Clutch replacements are done frequently enough most mechanics know how long it will take them to get inside the thing and do it, but most cars last for years without one. My sister's car came with a new clutch and the car wasn't that old (20 years?): that strongly suggests a previous driver did the damage. That is also suggested by my own experience: got a new clutch for my 924, but that was mainly because the pilot bearing was dying and if you're going to spend the time to get into the bell housing, you may as well replace the clutch plate as well. Turns out it was a bit dodgy, but then it is a sports car and I've little doubt at least two previous owners saw that aspect first and foremost.

And since I've now seen what a clutch mechanism looks like (and how much it weighs!) I am somewhat astonished they've figured out how to put *two* clutch plates in one, driving a concentric axle for the gearbox. A DCT, in other words.

Wade.