Rating of the best clutch manufacturers. How to choose, advantages and disadvantages

The clutch system, present exclusively in cars with an automatic transmission, allows you to disconnect the rotating engine flywheel from the gearbox and change gear. It consists of three elements: basket, disk and coupling. The main load is taken by the disk, and it is the disk that most often fails. Replacing a disk is a complex and expensive process, so the manufacturer must be as reliable as possible, and making the right choice is very difficult. You can rely on user reviews, but you should understand that wear largely depends on the car and driving style. When selecting products for our rating, we were guided primarily by tests of independent experts who look at all aspects and can draw a conclusion about the quality of the product produced by a particular company.

The best clutch disc is the one that will last as long as possible, and in addition will cost reasonable money. There are a lot of manufacturers on the market that produce high-quality parts, but their prices are often sky-high. In this case, the combination of price and quality is important, and we found 10 manufacturers who have won positive reviews from both ordinary car owners and experts.

How to distinguish an original from a fake

We all know that when purchasing a product there is a risk of buying a low-quality part, that is, a fake. Visually distinguishing “China” from the original is quite difficult, and sometimes impossible without special tests. What steps should you take to find out what you bought? One has only to test the friction material and everything will immediately become clear.

So, you will need a grinding machine (popularly called a “grinder”) with an abrasive wheel, which needs to be used to work on the material. Did you immediately notice a peculiar smell of something burning? If so, then most likely you have a non-original part. Just imagine: all this can happen in your clutch housing. A non-original disc does not fit properly, causing the friction linings to burn. The original will behave quite differently in the above test. During the first attempt, it is almost not subjected to sharpening, and the friction linings do not change their original appearance.

A fake will not serve you for long, and may result in damage to the pressure mechanism. The reason is that if it overheats, cracks appear on the disk and it simply loses the lion's share of its frictional properties. The springs will become unusable - after overheating they will not retain their former elasticity. Subsequently, you will have to purchase the entire clutch mechanism.

How to protect yourself before purchasing? Very simple. Follow a certain number of rules, and you will never fall for a fake:

• Buy from trusted suppliers;
• Pay attention to the cost of the product; even during the discount season, it is unlikely that anyone will sell you a part at half its market value.
• The quality of the kit and the integrity of the package. If possible, be sure to check the contents and quality of the parts, since even a visual inspection can reveal a design defect.

Also pay attention to the packaging. It should have a hologram on it indicating that you are looking at an original product.

More details about the package

The complete clutch consists of the following elements:

• Pressure disk . The round disk has a characteristic bulge. Release springs are built into it. They have a tight connection with the pressure pad in a similar round shape. The diameter of the platform is comparable to the size of the flywheel. Under the influence of the release bearing, the springs move towards the center of the pressure plate;
• Driven disk . Round, it includes spring plates, and 2 independent friction linings are riveted to them. It is located between the flywheel and the pressure pad;
• Friction linings . Mainly made from carbon material. They are located on the driven disk; in most cases, special rivets are responsible for their fastening;
• The system for driving the installed clutch into action. That system which, using the clutch pedal in tandem with a moving cable, helps us control the clutch release;
• Clutch pedal . It is located, of course, in the car interior, and it is always the leftmost pedal.

Luk VS Valeo: reliability

Let's start with reliability.
Both manufacturers have no equal in this indicator. Luk is a high-quality “100%” German product with all that it implies: precision, first-class quality and scrupulous meticulousness in development and assembly. Valeo is a French brand that supplies clutch spare parts for every third car in the world. Both Luk and Valeo are official distributors for the conveyors of the largest automakers, as well as for the secondary market. However, we still recommend taking a closer look and buying a Valeo clutch - and here's why. Firstly, in the production of clutch system parts, the company uses exclusively durable and high-quality materials, and also carefully monitors the manufacturing process at each stage.

Secondly, Valeo offers such a wide range of entire clutch kits and individual elements that you can easily select exactly the spare part that interests you. Thirdly, according to world statistics, the Valeo clutch (over more than eighty years of history of its existence) has received such a number of various awards, certificates and recognitions that it is rightfully considered a reference - much more reliable?!

However, there is a downside: in addition to quality, Valeo also holds the record for the frequency of counterfeiting. However, if you approach the issue thoughtfully, it is very easy to detect counterfeit goods even before purchase (read how exactly).

Helpful information:

• Valeo clutch: trouble-free transmission operation
• Car clutch. Part 1: basic concepts, components and common faults
• Car clutch. Part 2: clutch disc
• Car clutch. Part 3: the cylinder - the little thing on which the foundations are based
• Car clutch. Part 4: clutch basket
• Car clutch. Part 5: clutch cable - a small but necessary part

You can get professional advice when selecting a product by calling 8 800 555-43-85 (calls within Russia are free).

