Clutch Replacement 2001 Ford Focus SE Manual Transmission

ANSWER : Hey there. You may need to have the flywheel resurfaced or replaced if it has cracks in it or it is warped. At the moment, we currently are not able to do these types of repairs unless the mechanic in your area has the capabilities and equipment to do so. However, if you would like to have the shifting problem diagnosed at your home or at the car’s location in order to verify the faulty components.

ANSWER : Hi There,
This is a known issue in this generation Ford Focus and some Fiestas with the "Power Shift" transmission and there have been numerous recalls and lawsuits. Although, it is would be difficult to determine how much longer your transmission will last given the fact that you have many new parts, I would not recommend junking the car as it may still provide some valuable life left for you. I would recommend taking it to the dealer to see if these parts may be covered under the recall.

ANSWER : This would depend on what the manufacturer recommends. Many manual transmissions do take automatic transmission fluid. If your transmission has ATF in it, it is very likely that it is supposed to have that in there. If not, it is likely that the transmission would not function properly with the wrong fluid. Many manual transmissions will also take engine oil as a lubricant. The best way to know for sure is to check your owner’s manual or call your local General Motors dealership to inquire.

ANSWER : Hi there. In general, Volkswagen transmissions (both automatic and manual) are typically built very well and tend to hold up for extended periods. The key with any transmission is to ensure proper service and maintenance is completed. In regards to the costs of operation, over time the automatic transmission tends to be less expensive. Modern manual transmissions also require routine service, but the most costly repair will be the clutch system; especially if you drive frequently in traffic or city, stop-and-go driving. In the end, both transmissions on these vehicles will have about equal costs of maintenance and repairs – with a slight edge going to the manual for cost-effectiveness. One thing to consider also is fuel economy. The manual transmission tends to get worse fuel economy across the board due to driving style.

ANSWER : The A/C compressor clutch on this vehicle can be removed without taking the compressor out or disturbing the refrigerant charge. To determine whether it is necessary to replace the compressor, once you get the clutch out if the friction friction material surfaces are oily, inspect the shaft and nose area of the A/C compressor for refrigerant oil. If refrigerant oil is found, the compressor shaft seal is leaking and the A/C compressor must be rebuilt or replaced (they are rebuildable; you can just put a new shaft seal in). Check the clutch pulley bearing for roughness or excessive leakage of grease. Replace the pulley and bearing assembly, if required. You might check the clutch relay, just in case it is intermittent, thus causing your problem. If you desire that a certified mechanic resolve the issue that you are having with the clutch/compressor, please simply request an a/c clutch compressor diagnostic/replacement and the responding mechanic will get it diagnosed and repaired for you. Please let us know if you have further concerns or questions as we are always here to help you.

ANSWER : Hi there. Did you replace the pilot bearing when replacing the clutch assembly? A frozen or seized pilot bearing will behave as you describe. Since you mention having to revert to stock clutch components, it is necessary to confirm proper clutch hydraulic operation, adequate clutch release bearing movement, etc. To have this problem scoped out, a qualified professional from YourMechanic can come to your car’s location to inspect the shifting problem and pinpoint the repairs that are needed.

ANSWER : If you have an issue with your clutch pedal going to the floor, the slave cylinder is normally the cause of this circumstance.

Also, if the push rod has been broken the first step would be to track down a new one because that push rod is a very necessary part of the clutch pedal system.

Once a new push rod has been located and installed, I would recommend having a new slave cylinder installed as well.

If you are in doubt about this repair, I would recommend having it performed by a qualified professional, such as one from YourMechanic. One of our mobile technicians will be able to come to your home to diagnose the issue with your clutch pedal and replace your clutch slave cylinder as necessary.

ANSWER : If you had the flywheel resurfaced, then you may have the bolts that hold the pressure plate on bottoming out and need to put lock washers on each bolt. If not then reset the clutch pedal auto adjuster on the clutch pedal arm and then bleed and retest the system. If you need to have an expert check this out, a professional from YourMechanic can come to your car’s location to diagnose the clutch problem and assist with repairs.