Potential Clutch Issue

Technical Area Engine, Transmission, Exhaust etc
1

Hi

I have recently bought a MK3 2011 with 25k mileage and full main dealer service history. Apart from a few sunroof leaks (now resolved!) the car is perfect apart from the fact you need a fair bit of left leg power to use the clutch.

There does not appear to be any issues changing gear or judder although occasionally I feel I need to apply a few more revs when pulling away.

I wondered if there is a problem with the clutch and/or potentially some adjustment I could make or is it a sign of the clutch going? Considering it’s low mileage and age I wondered if the clutch had been subject to a lot of short trips and taken a hit?

Any advice would be gratefully received!
Cheers
Clive

  1. My model of MX-5 is: Mk3 2011
  2. I’m based near: Oxford
  3. I’m looking for technical help or recommendations on: Clutch
2

I found the clutch on my 2006 NC needed pushing all the way in to the floor for a clean change.
After adjusting the clutch pedal push rod it no longer needs so much travel for a smooth change.

3 Likes
3

Mine was the same. Adjusted the clutch push rod and it’s just so much better.

1 Like
4

Many thanks Cbrdeano

5

I also find you need to get the pedal all the way to the floor for clean changes and there is very little actual movement between clutch off or on, got used to it but seems there is some adjustment
How do you adjust the pedal to bring it up a bit?

6

Undo lock nut “C” - adjust rod “D” - re tighten lock nut “C”
I found 1/2 turn was enough

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7

I bought a 2008 NC with approx 60k miles on it and had a similar problem. The clutch started to get harder to push after a few months and the bite point was closer to the floor, otherwise there were no issues with clutch slip or judder. Whilst in for some other work my local garage advised they thought I had a worn clutch. My knowledge always said clutch slip and a high biting point indicated a worn clutch. As it was getting slowly worse I had them do the clutch and it was transformed - much lighter pedal and a better pedal travel. So either I was taken for a ride by the garage or it really did need doing. Try the adjustment first and if that doesn’t work, you might need a new one.

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8

Out of interest what did they charge to replace the clutch?

9

From memory it was about £800 including parts and labour. The parts themselves were about £350 and the rest was labour and the dreaded VAT. Was a couple of years ago though.

1 Like