Outer Limits 4x4 Board

My daughter has a 2003 subaru Forrester 2.5 l manual transmission. The clutch has been terrible since new. Take-up point is very close to the floor, and gets closer and closer. It has been "fixed" 4 times now, the last time with a new flywheel & clutch assembly. Each time the Subaru dealer says it is fixed but the problem comes back. Latest effort lasted 1 week.

The clutch is not worn out. To me is seems as if a bleed of the slave cylinder may help, but I don't want to interfere with the works. If this is not the problem, it seems as if something is jamming insode the clutch housing.

Has anyone else had similar problems with Subie Forrester clutches?

Your help would be appreciated.

They are a mongrel of a clutch, i have had to replace several before 100 000km, which i think is pathetic for such a new vehicle. My advice would be to go and speak to a reputable transmission workshop and see if they offer an aftermarket replacement solution as the standard clutch is just rubbish (they start shuddering very early on).

Check the pedal adjustment, if there is a lot of freepley between the rod and the piston then you will have a low take up point. Grab it with you hand & feel when it comes into contact with the piston & see if it meets the specs. They also may have a pedal height adjuster wich will need to be adjusted at the same time, lots of jap cars have this.

tried any of the forrester forums? bloke here at work has one, adn says theres stacks of info on forums on this issue.

Thanks for your help. I have checked, nut the pedal free play is OK. Any further info on Subie forums? or on the reported clutch problems?

offroadSubarus.com

a few out there.

i have a 05 version and clutch is very light but ok so far at 90k

Thanks for your help guys. The dealer finally replaced the slave cylinder and so far it has been perfect. One wonders why they didn't look at that in the first place. it has cost them, Subaru and my daughter a lot of time and money.

Just keep an eye on it, as more than likely the pedal will start to get heavier, and the pressure plate will give up the ghost eventually.