Honda CR-V 2002: Clutch pedal squeaking

For the second time my 2002 Honda CR-V has developed the most awful squeaking, or almost very loud groaning noise, whenever the clutch pedal is depressed. The first time it occurred the dealer changed some bushes and the noise went away, but this time they are telling me that the noise is coming from the clutch cylinder. Being a doubting Thomas I would like to get a second opinion before I spend the $375 required to replace the clutch cylinder and then find the noise is still happening. There appears to be some wear where the clutch return spring is attached to a bracket under the dash and I am wondering if this is where the noise is actually emanating from. The noise is definitely 'inside' the car and not in the area where I think the cylinder is mounted i.e. under the bonnet on the bulkhead. What do you think?