How does a clutch slave cylinder work?
The clutch slave cylinder is an essential component of your vehicle's clutch system, working in unison with the clutch master cylinder to help you engage and disengage the clutch smoothly. It's a small but critical part that plays a major role in your car’s ability to shift gears and control the power transfer from the engine to the wheels.
When you press the clutch pedal, hydraulic fluid is pushed from the master cylinder into the slave cylinder. This action causes the clutch slave cylinder to push a rod or piston that disengages the clutch. This disconnects the engine from the transmission, allowing you to change gears smoothly.
What does a clutch slave cylinder replacement job involve?
Replacing the clutch slave cylinder is a routine repair for most mechanics and can often be done at your location, provided it is safe to perform the repair there. If necessary, it can also be done in a workshop for more complex cases.
- First, the mechanic will raise the car using a lift or jack to ensure easy access to the clutch mechanism.
- Next, the mechanic will inspect the clutch system to assess its functionality and determine if the slave cylinder is the issue.
- Then, if the slave cylinder is found to be faulty, the mechanic will carefully remove the damaged part and replace it with a new clutch slave cylinder.
- Afterward, the mechanic will bleed the hydraulic system to ensure proper brake fluid flow and ensure the clutch works efficiently.
- Finally, the mechanic will test the clutch system to ensure the new slave cylinder is working properly, with smooth engagement and disengagement of the clutch.
How do I know whether I need a clutch slave cylinder repair or replacement?
Clutch slave cylinders don’t usually fail all at once. Early signs often include needing to pump the clutch pedal to shift gears or having to press the pedal further than usual to engage the clutch. In some cases, the pedal may feel soft or spongy, or it may stick to the floor and fail to return properly. You might also experience difficulty shifting gears or notice that the clutch doesn’t fully disengage when the pedal is pressed.
While sudden failure is less common, it can still occur, especially if the cylinder is leaking or heavily worn.
If you're concerned, you can check the brake fluid in the reservoir under the bonnet. If the level drops, it could mean there's a leak in the clutch slave cylinder. You might also see fluid under the car, though if you have an internal slave cylinder, this might not always be visible.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s a good idea to get the clutch slave cylinder checked.
Can a clutch slave cylinder be repaired?
While it is technically possible to repair a clutch slave cylinder, such as by replacing seals or refurbishing the unit - in most modern vehicles, it’s often more practical and cost-effective to replace it entirely. Once a slave cylinder begins to fail, it can compromise clutch performance and lead to safety issues. Replacing the component ensures long-term reliability and smoother operation of the clutch system.
What does a ClickMechanic clutch slave cylinder replacement quote cover?
Unless otherwise stated, the quote for your clutch slave cylinder to be replaced will cover;
- The cost of the clutch slave cylinder (if external), the complete clutch kit (if concentric), and hydraulic fluid
- Coming to you or collection and return delivery (if still drivable)
- Fitting of the parts
- Disposal of the old parts (unless you request to keep them)
- VAT (if applicable)
- 12 months parts and labour warranty
Can the clutch slave cylinder be replaced by a mobile mechanic?
In many cases, yes, a mobile mechanic can replace the clutch slave cylinder, especially if it’s mounted externally on the gearbox. However, if the slave cylinder is located internally, the repair may require removal of the gearbox, which is usually better suited to a garage setting due to the tools and space needed.
If the vehicle is drivable, ClickMechanic offers free collection and delivery for bringing the vehicle to the garage.
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Frequently asked questions about clutch slave cylinder replacement & repairs
Read our answers to questions about clutch slave cylinder replacement costs, symptoms and more.
What does a clutch slave cylinder do?
The clutch slave cylinder receives the hydraulic pressure created by the clutch master cylinder when you press down on the clutch pedal. It then releases the clutch from the flywheel allowing you to change gear.
What does a clutch slave cylinder replacement involve?
This is a completely different type of repair to the external cylinder type. The mechanic will have to carry out a complete clutch replacement, which may require the vehicle to be taken into the workshop, depending on the size of the engine or the vehicle's location.
For more information on clutch replacement, please refer to https://www.clickmechanic.com/help/articles/283/clutch-replacement
Can I do a clutch slave cylinder replacement myself?
Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend a clutch slave 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.
What are the symptoms of a bad slave cylinder?
