Hi,

I have a 2011 Camry with 6 speed MT and 2.5l 4 cylinder engine. I bought it at 37k and now is at 83k. I just learned that MT grinding and blocking of reverse means clutch release problem. Also, it's sometimes hard to upshift with 3rd gear occasionally grinding. Frankly, I think the car doesn't shift differently than when I bought it. My local mechanic wonders if there are adjustments to the hydraulics or otherwise, as he doesn't think the clutch should need work this soon. I did change the MT gear oil at 60k and didn't see any metal in the old oil, for what that's worth.

What are your thoughts?

 

The trans uses a hydraulic clutch release system.

Check if the clutch release lever at the trans is moving an adequate distance to disengage the clutch.

The only clutch adjustment is clutch pedal height a (distance between front of pedal and floor behind it). Clutch pedal height will also effect pedal free play (distance pedal moves before feeling resistance from clutch hydraulic system).

There is an adjustment screw at the top of the pedal arm for pedal height.

Check the clutch pedal, master push rod, slave cylinder rod and lever for excess wear and play.

The trans shift gear selection mechanism uses two cables which have no adjustment. Check here for excess play from a stretched cable.

Make sure the right grade trans oil is used. The wrong grade can cause shifting issues.

 

I have what to bring my mechanic.

 

Post back with any finds.

 

Hi Joey P:

My mechanic looked at the car and says there's nothing to fix. He feels it shifts like a Camry should. He suggests I pump the clutch pedal to build up hydraulic pressure if I'm blocked out of reverse. He didn't charge for this.

 

Have someone pump the clutch pedal while you watch the clutch release arm located inside the engine compartment move. The arm operates the clutch. Try to determine if pumping the clutch is resulting in the lever moving a greater distance then that of a a single push of the clutch pedal.

Suggest you post at the Toyotanation.com site with your issues and what the mechanic states. Someone there should have a stick of the same year and be able to advise if this is "normal."

The clutch lever arm should move the same distance with 1 push as 10.

 

Thanks!