First-time post - be gentle!
My 1998 Outback Wagon Limited (manual) has about 103,000 miles. I have been hugely satisfied with the car and intend to buy another when the time comes. Recently, however, the clutch pedal has begun to "stick" down after changing gear and sometimes needs to be lifted up (with a "clunk") by my foot underneath. This seems to happen most in hot, stop-and-go traffic; on the highway there is no problem. Starting from cold and driving around town for short journeys is also no problem.
A little history: after about 30,000 miles, the clutch began to "squeak", or "chirp", occasionally when it was pressed. I took it to the dealer from whom I purchased the car (new) and their service department said that it was nothing to worry about - I should just wait until the clutch needed replacing.
My question is: has the time come to replace the clutch? If so, about how much should I expect to pay (parts and service) for a competent dealer to do this work? I live in the Northeast US. Also, are there any other routine engine maintenance tasks that would be advisable to schedule at this time? I intend to keep the car for at least another couple of years (~40-50,000 miles).
Thanks in advance for your suggestions and advice. Rowan