Hi everyone, I'm new to the board, so I hope you'll forgive me for asking what may be a dumb question:

I just moved to San Francisco and drive a manual 5 speed. In trying to get the hang of using the hand break on a particularly steep hill, I ended up burning the clutch, I think. All I know is that smoke (that smelled like burning clutch) was coming from under the hood and through the vent into the passenger cabin. I was able to drive away, but now I'm wondering if I should be worried about my clutch? Did I just ruin it?

If anyone could offer me any insight, I'd really appreciate it. Thanks!!

Same, when I had the car for the first time, at hill start I burned out my clutch several times. I had not had much problems other than I can feel the clutch "SLIP" more and more every time I burn it. Well.. eventually it will get worn out and will have to be replaced but it does not do much damage to the car otherwise. So... I wouldn't worry too much.

Be carefull, you may burn your flywheel too.

-Chris

I have a 2001 outback sport and live in San Francisco. I just bought the car. I noticed that when first start driving the car the clutch sort slips in first and second gear. Once it warms up it seems to be fine. What is going here. Is this the first signs I need a new clutch or what?