Flywheel needs replaced - how quick?

[rarara]

Got a Vauxhall Zafira and a slight vibration in the clutch was diagnosed as needing the flywheel replaced. Due to issues obtaining the parts, it may well over a month till it is fixed.

We only have this car, and need to use it a few times a week for short trips. What sort of time frame am I looking at before it could break down completely? Or will it likely be fine to drive for another 6 weeks?

Thanks

 

[just pumps]

Think you will be fine for well past six weeks doing short trips.

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

Got a Vauxhall Zafira and a slight vibration in the clutch was diagnosed as needing the flywheel replaced.

DMF gone soft? It should not be a problem, it is mostly there to smooth out and cushion the drive train. Wear depends upon the type of mileage the vehicle does, lots of stop/starts will cause more wear than motorway miles. If you are replacing the DMF, worth getting a new clutch and slave cylinder fitted at the same time.

When are you noticing the vibration, or could it just be clutch judder?

 

[rarara]

typically only notice (feel through clutch and slight noise) when stopping and going into neutral.

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

typically only notice (feel through clutch and slight noise) when stopping and going into neutral.

'Noise' could be release bearing, or clutch itself. DMF's are a favourite for mechanics, because they are so expensive. Try another garage for confirmation of DMF. The DMF is just basically two rotating lumps of metal, with one driving the other via a rubber cushion or buffer. The cushion becomes worn over time, allowing excess movement between the two lumps.

 

[ETAF]

Not cheap, we had a 2004 Zafira Diesel clutch go, and cost just under £1200 in 2015.
Clutch went on saab , same type of clutch (GM Model and use vauxhall parts) and that was £1400 in 2018

 

[Gasguru]

What Zafira model & year is it? They're not all DMFs.
There was also a recall on the B models and flywheels modified but the engine management system is so bad you'll often get judder to some extent.