How to Release the Clutch Smoothly in Subject Three?
2 Answers
After starting the car, press down the clutch pedal, engage the gear, and release the handbrake. Apply some throttle while slowly releasing the clutch, gradually pressing the throttle with your right foot as you release the clutch with your left foot. When you hear the engine speed drop, continue releasing the clutch while gradually increasing the throttle. Once the clutch is fully released, maintain the throttle position. When the engine speed increases sufficiently, you can begin to shift gears. Press the clutch with your left foot while releasing the throttle with your right foot, then fully depress the clutch to start shifting. After engaging the gear, slowly release the clutch with your left foot while gradually applying throttle with your right foot.
To smoothly release the clutch, especially during the driving test (Subject 3), the key is to find the semi-engagement point. With over 20 years of driving experience, I always lightly press the clutch to the engagement position when starting—that is, when I feel a slight vibration in the car or see fluctuations in the RPM gauge. At this point, don’t rush to release it completely; instead, lift your foot slowly like a dragonfly skimming the water, while gently pressing the accelerator to provide some fuel, allowing the power to transition naturally. Releasing too quickly will stall the engine, while releasing too slowly will cause gear dragging. During the test, the examiner prioritizes smoothness, so practice more on a simulator or find an open space to repeatedly practice starting. Staying relaxed is crucial—nervousness will make your foot shake. The same applies to daily driving: protecting the clutch plate extends its lifespan and ensures safety and fuel efficiency. Regularly practice foot movements, such as using your left foot to feel the clutch depth.
