Hey all,

Recently after gear changes, clutch pedal has been rough/rubbery. Depressing and releasing several times (out of gear) makes it go back to normal. Zero slipping of clutch in any gear.

Took the car to Subaru last week, went for a drive and the head mechanic suggested it was either a worn clutch fork or a failed throwout bearing. Couldn't fit me in due to Christmas/NYE and advised would be okay to drive until today when it was booked in.

Got a call from them to say the clutch and pressure plate were burnt and pretty much gone. Car only has 60,000kms on it, and not abused - has just had it's first replacement tyres. Car is always warmed up before being driven remotely hard. Spoke to Subaru Australia customer relations and dealer, both denied warranty as clutch is apparently a 'wear item'.

I have previously owned manual cars and clutches were replaced at 150-200k+ kms and they were noticeably slipping. Never heard of a non-tracked or drag car going this early, and am pretty disappointed in Subaru's attitude towards it.

So two questions:
1. Has anyone had any similar experiences on this model (11-13) and been successful in getting it taken care of under warranty? Any tips, tricks or links to similar problems - have searched various forums and can find USA issues but they have a different warranty scheme.

2. Does anyone know if a worn throwout bearing or clutch fork would cause the clutch to prematurely wear out? Exedy seemed to think so but this was unofficial advice. Links or similar experiences would be ideal.

Thanks in advance,

Grrilla