Hello!

1993 Honda Accord EX with 215k miles. I woke up this morning (It was cold outside) and I started my car. I pushed down the clutch and it stuck. There was no resistance to the clutch at all. Sometimes I've solved this kind of problem by adding clutch fluid and pumping the clutch. However, this time, it didn't solve the problem.

Someone suggested this was a master/slave cylinder or a spring? I'm pretty sure there's no "spring" involved since this clutch requires clutch (brake) fluid.

If you have time, could you briefly explain or point me to a resource that explains what a master & slave cylinder are?

I also heard the cost to fix is $100-ish? Thanks!

Hydraulic clutches usually fail for two reasons:

. Not changing the brake fluid every two years. Corrosion can tear the seals apart inside clutch systems. Changing the fluid regularly replenishes the corrosion properties and lubricity; it also eliminates rust, air, and crud.

. Overfilling--they should not be filled above the MAX Line on the clutch master cylinder reservoir.

The clutch pedal usually goes to the floor when air gets in the system--it doesn't take much. There is a return spring, however.

The clutch slave cylinder is located on the front of the engine, slightly on the passenger's side. It's between the radiator and the engine block. Look for the metal hydraulic line and the bleeder screw, which is covered with a neoprene cover. When you press the clutch pedal, hydraulic pressure is transmitted from the master cylinder to the clutch slave cylinder, which moves an arm to engage or disengage the clutch.

Either air is in the system or the clutch slave cylinder or the clutch master cylinder has failed. I use the fool-proof Brake Bleeder Economy One-Man, Cal-Van Tools, No. 247, brake bleeder for bleeding clutch and brake systems. It cost $2.99 and has a one-way check valve. Harbor Freight has a similar product--Brake Bleeder Adaptor and Tubing, #98864, $1.87.

Thanks for the help! I'm thinking I don't have the skills to replace the cylinder myself, but I will look for it on my car. Thanks for the advice!

Read the disclaimer and I like every part of it!

Amen.

This link may help your Accord last a lot longer:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563.html#post219991