Usually, clutch slave cylinders do not completely fail, in other words, the pedal doesn’t suddenly lose all resistance and drop to the floor. Generally, the problem will start with having to pump the pedal to change gear or you gradually have to use more of the pedal travel to change gear. This isn’t always 100% true as with any mechanical operation, so it can occur if there is complete failure of the unit.
If you are able to, you can check the level of brake fluid in the reservoir under the bonnet, which will start to drop if there is a leak in the slave cylinder. You may also notice drops of fluid under the car, but this isn’t always the case with an internal concentric slave cylinder.
How long does it take to replace a clutch slave cylinder?
On average a clutch slave cylinder replacement will usually take around 1 hours, but can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours. The time that the job takes will depend 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.
How often should I replace a clutch slave cylinder?
As soon as any issue arises with the clutch mechanism, it is important to get it checked as soon as possible before a breakdown occurs.
How common is a clutch slave cylinder replacement?
Being typical of any mechanical component that is in constant use that has rubber seals, clutch slave cylinders fail on all cars quite regularly.
Can I drive with a bad slave cylinder?
Driving with a bad clutch slave cylinder can prevent you from properly changing gear. Usually, clutch slave cylinders do not completely fail, in other words, the pedal doesn’t suddenly lose all resistance and drop to the floor. Generally, the problem will start with having to pump the pedal to change gear or you gradually have to use more of the pedal travel to change gear. This isn’t always 100% true as with any mechanical operation, so it can occur if there is complete failure of the unit.
If you suspect there is any issue with your clutch slave cylinder or there are concerns about its age or condition, book an inspection with a professional mechanic immediate effect.
How do I know if my master cylinder or slave cylinder is bad?
If you experience an issue with the clutch and are not sure whether it's the master cylinder or slave cylinder then it is advisable to get help from a professional mechanic. They can identify exactly which part is at fault and advise on next steps.
Can you repair clutch slave cylinder?
If the slave cylinder is bad and it has been diagnosed that it no longer performs to the required standard then usually it is advised to replace the unit, you would not normally 'repair' a clutch slave cylinder.
Is a bad clutch slave cylinder an MOT failure?
No, a bad clutch slave cylinder normally does not lead to an MOT failure. The MOT test only checks for safety-critcal components on a car, the condition of the transmission, clutch and its hydraulic parts is not part of the MOT checks.
How much does it cost to replace a clutch slave cylinder?
On average a clutch slave cylinder replacement costs around £125. Typical prices can range anywhere from £60 to £200. Ultimately, the cost of replacing a clutch slave cylinder depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends using for the replacement. Find out what you could save by having your clutch slave cylinder replaced by ClickMechanic by selecting your car at the top of this page!
Please note that if the system doesn’t return a price and requests you to complete a form, the most likely reason is that your car has an internal concentric slave cylinder. In which case you need to select a clutch replacement repair.
Check out the ClickMechanic price for a clutch slave cylinder replacement. See the averages for different makes below. We consolidate industry standard data with millions of data points to give you the most accurate price. These estimates may include Clutch fluid and Clutch slave cylinder.
| Name | Average Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Audi | £266 | Get exact price |
| BMW | £186 | Get exact price |
| Citroen | £182 | Get exact price |
| Ford | £530 | Get exact price |
| Land Rover | £592 | Get exact price |
| Mercedes-Benz | £364 | Get exact price |
| Nissan | £488 | Get exact price |
| Peugeot | £267 | Get exact price |
| Renault | £348 | Get exact price |
| Toyota | £194 | Get exact price |
| Vauxhall | £719 | Get exact price |
| Volkswagen | £217 | Get exact price |
Estimates on average repair costs, such as the above results for a clutch slave cylinder replacement, are based on ClickMechanic's quote data which combines multiple third-party sources. Actual costs may vary. We provide estimates on average repair costs for information only and accept no liability for any inaccuracies or errors. If you think an estimate is incorrect, please contact us to let us know.
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Mechanics that undertake clutch slave cylinder work
- 1st Call Auto's, Lincolnshire
- A&Js Autoparts, Newcastle Upon Tyne
- A1 MOTOR MEDICS, Whaltham Cross
- Greg Horvath, Bridgwater
- Iss Motors, Aberystwyth
- Joe Mobile Mechanic Ltd., Aldershot
- Rheeside Garage, Hitchin
- S Drewery, Alton
- Shufix Limited, Uxbridge
- Speedy Spanner Ltd, Stevenage
- Williams On Wheels, Gillingham
Would recommend.”