I have a '04 TL manual with 77k miles on it, and recently I noticed a light squeaking from the front of the car when I shift into 2nd and 3rd gear (not sure about 4, 5, and 6).

It happens while I release the clutch after gearchange, and lasts for just a few seconds after. Is this is a sign of clutch wear and do I need a new clutch, or what is the likely cause of this?

And also, what is the usual cost associated with a new clutch?

 

Anyone? I confirmed it does it in 4th gear and 5th gear, probably in 6th also.

 

Isn't there a clutch delay valve on these cars? Maybe its an effect of that?

As for testing the clutch... run it out to where it makes peak TQ in a higher gear and see if it slips at WOT. If it doesn't, I wouldn't worry about it till it stops doing its job.