Clunking Noise When Clutch Is Released

[ClubMem]

Hi,

When I release the clutch pedal in my Toyota Avensis (2003, D4-D T3X diesel hatchback), the pedal travels up smoothly and then suddenly jumps the last inch or so and makes an audible clunking noise. This happens both when the engine is off and no gear is changed, and also when changing gear while driving. There is no problem with changing gears while driving.

The local Toyota dealership diagnosis was that the clutch (and flywheel) needs to be replaced although it can still do another 10-15k miles. A local garage diagnosis was that the clutch is healthy, the biting point is fine (almost half way between the bottom and top positions) and since there is no problem with changing gear, it could be that the clutch mechanism gets stuck somewhere and then suddenly released, hence the clunking noise.

Any advice will be most appreciated.

ClubMem