Clutch Pedal Hard to Push

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Pontiac G5 and 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt. 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 System 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 (MU3) or Clutch Master Cylinder Replacement (M86) , Clutch Actuator Cylinder Replacement , and Hydraulic Clutch System 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 (MU3) or Clutch Master Cylinder Replacement (M86) and Clutch Actuator Cylinder Replacement . Flush the hydraulic system and fill with the correct fluid. Refer to Hydraulic Clutch System Bleeding .
Clutch pedal binding	Inspect the pedal for binding. Repair or replace the pedal. Refer to Clutch Pedal Replacement .
Clutch pedal spring worn	Inspect the clutch pedal spring for wear. Replace the clutch pedal spring. Refer to Clutch Pedal 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 disc worn too thin	Replace the clutch assembly. Refer to Clutch Pressure and Driven Plate Replacement .