Some drivers still swear by manual transmission cars and trucks even though most drivers prefer automatic transmissions.Manual transmission vehicles either use a cable to connect the clutch to the transmission or have a fluid system.A clutch fluid tank needs to be filled on occasion to keep the clutch system working smoothly.It's very easy to check the level on your own since most vehicles have a hood that opens.If you notice problems with the clutch and top off the tank regularly, you can keep your vehicle in good shape.
Step 1: Before opening the hood, you need to park the car on a hard, level surface.
The clutch fluid is located under the hood of most vehicles.Since you are going to be standing in front of the car, make sure it doesn't roll towards you.If you park it on a flat surface, you will have a clear view and full access to all of the car's components.If you have one, keep it in your garage.It could be parked in your driveway or in a quiet parking lot.
Step 2: Turn off the engine and let it cool you down.
Wait about 30 minutes to 1 hour before attempting to change the clutch fluid level.Give the engine time to cool off and open the bay.Put on heat- resistant gloves if you feel heat coming from it.If you aren't careful, the engine can still burn you.Accidents can be prevented by taking proper precautions around a hot engine.
Step 3: There is a small tank near the engine bay.
Take a look at the various engine components when you open the hood of your car.The clutch fuel can be found on the driver's side.It is topped with a black cap.Check the label on the cap to make sure you are looking at the right thing.There is a brake fluid reservoir in the engine bay.It is located next to the clutch fuel reservoir and looks similar.It is often square-shaped.Check the owner's manual for more information if you don't know what you're looking at.It is most likely to have a diagram of the engine bay components.If you don't have a manual, you can use the internet to find one.
Step 4: The side of the tank has a fluid level on it.
You can see the fluid level without touching the tank if the clutch fluid is made of transparent plastic.The side of the tank has two lines labeled minimum and maximum.You can't see the metal on some old cars.You have to remove the cap to check the fluid level.To remove the cap from the tank, turn it clockwise.
Step 5: If you can't see it normally, check the fluid level with a dipstick.
A thin measuring device called a dipstick can be dropped into a vehicle's tank if you can't see through it.If you hold the dipstick by the handle, lower it to the bottom.Make a note of how high the fluid is on it by pulling it back up.If the tank is less than 23 of the way full, you should top it off with fresh fluid.You can buy a dipstick, new fuel and anything else you need online or at an auto parts store.
Step 6: Pick a fluid that is safe for use in your owner's manual.
Check the owner's manual to find out which fluids the manufacturer recommends for your car.DOT 3 or DOT 4 is the brake fluid that most vehicles use.An alternative type of clutch fluid may be used.There is no such thing as clutch fluid.The same type of brake fluid is used for the fuel in the clutch.To make it easier to understand, think of it as a fluid called hydraulic fluid.The wrong type of fluid can cause damage to your vehicle.You should use the type of fluid specified in the owner's manual.
Step 7: Before handling the fluid, put on rubber gloves.
If you are not careful with the fluid, it can be harmful.For additional protection, consider wearing a long-sleeved shirt.Make sure you don't touch your eyes or mouth until your hands are clean, if you get any fluid on your skin.If fluid gets on the painted part of your vehicle, wipe it up with paper towels.Cats litter can be used to clean up spills.
Step 8: If you want the fluid to be 23 of the way full, add it until it is.
To make sure the fluid doesn't spill, place a plastic funnel on top of the reservoir.Take your time to avoid spills.If the reservoir has one, fill it up to the maximum mark.It doesn't have to be full.The fluid in the tank could flood the clutch system if it is too full.As soon as you notice spills, stop and clean them.
Step 9: The hood needs to be closed to replace the reservoir cap.
There is a rubber gasket inside the cap.Turn the cap clockwise until it locks into place, then make sure it sits securely over the opening.If the tank is well-sealed, your car can be used again.The cap needs to be on tightly.It could leak fluid if it is loose.draining fluid is the only way to remove air from the clutch system.
Step 10: If you press the clutch pedal, it will move.
Step down hard on the clutch pedal when you are in the driver's seat.The pedal should move smoothly when you press it down.The clutch fluid level may have run low if you are having a hard time moving the pedal.It could be from the air.The fluid lubricates the clutch so it responds when you use it.The mechanical components wear out at a much faster rate without it.Air bubbles prevent the clutch from engaging properly.If you have replaced the clutch fluid recently, that could cause air to get into it.
Step 11: To see if you can shift gears, drive the car.
Press down on the clutch when the car is in first gear.When the engine reaches 2,000rpm, press it again.The vehicle lurching, a stuck clutch, or a grinding noise are things to watch for.Most of the problems can be solved by visiting a mechanic.Check the fluid level first for a stuck clutch.The clutch won't work if the reservoir is drained.It is difficult to repair transmission problems at home.There are signs that a clutch won't work.
Step 12: If the clutch fluid looks dark, drain it.
.There is a clear yellow color in the fresh clutch fluid.Over time, it turns red or black.If the fluid looks dirty, you can bleed it from the clutch valve.If it still looks clear, top off the tank with new fluid.You have to jack up the vehicle to get under the valve.Attach a rubber hose to the valve and press the clutch to drive out the fluid.Adding new fluid after every press will keep the tank full.Contact a mechanic if you are unsure about doing this on your own.Jacking up a car can be dangerous if it isn't done correctly.
Step 13: The fluid component should be inspected for leaks.
The components that operate the clutch wear out over time.You can open the engine bay and look at the clutch fluid.You can have a friend press the clutch pedal while you watch the fluid level.Check the parts around the tank for leaks.Take the vehicle to a professional if you notice a leak.Small leaks may not be noticed right away.If you notice the fluid level, you can check it again after a few days.Your vehicle needs repairs if it has changed by a lot.
Step 14: You should look at the clutch lines and slave valve.
The slave cylinder is located above the transmission on your engine.Follow the cables from the clutch to the engine.While you watch for the slave cylinder, have a friend press the clutch pedal a few times.It's a good idea to check it for leaks as well.The cylinder has to be replaced if it doesn't move.The vehicle should be taken to a mechanic.Replacing parts can fix leaks.If you can't do it on your own, have a mechanic fix it.You will need to bleed out the clutch valve if you do it on your own.