My Ford garage pointed out to me, following an MOT, that the clutch on my Ford ka (02 reg) is slipping, needs replacing soon and will cost £400 - £500. Other than having a few extra revs when going from second back up to third at a roundabout, I have noticed no other problems changing gear or any odd smells. The 'problem' does not seem to be getting any worse. Should I have a new clutch soon and am I being ripped off by this quoted price?

Heather Taylor, February 2008

I have an S reg Ka and am now on my 4th Clutch. I do lots of driving in Lonon, so yours slipping wouldn't surprise me. I get mine replaced at Mr. Clutch costs approx £150 - £165.

Tommy, February 2008

To test if your car has a slipping clutch, start the engine, put the hand brake on, select highest gear.

Let the clutch peddle up until the biting point, if the peddle is almost up at the biting point it needs a new clutch.

The "bite" of the clutch should be strong, if you pull your foot more than half way up, it needs a clutch.

Also, February 2008

It does indeed seem Heather, that your clutch is about to say adios - but don't panic about it, it won't go in a hurry. Search for prices (I find the Mr. Clutch outlets cheapest) (Yellow Pages) and avoid quotes from Ford main stealers.

John, February 2008