M/T - Clutch Operation and Troubleshooting Hints

SI M21 02 08
Clutch

April 2008
Technical Service

SUBJECT
Clutch Operation and Troubleshooting Hints

MODEL
R55 Cooper Clubman and Cooper S Clubman

R56 Cooper and Cooper S

INFORMATION

The customer complains that the clutch is chattering, shuddering, slipping and/or that the clutch pedal is unpredictable, causing an inability to moderate the clutch engagement. First, verify the customer's concern and utilize the hints below to help troubleshoot the vehicle's complaint.

^ Is the biting point of the clutch proper? Is the biting point too high, caused by a damaged clutch lining or pressure plate?

^ Can the clutch pedal be moved easily through its entire travel? For example, loose floor mats, a binding clutch mechanism, interference with aftermarket accessories, etc., may cause an obstruction in pedal movement.

^ Has the clutch mechanism been bled properly? Has a fluid loss occurred? Most importantly, after a related repair has been made:

^ Has there been a loss of engine oil or transmission fluid leading to a contaminated clutch?

The following points indicate a misuse of the clutch and are not covered under the terms of the MINI New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

^ Burnt clutch lining or heavy wear on the friction surfaces.

^ Clutch odor in the interior of the vehicle.

^ Heavily worn front tires.

Clutch operation that should be avoided at all times:

^ Releasing the clutch at or above an engine speed of 3,000 RPM should be avoided and is unnecessary. The maximum torque of the engine has already been achieved at 1,500 RPM.

^ Long slip times of greater than 2 seconds will cause severe damage to the clutch components.

^ Dumping or dropping of the clutch will cause severe damage to the clutch components.

^ Shifting the vehicle without releasing the accelerator while declutching will cause severe damage to the clutch components.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

If the clutch has been found defective due to a leakage of fluid, i.e., engine oil or transmission fluid, then it will be necessary to use an appropriate Defect Code related to the reason for that defect and not one
describing a consecutive failure of the clutch.