How to Adjust the Clutch in a Nissan Pathfinder

Occasionally, adjusting the clutch is necessary, especially if you wish to change the point at which the pedal engages, or if something doesn't feel quite as you'd like it. Do it yourself, and save yourself some bucks.

Things You'll Need

  • Wrench or pliers
  • Clutch fluid
  • Rubber hose
  • Clear container
  • Check the level of the clutch fluid in the reservoir of the Nissan Pathfinder. The reservoir is located near the brake master cylinder, near the firewall on the left rear of the engine bay. If the level is low, then the clutch pedal will not be able to generate the pressure it needs to function properly. Fill the reservoir to the recommended level, and pump the clutch pedal a few times to restore the hydraulic pressure in the system. If the level of the fluid doesn't stay at the same level, you may have a leak in the reservoir, the master cylinder, or the slave cylinder (located near the clutch housing).

  • Bleed the clutch of the Nissan Pathfinder. Air bubbles can collect in the system, not allowing the clutch to perform as it should. Make sure there's plenty of fluid in the reservoir before you bleed the system. Attach one end of a rubber hose to the bleeder valve on the slave cylinder, and put the other end in a clear container with clutch fluid. Open the bleeder valve, and have someone step on the clutch pedal a few times until you no longer see any air bubbles in the clear container. Close the valve, and put more fluid in the reservoir as needed.

  • Turn the adjuster on the shaft that connects to the master cylinder. It is possible to adjust the height of the clutch pedal at that point in the Nissan Pathfinder. This changes the point at which the clutch engages as you step on the pedal.