Hey Guys,

I have an issue. Two weeks ago I felt and heard a "pop" in my clutch plate area and shortly after I noticed it was very difficult to switch gears. For instance it is nearly impossible to get in reverse and just going through the gears while driving is quite a chore. The other day I noticed another "pop" while pushing the clutch in and now the problem is even worse. The clutch pressure plate stays pretty much all the way to the floor and does not recoil on its own. Now all this being said, I have never noticed any problem with the engine RPM versus car spead like others have stated when the clutch plate starts to wear. My issue is that the repair facility is stating that I need a whole new clutch kit which they quoted me at $750 plus $356 in labor. I purchased an extended warranty with the vehicle but it will not cover normal wear and tear type stuff. Now I am completely non educated with this stuff but to me it seems like the problem is that there is something mechanical just beyond the pressure plate the has broken. Can anyone tell me if what I'm thinking holds water or are these guys correct in saying that an entire clutch kit is needed? Like I said, I have never noticed any kind of "slipping" or decrease in power or performance, the only issue is that I have a hard time getting it in gear, once it is in gear it runs normal.
Please help as this is a time sensitive issue, really appreciate any feedback!

 

The popping sound could be the clutch pedal assembly. Its a known issue.
Look up at the top of the clutch pedal where it mounts to the firewall.
You'll see a nut at the upper left side. Look for a crack/tear around that area.

Another possibility could be a bad slave cylinder.
Check your brake fluid and make sure you didn't lose any hydraulic fluid since the brakes share its fluid with the clutch.

Then have someone in the car pressing the clutch pedal while you're under the car looking at the slave cylinder.
See if the cylinder is moving the release fork.