bmw e36 325/m3, clutch pedal sometimes dont work

eugene · 09-25-2005, 07:02 PM

Can anyone help me? I have a 1993 e36 325i with a 3.2l engine from 97 m3. Just a few weeks ago I was driving from work and my clutch pedal just got so soft and stuck on the bottom. I tried to pull it back up but it kept pulling back down to the floor. After 2 hours I went back to check my clutch pedal and pulled it back up and after that it worked fine. Again after 1 week I had the same situation. Every time when I tried to find the visual problem I would get the same thing. I know my brake fluid wasn't changed for at least 90k since I bought this car, total mileage on this car is 214k. If anyone knows what the problem is, please let me know. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

Dave at Pelican Parts · Dave at Pelican Parts's Garage

When I had similar problems with the brake pedal on my "other car", the cause was a failing master cylinder. The internal seals were starting to fail, which would lead to the pedal sinking lower and lower while at stoplights with my foot on the pedal. I replaced the MC and all was well.

You might be able to cure this with a brake (and clutch) fluid change. Which is certainly cheaper than swapping the master cylinder. But be prepared for the strong possibility that just changing the fluid won't cure it.

--DD

blkongry · 09-26-2005, 02:36 PM

Yeah, I agree with Dave on the master cylinder.... and if it gives you even a hint of falterting, replace it, because it will only get worse. Better to find it out now than to have your clutch pedal just 'go way' at some point, which it will soon, so get the MC changed!! (should be a pretty easy job you can do yourself... I've changed several on other cars, but none on my ride).

Rick V · 09-26-2005, 03:13 PM

I agree it sounds like the master but it is a good idea to change the slave as well. I never recomend doing just 1. Since you will be changing the master (weather you want to or not) it is a good time to update the little plastic bushing on the pedal. Replace it with a metal one you would be amazed at the diff. Also a clutch pedal stop while you are there. These are almost required during those track days on the roadcorse

eugene · 10-06-2005, 10:15 PM

Thank you guys for your advises, does anyone knows if there is a rebuilding kits for master cyl, i heaven had any problems since then, but i feel my pedal spongy. I have to check my slave too.