We have a 2001 3.0 Z Coupe that hesitates when starting in first gear. It's just a tiny hesitation that occurs after the clutch has engaged. We'll leave a stop sign, give it gas and then there is a slight moment when it doesn't seem to have power.

It's been to the dealer repeatedly and is about to come out of warranty. Both we and the previous owner reported it as a warranty issue and the dealer response is "We can't duplicate it.", or "It's just the way these cars are. The clutch just does that in first gear."

It only happens in first gear; it doesn't matter whether it's cold or warm. It's probably not a matter of driver input since it happened with the first owner as well as both Roger and myself, three people with different clutching techniques.

Has anyone else had this problem and do you know what it is? The dealer seems somewhat reluctant to work on some warranty issues. If it is something that needs attention, we would like to get it done before the warranty expires. Since the dealer doesn't seem to be able to find the problem, we'll need to tell them what they are looking for.

Delight Lucas