1999 Subaru Outback clutch pedal intermitently sticking mid return

Maintenance/Repairs
1

So… looking for some leads or suggestions on this. I have a 99 Subaru Outback 5 speed that I love the hell out of. Anyway, recently my clutch pedal has started momentarily sticking mid return. The clutch appears to be fully engaged, but the pedal sticks, or hangs for a moment before popping the rest of the way up. Once, and only once so far, it stuck completely just for a moment before returning after being depressed again.

I’m not sure how concerned I should be, and given that the car is new to me I’m still trying to familiarize myself with it. If anyone has suggestions for something I should check please let me know.

2

My best guess is that the clutch master cylinder is in bad shape.
If you have it replaced, make sure that you also replace the slave cylinder.

But…as a first step, make sure that you check the level of fluid in the clutch master cylinder.

3

Note that there is a TSB that might be relevant: http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1065466

4

Sounds like it might be related @cigroller … I’ll look into the hose and fluid first, and consider other less friendly problems second.

5

This kind of problem can also be caused by a throwout bearing hanging up. Those bearings ride on an aluminum snout that is part of the transmission case and over time the aluminum may develop a ridge or scar that causes the TO bearing to snag on.

In some aftermarket clutch kits a repair sleeve is included. That sleeve is stainless steel and fits over the transmission snout. The sleeve provides a smooth, hardened surface for the TO bearing to ride on.