During a maintenance check I was told that the clutch master cylinder is leaking. It is a 1997 Honda Civic EX Manual Transmission with 138,xxx miles on it. How do I go about checking for the leak? They said that the fluid was low, would they just assume a leak due to the level? I would like to fill/replace the fluid and check for leaks but don't know where to start. Any suggestions would be helpful.

Also was told that the timing belt needs changing and the CV boot on the left outer was torn. I have heard that replacing the axle is easier/better then trying to just do the boot due to ease and cost. How intense of projects am I looking to get into with these?

Thanks

 

if you have basic hand tools, and pick up a couple not so basic tools you can do both yourself.

Clutch master, typically they start leaking inside the car. Replacing it is easy, bleed it like you do brakes. Be sure you pick up a 10mm flare wrench for the clutch fluid line.

Axle, the main nut is the only real PITA part. But with a good ratchet and cheater bar you can pop it loose almost every time, the rest is simple.

if you're new to any of this, I HIGHLY recommend a Helm Manual, they produce the factory honda manuals. It has step by step details that are priceless when you're getting started.

 

Check both the master and slave cylinders for leaks:

 

+1 on the wrench and the helms manual. You do NOT want to have to replace that fitting, or possibly the line, because you end up rounding it off with a regular wrench. I got lucky and only rounded mine off enough to where I could still tighten it down.