylinder, together with the clutch slave cylinder, is a component that transfers the pressure generated when you press the clutch pedal into hydraulic pressure by which, eventually the clutch is engaged.

A clutch master cylinder is usually directly connected to the clutch slave cylinder and depending on your car contains a reservoir that stores the clutch fluid.

• Mechanic will inspect the clutch system.
• If necessary, the mechanic will replace the clutch master cylinder.
• Mechanic will advise if other components of the clutch system need to be replaced, like the the clutch slave cylinder.
• Mechanic will check the level and condition of the fluid.
• Mechanic will bleed the clutch system.
• Mechanic will inspect the clutch system again and test drive the car to establish whether it works correctly.

Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend a clutch master cylinder replacement is only carried out by a professional mechanic. ClickMechanic can help get you a vetted and local mechanic to carry out the work. Just enter your postcode and your car's registration number at the top of this page and select the work needed to get an instant fixed price up front.

• When the clutch pedal feels different than usual.
• When you cannot change gear as normal.
• When the clutch pedal can be pressed to the car's floor.
• When fluid is visible around the clutch pedal (which means there is a leak).

A clutch master cylinder replacement typically takes around 1 hour, but can take less or more time. Ultimately, the time that the job will take depends on a range of factors. For example, your vehicle's make and model, year, as well as other factors. Select your car at the top of this page for information on job time and cost for your vehicle through ClickMechanic.

Over time the clutch master cylinder and its components are prone to deterioration due to general wear. Servicing the master cylinder regularly is key to ensure a prolonged and unproblematic master cylinder life. Always service the components of the clutch as and when stipulated in the guidelines set out by your car's manufacturer.

It can be that the seals wear out, in case of the external seals fluid will leak out of the cylinder causing the clutch to not function properly. Additionally it could also cause other components to corrode.

If you experience any problems with the clutch it is advisable to have the system inspected and, should this be necessary, have the master cylinder replaced.

Driving with a worn clutch master cylinder pump is not advisable as it can lead to complications and ultimately a clutch that does not function. If you suspect there is any issue with your clutch master cylinder or there are concerns about its age or condition, book an inspection with a professional mechanic immediate effect.

If the clutch master cylinder is broken usually it is suggested to replace the master cylinder, a mechanic would not normally 'repair' the part. Cost for a clutch master cylinder replacement will depend on a number of factors but on average costs £200.

The clutch master cylinder should be replaced when it has been professionally diagnosed that it needs replacing. If you're unsure whether it needs replacing book an inspection with a mechanic to check the component and get advice on whether a replacement is needed.

The clutch system is not checked during an MOT test, so a bad clutch master cylinder likely will not fail the MOT test. However, a bad clutch master cylinder should be fixed as soon as possible to avoid causing damage to associated parts.