Clutch starting to go...

[Elixir]

Hi all,

I currently drive an Audi S3 8v (2014), and I’m starting to get clutch slip when accelerating hard in higher gears. I first noticed it a while ago but it’s getting worse over time, as you’d expect.

Unfortunately some basic internet research shows that the clutches in these cars are made of peanut butter and don’t tend to last very long. I’ve got the manual version, and it has done just over 34,000 miles.

This is the first time I’ve had clutch issues, so was wondering if anyone had any advice on how to proceed. The car is still very much drivable, I just need to be more conscious about how much juice I’m giving it in 5th/6th, but I’m not sure how long this will last? Should I just carry on with the current clutch until it becomes a real issue and deal with it then?

The second part of the discussion is about what to replace it with - it’s clear the OEM clutch isn’t up for the job, so I’ve been looking at Sach’s clutches as a replacement. Presumably I’d also need to replace the flywheel as part of this change? I think I’d be opting for the organic clutch rather than the sintered version which sounds a bit aggressive, I’m not too bothered about launching the car into the back of whoever is in front of me at traffic lights... but happy to hear any experiences or opinions related to clutch choice either way.

Cheers!

 

[Elixir]

I'm currently looking into getting an S3 and have heard horror stories about the manual clutches.

In regards to the flywheel at 34k I can't imagine it's taken a huge amount of wear. I'd get it inspected to be sure whilst it's in bits but most likely wont need replacing.

It’s a shame, they are great cars other than the clutch issues. I’m not a huge fan of autos as I find them less fun to drive, but probably going to end up going that way if I upgrade in the future.

Thanks for the comments regarding the flywheel - hopefully it’s still in reasonable nick.

Hi looking at it seems that it is the pressure plate can't deal with the power and 4wd system.
If been slipping you'd probably need to change flywheel as gets blued hot spots from grabbing could maybe get it refaced?
Have a look at uprated clutches Sachs are good mind there OE most probably for AUDI anyway.many have gone four paddle type but need to check if suitable for you.

But it isn't the "Launching" it's to do with torque when on boost V drivetrain drag so the little ole clutch is in the middle and gives up!

Best place is a Motor sport place somewhere that works/deals with heavily modded VW/Audi as will have turned up to them to deal with.
Also Trading standards if give Sh!tes as a very well known issue that there trying to dodge but some have stood there ground and got sorted.

Thanks. I’ll try and find somewhere suitable in the Aberdeen area and see what they think about the flywheel. Looks like it’ll be an extra £400-500 for a new one so if it can be avoided then that’s obviously preferable.

Does anyone have any experience with a sintered/4 paddle clutch? There are a lot of comments about it being a bit harsh for everyday use.

 

[Elixir]

I guess the question is how knackered the flywheel is as a result of the duff clutch - you wouldn’t usually expect to have to replace either after 34k miles!