Clutch slip?

[TAHodgson]

I pull away in my car (Fiat Punto if it makes any difference) and as i change into 2nd, then 3rd etc etc... As I release the clutch pedal the revs stay the same for a while and then it seems the car seems to catch up with itself? If that makes sense? I don't really know how to describe it, but does it seem like I need a new clutch? The car has just under 59,000 miles and I think it's on the original clutch.

[Mastodon2]

Yep, sounds like a slipping clutch to me, it's on the way out!

[cpas]

Yes, it does sound like the clutch.

[RobM77]

If it's just at the start of a drive, it can be oil leaking onto the clutch plates from somewhere, but if it's constant throughout a drive then it's more than likely the clutch on its way out.

59k miles doesn't seem like much for a clutch - I've got up to 150k miles on two different cars without changing the clutch, and in fact have never had one changed on any car that I've owned. If the previous owner of your car slipped the clutch when driving a lot though it could cause wear. New clutch time I think!

[WhoseGeneration]

Yes, sounds like the clutch needs replacing.
Standard test, NSL level road, 30/40 mph in top gear, assuming a five speed box, gently accelerate and if the revs rise but the car doesn't move in relation, it's the clutch.
Best done before the rivets on the friction plate contact the flywheel.
Make sure a complete clutch kit is fitted, including, if your car has it, the concentric slave cylinder.
Clutch life, whilst it is mainly down to driver use, can also be due to manufacturer specification.