Reduced Friction Material: The clutch disc is made up of a friction material that engages with the flywheel and pressure plate to transmit power from the engine to the transmission. As the disc wears, this friction material gradually wears down, reducing its effectiveness in transmitting torque.
Increased Slip: As the friction material wears down, the clutch disc is less able to grip the flywheel and pressure plate effectively, leading to increased slippage. This can manifest as a loss of power transmission, making the vehicle feel sluggish or hesitant when accelerating or changing gears.
Glazing: The heat generated from excessive slipping can cause the friction material on the clutch disc to become glazed, which further reduces its ability to transmit torque. Glazing occurs when the friction material hardens and loses its texture, resulting in a smooth and slippery surface that does not grip well.
Burning: In severe cases of slippage and glazing, the clutch disc can start to burn. This is caused by the intense heat generated from excessive friction, which can damage the disc and cause it to warp or crack. Burning can also produce a distinctive burning smell and smoke.
Transmission Damage: Prolonged clutch disc wear and slippage can eventually lead to damage to the transmission, including the gears and synchronizers, as they have to work harder to compensate for the loss of power transmission.
