Replacing your clutch fluid costs an average of $118—parts cost around $28, while mechanic labor costs around $90. Remember, this is an estimate. The exact price of your clutch fluid replacement will depend on your vehicle’s make and model and where you have the brake fluid replacement done.

How long does it take to replace the clutch fluid? A certified mechanic can replace your clutch fluid in about 0.8 hours hours. It’s a quick process that involves inspecting the clutch fluid and hydraulic clutch system and replacing the fluid if needed.

Here’s an overview of the clutch fluid replacement costs for different vehicles:

Estimate Date	Customer	Car	Fair Cost Estimate	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Labor Time
April 25, 2024	Vincent, 20 Riverside, CA	Saab 45172	$97	$26	$71	0.6 Hours
April 20, 2024	Emily, 30 Georgetown, TX	Alfa Romeo Giulia	$102	$26	$77	0.6 Hours
April 18, 2024	Jerry, 32 Providence, RI	Mazda CX-5	$94	$26	$68	0.6 Hours
April 18, 2024	Lucinda, 32 San Jose, CA	Acura MDX	$105	$26	$80	0.6 Hours
April 17, 2024	Lucy, 34 High Point, NC	Cadillac Escalade	$96	$26	$70	0.6 Hours

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

Get a free fair cost estimate for my car

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What parts do I need for my clutch fluid replacement and how much do those parts cost?

When it’s time to replace your clutch fluid, the fluid itself is generally the only part you’ll need to buy—and it’s relatively inexpensive. The average cost for clutch fluid is between $10 and $15, but if you’re having it replaced at an auto repair shop then you’ll pay quite a bit more for labor.

In addition to a new bottle of fluid, you’ll need to gather a few other pieces of equipment and tools:

Wrench

Container or bottle for old fluid

Clear, plastic tubing approximately 1-foot long (¼” internal dimension)

You can purchase clutch fluid for your common car from auto parts stores like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. Three recommended brands for clutch fluid are Prestone, Valvoline, and Castrol. However, the best clutch fluid for your vehicle will vary based on its year, make, and model.

Is changing the clutch fluid necessary?

In most cases, you’ll only need to change your car’s clutch fluid if there’s a problem with the clutch system. That said, if you want to keep your vehicle in excellent condition, changing the clutch fluid every couple of years is recommended.

When your car is serviced for an

oil change

, have the mechanic check the car’s brake fluid since dirt can find its way into the clutch system.

Where can I buy a clutch fluid?

Auto parts stores like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts will sell a variety of brands of clutch fluid for an affordable price. You may also find it on sites like Amazon and stores selling automotive parts. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual before buying fluid to ensure it’s compatible with your car’s make and model.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my clutch fluid replaced?

Changing the clutch fluid on your car is a relatively simple DIY job, but not everyone is comfortable being their own mechanic. For the non-car-savvy people who’d prefer a mechanic do the job, finding a reputable and trusted auto repair shop can be tricky—especially if you don’t have a go-to mechanic in your area.

Enter Jerry's

GarageGuard™

. You can compare repair service rates from over 2,500 reputable auto shops nationwide in seconds. You’ll see shop diagnostic fees and actual hourly labor rates, and you can read reviews from real customers to help you choose the best service.

Check out some of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare car repair costs in your area.

155 Reviews

CT Auto and Towing LLC

42 Jansen Ct, Hartford, CT

Clutch Fluid Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$113

(Parts - $13, Labor - $100)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$120

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (860) 216-5474

110 Reviews

Arizona Tire Pros

2033 W University Dr Suite 113, Mesa, AZ

Clutch Fluid Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$123

(Parts - $13, Labor - $110)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$125

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (480) 424-7767

115 Reviews

Daniels Tire & Auto Service

6535 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA

Clutch Fluid Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$148

(Parts - $13, Labor - $135)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$90

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (323) 750-1228

137 Reviews

Expert Auto Centers

5351 S Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL

Clutch Fluid Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$118

(Parts - $13, Labor - $105)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$145

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (773) 582-2222

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my clutch cable?

Replacing the clutch fluid is a simple process. Here are the steps a mechanic will take during a clutch fluid change:

Inspect the condition of the fluid

Inspect the clutch’s hydraulic system for leakage

Bleed out the old fluid while filling the system with clean fluid

Fill the clutch master cylinder with fresh brake fluid

What happens if I don’t replace my clutch cable?

If your brake fluid is leaking and levels are low, you won’t be able to change gears. The pressure of the fluid is what helps move the clutch. Without the extra pressure, the clutch becomes too heavy to move on its own.

What is a clutch fluid replacement service?

Technically, clutch fluid does not exist—it’s actually brake fluid. Stored in the clutch master cylinder, the fluid’s pressure helps you change gears in cars with a manual transmission.

When you press the clutch pedal, the fluid moves from the master cylinder into the slave cylinder, allowing you to engage the clutch. If the fluid starts to leak or becomes contaminated, you might find yourself unable to shift gears and your vehicle can suffer severe damage. If this is the case, you may need a clutch fluid flush before replacing it with new fluid.

How do I know if my clutch fluid needs replacing?

You should have your entire clutch system checked whenever you bring your car for servicing. Regularly inspecting your clutch fluid can catch any major issues before they spiral out of control.

The two main signs that you might need to replace your clutch fluid include:

Leaking clutch fluid

Contaminated clutch fluid

Other signs you need to replace your clutch fluid include strange clutch performance—like a stiff or spongy pedal—and trouble shifting gears.

How often should you replace the clutch fluid?

Your vehicle’s owner’s manual usually provides intervals for replacing fluids. You’ll typically only need to replace your clutch fluid if there’s an issue with the system. That said, most car experts recommend changing the fluid every two years or 30,000 miles to ensure your car and brake system run optimally.

Can I replace the clutch fluid myself?

If you want to

save money on car expenses

and you’re comfortable with a DIY project, changing your clutch fluid is simple. It involves finding your clutch fluid reservoir, checking the fluid level and inspecting the color and clarity, draining the reservoir if needed, and replacing it with new fluid.

If you don’t have much automotive experience or feel unsure about performing this service yourself, call your local auto repair shop and leave it to a professional mechanic.

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FAQs

What happens if you don't change the clutch fluid?

Insufficient clutch fluid levels won’t allow the clutch to release properly, leading to a loud grinding noise when you attempt to shift gears. Topping off the clutch fluid might seem like a good idea, but if there’s a leak in the system, it won’t fix the problem.

Is clutch fluid the same as brake fluid?

Clutch fluid doesn’t exist—it’s brake fluid that’s used in a different system. In the brake system, clutch fluid is kept in the clutch master cylinder. When you press the clutch pedal, the fluid flows from the clutch master cylinder into the clutch slave cylinder.

Does clutch fluid get checked on a service?

If you’re getting your car serviced, your entire clutch system should be inspected by a mechanic. If not, be sure to ask. Your brake system should be inspected regularly and fluid levels should be checked to avoid leaks or contamination.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.