lately i've noticed that when i depress the clutch, something somewhere squeaks. the sound is definitely correlated and caused by my acting on the clutch. it squeaks towards the end of my depresing the clutch so it doesn't seem to make a noise when the clutch pedal is fully released (or if the clutch is fully engaged). so it starts making the squeak maybe when the pedal is about 50% depressed.

the car operates just fine. no noticeable adverse effects on the actual functioning of the clutch (no slipping, etc.). also noticed the squeak seems to develop only after a bit of driving, meaning no sounds during the first few miles or so and then it begins. this squeak hasn't always been there but i've noticed it in the past 3-5 drives i've taken her out on.

chassis has about 96k miles right now. car was purchased january last year with about 92-93k miles. judging by the records and receipts of the previous owner, the clutch was replaced several times before:

04/27/98 - Replaced Clutch and 5th Gear Synchro
Chassis mileage 62,390 miles

01/25/00 - Replace Engine
Mazda Factory Remanufactured Engine
Chassis mileage 76,742 miles

01/26/01 - Replaced Clutch, Flywheel, Pressure Plate, and all Brake Pads
Chassis mileage 84,499 miles

01/16/02 - Replaced Clutch
Chassis mileage 91,388 miles

the mods on the car can be found here:

http://www.norcalvw.com/forums/showt...=&threadid=971

i haven't modified the car since i got her. mostly just pleasure driving and maintenance.

having asked on the big list, someone suggested it may be the throwout/release bearing and said i'd have to replace the clutch. others have suggested that something may just need some lubing or adjustment.

would appreciate any help and ideas on what may be the problem as well as possible remedies/costs. thanks!

 

The first thing that I would do is check your pedal assembly where the clutch pedal pivots from. Get down there with some WD-40 and lube it up. I had the same thing happen to me in my Porsche and it was caused by condensation on the pedal assembly. The problem was fixed within five minutes after I sprayed it.

 

Does the noise vary with engine RPM's? i.e. you hold the clutch to the floor and it squeaks continuously and maybe changes note as you rev the motor a little. In this case it sounds more like a failing clutch throw out bearing. Check you’re past receipts to see if the bearing was replaced at the same time(s) as the clutch, and get ready to do it again.

If the noise only occurs as you push in the clutch, then stops while you hold it down, and then squeaks as you let it out, it's more likely just the pedal assembly and FormerPorscheGuy's recommendation should help. If WD-40 helps quiet it down, then I’d take the assembly out and use some light grease on the shaft, bushings, and etc.

 

yes, it only squeaks when the clutch is used, not when the clutch is engaged or when the engine revs, etc. sounds like something simple thankfully. i'll have to try some lube. if i take out the entire assembly to lube it, will i need to get the car on a lift or what? thanks in advance.