Clutch Squeal: Causes and Fixes

Hey guys,

Since I once drove a certain distance with a heavy trailer in stop-and-go traffic, and the clutch also smelled slightly, I've been experiencing a very specific noise.

'When I'm stopped at a red light in gear, if I keep my foot on the clutch and then want to go when the light turns green, it sounds like I'm starting off with the handbrake engaged, or like the serpentine belt is squealing briefly. The noise disappears immediately when I release the clutch. And the clutch isn't slipping...'
However, if I release the clutch while the car is still in gear at the traffic light, and then quickly shift into the next gear when the light turns green, and then release the clutch again, there is no squeaking.

The noise is definitely coming from the clutch, but why is it squealing? What's the worst-case scenario I should be worried about? How much does it cost to replace the clutch?

A few more basics.

Octavia, 90 hp TDI, 175,000 km (likely the original clutch), manufactured in December 1999, AGR engine.


Thank you for your help.

Alex.

Due to overheating, the linings are likely to have become glazed (extremely hard, with a smooth surface).
Possibly, the noise is due to a worn clutch. Otherwise, the clutch needs to be replaced because the flywheel on the engine is being damaged (the friction material is harder than the disc).

But why doesn't it always squeak? Why only when you hold the clutch pedal down for a long time?

What is the cost of replacing the clutch? For a Golf 2, it used to be 500 DM, and last year I paid 550 euros for a Passat 91. What could it cost for a 99 model?

but why doesn't it always squeak??? Rather, why does it only squeak when you keep your foot on the clutch for a long time?


It's possible that the release bearing is also defective, and the clutch is no longer disengaging properly.


What is the cost of replacing the clutch?


-> Call the dealer and ask!