Clutch Slave Cylinder Repair Cost Guide
Below are typical repair costs for different types of clutch slave cylinder services. Labor rate:$125/hour
External Slave Cylinder
Total Cost Range: $250-$400
- Parts: $75-$150
- Labor: 1.5-2 hours ($187-$250)
- Most accessible type of slave cylinder
Internal Slave Cylinder (Concentric)
Total Cost Range: $800-$1,200
- Parts: $200-$400
- Labor: 4-6 hours ($500-$750)
- Requires transmission removal
- Often replaced during clutch job
Hydraulic Release Bearing
Total Cost Range: $900-$1,400
- Parts: $300-$500
- Labor: 4-7 hours ($500-$875)
- Most complex replacement
- Common in modern vehicles
Note: Prices may vary based on vehicle make, model, and year. Additional parts such as fluid, lines, or fittings may be required and are not included in these estimates.
Recommendation:When a slave cylinder fails, it's often cost-effective to replace the entire clutch system if it hasn't been done in the last 50,000 miles, as labor costs overlap significantly.
Clutch Slave Cylinder Repair Procedure
Safety First:Before beginning any repair work, ensure the vehicle is safely supported on jack stands and the parking brake is engaged.
Internal Slave Cylinder Repair
For vehicles with internal slave cylinders (mounted inside the transmission bell housing):
- Drain the hydraulic fluid from the clutch system
- Remove the transmission (this is why internal slave cylinder repairs are more expensive)
- Remove the old slave cylinder from the bell housing
- Install the new slave cylinder with new seals
- Reinstall the transmission
- Bleed the clutch hydraulic system
- Test clutch operation
External Slave Cylinder Repair
For vehicles with external slave cylinders (mounted outside the bell housing):
- Drain the hydraulic fluid from the clutch system
- Disconnect the hydraulic line from the slave cylinder
- Remove mounting bolts securing the slave cylinder
- Remove the old slave cylinder
- Install the new slave cylinder
- Reconnect the hydraulic line
- Bleed the clutch hydraulic system
- Test clutch operation
Concentric Slave Cylinder (CSC) Repair
For vehicles with concentric slave cylinders (mounted around the input shaft):
- Drain the hydraulic fluid
- Remove the transmission
- Remove the release bearing and CSC assembly
- Install new CSC and release bearing
- Reinstall transmission
- Bleed the hydraulic system
- Test clutch operation
Important Notes:
- Always use new hydraulic fluid when refilling the system
- Proper bleeding is crucial for proper clutch operation
- Consider replacing the clutch master cylinder at the same time
- If the transmission is removed, inspect the clutch disc and pressure plate
Note: Repair procedures may vary by vehicle make and model. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions.
Understanding Clutch Slave Cylinders
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Common Failure Symptoms of a Clutch Slave Cylinder
Signs of Clutch Slave Cylinder Failure & Maintenance Guide
Common Signs of Failure
1. Soft or Spongy Clutch Pedal
If your clutch pedal feels soft or spongy when pressed, this is often one of the first signs of a failing slave cylinder. The pedal may feel like it has less resistance than usual.
2. Clutch Pedal Stays on Floor
When the slave cylinder fails completely, the clutch pedal might stay on the floor instead of returning to its normal position. This is a serious issue requiring immediate attention.
3. Fluid Leaks
Look for hydraulic fluid leaks underneath your vehicle, particularly near the transmission bell housing. Leaking fluid is a clear indication of slave cylinder problems.
4. Difficulty Shifting Gears
A failing slave cylinder can make it increasingly difficult to shift gears smoothly, or you might experience grinding when attempting to change gears.
Maintenance Schedule
Regular Inspection:
• Inspect the slave cylinder for leaks every 30,000 miles
• Check clutch fluid levels during routine oil changes
• Visual inspection of surrounding components for wear or damage
Recommended Service Intervals:
• Replace clutch fluid every 2 years or 24,000 miles
• Full system inspection every 60,000 miles
• Replace slave cylinder when showing signs of wear or during clutch replacement
Preventative Maintenance:
• Keep clutch fluid clean and at proper levels
• Address any unusual clutch pedal feel immediately
• Consider replacement if vehicle is over 100,000 miles
Important Note: These are general guidelines. Specific maintenance schedules may vary by vehicle make, model, and driving conditions. Always consult your vehicle's manual or a certified mechanic for precise maintenance requirements.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
