If your car has a manual transmission, you are most likely used to the way the pedal and the vehicle feel while the transmission shifts gears. You may not even think about it too much because using the stick shift and clutch pedal has become second nature to you while you are driving.

However, you may have noticed a change in the way everything feels and moves. If so, below are a couple of signs that indicate the clutch is responsible for the issues and will need the attention of a professional.

1.  Clutch Pedal Feels Different Than It Has in the Past

One thing that may alert you to a problem with your car transmission's clutch is the way that the pedal feels when you press it. Normally, it should feel firm and move smoothly when you step on it to shift gears.

However, if there is a problem with the clutch, it may feel loose and spongy, as though you do not have to put a lot of pressure to depress it. In this case, it could cause you to prematurely shift gears and cause them to grind.

Or you may notice that the pedal sticks when it hits the floor. Either way, the movement of the pedal most likely means that the clutch is having issues that will require a professional to fix.

2.  Gears Persistently Grind Every Time You Use the Clutch To Shift

Another sign that the clutch in your car's manual transmission is going bad is when you hear the gears grind during shifting. While the sound could be caused by stepping on the pedal and using the shifter out of sync, a persistent noise every time is problematic.

If the gears are grinding, this usually means that the clutch is worn out or slipping. If the grinding continues, the gears will wear down to the point that they need to be replaced.

When you step on the clutch pedal to shift gears in your car, it should feel smooth, and the gears should shift quietly and effortlessly. However, if the pedal feels sticky or spongy or you hear a grinding noise every time you use it, there is most likely a problem with the clutch that will need the attention of a professional. Contact an auto service shop that offers clutch repair and replacement services in your area to have them inspect the transmission to see what needs to be done to fix the failing clutch.