Luk VS Valeo: operating features

Finally, the last (but by no means least important) parameter is how easily and quickly parts can be replaced, installed and maintained in technical condition. Overall, if you decide to buy a Valeo or Luk clutch, most likely your choice is to “set it and forget it” about the clutch system for the next 100,000 kilometers.

Read more: Ratings of Moscow car dealerships for used cars

Therefore, when making a comparison between two premium brands, perhaps only additional nuances are worth evaluating. Thus, complete with products, Valeo offers detailed instructions for installing spare parts in CD format with all relevant recommendations and manuals, as well as a special lubricant that helps prevent early seizing, wear and deformation of elements.

You can learn more about the brand and learn even more operational features and advantages of Valeo clutch systems here.

You can always select and buy a Valeo clutch kit in IXORA stores. Our catalogs offer the widest selection of clutch kits and individual parts from all popular and reliable manufacturers, as well as other spare parts and accessories necessary for the smooth operation and care of your car. Our professional consultants will help you make the right choice!

* Please check the applicability of parts specifically for your car with our managers by phone (calls within Russia are free).

Let's sum it up

Modern cars have a reliable and high-quality clutch kit from the factory. But during operation, it may be necessary to replace this mechanism. Wear depends on many factors, such as the quality of the initially installed discs and the operating characteristics of the vehicle. The more sudden starts and increased loads on the engine, the less service the clutch mechanism will have. Consider leading clutch manufacturers when selecting a new kit.

Almost all manufacturers on the market sell well, so there are a lot of reviews on the Internet about specific models of discs, bearings and rods. It is enough to compare reviews, prices and include a personal opinion to choose the optimal package. Please note that one manufacturer may offer several clutch kits for your car. This is important to consider, since the cost can simply vary dramatically, as well as the quality and service life of the equipment.

RELEASE BEARING

If the kit includes a plastic bearing, you can put the box aside or then replace it with a standard VAZ metal bearing. During active driving, the plastic part begins to “howl” and then crumbles. Attempts to solve the problem by “immersing” the bearing in lubricant solve the problem only for a short time.

The font and code must be clearly applied, and the paint should not be erased by a simple touch. Carefully inspect the metal sheets of the basket. It is important that they are all located in the same plane. If even one petal protrudes, the car will twitch and the pedal will constantly vibrate. Any deviations are unacceptable; if there are any, we immediately refuse the purchase.

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Conclusion

The clutch, as we were able to understand, is a very important mechanism in the structure of the entire car. During operation, it is important to treat it with care and not subject it to unnecessary stress. If you are a careful driver, then your clutch will serve you faithfully. Even if a breakdown occurs, the clutch market is full of good manufacturers. It is recommended to always carry out timely maintenance when problems occur. When purchasing, pay attention to the manufacturer and do not buy from just anyone. As the experience of many car owners shows, the more you save now, the more you will have to pay for repairs later. However, analogues of the above brands can be purchased - they are practically not inferior to the originals.

TOP 10 best clutch manufacturers

Below is a rating of the most popular manufacturers with the best parts for any car brand. The rating is based on customer reviews and recommendations of car service technicians.

Clutch Valeo

The best clutch for VAZ will be products from Valeo. Over many years of operation, the company has gained enormous trust among car owners in many countries for the reliability, quality and long service life of its products.

However, the clutch of this brand is more expensive than that of competitors, which is explained by high performance indicators. On average, they travel up to 120 thousand km. Often the mechanism continues to work properly even after 200 thousand km. Clutch discs withstand short-term overheating well.

The safety margin of the products is 6,000 rpm, but continues to work properly even at 9,000 rpm. Which is an important point for car owners of modified models. The cost of the set is about 7 - 8 thousand rubles.

Advantages:

• large margin of safety;
• calmly tolerates high loads;
• comfortable and soft ride;
• long service life.

One of the disadvantages is the high cost - Valeo clutches can be twice as expensive as their analogues. This also includes the presence of a large number of fakes.

Sachs clutch

The clutch is designed so that the car starts moving earlier, this reduces wear on the mechanism. The kit is made with asbestos-free linings. The coupling is maintenance-free. Easily carries heavy loads. An excellent option for an aggressive riding style. Thanks to the excellent workmanship of the parts, no grinding is required after installation - the mechanism operates normally from the first start.

You can purchase spare parts only from official representatives of the company. To protect against counterfeiting, Sachs assigns a serial number to each product, and a holographic tape is placed on the packaging. On average, you will have to pay about 5 thousand rubles for a set. Well suited for front-wheel drive VAZs with eight and sixteen-valve engines.

Advantages:

• long service life;
• smooth and soft transmission of torque;
• does not require grinding in;
• protection against counterfeiting.

There is only one drawback - the high cost of the products.

LUK clutch

In manufacturing, the manufacturer uses innovative technologies, which ensures soft switching and long service life of discs, release bearings and other elements. The mileage is about 120 thousand km. The products are equipped with reinforced friction clutch springs. Grinding takes place in the shortest possible time. The products are installed on foreign cars, as well as on new and classic models of the domestic automobile industry. Narrow petals of the basket provide a soft pedal squeeze. The bearings contain high quality lubricant.

