What causes throw out bearing failure?

If you own a manual transmission vehicle, you may have heard of a throw out bearing. This component is essential for the smooth operation of your clutch system.

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However, like any mechanical part, a throw out bearing can fail over time, causing problems with your vehicle's performance. In this article, we'll discuss what a throw out bearing is, what causes its failure, and what symptoms you should look out for if your throw out bearing is going bad.

What is a Throw Out Bearing?

A throw out bearing, also known as a clutch release bearing, is a small bearing that helps to disengage the clutch from the flywheel when the clutch pedal is depressed. It sits between the clutch fork and the pressure plate and is held in place by the transmission's input shaft.

When the clutch pedal is pressed, the throw out bearing pushes against the pressure plate, releasing the clutch from the flywheel and allowing the transmission to shift gears smoothly.

What Causes Throw Out Bearing Failure?

A throw out bearing can fail due to several reasons. Here are some common causes that can affect the health of your throw out bearing.

Normal Wear and Tear

Like any mechanical part, a throw out bearing can wear out over time. The constant pressure applied to it during the clutch engagement process causes it to wear down. Eventually, the bearing will become so worn that it no longer performs its intended function.

If left unchecked, a worn-out throw out bearing can cause significant damage to other parts of the clutch system, leading to costly repairs.

Lack of Lubrication

A throw out bearing relies on lubrication to function correctly. Without proper lubrication, the bearing can become damaged, leading to failure.

Lack of lubrication can be caused by factors such as low transmission fluid levels or a damaged input shaft seal. In some cases, a mechanic may need to remove the transmission to access and lubricate the bearing properly.

Contamination

Contamination from dirt, debris, or other foreign substances can also cause throw out bearing failure. If dirt or debris enters the clutch housing, it can get into the bearing and cause it to fail.

This can happen if the clutch housing is not properly sealed or if the vehicle is driven in dusty or dirty environments. If you suspect that your throw out bearing has become contaminated, it's crucial to have it checked and replaced as soon as possible.

Overheating and Excessive Force

Overheating and excessive force can also cause throw out bearing failure. Overheating can occur if the clutch is slipped excessively, causing the bearing to overheat and become damaged.

Excessive force can be caused by harsh driving conditions or by using the clutch pedal to hold the vehicle on a hill. Both of these situations can cause premature wear and damage to the throw out bearing.

Preventing Throw Out Bearing Failure

While some causes of throw out bearing failure are beyond your control, there are several things you can do to prevent premature wear and damage. Regular maintenance, such as fluid changes and inspection, can help identify and prevent potential issues before they become significant problems.

Avoiding harsh driving conditions, such as slipping the clutch excessively or using it to hold the vehicle on a hill, can also help extend the life of your throw out bearing.

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Common Symptoms of a Throw Out Bearing Failure

If your throw out bearing is on its way out, there are several symptoms that will let you know what you're dealing with. Some are more obvious than others, but most are fairly easy to spot.

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Clutch Pedal Noise

One of the most common symptoms of a failing throw out bearing is a noise coming from the clutch pedal. When you press the clutch pedal, the throw out bearing contacts the pressure plate to disengage the clutch.

If the bearing is worn or damaged, it may produce a grinding, whining, or squeaking noise when you press the pedal. The noise may become more pronounced when the clutch pedal is fully depressed, and it may disappear when you release the pedal.

Vibration

A worn or damaged throw out bearing can cause vibration when you press the clutch pedal. The vibration may be felt through the pedal, and it may become more noticeable as the bearing wears further. If the vibration is severe, it may indicate that the throw out bearing is on the verge of complete failure.

Difficulty Shifting Gears

Another common symptom of a failing throw out bearing is difficulty shifting gears. When the bearing is worn or damaged, it may not engage or disengage the clutch properly, making it challenging to shift gears.

You may experience grinding, popping, or resistance when trying to shift gears. If the issue persists, it may lead to further damage to the clutch system.

Clutch Slipping

If you notice that your vehicle's clutch is slipping, it may be a sign of a bad throw out bearing. When the bearing is worn or damaged, it may not properly engage the pressure plate, leading to clutch slippage.

Clutch slippage occurs when the engine revs, but the vehicle doesn't accelerate as expected. This can lead to poor fuel efficiency and reduced engine power.

Burning Smell

If your throw out bearing is severely damaged or worn, it may cause a burning smell. The smell is a result of excessive heat generated by the friction between the bearing and the clutch system.

If you smell burning while driving, it's essential to have your vehicle inspected by a professional immediately.

How to Fix a Bad Throw Out Bearing

The only real way to fix a bad throw out bearing is to replace it. Replacing a bad throw out bearing involves removing the transmission, which is a complex and time-consuming job.

This type of project is often too much for DIY mechanics, but it is not impossible. Due to the complexity of the work that needs to be done, most people replace the clutch as well, either the whole assembly or just the friction disc.

Get Quality Throw Out Bearings at Newparts.com

Here at Newparts.com, we understand the importance of a quality throw out bearing. That's why we stock a wide range of these components made by some of the best brands in the business. To find a throw out bearing that fits your car, head over to our store, select your vehicle, and you'll only see parts that are a guaranteed fit for your car!

It could be warped, yes. If the previous clutch was doing a lot of slipping (based on your “purple” description, it was at least overheated somehow), depending on how it was driven, it may have overheated and warped it, which could be the source of your current troubles.

You'll have to rip it apart again and get it inspected at a machine shop. They can resurface it to remove minor deficiencies, but if it's warped bad enough to burn up a throw out bearing after 500 miles, then more than likely you’re looking at replacing it.

You could get a second hand flywheel, and have that inspected and resurfaced, then just reassemble the whole thing, replacing the parts that were damaged (which may mean all of them if you cannot determine their condition).

When I've assisted in other clutch changes, I’ve noticed they tend to really crank down on the pressure plate bolts, too. That’s not really necessary, as they’re not all that strong, but it’s a good idea to use a torque wrench and a dab of Loctite. If a bolt (or more) has broken or come loose, that could cause a similar issue.

Good luck,
Chase

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