Hyundai Repair: hyundai, clutch master cylinder, hyundia santa fe

Question
My 2004 Hyundia Santa Fe's clutch went to the floor and fluid was leaking out. At first I could get it started and now it wont start. Any ideas?

Answer
I'm presuming that you can start the engine but that you cannot shift into gear to move the vehicle.

The vast majority of clutch fluid leaks occur at the clutch master cylinder (the hydraulic cylinder attached to the pedal) or the clutch release cylinder (the hydraulic cylinder attached to the transmission).  Check under the dash at the clutch pedal push rod to check for leakage from the master cylinder and in the rubber boot on the relase cylinder for leakage from there.  Replace any clutch hydraulic components that are leaking.

You may be able to temporarily operate the vehicle by filling the clutch reservoir with DOT3 or DOT4 brake fluid.  Often, once this is done and the pedal is pumped several times, enough clutch operation is available to operate the vehicle.