Clutch Pedal Hard to Push

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Cause	Action
DEFINITION: The clutch pedal requires high effort to operate. Review the Symptoms - Clutch and perform the necessary inspections.
Incorrect hydraulic fluid	Inspect for the correct fluid in the master cylinder. Refer to Hydraulic Clutch Bleeding . If mineral oil is found, replace the clutch master cylinder, the clutch actuator cylinder, and flush the hydraulic system and fill with the correct fluid. Refer to Clutch Master Cylinder Replacement , Clutch Actuator Cylinder Replacement , and Hydraulic Clutch Bleeding .
Contaminated hydraulic fluid	Inspect the hydraulic fluid for water. Inspect the hydraulic fluid for dirt or debris. Inspect the clutch hydraulic fluid for contamination of mineral oil. If contaminated, replace the clutch master cylinder and the clutch actuator cylinder. Refer to Clutch Master Cylinder Replacement and Clutch Actuator Cylinder Replacement Flush the hydraulic system and fill with the correct fluid. Refer to Hydraulic Clutch Bleeding .
Clutch facing worn	Inspect the clutch disc. Replace if necessary.
Release bearing binding	Inspect the clutch actuator cylinder release bearing. Replace the clutch actuator cylinder if necessary. Refer to Clutch Actuator Cylinder Replacement .
Kinked or damaged clutch hydraulic pipe	Inspect for a kinked or damaged hydraulic hose. Repair or replace the clutch hydraulic hose. Refer to Hydraulic Clutch Hose/Pipe Replacement .
Clutch pressure plate assembly damaged or faulty	Inspect the clutch pressure plate assembly Replace the clutch pressure plate assembly if necessary. Refer to Clutch Assembly Replacement .
Clutch pedal bushings dry or worn	Lubricate the clutch pedal bushings with lithium grease. Replace the clutch pedal if necessary. Refer to Clutch Pedal Replacement .