'04 Matrix Manual Transmission/Clutch issue

[hunterzzz]

I have a 2004 Matrix with about 91k miles on it, 5-speed manual transmission and absolutely love the car. Recently during a trip to Erie, the transmission seemed to slip or what i refer to as stutter from a dead stop in first gear and then shifting into second gear. It doesnt do this all the time, seems random at the moment. Now, unfortunately i know nothing about cars so describing the issue is a little difficult but thats why i say it stutters - as i let off the clutch from a dead stop in first gear it feels like it catches as its driving (not jerking as if poorly shifted or grinding). I have searched the forums here and couldnt find a post that quite described the problem. Not sure if its a transmission problem or a clutch problem - though i lean towards the latter. Has anyone experienced this and know how to fix or at least determine the possible cause? I would take it to a shop immediately but its not financially do-able at this point. But if i could get an idea of the severity i might be able to better plan for the fix. Any ideas and help would be greatly appreciated.

[jdmccright]

Sounds to be a bit soon to have clutch problems (91k miles) but if you do alot of heavy stop & go traffic driving, or are very aggressive, all that clutch action can wear it down faster and/or cause it to warp. This usually means a new clutch plate and probably refacing/replacing the flywheel. For a transverse/transaxle setup that won't be cheap since the engine usually has to come out. But a good shop can have it done pretty fast. Can't give you ballpark estimates, sorry, but stick to reputable shops when you price it. Good luck!