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How can I minimise damage to my Jaguar X-Type 2.2D's dual mass flywheel?

It is apparent that the dual mass flywheel and clutch is known to give problems with some drivers (including myself) with the Jaguar X-Type 2.2D, but this would not appear to be the case with the 2.0D version. My experience is that the 2.0D mechanism is much more forgiving and lighter to operate. For me at least, this led to reliable service for over 80,000 miles in my previous 2.0D, whilst I am already onto my fourth clutch with less miles on the clock in my present 2.2D.

I am not aware of my driving style changing between cars, so wonder if you may advise how I should adapt my driving style to be able to better preserve the dual mass flywheel and clutch of my 2.2D? It strikes me that the 2.2D is not of satisfactory quality, but I appear to be at odds with Jaguar on this issue.

Asked on 6 December 2010 by JH, via email

Answered by Honest John
Apparently the greatest destroyer of DMFs is lifting the clutch with revs at idle, which diesel drivers commonly do in traffic jams and which is why London taxis go through so many DMFs (and why so many are now automatic that don’t have DMFs). Apparently, you need to raise revs to above idle before lifting the clutch, which is very inconvenient stuck in a traffic jam.
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