Bleeding the Clutch

STANDARD PROCEDURE - BLEEDING CLUTCH HYDRAULIC CIRCUIT (LHD/RHD MODELS)

NOTE: It is necessary to bleed the clutch hydraulic release system if the system has lost an excessive amount of fluid and air has been introduced into the circuit. Air in the system typically results in a spongy pedal feel, and/or improper clutch release. If air cannot be removed from the system using this procedure, it is necessary to replace BOTH the clutch master cylinder and slave cylinder assemblies.

From driver's seat, actuate clutch pedal 60 - 100 times. Verify clutch operation/pedal feel. If pedal still feels spongy, or clutch does not fully disengage, excessive air is still trapped within the system. Perform the following procedure:

1. Verify fluid level in clutch master cylinder reservoir. Top off with DOT 3 brake fluid as necessary.
2. Raise vehicle on hoist.
3. 2.0L Models: Remove left lateral bending brace.
4. Remove clutch slave cylinder/damper assembly from the transaxle case (Fig. 5), but do not disconnect from the system. Allow the slave cylinder hang, making it the lowest part of the system.

CAUTION: While slave cylinder is detached from the transaxle, DO NOT actuate the clutch master cylinder. Damage to the slave cylinder will result.

5. Depress slave cylinder pushrod until it bottoms and then release. Repeat this at least ten 10 times, forcing trapped air upwards and out of the system.
6. Re-install slave cylinder into position. 1.6L equipped models: Torque slave cylinder to case bolt to 12 Nm (105 inch lbs.). 2.0L equipped models: Torque slave cylinder to case bolt to 19 Nm (168 inch lbs.). Install and torque damper (if equipped) to case nuts to 24 Nm (215 inch lbs.).
7. Lower vehicle.
8. Check and adjust clutch master cylinder fluid level. Actuate clutch pedal thirty (30) times. Verify clutch operation/pedal feel. If pedal still feels spongy, or clutch does not fully disengage, air is still trapped within the system. Repeat Step 4 - Step 8 until air is purged. If several attempts at purging air from the system are unsuccessful, replace both the clutch master cylinder and slave cylinder assemblies.
9. Raise vehicle.
10. 2.0L Models: Install left lateral bending brace.
11. Lower vehicle.
12. Top off clutch master cylinder fluid level with DOT 3 brake fluid as necessary.

Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.

Cheers, Ken