Can you burn out a clutch?

Question

If you just drive it for 5 miles? This would be on a newer VW Bug.

Answer 1

That would be difficult, I would think.  If the clutch was nearly gone already, then keeping your left foot on the pedal might finish it off.

FYI, after you have done shifting gears, put your foot on the FLOOR!

That clutch pedal is not a footrest.

Answer 2

not ordinarily-if the clutch was just replaced, but not properly installed or adjusted, then yes, and of course if the clutch was worn significantly before one drove it for 5 miles, then yes it could have happened coincidentally during the 5 miles you drove it, but as a rule, no, even if you 'rode the clutch' for a full five miles, it should not fail from that treatment, especially the newer vehicles....chances are good that if the clutch failed while you were driving it, there was a problem with the clutch before you got in the car-sounds as if someone is trying to blame you for something that is not your fault.

Answer 3

Of course you can depending on how old the car is it could just go or if you do what they call riding the clutch which is always putting pressure on a clutch  

Answer 4

Er, depends if you've been "riding" the clutch for a lot of that 5 miles!  Though, you'd smell something burning quite quickly if you did.

Answer 5

Yes, it is possible if you don't know how to drive.