Cloudy/Dark Clutch Fluid

[Senator75]

Okay, so I only visit here when something is going wrong. At least this time I thought to come here BEFORE I took the car in for service.

While coming home from work, the clutch went from normal feeling to stiff over the course of one red light. After getting home, I checked the fluid in the clutch master cylinder, and it was cola brown (I guess the oil change at the local dealer didn't include checking any other fluids). More concerning, it seemed to have particles in it...very fine, like talcum powder. (The brake fluid was just as dark.) Questions, before I get the brake and clutch fluid replaced:

1. Would the old/dark fluid cause a stiff clutch like I was feeling?

2. Should I be concerned about the stuff I see in the clutch master cylinder? (Would it be an okay idea to replace the fluid for now, and see if the stuff comes back?)

3. Is there anything else I should be concerned about? It's an 04 with less than 30k miles, but without looking it up, I'm not sure if those fluids have ever been changed. IF they were, it's easily been at least four years...

Thanks,
Sen

 

[froggy47]

Check the video I did on clutch fluid, link below in signature.

 

[Hib Halverson]

1. Not likely but the two characteristics may be related. The black/brown is caused by comtaminants in the clutch fluid along with carbon-black which comes from the lip seals in the master and slave. If the master or slave is failing, the level of contaminants may increase.

Also, the "stiff" clutch may be a clutch mechanical problem not a clutch hyd. problem.

2. Yes and yes, change the clutch fluid.

3. Yes.
Change your coolant.
Flush your brakes.
Change your transmission and axle lubes.