Replacing the clutch of a Volvo I-Shift transmission system can cost between $4,000 and $5,000 or more depending on the mechanic and whether the transmission is single- or dual-clutch.

The Volvo I-Shift transmission first came on the scene in 2001 and has since revolutionized the way hauling truck drivers experience their work. The I-Shift is an automated manual transmission that operates like a manual transmission without requiring drivers to depress a clutch pedal when changing gears. Instead, its technology continuously monitors the road grade, truck speed and weight, engine load, air resistance, and more to preselect and move into the best gear for any moment.

Designed to reduce excess wear from sloppy shifting, increase fuel economy by always being in the best gear for that stretch of road, and make semi-truck drivers more productive all around, the I-Shift clutch is built to last—but that doesn’t mean it will last forever. Let’s go over the Volvo I-Shift clutch replacement cost.

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How much does it cost to replace a Volvo I-Shift clutch?

In general, replacing the clutch in semi trucks can cost between $1,000 and $5,000 for both parts and labor depending on the type of transmission, the age of the truck, and the skill of the mechanic. However, In the case of the Volvo I-Shift clutch, you’ll be looking at around $900 to $1,000 just for the clutch itself.

Labor costs increase the price considerably because replacing an I-Shift clutch, or any semi-truck clutch, is quite involved and may take between 5 to 10 hours. After everything is said and done, expect to pay between $4,000 and $5,000 for a Volvo I-Shift clutch replacement.

Volvo also released a dual-clutch version of the I-Shift in 2014. So, if your Volvo truck is rocking dual-clutch transmission, you could be looking at $5,000+ for the replacement.

If you feel confident in your semi truck mechanical skills and want to replace the I-Shift clutch on your own, you could save a couple thousand dollars. However, it’s important to note that the replacement process is complex and if there are issues with its final installation, the new clutch could cause significant problems down the line.

What is a clutch?

A clutch on a vehicle is a crucial component in the transmission system that links the transmission to the engine and allows the car to shift gears. A clutch is present in both manual and automatic transmission vehicles, but most clutch problems manifest in manual transmission vehicles.

In general, the flywheel of the clutch connects to the engine and the clutch plate attaches to the transmission. These two components create friction between them that redirects the engine power to the gearbox, allowing you to shift gears.

There are springs that push the clutch disc and flywheel together when the clutch is not engaged, and this keeps the transmission and the engine linked to allow engine power to flow directly to the transmission.

When the clutch is engaged, another set of springs disengages those components, temporarily breaking the connection between the engine and transmission, allowing a shift in gears.

Manual transmissions are typically accompanied by a clutch pedal that the driver must depress to get all those systems working and be able to switch gears. The I-Shift transmission, however, is an automated manual transmission, meaning the system’s technology will handle engaging and disengaging the clutch. As a result, the driver can keep both hands on the wheel and only one foot working the pedals.

What are the symptoms of a Volvo I-Shift clutch problem?

Some commonly reported symptoms of a Volvo I-Shift clutch problem include:

Violent vibrations from the transmission

Slipping gears unexpectedly

Grinding noise when shifting gears

Burning smell

Higher than usual revving when switching gears

Generally, if the clutch or transmission feels like it’s sticking, slipping, or working too hard, it indicates a problem. And since semi trucks are the largest players on the road, it’s crucial for your and others’ safety to make sure you’re able to shift gears without issue. So if you suspect your Volvo I-Shift clutch is malfunctioning or experiencing problems, don’t wait to schedule a servicing appointment with a Volvo technician.

Is it safe to drive with a bad clutch?

It is not safe to drive with a bad clutch. A problematic clutch is only a short trip away from a broken clutch which would leave your truck undrivable and potentially leave you stranded or in a collision—it’s best not to wait to get your vehicle’s clutch looked at and repaired.

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How long should a Volvo I-Shift clutch last?

The Volvo I-Shift clutch is designed for heavy-duty work and is more durable than most other clutches on the market. When properly taken care of, the I-Shift clutch could last the lifetime of your truck.

Of course, we don’t live in the ideal world, and humans are not error-free in their maintenance or their driving skills. You’ll also need to account for the different payloads and drivers one semi truck may see. In general, you can expect the I-Shift to last an average of 250,000 miles or more.

Volvo I-Shift clutch recalls

Since its inception in the world of semi-truck transmissions in 2001, the Volvo I-Shift clutch has had a few recalls. 23,003 I-Shift units from the model years 2007 to 2014 and about 1,220 units between 2018 and 2019 were under recall for potential clutch problems.

The recalls were issued as preventative measures and were not the result of failed clutch-related collisions or injuries, so it’s nice to know Volvo was proactive about the problem! If you’re rolling with an I-Shift unit from the years listed above, enter your VIN on

Volvo’s recall lookup

to ensure your vehicle isn’t affected.

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