Nissan Repair: Depressed Clutch Pedal, clutch master cylinder, slave cylinder

Question
Hi Calvin:

I have a 1999 Maxima SE 5 speed. The clutch pedal has all of a sudden become spongy and the gears engage at a very low point. I am still able to go thru all of the gears but I don't know for how long. The actual clutch was replaced about a year ago and the symtoms are different from when I had it replaced so I don't believe it is the clutch itself but I don't know what is causing this problem. Any ideas? thanks.

Answer
Hi Kevin -

Please check 3 things and get back to me.

Fill the Clutch master to the top with brake fluid and bleed the system several times. If all fails:

Clutch Master cylinder - check for leaks both exterior, and in the car above the clutch pedal along the floor board. Remove the carpet for better access.

Slave cylinder - Remove the exterior boot that the shaft goes in. If brake fluid comes out, then replace the slave.

Hope this helps
aloha
calvin