Questions and Answers

Mazda Protege Has A Sticky Clutch Q. Hi there, I have a question about my 1992 Mazda Protege. I am hoping you can lend some insight. It has about 102,000 miles on it, and runs quite well. Lately though, since it has started getting cold, the clutch, manual transmission of course, has started acting funny. Occasionally when I let the clutch out it does not release right away but instead does so gradually.

I think it works on a hydraulic system but I'm not sure where to start trouble shooting the problem. I would like to address it before it gets worse. Any info you could give me would be really helpful.

Thanks so much,
Monica

A. Could be a couple of things. There could be sludge and water in the clutch hydraulic system. A flush of the hydraulic system would clean it out.

It could also be the clutch release bearing is sticking on the guide it rides on. Another possibility, but I don't think too likely, is the fingers on the clutch pressure plate are losing their tension.

I would try flushing and bleeding the clutch hydraulic system first. If that isn't it, then the clutch disc, pressure plate and throwout bearing will need replacing.