How Much Is a New Clutch for a Car?

In the U.S. in 2025, a new clutch typically costs $500–$2,500 installed, with most mainstream cars landing around $900–$1,700. The final price depends on the vehicle type, whether the flywheel must be replaced, and local labor rates; heavy-duty trucks, performance models, and vehicles with dual-mass flywheels can exceed $3,000.

Typical Installed Price in 2025

While every vehicle and shop is different, these are realistic installed ranges by category based on current parts pricing and labor rates.

• Economy/compact FWD (e.g., Civic, Corolla manual): $600–$1,100
• Mainstream sedans/crossovers (FWD/RWD): $800–$1,500
• AWD/Subaru-type layouts: $1,100–$2,000
• Performance/luxury (BMW, Audi, Camaro, Mustang, dual-mass flywheel or SAC clutch): $1,500–$3,000+
• Half-ton pickups and SUVs: $1,000–$2,200
• Heavy-duty gas/diesel trucks (3/4-ton+; often dual-mass flywheel): $1,800–$3,500+

These ranges assume a standard clutch kit install; replacing a worn or heat-checked flywheel, hydraulic components, or rear main seal can push totals to the top of the range or beyond.

What Drives the Cost

Three variables dominate clutch replacement pricing: parts type, labor time, and add-on repairs uncovered once the transmission is out.

• Drivetrain complexity: AWD/4×4 and transverse layouts add hours.
• Flywheel type: Dual-mass flywheels are costly and often non-resurfaceable.
• Vehicle class: Performance and luxury parts cost more and may require special tools or procedures.
• Labor rates: Urban dealer rates can be double those of rural independent shops.
• Scope creep: Leaking rear main seals, worn hydraulics, and engine/trans mounts are common “while you’re in there” items.

Understanding these factors helps explain why two similar models can produce very different quotes depending on configuration and condition.

Parts (clutch kit and related)

A typical clutch job includes a kit and sometimes a flywheel or hydraulics. Here’s what you might see on an estimate, with current market ranges.

• Clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, release bearing; often alignment tool): $150–$700 (OEM or premium kits for performance/luxury can reach $800–$1,200)
• Flywheel: $60–$200 to resurface a solid flywheel; $200–$450 to replace a solid flywheel; $400–$1,200+ for a dual-mass flywheel (some cannot be resurfaced)
• Pilot bearing/bushing: $10–$60
• Hydraulics (concentric slave/throwout bearing, slave cylinder, master cylinder): $150–$500 each
• New bolts/fasteners and shop supplies: $10–$60

Most shops prefer complete kits to ensure matched components and warranty coverage; mixing parts can invite chatter, noise, or premature wear.

Labor

Labor varies by vehicle packaging and drivetrain. Rates and book times below reflect 2025 averages across independent and dealer shops.

• Book time: 3–6 hours for many FWD compacts; 5–9 hours for RWD sedans/SUVs; 7–12+ hours for AWD/4×4 and heavy-duty trucks
• Hourly rate: $90–$160 at many independents; $150–$300 at dealers in major metros
• Extras affecting time: Rust/corrosion, seized fasteners, subframe drops, exhaust removal, or driveshaft/transfer case work
• Taxes and fees: Expect shop supplies/environmental fees of 3–10% of labor/parts

Because transmission removal dominates labor time, proactive replacement of wear-prone items while accessible can save money in the long run.

Common Add-on or While-You’re-In-There Items

Once the transmission is out, shops often recommend preventive replacements to avoid paying for the same labor twice later.

• Rear main crankshaft seal: $150–$400 (labor minimal when already apart)
• Engine/trans mounts: $100–$450 each depending on type
• Hydraulics (master/slave or concentric unit): $150–$500 each
• Flywheel resurface/replace: $60–$1,200+ depending on type
• Gear oil and hydraulic fluid: $20–$80

Not every car needs these, but green-lighting critical items helps ensure proper clutch feel and longevity after the job.

Example Quotes

These hypothetical scenarios illustrate how totals are built; actual quotes depend on VIN-specific parts and local rates.

• 2015 Honda Civic 1.8 FWD: Clutch kit $250–$400; labor 5–6 hrs ($500–$1,200); fluids/fees $40–$80; optional flywheel resurface $60–$120. Total: ~$900–$1,600.
• 2016 Subaru WRX AWD: Kit $450–$800; possible flywheel $0–$600; labor 7–10 hrs ($900–$2,000). Total: ~$1,500–$3,200.
• 2012 Ford F-250 6.7L diesel: HD kit $600–$1,200; dual-mass flywheel $800–$1,200; labor 8–12 hrs ($1,000–$2,400). Total: ~$2,200–$4,600.

Performance upgrades (e.g., Stage 2/3 clutches) can add $200–$800 to parts and may reduce drivability or durability in daily use.

How Long a Clutch Should Last

Most clutches last 60,000–100,000 miles, though aggressive driving, towing, stop-and-go traffic, and power mods can cut life to 30,000–50,000 miles. Highway driving and good technique can extend life well past 100,000 miles. After replacement, plan for a 300–500 mile gentle break-in to seat the friction surfaces.

Symptoms You Need a Clutch

Before committing to replacement, confirm the clutch is the culprit; hydraulic or linkage issues can mimic failure.

• Engine revs rise without matching acceleration (slipping), especially under load or in higher gears
• Burning smell after hill starts or hard acceleration
• High or abrupt engagement point; shudder/chatter on takeoff
• Difficulty selecting gears or grinding when shifting
• Soft, spongy, or sinking pedal; visible hydraulic leaks

A proper diagnosis should include a road test and inspection for leaks, adjustment issues, and flywheel condition.

How to Get a Solid Estimate

Accurate quotes require vehicle-specific details and clarity on parts and scope. Ask these questions when calling shops.

• What brand/grade is the clutch kit (OEM, OE supplier, aftermarket)?
• Is the flywheel being resurfaced or replaced? What if the dual-mass is out of spec?
• Are the release bearing, pilot bearing, and new bolts included?
• Will you inspect/replace the rear main seal and hydraulics if needed?
• What are the warranty terms on parts and labor (typical: 12 months/12,000 miles; wear/misuse exclusions)?
• What is the out-the-door price including taxes, fees, and fluids?

Providing your VIN helps shops quote the correct kit and flywheel, avoiding surprises on the day of service.

Ways to Save Without Regret

You can reduce cost responsibly without compromising reliability or safety.

• Get 2–3 quotes from reputable independent shops; dealer isn’t always necessary unless software or specialty tools are required
• Choose an OE-supplier kit (LUK, Sachs, Exedy) for value and proper feel
• Approve essential “while there” items to avoid repeat labor later
• Avoid under-spec “racing” clutches for daily use; they often wear faster and chatter
• Time the job with other transmission service to consolidate labor

Balancing part quality with shop expertise typically yields the best long-term cost per mile.

DIY?

A clutch is a medium-to-advanced DIY due to vehicle weight, safety, and alignment needs. Attempt only if experienced and properly equipped.

• Must-have tools: transmission jack, torque wrench, clutch alignment tool, pilot bearing tool, jack stands or lift
• Risks: vehicle instability, damaged input shaft splines, misaligned clutch causing immediate failure
• Time: 1–2 days for a skilled DIYer; much longer on AWD/4×4

For most owners, a professional install with warranty is the safer, more economical choice.

Bottom Line

Expect $500–$2,500 for a clutch replacement in 2025, with most cars around $900–$1,700 and complex or heavy-duty vehicles exceeding $2,000. Your exact price hinges on drivetrain, flywheel type, labor hours, and preventive add-ons. Get VIN-specific, all-in quotes from a reputable shop and consider essential “while you’re in there” items to maximize longevity and value.

Is fixing a clutch a big job?

For an experienced mechanic with all the proper tools and equipment, changing a clutch usually eats up one full day of labor, over two to five calendar days once you’ve factored in time for ordering parts and machine work. It usually requires removal of the transmission, or sometimes removal of the engine instead.

Can you drive with a bad clutch?

Yes, you can sometimes drive a manual car with a bad clutch, but it is dangerous, can cause further damage, and should only be a temporary measure to get to safety or a repair shop. There are techniques for driving with a non-disengaging clutch or a slipping clutch, but these can be difficult, affect vehicle control, and risk leading to transmission failure. It’s best to get the clutch inspected and repaired as soon as possible. 
Driving with a clutch that won’t disengage (stuck in gear)
If the problem is with the clutch hydraulics and the clutch isn’t disengaging, you may be able to drive by: 

1. Starting the car in first gear: while the engine is off to prevent the clutch from engaging the transmission. 
2. Shifting without the clutch: by matching the engine speed to the transmission speed. This requires significant practice and is difficult in traffic. 
3. Turning the engine off at stops: and then restarting it in first gear to get moving again. 

Driving with a slipping clutch
If the clutch is slipping (slipping clutch), it means the friction material is worn, and the clutch is losing its ability to transfer power from the engine to the transmission. 

1. Minimizing engagement time: by taking your foot off the pedal as quickly as possible to prevent further wear. 
2. Avoiding heavy acceleration: and driving at lower speeds to reduce pressure on the clutch. 

Dangers and consequences

• Further Damage: A slipping clutch can quickly degrade, leading to faster wear on the clutch, flywheel, and even the transmission. 
• Loss of Control: Driving with a bad clutch can make controlling the vehicle difficult, especially in heavy traffic or on hills. 
• Breakdowns: The clutch could fail completely, leaving you stranded in an inconvenient location. 

What to do

• Get it inspected: Take your car to a mechanic or garage to have the clutch system inspected and repaired. 
• Consider towing: If the clutch is completely unusable or you are in a dangerous area, it may be safer to have the car towed to a repair shop. 

Is it worth replacing the clutch on a car?

It’s important that you have your clutch checked out as soon as possible if you suspect it’s not working properly. A worn-out, damaged or broken clutch can be dangerous. Leaving your clutch until it fails could cost you more money on repairs, too.

How expensive is it to replace a clutch?

Replacing a clutch can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,500 or more, with the average falling around $1,200 to $1,500. The final price depends on vehicle type (e.g., performance or four-wheel drive vehicles are more expensive), the parts needed (clutch disc, release bearing, flywheel), and labor costs, which can vary significantly by location and mechanic. 
Factors influencing clutch replacement cost

• Vehicle Make and Model: European, performance, or luxury vehicles generally cost more to repair due to higher part costs and more complex labor. 
• Vehicle Drive Type: Four-wheel drive vehicles often have higher labor costs for a clutch replacement than two-wheel drive vehicles. 
• Parts Required: A complete clutch replacement includes the clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing. You may also need a new flywheel or have it resurfaced, which adds to the cost. 
• Labor Costs: Labor is a significant portion of the total cost, and prices can vary based on your location and the hourly rates of your chosen mechanic. 
• Additional Components: Sometimes, related components like the master or slave cylinders, or even the transmission fluid, may need replacement, increasing the total bill. 

To get an accurate estimate

• Get Quotes from Multiple Shops: Obtain quotes from several reputable mechanics. 
• Check the Scope of Work: Ensure the quote includes all necessary parts and labor for the job. 
• Use Online Tools: Online resources like RepairPal’s cost estimator can provide a more accurate estimate based on your vehicle and location.