Clutch plates are part of both automatic and manual transmissions and are designed to transfer power from the engine to the drive wheels through the transmission. These plates allow the transmission to shift and transfer power from the engine through the transmission in the selected gear. The clutch plates can also be disengaged, disconnecting the flow of power and allowing the vehicle to coast or to be shifted. Your clutch plates generate a lot of heat due to friction when in motion. This heat and friction can cause wear over time and your clutch plates may eventually suffer damage and need to be replaced. A failing clutch plate or plates can result in vibrations, delayed acceleration, transmission slipping, or grinding noises when shifting gears. Complete failure or extensive damage to the clutch plate may also prevent the transmission from operating in certain gears, or it may fail to engage at all, limiting your ability to drive the vehicle. If you need a new clutch plate for your transmission, find your replacement at O'Reilly Auto Parts.