ciel7

On a 2008 year 997, when the car is cold and the clutch is depressed, the ignition will not turn over because the clutch does not go all the way down. However, on the second try and the ignition is turned, the clutch goes all the way down and the car starts.

Is my clutch going out or is this just a cold fluid needing to be pushed along?

jchapura

The starter will not rotate if the clutch safety switch is not engaged. [You could jumper it to test the theory just be sure you're in neutral.]

As to why the clutch pedal will not be depressed on the first try...I'll have to think about that one...

ciel7

Thank you for the suggestion. I cant figure it out.

Petza914

If the starter won't engage because of that clutch switch the display screen on the dash will show "depress clutch pedal". If the clutch is in and the message shows you need to replace the upper clutch switch. This is not the one at the top of the pedal, but the one further up.

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ciel7

But why does it work the second time?

Petza914

Not sure, but if you're getting the error message, it's the switch not being made. Maybe the 2nd time, it makes the switch if just that tiny bit of additional movement makes the internal contacts. At some point, it may stop working the 2nd time too, then the 3rd, etc as the switch internals continue to wear.

ciel7

Oh no.

RacerWannabe

As Petza mentioned, if you are getting the error, this mode of slow failure is common, as many on here (including myself) can attest to. That said, the part is cheap and replacing it, barring some body contortions (also headlight is a must) is simple.

ciel7

Thank you for the advice. I just didn't want to hear the clutch was in need of replacement.