Checking the clutch in the installed state (Nissan Primera P10)

Before removing the clutch for replacement, you can perform the following work to check where the fault may be located.

1. Start the engine and let it idle.

2. Depress the clutch pedal and wait 3 seconds.

3. Put the transmission in reverse. If you hear a grinding noise coming from the gearbox, you can assume that the clutch or driven disc needs to be replaced, as the connection between the clutch and the flywheel has been interrupted.

4. To check the clutch for slippage:

5. Drive the vehicle until the transmission and clutch reach operating temperature.

6. Stop the car and apply the handbrake.

7. Shift into third gear.

8. Press the clutch pedal, accelerate the engine to 3000 - 4000 rpm and release the clutch pedal abruptly. If the engine stalls immediately, the clutch is working perfectly. If the clutch has a long mileage, it will begin to slip. In this case, first check the adjustment. Clutch slippage also occurs when climbing a hill. If, when applying gas, you feel that the engine is rotating faster than the wheel drive, then the engine is rotating faster than the clutch connection.

9. If the clutch is slipping, it means that not all of the engine power is being transmitted to the gearbox drive. The driven disk is not clamped tightly enough between the friction surfaces of the flywheel and the pressure plate. In most cases, it can be assumed that engine oil has gotten onto the clutch lining or the clutch linings are burnt or worn out. In this case, the only help is to replace the driven disk or the entire clutch.