David Agar

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Correct way to change gears on manual car

My partner believes that when changing gear the clutch pedal should be depressed to the floor. I understand that to do so increases wear and that it is better to depress the pedal only as far as is needed to change gear. Which way is correct?
David Agar   (Level 1)  |   Auto Parts  |   17 Mar 2009 14:23
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gices gices  (Level 1)  |   18 Mar 2009 03:26

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David,

Your partner is right - you should depress the clutch fully when you are changing gears, that is, make the clutch pedal go right down to the floor. Innappropriate use of the clutch is what makes it wear fast and have a shorter lifetime. For example, if you stop at traffic lights and get into the 1st gear while keeping your clutch down for a long time, then this could cause it to wear quickly. What you should really do is put it into neutral when you know you are going to be at the traffic signals for a while rather than keeping your gears engaged.

Some people also tend to leave their foot on the clutch after moving off and driving. This is called coasting and is dangerous as you have less control of the car. Always use the clutch for the shortest period of time needed.
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