Flywheel replacement & repair made easy

What does a flywheel do?

The flywheel is fitted on the engine's crankshaft. It acts as a plate onto which the clutch's pressure plate grips, as such when the clutch is engaged it allows for power to be transferred from the engine to the car's gearbox. Subsequently transferring engine power to the wheels. At the same time the flywheel also has a function as a component that ensures a continuous and balanced power delivery from the engine. Apart from this the flywheel's starter ring gear (the teeth along the outer edge) acts as a large gear into which the starter motor's gear grips, enabling the starter motor to turn over the engine when you start the car.

What does a flywheel replacement involve?

*Mechanic will inspect and test the functionality of the clutch and flywheel.
*If necessary, the mechanic will advise if flywheel needs replacing.
*Mechanic separates gearbox from the engine, and will replace the flywheel if necessary.
*The mechanic will advise if other components like the clutch plate need to be replaced, and can provide a quote.
*The mechanic will rejoin the engine and gearbox.
*Mechanic checks the operation of the flywheel and clutch combination and will test drive car.
*Mechanic will make adjustments if necessary.

Can I do a flywheel replacement myself?

Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend a flywheel 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 signs of a bad flywheel?

*When the clutch slips whilst driving.
*When you cannot change gear.
*Transmission makes an unusual noise whilst engaging/disengaging the clutch.
*When the starter motor struggles to rotate the flywheel.

How long will a flywheel replacement take?

On average, flywheel replacement times can range from 3.5 to over 7 hours with an average of around 5 hours. The time that the job takes will depend on a number of factors, like 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.

When should I replace flywheel?

A flywheel replacement is normally recommended when changing the clutch. In most cases one will find that when the clutch is worn or damaged it may have affected the flywheel. Not replacing the flywheel at the same time may then lead to damage to the new clutch. Hence the need for a replacement at the same time, which is recommended by most mechanics.

Signs of juddering or vibrations when depressing clutch pedal are normally a sign that there may be something wrong with the flywheel, especially if problems appear in first gear. Apart from that, the flywheel's starter ring gear (the teeth around the out edge of the plate) can get damaged due to wear. Sometimes a tooth will break, preventing the starter motor's gear to grip properly leading to starting problems on the car.

Cars nowadays are fitted either with a dual mass flywheel or the more conventional flywheel. The dual mass flywheel is more prone to wear, and in general will have to be replaced more often over the lifetime of a car. An option that is open for some cars is the conversion of the dual mass flywheel to a solid flywheel, which is cheaper.

Of course, if you suspect that you may need a flywheel replacement but are not sure, it is advisable to have a professional mechanic assess the situation first. In any case, always make sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

How much does it cost to replace a flywheel?

A flywheel replacement generally costs between £650 and £1200 with an average price of £875. Ultimately, the cost of a flywheel replacement will depend on your car and what parts the manufacturer recommends as being required for the replacement. In almost all occasions mechanics will advise to change the clutch at the same time. You could save up to 50% on your flywheel replacement versus franchise dealers with ClickMechanic.