Some car manufacturers install the LUK clutch as standard equipment. Average retail cost – 4,000 rubles.

The best price/quality ratio.

Advantages:

• excellent quality of elements;
• soft clutch release;
• long service life;
• short grinding period.

The only drawback that can be noted is the presence of fakes.

Hola clutch

The manufacturer produces high-quality kits designed for heavy loads. On average it travels about 100,000 km. All clutches are subject to strict quality control and meet ISO standards.

An interesting feature is the absence of a pressure ring in the Hola clutch, as well as reliable protection against impacts. The kit provides soft squeezing with smooth gear shifting. Has a large margin of safety at maximum speed. Distributed at a price of about 3,000 rubles.

Advantages:

• excellent quality;
• elements have anti-corrosion coating;
• soft squeeze.

The main disadvantage of Hola kits is the rather long grinding-in time. You also need to be careful when purchasing - products are often counterfeited.

Fenox clutch

Some automakers install couplings of this brand when assembling their cars. Refers to inexpensive products with high quality parts. Due to the copper fibers in the linings, the clutch received improved heat transfer.

The coupling has a high-quality bearing that can easily withstand extreme loads. Works properly at 12 thousand rpm. After installation, the ride becomes more comfortable, the kit provides soft squeezing. The average retail price is 3,800 rubles.

Advantage:

• relatively low price;
• comfort when using;
• Fakes are rare.

Among the disadvantages, one can note the relatively short service life of the products.

Kraft clutch

The Kraft clutch is an excellent choice for aggressive driving styles. The clutch can easily withstand extreme loads. The mechanism has a soft release, the quality of the clutch meets many standards. The brand's products are of very high quality and are produced in reliable packaging to prevent damage to the product during transportation.

Kraft kits are widely available, so purchasing will not be difficult. Due to the low cost, there are practically no counterfeit goods. In addition, the company protects its products by individually labeling each product. An excellent choice for classic VAZ models. The average price of products is 3,000 – 3,500 rubles.

Excellent price/quality ratio. The choice of most VAZ drivers.

Advantages:

• reliable packaging;
• comfortable ride;
• product warranty;
• high prevalence of products.

Among the shortcomings, slight vibration during operation was noticed.

Clutch "VazInterService"

Recently, the quality of the company's products has improved significantly, and the range has greatly increased. The average resource is short - about 70,000 km, but the low cost fully compensates for this shortcoming. Not suitable for aggressive driving; the clutch is not designed to withstand excessive loads. In stores it sells for 3,000 rubles.

Advantages:

• the products are designed specifically for VAZs, taking into account their characteristics;
• almost complete absence of fakes;
• low cost.

The main disadvantage is the small resource.

STARCO clutch

Innovative technologies are used in production, so the products are obtained with an excellent price/quality ratio. The clutch is more suitable for a relaxed driving style. When driving aggressively, it begins to fail after a mileage of 15,000 km. Clutches can withstand short periods of heavy loads. Good quality packaging will protect products from damage during transportation.

Due to the low cost and good protection from the company, there are practically no fakes. The price for a clutch kit is about 3,300 rubles.

Advantages:

• excellent price/quality ratio;
• endures heavy loads;
• reliable packaging;
• low cost.

Among the shortcomings, rapid wear of the products has been noticed - damper springs quickly become unusable. It is also worth noting the low quality bearings.

AMD clutch

The Korean manufacturer was originally created to produce parts for its own cars. However, thanks to a competent approach, it has become widespread throughout the world. And after updating the assortment, products appeared for the domestic automobile industry.

The brand’s clutches are distinguished by high quality manufacturing and a fairly long service life. The company has production sites not only in Korea, but also in China. It is worth noting here that the Chinese assembly is inferior to the Japanese one in many respects.

Advantages:

• soft transmission of torque;
• low noise during operation;
• good disc tightness;
• low cost;
• You can order a clutch kit directly on the manufacturer’s website without additional extra charges.

The disadvantage is that due to the poor build quality at Chinese facilities, it received many conflicting reviews.

Exedy clutch

The largest company producing consumables for cars of all makes and models. It has production facilities in more than 30 countries.

Users note the excellent build quality of the kits. Clutches easily withstand increased loads and are perfect for aggressive driving styles; they are often installed on sports cars. The company has developed its own friction materials used in the manufacture of discs. The wide petals of the basket do not interfere with soft squeezing. The reinforced discs have a stiffer damper.

The clutch kit from the Exedy brand includes a release bearing, clutch basket and clutch disc. All products received very long service life of about 150,000 kilometers.

Advantages:

• comfortable use;
• soft transmission of torque;
• high reliability of products;
• excellent performance even during long-term use;
• long working hours.

The main disadvantage is the presence of a huge number of counterfeit goods. This also includes the high cost of couplings.