Clutch Pedal Spongy Low Pedal Effort

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 may feel spongy or require very little effort to operate. Review Symptoms - Clutch and perform the necessary inspections.
Air in the hydraulic system	Bleed the clutch hydraulic system. Refer to Hydraulic Clutch Bleeding .
Master cylinder fluid level low	Inspect for leakage in the clutch master cylinder, hose connections and the clutch actuator. Repair or replace any faulty components.
Incomplete pedal return	Inspect the pedal for full return. Clear any obstacles that may interfere with the pedal operation. Replace the clutch pedal return spring, if equipped. Refer to Clutch Pedal Replacement . Adjust the clutch start switch. Refer to Clutch Pedal Position Switch Replacement .
Clutch incorrectly installed	Remove the clutch and install it correctly. Refer to Clutch Assembly Replacement .
Clutch mounting bolts loose or broken	Remove the broken bolts. Replace the broken or loose bolts and tighten. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications .
Clutch actuator cylinder worn or damaged	Replace the release bearing. Refer to Clutch Actuator Cylinder Replacement .
Contaminated hydraulic fluid	Inspect the clutch hydraulic fluid for contamination of water. Inspect the reservoir cap for being faulty if water is present. Inspect the clutch 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 and bleed the clutch hydraulic system if the above conditions are found. Refer to Hydraulic Clutch Bleeding .