Do You Need to Press the Clutch When Braking in an Automatic Transmission?
2 Answers
When braking in an automatic transmission, you do not need to press the clutch. Below is relevant information about the clutch: 1. Clutch: 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. While driving, the driver can press or release the clutch pedal as needed to temporarily disconnect or gradually engage the engine and transmission, thereby cutting off or transmitting the engine's power to the transmission. 2. Principle of Releasing the Clutch: The principle of releasing the clutch is: 'slow at first, then fast, and coordinated at the end.' When initially pressing down, it should be quick and done in one motion all the way to the bottom. When lifting up during the free travel phase, it should be fast. As it nears contact, it should be slow. Upon reaching the semi-engagement point, there should be a slight pause before releasing fully. The key to this process is accurately finding the semi-engagement point. To control the vehicle speed effectively, treat the semi-engagement point as the dividing line: lifting up quickly and pressing down slowly, adjusting downward to select a speed that suits you.
When driving an automatic transmission car, you don't need to press the clutch while braking because automatic cars don't have a clutch pedal at all, which is completely different from manual transmissions. As an experienced driver with over a decade of driving experience, I can tell you that the automatic transmission handles the disconnection between the engine and wheels on its own. When you press the brake, the computer senses the speed change and automatically shifts gears or locks the transmission for you. If you still habitually reach for the clutch, it's completely unnecessary and could even cause an accident due to distraction. Especially in urban traffic jams or when starting on a slope, just gently press the brake—the system is designed to simplify the driving process. Remember, safety comes first; in any situation, focus on just one pedal when braking. With a bit more practice, the transition will feel natural. The biggest advantage of automatic transmission is its convenience, making it suitable for all road conditions.
