2013 Ford Focus LW MK2 - Clutch Replacement?

[Lindz111]

So similar to a previous post, I also have a 2013 Ford Focus LW MK2 that apparently needs a clutch replacement.

I've had the car almost 10 years and 148k. About 2 months ago the radiator hose broke on me where I got an engine warning light. I got that replaced at my local mechanic where he also replaced the rocker cover as he said that was leaking oil too.

After repairing both of these, he took my car for test drive and mentioned he felt the 4th and 5th gear slipping. He said this was indicative that I would need a clutch replacement soon and generally this starts in the higher gears because of the torque and eventually the issue goes to the lower gears. To be honest I hadn't noticed any clutch issues prior to the aforementioned issues, but after he brought this up, I now do notice RPM goes up after changing to 4th/5th gears and in the last week I can barely get above 90km/h in 5th without significant slipping.

I was initially quoted 3.5k for parts and labour but then I found this dual clutch kit on supercheap which was about $500 cheaper than the mechanics supplier, so he agreed to go down to 3k ($800 labour).

https://www.supercheapauto.com.au/p/...PO3079742.html

My few questions before I go ahead:

- Could this be anything else like clutch actuators? Fluid leaks into the transmission etc. (noting I had the radiator leak and oil leak)?

- Would it be worth going to Ford for a second opinion? I generally avoid them as their services and parts costs seem to be double the local mechanic's.

- Is this a reasonable cost for labour and parts? I did find a video on changing the clutch, but I'm definitely not mechanically minded so thinking I need to pay up. It's by far going to be my biggest expense since I've owned it.

Appreciate all the advice in advance.

[russellw]

OK, let's start with your last questions first.

The SRT for the job is: 4.6 hours to R&R Gearbox, 0.2H to replace clutch; 0.5H to replace flywheel for a total of 5.3H so I'd say the labour cost is pretty close.

148k is probably about right for a Focus clutch in normal use but there are other potential causes beside a worn clutch including clutch pedal free play
There is a simple test for clutch slip you can perform that might help determine root cause:

Test A1: CHECK FOR SLIPPAGE
Chock the wheels and apply the parking brake.Start the engine, depress the clutch pedal and engage fourth gear.Run the engine at approx. 2000 rpm.Release the clutch pedal slowly.Does the engine stall when the clutch pedal is fully released?Yes: Clutch OK.No: GO to A2

Test A2: CHECK THE CLUTCH PEDAL FREE PLAY
Depress the clutch pedal manually to the point of resistance and release, record the clutch pedal travel.Is the clutch pedal travel approx. 10 mm?Yes: Clutch pedal free play OK.No: Remove and inspect clutch / pressure plate.

You need to confirm (if you don't already know) whether you need the single or dual mass flywheel as the latter is about $800 dearer and may not necessarily need replacing although most seem to assume that it's probably in need of replacement when the clutch wears out and you can also opt to fit an SMF anyway.

[Lindz111]

Thanks!

I'll give that all a try and report back.

The mechanic did say I can swap to single clutch as its cheaper but the car comes with a dual clutch and I was thinking of sticking to what I am use to.

[russellw]

It's not the clutch that is dual but the flywheel is a dual mass unit.

Dual mass flywheels are designed to stop vibration in the engine getting as far as the gearbox and driveshafts but they are complex, expensive and are a throw away item as they can't be resurfaced.

What the single mass replacement kits do is use a long travel damper system in the clutch friction plate. This clutch plate replicates the movement and damping characteristics of a dual mass flywheel meaning driver comfort and damping is not affected.