Clutch...called Pontiac

[The Sauce Boss]

Hi, I have a 2003 GT with 29k miles on it and today the clutch failed. From day one I could smell a slight burning and the dealer said it was normal. I called the dealer today and was told that it was not covered as it was a 'wear item'. I understand that clutches wear out but I have never had to replace a clutch on any vehicle that I have owned. ( I also currently own a 2001 Corvette) The Vibe is used as a second vehicle and is not driven hard at all. Well anyway, I saw this thread and decided to call Pontiac this evening. I was told that my call would be logged ( I was given a number) and that the dealer was correct in saying that it was a wear item. However, she pointed out that if in fact there was an abnormal amount of people with premature clutch wear that Pontiac would have to take a look at it and possibly issue a bulletin to their dealerships. This might help owners who have already repaired the problem get some kind of consideration back. In my case the repair is costing me $950. So please, anyone who has this condition call the number on the Pontiac website and be sure to log the call. We can't give up on this issue.Thanks,Bobby A

[Kissfan79]

Hey.....I had the same problem. I was smelling clutch burn on a regular basis....even under normal driving conditions. I went to my dealer and they ended up replacing the clutch, pressure plate, release bearings, and flywheel under warranty.Jim

[esjones]

Replacement of the clutch is a normal 'wear' item, same as brake pads/shoes, tires, oil changes, etc.BUTIf there is an underlying DEFECT in the car that causes ABNORMAL or accelerated wear on any of these items, then that is a defect in the car that should be covered under warranty. I personally think the dealer was just giving you the brush-off by saying that the burning smell was normal. The Vibe is the third car I've owned with a manual transmission, and I have NEVER smelled a burning clutch on any of them. I think Pontiac should take care of this as a warranty item, and I'm sure you'll prevail if you keep after them without blowing your cool.

[drummerdude]

Quote, originally posted by Kissfan79 »Hey.....I had the same problem. I was smelling clutch burn on a regular basis....even under normal driving conditions. I went to my dealer and they ended up replacing the clutch, pressure plate, release bearings, and flywheel under warranty.JimExact Same Situation Here... Dealer Covered Everything Under Warranty!

[AKLGT]

my clutch has not died yet, but it's certainly slipping and i can smell the burning once every other week or so. i've complained several times to the dealer here, but just like my battery, they say it's not a problem and i'm the ONLY person complaining! they suck!

[Jahntassa]

Okay, this now pisses me off. My clutch started completely slipping a few months ago (now 1,000 miles ago) at 26k. I was driving back from my honeymoon when it slipped in sixth with the cruise on and nearly red-lined the car.I went to pontiac, they said it was worn without even LOOKING at the damned clutch. Pontiac Customer care said the dealer told them it was worn, and could do nothing about it. I'm waiting for Nick to get in contact with Jeff, the Vibe brand manager. In the meantime, i'm going to try visiting another dealership.I want to know what you said to get your clutches done under warranty. I'm almost ready to go to court over this! I have proof (with gas station reciepts) that at least 2/3 of my driving was highway, in 6th gear, in cruise control. There's no way my clutch should be worn with that. And NO, I don't race. issed: