Questions and Answers

Nissan Clutch Noise Q. Hi Vince, I have enjoyed reading your responses and wondered if you could shed some light on a problem I am having with my clutch. I own a 1999 Nissan Maxima SE, with a 5 speed manual transmission. My problem is that I can hear a whining/squeal from the clutch when it is being released. This is most common in first gear from a stop but can also be occasionally noticed in second gear and in reverse.

It seems to happen as the clutch is about ¾ of the way engaged. It is especially noticeable in stop and go traffic where constant clutching is required. I have had the car in two times to my dealer under warranty. The first time was at about 8,000 miles. The technician agreed there was a problem and replaced the clutch.

The second time was at about 15,000 miles. This time they said that this was "normal". Finally, after some persistent talk from me, they agreed to call the Nissan tech line and then told me this was again "normal" under load. I find this hard to believe as "load" was me in the car with the technician. I have been living with this problem up to this point, but now the car is almost out of warranty and this noise is still making me crazy. Any ideas on what is going on and how to deal with the situation?

Thanks,
Robert

A. Okay, let me clarify the meaning of "load" as it relates to a technician. The term load is used when the vehicle is in gear, whether moving or standing still. Not the people or cargo the vehicle is carrying.

At any rate, I was a nissan technician for many years and no clutch noise is normal. I checked my TSBs to see if this is a known problem, but I found nothing there. That's not to say that there won't be a bulletin issued in the near future.

The general rule of thumb with a clutch noise is when the clutch is depressed, it's the throw out bearing. With the clutch not depressed, it's a transmission input shaft bearing.

After three trips to correct the problem, it's time to get the Nissan Factory Representative involved. The Dealer can set you up with an appointment to speak to him. You can also call Nissan customer Service and file a complaint with them. They will investigate the problem and attempt to come up with a solution.

If worse comes to worse and they can not fix the problem, you may have recourse under your states Lemon Laws. Hopefully it won't come to that.

Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA