Subject: Sound in the clutch
Question: I had the problem with the clutch sound. Do manual transmissions have transmission fluid? I have a feeling that it could be the throwout bearing. But could it be the clutch release bushing? I can't figure out why the sound would go away after driving it for a few minutes. Anyway, if I did have to replace the throwout bearing is this something I could do by myself? Or will I need to replace the clutch...I'm hoping to avoid that at all costs
thank you again
Answer: Daniel,
Yes, manual transmissions do need transmission fluid. It should be changed every 30k miles if your car is being driven under normal conditions. The reason why the sound may go away is because certain parts of the transmission may not be getting lubricated enough right off a cold start. Plus, tranny fluid is very thick; much more so than engine oil. On cold starts, it does not flow very easily; making it hard to lubricate parts. I would recommend first having your transmission fluid changed. If that does not help with the noise, have the clutch (not just the bearing) replaced. It's a fairly intense job, and if you've never replaced a clutch before (especially for that of a Japanse car), have a qualified technician replace it for you.
Good luck!