Squeeking Clutch

[supertack]

My clutch is begining to squeek when its depressed at the uppermost spot. I listened closely & the sound doesn't really sound like its coming from the pedal, but from the engine compartment. Does anyone think it may need clutch fluid, & if so, how do I add/change it? If its not clutch fluid, where & what should I lubricate?

Thanks guys

[Jared at Pelican Parts]

Almost always, the brake reservoir is also used to feed the clutch assembly. Check your brake fluid level. I would also inspect the mechanicals going from the clutch master cylinder to the slave cylinder. Maybe something needs attention underneath.

[stupenal]

I'm sorry I don't know the answer to this question, but if it makes you feel any better, this is a VERY common problem on e36s. Its come up many a time on other boards, but I've never really looked into it.....

[supertack]

So are the brake fluid & clutch fluid separate? Why would low brake fluid case the clutch to squeek? Also, whats the easiest way to check the break fluid level?

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

Not sure if the brake and clutch fluid are separate or not.

Low brake fluid, on its own, would not cause squeaking. However, when the brake fluid level gets low, it is often because there is a leak somewhere. When the leak is from the brake (or clutch) master cylinder, the fluid can wind up on the pedal bushings. These will swell up (some) on contact with brake fluid, and will squeak.

...At least, that is what happens on 911s and 914s... I assume that it's a similar mechanism on the Bimmers.

You check the brake fluid level by looking at the reservoir in the engine bay. There should be "MIN" and "MAX" levels on it, and you should be able to see if the fluid is in between those lines.

--DD