Can a Manual Transmission Car Move Without Pressing the Accelerator?
2 Answers
Under normal circumstances, whether the car can move without pressing the accelerator depends on the gear it is in. If it is in first gear, second gear, or reverse gear, the car will move, but it won't move in third gear or higher. This is achieved by using the vehicle's idle speed. Below is a related introduction to idle speed: 1. Definition: Idle speed is a working condition of a car, referring to the engine running in neutral. The engine speed during idle is called the idle speed. The idle speed can be adjusted by modifying the throttle opening size, among other methods. Idle speed means the engine is "working but not producing output." 2. Meaning: Idle speed refers to the engine running without load, only overcoming the internal friction resistance of its components, without outputting power externally. The minimum speed required to maintain stable engine operation is called idle speed, which is one of the five basic operating conditions of an engine. For an engine with good performance, the idle speed is generally between 550-800 rpm.
When I was learning manual transmission, I also wondered about this issue. Actually, the car can indeed move slowly without pressing the accelerator, especially on flat roads or slight downhill slopes. This is because the engine is still running at idle speed, typically between 800 to 1000 RPM, providing basic power output. When you gently release the clutch pedal, it's like letting the engine and wheels 'hold hands' quietly, and the car will creep forward slowly. I tried this at the driving school training ground, and the speed was about 3 to 5 kilometers per hour, without touching the accelerator, saving some effort. However, you need to be careful with control—releasing the clutch too abruptly can stall the engine, or the car may stop completely on uphill sections. Beginners can practice in an empty space. Once you master this skill, you can control the speed more calmly when queuing in traffic, avoiding the tension caused by sudden braking. Remember, this is just an assist for starting—don’t rely on it for long-distance driving. Practice makes perfect.
