How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Clutch In A Honda Civic


The average cost to replace a clutch in a Honda Civic ranges from $800 to $1,500. This includes parts and labor at an independent repair shop. Dealership costs tend to be higher, often $1,200 to $2,000 or more. The exact price depends on factors like model year, labor rates in your area, and whether you choose OEM or aftermarket parts.

Replacing the clutch is a labor-intensive job that requires removing the transmission. For most Honda Civic models, it takes 5-8 hours of labor. The clutch kit itself typically costs $200-$500. Additional parts like the flywheel may need replacement as well, adding to the total cost.

Let’s break down the costs and process in more detail:

Factors That Affect Clutch Replacement Cost

The cost to replace a clutch in a Honda Civic can vary significantly based on several key factors:

  1. Model year and generation – Newer Civics tend to be more complex and time-consuming to work on. For example, replacing the clutch on a 2016+ Civic requires removing the front subframe, adding labor time.
  2. Parts quality – OEM Honda clutch kits cost more than aftermarket options but may last longer. Performance clutches are the most expensive.
  3. Additional parts needed – The flywheel often needs resurfacing or replacement when doing a clutch job. This adds $100-$300 to the total.
  4. Labor rates – Shop labor rates vary widely by location. Expect to pay $80-$150 per hour.
  5. Warranty – Some shops offer warranties on parts and labor, which can increase the upfront cost but provide peace of mind.
  6. Transmission removal method – Dropping the transmission from below is more time-consuming than pulling the engine/transmission together from above on some models.
  7. Condition of other components – Worn engine or transmission mounts, damaged axles, or other issues discovered during the job can increase costs.
  8. Shop vs DIY – Doing the work yourself saves on labor but requires specialized tools and expertise.

Cost Breakdown for Honda Civic Clutch Replacement

Here’s a typical cost breakdown for replacing the clutch on a Honda Civic at an independent repair shop:

  • Clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, throwout bearing): $200-$500
  • Flywheel resurfacing or replacement: $100-$300
  • Other minor parts (pilot bearing, seals, etc.): $50-$100
  • Labor (5-8 hours at $100/hr average): $500-$800

Total estimated cost: $850-$1,700

Dealership prices are often 20-30% higher due to higher labor rates and parts markup. Performance clutch kits can easily push the total over $2,000.

Signs You Need a New Clutch

Watch for these common symptoms that indicate your Honda Civic’s clutch may be failing:

  1. Slipping – Engine RPMs rise but the car doesn’t accelerate as expected
  2. Difficulty shifting gears, especially into reverse
  3. Clutch pedal feels soft, spongy, or engages very low to the floor
  4. Burning smell, especially when slipping occurs
  5. Clutch chatter or vibration when engaging
  6. Squealing or grinding noises when pressing the clutch pedal
  7. Clutch pedal stays on the floor and doesn’t return
  8. Complete loss of acceleration in any gear

If you notice any of these issues, have the clutch inspected as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with a failing clutch can cause additional damage.

DIY vs Professional Clutch Replacement

Replacing a clutch is an advanced DIY job that requires significant mechanical skill and specialized tools. Here are some pros and cons of DIY vs professional replacement:

DIY Pros:

  • Save $500+ on labor costs
  • Satisfaction of doing it yourself
  • Can inspect/replace other components while transmission is out

DIY Cons:

  • Requires transmission jack, clutch alignment tool, and other specialty tools
  • Time-consuming job (8-12+ hours for a novice)
  • Risk of mistakes leading to transmission damage
  • Difficult to diagnose other potential issues

Professional Pros:

  • Guaranteed work with warranty
  • Faster turnaround time (usually 1-2 days)
  • Proper diagnosis of related issues
  • Access to OEM parts and specialty tools

Professional Cons:

  • Higher overall cost
  • Potential for unnecessary upsells
  • Less control over exact parts used

For most Honda Civic owners, professional replacement is recommended unless you have advanced mechanical skills and proper tools.

