Clutch hard to disengage when hot (2006-2007 TSB 05-010/07)
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What causes "Clutch hard to disengage when hot (2006-2007 TSB 05-010/07)" on the Mazda Miata NC (2006-2015 US model years), and how is it fixed?
Ethanol used when assembling the release cylinder boot vaporises and pushes the piston back, leaving a gap at the push rod; production stopped using it. Fix: Replace and bleed the clutch release cylinder (cars with VINs below ...136430).
Symptoms
More free play at the clutch pedal and a clutch that will not fully release in hot weather (about 85°F / 30°C).
Cause
Ethanol used when assembling the release cylinder boot vaporises and pushes the piston back, leaving a gap at the push rod; production stopped using it.
Fix (summary)
Replace and bleed the clutch release cylinder (cars with VINs below ...136430).
Other NC problems
- Recall 06V-103: driver airbag horn-assembly bolt (early 2006 cars)
- Plastic coolant expansion tank cracks and dumps coolant
- Plugged soft-top drains put water in the footwells (2006-2009 TSB)
- PRHT crunches or is hard to open (2007 TSB 09-038/07)
- PRHT windshield header and roof rattle (2007-2008 TSB 09-035/08)
- PRHT front roof panel contacts the deck when open (2007 TSB 09-035/07)
More for this car
- All Mazda Miata NC (2006-2015 US model years) fitment answers · NC common problems
- Newsletter archive: past issues with every new and corrected entry
Sources
- Mazda TSB 05-010/07: 2006-2007 MX-5 clutch hard to disengage when hot (9/27/2007) — Mazda North American Operations (service bulletin) (mfr spec; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
Summaries are in our own words. Not repair instructions; consult the factory service manual.
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