Can the car stop without fully depressing the clutch on a slope?
3 Answers
The clutch must be fully depressed when stopping on a slope, otherwise the engine is prone to stalling. Related information: 1. Introduction: The clutch is located in the flywheel housing between the engine and the transmission. The clutch assembly is fixed to the rear plane of the flywheel with screws, and the output shaft of the clutch is the input shaft of the transmission. During driving, the driver can depress or release the clutch pedal as needed to temporarily separate or gradually engage the engine and transmission, thereby cutting off or transmitting the power from the engine to the transmission. 2. Expansion: The clutch is a common component in mechanical transmission, allowing the transmission system to be separated or engaged at any time. Its basic requirements include: smooth engagement, quick and thorough separation, easy adjustment and repair, compact size, light weight, good wear resistance, sufficient heat dissipation capacity, and easy and effortless operation. Commonly used types include jaw clutches and friction clutches.
When stopping on a slope, the clutch must be fully depressed. During my driving instruction, I've noticed many students tend to partially press the clutch, finding it easier to control this way. However, during slope positioning, incomplete power disengagement can easily cause the car to roll backward or lurch forward. The clutch's function is to disconnect power transmission—not pressing it completely means power is still fighting against the brakes. The correct procedure is to firmly press both the brake and clutch simultaneously, engage the handbrake, and then start moving slowly. This is not only a safe practice but also prevents excessive wear on the clutch plate, extending component lifespan. Developing good habits ensures you can handle emergencies with ease.
After driving manual transmission for twenty years, I've had my share of struggles with hill starts. When the clutch isn't fully depressed, there's always slight vehicle movement even with the handbrake engaged. The engine power transmitted through the partially engaged clutch fights against the brakes, causing harmful strain. I remember once on a steep slope, because the clutch wasn't fully disengaged, the car suddenly lurched forward half a meter, nearly rear-ending the vehicle ahead. Now I always press the clutch pedal to the floor completely, firmly set the handbrake, then release the foot brake. This ensures rock-solid parking, and smooth starts by slowly releasing the clutch while applying throttle.