GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Clutch Pedal Hard to Push

Cause

Action

DEFINITION: The clutch pedal requires high effort to operate.

Review the Symptoms - Clutch and perform the necessary inspections.

Incorrect hydraulic fluid

  1. Inspect for the correct fluid in the master cylinder. Refer to Hydraulic Clutch Bleeding .
  2. If mineral oil is found, replace the clutch master cylinder, the clutch actuator cylinder, and flush the hydraulic system and fill with the correct fluid. Refer to Clutch Master Cylinder Replacement , Clutch Actuator Cylinder Replacement , and Hydraulic Clutch Bleeding .

Contaminated hydraulic fluid

  1. Inspect the hydraulic fluid for water.
  2. Inspect the hydraulic fluid for dirt or debris.
  3. Inspect the clutch hydraulic fluid for contamination of mineral oil. If contaminated, replace the clutch master cylinder and the clutch actuator cylinder. Refer to Clutch Master Cylinder Replacement and Clutch Actuator Cylinder Replacement
  4. Flush the hydraulic system and fill with the correct fluid. Refer to Hydraulic Clutch Bleeding .

Clutch pedal binding

  1. Inspect the pedal for binding.
  2. Repair or replace the pedal. Refer to Clutch Pedal Replacement .

Clutch pedal spring worn

  1. Inspect the clutch pedal spring for wear.
  2. Replace the clutch pedal spring. Refer to Clutch Pedal Replacement .

Kinked or damaged clutch hydraulic pipe

  1. Inspect for a kinked or damaged hydraulic hose.
  2. Repair or replace the clutch hydraulic hose. Refer to Hydraulic Clutch Hose/Pipe Replacement .

Clutch disc worn too thin

Replace the clutch assembly. Refer to Clutch Pressure and Driven Plate Replacement .