Can the clutch be released immediately after shifting gears?

[AlejandroLee]

When shifting gears, if the vehicle speed is relatively low, there may be a jerking sensation. Therefore, after depressing the clutch, it should be released slowly and not too quickly, otherwise the car will jerk. However, when the vehicle speed is relatively high, you can release it quickly at first, then slow down, and then speed up again. When approaching the semi-engagement point, it should be slower. Additional information: 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 the transmission, thereby cutting off or transmitting the power input from the engine to the transmission.

[DiEliza]

You must never release the clutch immediately after shifting gears. Having driven manual transmission cars for over a decade, I made this mistake too when first learning—letting go of the clutch right after shifting, causing the car to jerk forward violently like a muscle spasm, which was terrifying. The reason is that the gears haven’t fully synchronized yet, and the engine speed doesn’t match the wheel speed. Now, after every shift, I gently lift my foot and pause at the half-engagement point for a second or two, waiting for the engine sound to stabilize before slowly releasing. This is especially crucial during low-speed shifts, like from 1st to 2nd gear or when starting at traffic lights—releasing too quickly not only creates uncomfortable jerking but also wears out the clutch plate, leading to costly and time-consuming repairs. Extra caution is needed on mountain roads or in rainy conditions, as poor control can easily cause wheel spin or stalling. I recommend beginners practice starting and hill climbs in empty spaces until they master smooth control, protecting the car while enjoying the joy of driving.

[Mockingjay]

I just got my driver's license, and my instructor kept emphasizing not to release the clutch immediately after shifting gears. I tried releasing it a bit faster once, and the car jerked forward, almost hitting the vehicle in front. Turns out, releasing the clutch too quickly causes the gears to engage harshly, leading to a sudden change in engine load, which not only causes jerking but also damages the components. Now, every time I shift gears, I keep the clutch pressed, move it to the right position, then slowly lift my foot to the biting point, and only fully release it once the car feels smooth. This makes driving much more comfortable in city traffic jams. It felt awkward at first, but after a few tries, it became natural. A friend of mine had to repair his clutch because of this issue, costing him several hundred dollars. I recommend beginners practice more on flat roads, especially during starts and turns, to keep things smooth and extend the car's lifespan. Don't rush—take it slow, and good habits will form, reducing accidents.

[McBrantley]

Having taught driving for many years, I always remind students not to release the clutch immediately after shifting gears. The principle is simple: releasing it too quickly and letting go all at once causes significant impact between the engine and transmission, leading to sudden jerks or stalling. The correct method is to gradually lift the clutch to the semi-engagement point, coordinate with the throttle to control RPM, and wait for the gears to synchronize before fully releasing. Beginners often make mistakes, but with repeated practice, they can master the rhythm. Smooth operation at shifting points is crucial in city driving to avoid awkward stalls at intersections. Extra caution is needed during hill starts—proper clutch control prevents rolling back. Safety first; developing good habits reduces wear and protects the machinery.