What Are Some Common Causes of DMF (Dual-Mass Flywheel) Failures in High-Torque European Cars
The Dual-Mass Flywheels (DMFs) are one of the most crucial components that high-torque European cars come equipped with, especially those with manual transmissions and diesel engines. The primary responsibility of the DMF is to absorb the vibrations from the engine, which helps in the smooth running of the car and protects the drivetrain.
However, as your vehicle gains miles, the DMF will start encountering issues leading to its failure. This can take a toll on the performance of your European car. In this article, we will discuss the common causes of DMF failure in high-torque European cars that will help deal with the issue.
Improper Engine Tuning and Modifications
One of the leading reasons behind the failure of the Dual-Mass Flywheel in high-end European cars is linked to improper tuning of the engine and aftermarket engine remapping. In fact, the European cars that are equipped with turbocharged engines are very receptive to engine tuning that helps boost their performance.
However, this engine tuning can put extreme stress on the DMFs, which are designed to handle torque load till a specific unit. This is when the problem starts for the DMF because the tuning boosts the torque output of the engine beyond a threshold it was designed to handle.
During this problem, you are going to hear a metallic rattling sound while idling that goes away when you press the clutch. That is why most automotive professionals suggest going for a clutch and flywheel upgrade that will save the DMF from all the troubles.
Slipping Clutch
The optimal functioning of the clutch plays a vital role in the efficient functioning of the DMF system in high-end European cars. Most of the time, it is seen that issues with the functioning of the one component can lead to problems in the functioning of the other components.
That is why whenever there is a problem like clutch slippage, the friction disc spins at a different speed, and this is when the flywheel and the pressure plate generate a lot of heat. This heat gets transmitted directly into the secondary mass of the DMF.
In fact, the internal components of the DMF, like the high-temperature grease and plastic spring guides, aren’t designed for extreme temperature handling. Due to this extreme heat, the grease loses its lubricating properties and turns into sludge, which affects the functioning of the DMF in your European car.
In addition to that, you are also going to experience a burning smell, clutch vibrations, and ultimately a loud mechanical clatter coming from the bell housing of your car. Whenever you start experiencing clutch slippage in your high-end European car, you must immediately replace the clutch and the DMF system.
Engine Oil and Coolant Leak
Another major cause behind issues with the functioning of the DMF system is linked to engine oil and coolant leak. Most of the time it is observed that leaks from the rear main crankshaft seal is the major source of the problem, and the engine oil which leaks out comes in contact with the bell housing does penetrate the DMF’s internal mechanism leading to problems.
Furthermore, as the grease thickens up it fails to lubricate the internal components, and this leads to metal-on-metal contact, rapid wear and tear, and overheating issues that can damage the flywheel’s internal working. Most of the time during the initial stages of the problem you are going to experience clutch slippage and as the issue aggravates it causes complete failure of the DMF in your car.
Engine Misfires and Inconsistent Operation
At times, problems in the functioning of the engine like engine misfires can lead to DMF system failure as the DMF isn’t designed to handle the shockwaves from the engine. An efficiently functioning engine delivers power in evenly spaced, predictable pulses, and the engine misfire tends to disturb this mechanism.
This often leads to buildup of extreme stress on the springs and dampers, which often leads to premature failure of the DMF system. You are going to experience rough idling, and illuminated engine warning light due to the problem in your vehicle.
Finally
The above-discussed factors are some of the leading reasons behind DMF system failure in high-torque European cars. In fact, the moment you notice anything is wrong with your DMF system, you must get in touch with us at our auto repair shop to get it inspected and replaced by our professional mechanics at the earliest.
