What is a symptom of a defective throwout bearing?

A defective throwout bearing can often be identified by a characteristic squeal when the clutch pedal is depressed. This sound occurs because the bearing is not able to function properly, typically due to wear or damage. When the clutch pedal is engaged, the throwout bearing presses against the clutch fork to disengage the clutch, and if it is worn out, it may create friction or a grinding noise. This noise is often most noticeable when the pedal is depressed because that is when the bearing is actively engaged in its function.

In contrast, harsh shifting usually results from issues within the transmission or clutch assembly, while vibrations at high speed could be caused by imbalances or other mechanical failures not directly related to the throwout bearing. Squealing when the clutch pedal is released would indicate a different problem, often related to the pressure plate or other areas of the clutch assembly that may not be functioning correctly after disengagement.