How much does a full clutch replacement cost?
In most cases, a full clutch replacement costs roughly $1,200 to $2,500 in the United States, with higher prices for luxury or high-performance models.
That price covers parts, labor, and any necessary flywheel work, and the final number depends on your car’s make and model, where you go, and whether additional repairs are found during service. The following sections break down typical costs, what drives them, and how to plan for the expense.
What goes into the cost
The following estimates cover common components and services involved in a clutch replacement.
- Clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, throw-out bearing): typically $100–$400 for parts
- Flywheel work:
- Resurfacing (if usable): about $60–$150
- Replacement (often required for dual-mass or worn flywheels): about $300–$800 plus labor
- Hydraulic components (slave cylinder, lines, reservoir): $50–$250
- Pilot bearing and other small parts, seals, fluids: $20–$100
- Labor: typically 4–8 hours at $75–$150 per hour, roughly $300–$1,200
- Transmission removal/installation complexity (if access requires extra hours): $0–$800 additional
- Miscellaneous shop supplies and inspection: $20–$100
Note: These figures are ballpark ranges and can vary by car, shop, and location. An exact quote will reflect your vehicle’s specifics and the shop’s labor rate.
Typical price ranges by vehicle type
Prices vary by car size and drivetrain. Here are general ranges to set expectations.
- Economy/compact cars: typically $1,000–$1,800
- Mid-size sedans and SUVs: typically $1,400–$2,700
- Luxury or performance models (dual-mass flywheels and advanced hydraulics): typically $2,000–$4,000 or more
Higher-end vehicles and those with complex transmissions often require additional labor and specialized parts, which can push the price higher than the ranges above.
Other factors that influence the price
Several factors regularly affect the final quote you’ll receive.
- Geographic region and shop labor rates (urban vs rural areas)
- Flywheel type and overall vehicle complexity
- Whether the transmission must be removed or dropped for access
- Any additional repairs discovered during service (pilot bearing, release bearing, hydraulic lines, seals)
- Vehicle brand and parts availability
- Warranty or service package offered by the shop
Understanding these factors can help you compare apples-to-apples quotes and avoid surprises at the end of the job.
What to expect during service
During a typical clutch replacement, technicians follow a standard workflow to restore clutch function and reliability.
- Inspect the clutch system to confirm the diagnosis and identify any related issues
- Safely lift and support the vehicle, then remove the transmission to access the clutch assembly
- Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing; inspect or replace the flywheel as needed
- Install new hydraulic components if applicable and bleed the clutch system to remove air
- Reinstall the transmission, perform alignment checks, and top off fluids
- Test drive to confirm proper clutch operation and address any residual issues
Some jobs may take longer due to transmission design, accessibility, or additional repairs discovered during disassembly. Always request an itemized estimate that separates parts, labor, and any flywheel work.
Summary
For most standard manual transmissions, plan on about $1,200 to $2,500 for a full clutch replacement, with higher costs for luxury or high-performance vehicles. The price hinges on parts (clutch kit, flywheel work, hydraulics), labor rates, and how accessible the transmission is. Obtain written, itemized quotes from reputable shops, and consider warranty options to protect the investment. Regular maintenance and addressing wear early can help manage long-term costs.
