Nissan Repair: clutch/gear problem??, nissan vanette cargo, clutch gear

Question
hi,i have a 2000 w reg nissan vanette cargo 2.3d.its been running and starting fine up until today when out of the blue its struggling to get into 1st gear? the clutch doesnt feel right either? im worried ill need a new gearbox or clutch as i have no idea how much these will cost?or wether ill get ripped off at the garage.
any help will be much appreciated

Answer
Mark,

The problem is probably with the clutch master or slave cylinder.  If the car starts fine and the car is difficult to get into gear then you probably do not have enough pressure to push the clutch in all the way.  The slave is the usual problem.  Get the car up on jacks or a lift and inspect the slave cylinder and inspect for signs of fluid leakage.  Probably both since it is ten years old.  Email me back and let me know what you find.  rockauto.com or courtesyparts.com are both good sources for parts.