I have a 2002 EX coupe with manual transmission. 160k miles. Suddenly my clutch was really soft and would press all the way down easily. I could drive and shift normally with no noise or anything. No leaks, all fluids good. Some days clutch would feel normal. Other days it was super soft. About two weeks after that started, I cranked the engine (always kept in neutral while parked) and i was unable to go into 1st gear or any gear while car was on. I could start car in any gear. I could start car in 1st and drive around, but unable to shift to the higher gear while engine was running. Any ideas what the problem could be?

 

Does it feel like you are trying to shift without pushing in the clutch pedal?

It sounds like you have a problem with the clutch master or slave cylinder. Check that you have fluid in the clutch master cylinder reservoir. If you are going to replace them, I would replace them as a pair.

There is a good video on YouTube by ericthecarguy on how to change the master and slave cylinder.

 

Yep, agree from your description

 

I guess I'd try bleeding the clutch fluid first. Loss of fluid and/or air in the lines also fits the problem.

Look for clutch-fluid leaks, you WILL have to find & fix the leak. One possible leak location is alongside the clutch master piston rod. It leaks through the firewall & soaks into the padding beneath the carpet and you don't notice it leaking.

 

I appreciate the feedback. I will look into that. Hopefully I dont run into the transmission problems that I've read are very common on my Accord. I will check out that video. Wish me luck!

 

The common transmission problems you read about are automatic transmissions. The manuals are pretty bulletproof. More fun, too.

 

after you fix the clutch, remember to replace the manual tranny fluid if you haven't already.
change specs are frequently every 30,000. easy enough to forget (experience talking).