NC odd squeak from clutch-ish

[Ekona]

Hey folks, I’ve got a 2L ‘07 NC sat at just over 100k miles now and it’s developed a very odd squeak from what sounds like near the gearbox/clutch mechanism area.

At idle, out of gear, there’s a fast repetitive squeak noticeable from that area. It doesn’t change speed or tone with engine speed at all, and doesn’t get worse or better when the engine is warm. If I press the clutch pedal slightly (and I mean really slightly, not even close to the disengagement point) the sound immediately goes. Release the pedal and it’s back. When driving along you can hear it constantly too in the background.

Clutch was changed about 10k miles ago along with the slave cylinder, and there is no change to the feel or engagement of the clutch whatsoever: all feels very normal and positive. No other clunks or clangs can be heard at all.

Any thoughts? I’m stumped!

[Bainbridge]

Has this noise started since the clutch was replaced?

[Ekona]

Yes, but about 10k miles and a year afterwards

[Ekona]

Just to follow this up, and also a slight bump to see if anyone has any ideas, this noise is still there and I'm now another 10K on the clock (so 110K all in). It may have gotten fractionally louder but I'm not sure, and the gear selection/clutch engagement is still absolutely fine.

I'm starting to wonder if it's just one of those noises that older cars develop for no rhyme or reason at this point...

[Nickp82]

I reckon the Clutch release bearing is what’s making the noise. The majority of RX-8s make a sort of grinding noise when the clutch is released which can become a squeaking after the clutch is changed. It’s a bit of a pain but I don’t think it’ll cause you any issues

[Ekona]

Nickp82 said:

I reckon the Clutch release bearing is what’s making the noise. The majority of RX-8s make a sort of grinding noise when the clutch is released which can become a squeaking after the clutch is changed. It’s a bit of a pain but I don’t think it’ll cause you any issues

Well that's good news then if that's all it is, I can live with a bit of a squeak Much apprciated.