What is the impact of overheating the clutch?

Overheating the clutch leads to glazing and reduced efficiency. When a clutch overheats, the excessive heat causes the friction material to become smooth and shiny, a condition known as glazing. This glazing reduces the friction coefficient, making it more difficult for the clutch plates to effectively grip one another during engagement. As a result, the clutch may slip, which leads to a loss of power transfer from the engine to the transmission, ultimately reducing the overall efficiency of the vehicle. It can also lead to premature wear and potential failure of the clutch assembly, necessitating repairs or replacement. Managing clutch temperatures is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and longevity in a manual transmission system.