Can the Clutch Be Released Quickly When Shifting Up?
4 Answers
When shifting up, the clutch should not be released quickly; it needs to be released slowly. Below is relevant information about the clutch: Introduction: The clutch is located within the flywheel housing between the engine and the transmission. The clutch assembly is secured to the rear plane of the flywheel with screws, and the output shaft of the clutch is the input shaft of the transmission. During vehicle operation, the driver can press 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. Basic Requirements: The clutch is a common component in mechanical transmissions, allowing the transmission system to be separated or engaged at any time. Its basic requirements include: smooth engagement, rapid and thorough separation; ease of adjustment and repair; compact size; lightweight; good wear resistance and sufficient heat dissipation capacity; easy and effortless operation. Commonly used types include jaw clutches and friction clutches.
This question reminds me of when I first started driving many years ago—I had the same confusion. If you release the clutch pedal too quickly while upshifting, the car will definitely jerk violently, almost like slamming on the brakes. Not only is it uncomfortable for passengers, but it can also cause the engine RPM to drop suddenly, leading to stalling or shuddering. I tried fast clutch release a few times, and each time it felt like the car was protesting, especially noticeable when going uphill or under load. Later, an experienced mechanic taught me that the best method is to hold the throttle steady and then lift the clutch gradually, allowing the power to transition smoothly. This way, driving becomes both safer and smoother. Now it’s a habit—every time I shift gears, I remind myself to be patient. Though it might slow things down a bit, it avoids unnecessary wear and tear, which is better for the car in the long run. When it comes to driving, the details determine the experience—don’t risk it just to save a little time.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I firmly believe that the clutch should never be released quickly when upshifting. I used to think quick release would save effort, but I found the car would lurch forward with a loud clunk—not only annoying passengers but also accelerating clutch wear. The key issue is that rapid release causes engine RPM to fail to match the vehicle speed, leading to jerking or even stalling. I recommend beginners first practice gradual release on flat roads to locate the clutch bite point. Once proficient, you can release slightly faster, but only when strong acceleration isn’t needed. Remember to stabilize the throttle after shifting, then slowly disengage the clutch from partial engagement to full release—the entire process should take about 1-2 seconds. Don’t rush it; safety and comfort are paramount. Master this technique, and driving any manual transmission will feel effortless.
From the vehicle's perspective, quickly releasing the clutch during upshifts is a bad idea. The clutch needs time to transfer power, and if released abruptly, the steel plates and flywheel will experience severe friction, increasing wear and heat. Doing this frequently can lead to slippage or premature failure, and repairs won't come cheap. Having driven various models, I've found that gently releasing the clutch protects the mechanics and reduces jerking. The proper technique is to slowly release the clutch from the bottom up after shifting while lightly applying throttle to match the RPM. Remember, driving isn't a racing game—smoother operation is more economical.
