Do I still need to press the clutch when the car is in neutral?
2 Answers
When the car is in neutral, you do not need to press the clutch. Here are some related explanations about not pressing the clutch when the car is in neutral: 1. Reason for not pressing the clutch: During the driving process, the driver can shift to neutral without relying on the clutch operation, because shifting to neutral while driving is essentially applying "gear disengagement," which is similar to the basic meaning of shifting gears. 2. Reasons for using the clutch: (1) Shifting to neutral without pressing the clutch while driving does not cause any damage to the car, but not using the clutch when shifting to neutral will make driving more laborious. (2) In terms of wear and tear, when the clutch is not involved in shifting to neutral, the synchronizers inside the clutch often suffer severe wear, which can affect gear shifting. (3) Although shifting to neutral can be done without using the clutch, it is recommended that, to ensure the car's performance, you develop the habit of using the clutch when shifting to neutral.
Having driven for many years, I often ponder this question every time I shift into neutral. Technically, in neutral, the engine and transmission are disconnected, so there's no need to press the clutch. However, many veteran drivers like me still habitually depress the clutch when waiting at red lights or during brief stops. The reason is simple: holding it down reduces engine load, prevents slight vehicle shuddering, and makes driving more comfortable. Especially on slopes or in heavy traffic, pressing the clutch can also prevent rolling backward. Novices might find this redundant, but in the long run, developing good habits protects transmission components and reduces wear. I recommend adapting to situations flexibly, but the basic rule is that pure neutral doesn't require clutch engagement. Remember, stay calm when the engine is running—don't create unnecessary complications.
