Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Flexible Clutch Hose

The flexible clutch hose is a component that is found on vehicles equipped with hydraulic clutch systems. The flexible clutch hose is responsible for transporting the pressure and hydraulic fluid that is displaced when the clutch pedal is depressed. Unlike hardlines, which are also used to transport hydraulic fluid, the clutch hose is flexible, and can move in various directions. When the clutch pedal is stepped on, the master cylinder pushes fluid through the clutch hose, down to the slave cylinder to disengage the clutch. Most clutch hoses are built with heavy duty rubber and metal layers to withstand the pressures of normal operation. However, over time, they can eventually wear out and cause problems. Usually a bad or failing flexible clutch hose will produce a few symptoms that can alert the driver of a potential problem.

1. Difficulty shifting

One of the first symptoms of a possible problem with the flexible clutch hose is difficulty shifting. If the clutch hose leaks or is otherwise compromised, it may not be able to properly transport the fluid and will cause difficulty shifting. A leaky or collapsed clutch hose can cause difficulty shifting. It may also cause the transmission to grind notably when changing gears.

2. Low clutch fluid or leaks

Another symptom of a bad or failing clutch hose is low clutch fluid. Clutch hoses are often made of rubber, which can dry and wear out over time and develop leaks. A leaky clutch hose will not only leak fluid, which will need to be replenished, it will also compromise the operation of the clutch system, as the system requires pressure to operate.

3. No resistance at the clutch pedal

Another symptom, one of a more serious issue, is a clutch pedal that has very little or no resistance. If the clutch hose develops a large enough leak, or leaks out enough fluid, it will cause the clutch pedal to go soft due to a lack of fluid and pressure in the system. A clutch pedal with no pressure will not be able to disengage the clutch, which will render the vehicle undrivable.

For vehicles equipped with hydraulic clutch systems, the flexible clutch is is a very important component to the proper operation of the system. If you suspect that your clutch hose may be having an issue, have the vehicle inspected by a professional technician, such as one from YourMechanic, to determine if the car will need a flexible clutch hose replacement.


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38 years of experience
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38 years of experience
Toyota Tacoma V6-4.0L - Vehicle Drivetrain - Redlands, California
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Nissan Versa L4-1.6L - Vehicle Drivetrain Inspection - Federal Way, Washington
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21 years of experience
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21 years of experience
Lincoln Navigator V8-5.4L - Vehicle Drivetrain - Dallas, Texas
Victor is a great knowledge mechanic who knows what he is looking for and gets to the problem. Goes out of his way, in spite of the cold to make his customer happy. Came in time and advised me when he arrived, and explain to me what the problem was and I told him, "Yes, take care of it." and he did. Thank you very much. No excuses, like shops that tell you, "It is close to closing and we can fix tomorrow." Yolanda

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23 years of experience
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23 years of experience
Jeep Grand Cherokee V8-5.7L - Vehicle Drivetrain Inspection - Concord, North Carolina
Quick assessment, identified other maintenance issues through the 50 point inspection. Set an appointment on the spot for repairs.

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