How much is a new clutch worth?
A new clutch for a typical passenger car generally costs about $600 to $1,800, including parts and labor; high-end vehicles or jobs involving dual-mass flywheels can exceed $2,000.
The final price depends on the vehicle, the shop, and whether the flywheel needs replacement. This article breaks down the cost components, typical price ranges, and tips for getting a fair estimate.
What goes into the price
Costs are driven by parts, labor, and optional services. Here are the main line items that typically appear on an invoice.
- Clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, release/throwout bearing) typically required for a replacement
- Hydraulic components (if your car uses a hydraulic clutch): master cylinder, slave cylinder, and lines
- Flywheel work: resurfacing if reusing the existing flywheel, or replacement if worn or damaged (dual-mass flywheels are more expensive)
- Labor to remove the transmission, install the new clutch, and reinstall the transmission
- Other hardware and services: alignment tools, pilot bearing, bellhousing seal, and transmission fluids if needed
Costs can vary by brand, model, and region, but these are the typical categories that appear on most receipts.
Typical price ranges by component
Prices below reflect typical parts costs before labor and tax. They vary by vehicle and region.
Parts costs
- Clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, throwout bearing): usually $100–$450 for aftermarket; OEM kits can be higher
- Flywheel work: resurfacing typically $50–$150; replacement flywheels range $400–$900; in vehicles with a dual-mass flywheel, prices can be $600–$1,200 or more
- Hydraulic components (master/slave cylinder, lines): about $60–$300
- Pilot bearing and seals: roughly $5–$60
Note: Prices vary by vehicle and region; more expensive models and specialty cars push parts cost higher.
Labor costs
- Labor hours: roughly 4–8 hours for a standard clutch replacement on a front-wheel-drive car; 6–12 hours or more for rear-wheel-drive or complex layouts
- Shop rate: commonly $75–$150 per hour; premium shops can charge $150–$200+ per hour
- Estimated labor total: about $300–$1,500 for most jobs; more for difficult access or specialized labor
In rare cases with especially tricky transmissions or dual-mass flywheels, labor can push toward the upper end of or beyond this range.
Vehicle-specific considerations
Dual-mass flywheels and high-performance setups
Cars with dual-mass flywheels are more expensive to replace because the flywheel is typically heavier and more complex, and some models require a new flywheel with the kit. This equipment can significantly raise both parts and labor costs.
Access and transmission design
Front-wheel-drive cars often require less labor time than manual transmissions in larger vehicles or trucks, but some modern vehicles still require extensive dismantling to reach the clutch.
Ways to save on clutch replacement costs
Smart budgeting tips can help you reduce cost without compromising safety or longevity.
- Get multiple quotes from independent shops and dealer service departments
- Ask for a parts-only quote vs a full replacement, and compare the total after including labor estimates
- Consider aftermarket clutch kits that meet or exceed OEM specs, if approved by your vehicle manufacturer
- Confirm with a professional whether resurfacing the flywheel is adequate or a replacement is necessary
- Time the service with other maintenance to minimize labor overhead, when feasible
Service quality matters as much as price. A reputable shop that uses quality parts and provides a warranty can save you money in the long run by avoiding repeat failures.
Summary
For most cars, a clutch replacement costs roughly $600 to $1,800, with higher figures for dual-mass flywheels or luxury-brand vehicles. Key cost drivers are parts (clutch kit, flywheel, hydraulics), labor time, and shop rates. By understanding the breakdown and shopping around, you can secure a fair estimate and a reliable repair.
How much should a new clutch cost?
Clutch and flywheel replacement costs
| Vehicle type | Average clutch replacement cost | Flywheel replacement cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small cars | £300 to £500 | Additional £150 to £300 |
| Medium cars | £350 to £600 | Additional £150 to £300 |
| Larger cars | £400 to £800 | Additional £150 to £300 |
| Luxury cars | £500 to £900 | Additional £150 to £300 |
Is it worth replacing the clutch on a car?
A clutch should last you between 50,000 and 100,000 miles before you need to replace it. When their lifespan comes to an end, it's vital to change your clutch as soon as possible as its vital to maintaining healthy performance of your vehicle.
How expensive is it to replace a clutch?
Replacing a clutch typically costs between $750 and $2,500, with an average of about $1,200 to $1,500, due to high labor costs. The final price depends on your vehicle's make and model, with sports cars and certain front-wheel drive models being more expensive, and your geographic location.
Factors that influence the cost
- Labor: This is the largest expense, as clutch replacement is a time-consuming job. Mechanics can spend anywhere from 4 to 10 hours on the repair, and prices vary by shop and location.
- Vehicle type: The cost varies based on your car's make, model, and drivetrain.
- Front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles: are often more expensive to repair because the transmission is more difficult to access.
- Sports and high-performance vehicles: may require more specialized and costly parts.
- Parts: The cost of the clutch kit itself can range from about $300 to over $1,500 for performance parts. A full clutch job usually includes the clutch disc, pressure plate, and release (throw-out) bearing. It's also a good time to replace the pilot bearing and have the flywheel machined or replaced.
- Location: The cost of living and labor rates in your area will affect the final price.
- Shop choice: Different mechanics have different labor rates, so it's a good idea to get quotes from several shops to compare prices.
Is fixing a clutch a big job?
Replacing a clutch isn't a quick job, and mechanics typically need 4 to 6 hours, or even more. Labor rates can range from $75 to $150 an hour. No wonder the bill adds up! Then there's the cost of the clutch kits themselves.
