I recently started to have a problem with my clutch. The pedal felt funny, and it felt like the clutch wasn't fully engaging when I tried to shift. Today it died completely. Shifting gears is practically impossible. The car is a 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer OZ Rally with around 50,000 mi. I was not the original owner. I have several questions:

1) On somebody's advice, I was told to check the fluid levels, but I was unable to find the clutch reservoir. Am I an idiot, or does the car use the brake fluid reservoir for both the clutch and brake?

2) With the engine on and the car in neutral, I am able to pump the pedal to the point of normal pressure. When I try to shift, the pressure rapidly falls, and I am unable to complete the shift. This is accompanied by a rather strong drip from what I presume to be the hydraulic cylinders. Do you guys know what problem this could indicate?

3) If you do know what the problem is, what is a reasonable estimate to get it fixed. I am away from my normal mechanic (in college), and the car is un-drivable, so I can't really shop around. I can't do this myself for a variety of reasons (the main being my lack of auto-repair skill).

Sorry to start off with such a long and needy post, but it would be awesome if somebody could help me out. Thank you in advance for your time.

 

Yes the master cylinder controls both brakes and clutch from what it sounds like you have a bad throw out bearing/slave cylinder which is located in the bell housing of the transmission.