Very intermittently I notice that when I am engaging the clutch there is a loud grinding or metal scraping type noise. I was in an accident a few months back and thought it may have been caused by that, but they insurance company thinks that it is just a worn clutch. I do have about 70K miles on my car. Only add-on is a muffler and lid. My clutch never slips, but I have had a few instances where it is difficult to get it in gear. I have a few questions

1) What is a good priced clutch replacement if in fact the clutch is bad?

2) Anyone know any good mechanics in the Athens, GA area?

3) Have you had any similar issues and if so what was the cause?

Thanks for any help you can provide!!