2001 civic 230 000 km

I was stopped at a red light with the clutch in, in first gear, the light went green and the clutch didn't come off the floor until I kicked it up with my foot. It just happened the once. The rest of the way home, the car would drive fine once it got going, but if stopped in neutral at a red light, it would stall immediately when I put in the clutch. I restart (with the clutch in) it makes a loud squeal and idles a little rough so I'm giving it a little more gas than usual. Shifting from first to second also makes a loud squeal, higher speeds seem to shift OK. It is also making a smell like hot metal.

1. what do I need to fix?
2. how much?
3. Is it recommended to drive to the mechanic or should I get a tow to prevent further damage?

 

Typically when the clutch pedal won't come off the floor its the clutch master cylinder. It's in a tight spot but overall an easy fix, just requires patience.

I wouldn't drive it long distances because you are causing damage to your clutch. It'd be okay to drive it a short distance to a mechanic though.

Is the clutch original?

If all you need is a CMC it'd be about $70 for the part and maybe 30 min of labor.

 

It's hydraulic, like the brakes, so the first thing to check is the fluid level.

 

I took it in, they said it's the release bearing

 

Yeah that would make sense with the howling noise.

Is it the original clutch?