Jetta Clutch Issues

MWILLARD

MEMBER
VOLKSWAGEN

2000 VW Jetta GLX 3.8L V6
95,000 Miles 5 Speed Manual
Front wheel drive

My basic issue is that certain times when trying to shift into any gear really, it is difficult if not impossible to get it into the gear on the first attempt. I have tried to force it into place but it just will not budge. What I have found to work is to simply attempt the shift again by going back up to 3rd, and then down to 4th again. It sometimes takes just 1 or 2 more shift attempts. I am not sure where to start diagnosing this issue, any ideas would surely help!

I also have a strange noise that happens for like 2-5 seconds when I start my car cold. Its kind of like a winding semi high pitched squeel. I was not sure if the belt was causing that or not. Any thoughts?

3 Replies

SERVICE WRITER

MECHANIC
9,123 POSTS

Have you checked the fluid level of the clutch master cylinder?

NExt time have someone else start the car so you can listen for the possible source. Have a spray bottle of water to quick shoot the belt to see if the noise stops on contact with the water.

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Wednesday, May 23rd, 2007 AT 8:00 AM

MWILLARD

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Thank you for the quick reply, what is the easiest way to check or refil the fluid levels for the master cylinder?

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Wednesday, May 23rd, 2007 AT 10:48 AM

SERVICE WRITER

MECHANIC
9,123 POSTS

The Master cylinder is filled by way of the brake master cylinder! ( new to me) IT is bled by a special tool that may not not be necessarily special. The Bleeding is done through the slave cylinder.

My apologies as I am not experienced with this particular system, but only in a general sense. The problem sounds like low fluid. although the master his under the air box, it may not matter regarding filling.

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Wednesday, May 23rd, 2007 AT 7:52 PM