Steps to Replace a Clutch in a Honda Civic

While the exact process varies by model year, here is a general overview of replacing the clutch in a Honda Civic:

  1. Disconnect battery and remove air intake system
  2. Remove starter motor
  3. Disconnect shift cables and clutch hydraulic line
  4. Support engine with hoist or jack
  5. Remove front wheels and axle nuts
  6. Disconnect lower ball joints and tie rods
  7. Remove CV axles
  8. Unbolt and lower transmission
  9. Remove old clutch and flywheel
  10. Install new flywheel (or resurface existing)
  11. Install new clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing
  12. Reinstall transmission and all removed components
  13. Bleed clutch hydraulic system
  14. Test drive and adjust as needed

This is a simplified overview – the full process involves many more detailed steps and can take 5-8 hours for an experienced mechanic.

Choosing the Right Clutch for Your Honda Civic

When replacing your clutch, you have several options:

  1. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): Direct replacement from Honda. Most expensive but guaranteed fit and quality.
  2. OE-equivalent aftermarket: Made to OEM specs by companies like Exedy or Sachs. Good balance of cost and quality.
  3. Performance/heavy duty: Upgraded clutches for modified engines or heavy towing. Can handle more power but may be less comfortable for daily driving.
  4. Economy: Cheapest option but often lower quality materials and shorter lifespan.

For most daily drivers, an OE-equivalent aftermarket clutch kit offers the best value. If your Civic is modified for more power, consider a performance clutch rated for the increased torque.

How to Make Your Clutch Last Longer

To get the most life out of your new clutch, follow these tips:

  1. Avoid riding the clutch pedal – keep your foot off when not shifting
  2. Don’t use the clutch to hold the car on hills – use the brake instead
  3. Shift smoothly without excessive revving
  4. When stopped, put the car in neutral rather than holding the clutch in
  5. If stuck in snow/mud, don’t spin the tires excessively
  6. Have the clutch hydraulic system flushed every 30,000 miles
  7. Address any clutch slipping immediately to prevent further damage
  8. Use the proper gear for the speed to reduce clutch wear

With proper driving habits, a quality replacement clutch should last 60,000 to 100,000 miles in a Honda Civic.

Common Questions About Honda Civic Clutch Replacement

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about clutch replacement in Honda Civics:

Q: How long does it take to replace a clutch?
A: An experienced mechanic can usually complete the job in 5-8 hours. Allow 1-2 days for the car to be in the shop.

Q: Can I drive with a slipping clutch?
A: It’s not recommended. Driving with a slipping clutch can cause additional damage to the flywheel and transmission.

Q: Do I need to replace the flywheel when replacing the clutch?
A: Not always, but it’s often recommended. The flywheel can be resurfaced if it’s in good condition. If it’s warped or heavily worn, replacement is necessary.

Q: How often should the clutch be replaced in a Honda Civic?
A: With normal driving, expect 60,000 to 100,000 miles from a clutch. Heavy traffic, mountainous terrain, or aggressive driving can reduce this.

Q: Will a new clutch make my car faster?
A: Not typically. A new clutch restores proper function but doesn’t increase power. Performance clutches can improve power transfer in modified cars.

Q: Can I replace just the clutch disc?
A: It’s not recommended. The pressure plate and throwout bearing should be replaced at the same time for best performance and longevity.

Conclusion

Replacing the clutch in a Honda Civic is a significant repair, both in terms of cost and complexity. While prices can vary widely, expect to pay $800 to $1,500 at an independent shop or $1,200 to $2,000+ at a dealership. The exact cost depends on your specific model, chosen parts, and labor rates in your area.

Given the complexity of the job, most owners are best served having a professional handle the replacement. However, attentive driving habits and regular maintenance can help extend clutch life and delay the need for this expensive repair.

When it’s time for replacement, choose a quality clutch kit appropriate for your driving style and budget. With proper installation and care, your new clutch should provide many miles of smooth, reliable service in your Honda Civic.

Justin

Hi, I'm Justin, a car enthusiast turned mechanic. The garage is my second home, where each engine and part tells a unique story. Seeing car owners frustrated with issues inspired me to start DIY Car Expert, offering reliable solutions to tackle problems with ease. 🚗✨

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