Questions and Answers

BMW Clutch Q. Vince: I bought a used 1985 BMW 633 CSI with about 180,000 miles on it. When I am in stop and go traffic the clutch will "stick" i.e. not come back up and of course the gear shift will not engage. I can put my foot under the pedal and pull it up but the problem repeats.

The guy I bought it from, a mechanic, said he had cured the problem on other Bimmers by changing to a different clutch fluid. He was going to help me but decided to go into engine repair of boats so I am on my own and not a mechanic (an electrical engineer). I am trying to decide if I should have it repaired or sold. Also the vehicle has not been driven for 1½ years due to limited financial resources. Please advise on clutch problem and a buy or sell.

Thanks,
Bill

A. It's possible replacing the hydraulic fluid will help the problem. What actually moves the pedal back up is the clutch pressure plate. If replacing the fluid doesn't help, then you'll need to replace the clutch assembly.

I would try replacing the fluid first, give it a good bleeding and drive it for a while. It may be that the clutch is sticking from lack of use and will return to normal after some driving. That is a really nice car and it would be a shame to sell it without a fight.

I would also inspect the clutch slave cylinder for leakage.

Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA