Should the clutch be released after shifting to first gear when pulling over?
3 Answers
When pulling over and shifting to first gear, there is no need to release the clutch. Subject 3, which includes the road driving skills test and the safety and civilized driving knowledge test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment. It is the abbreviated name for the road driving skills and safety and civilized driving knowledge test subjects in the motor vehicle driver's examination. The content of the road driving skills test varies for different types of vehicles eligible for driving. Below is an introduction to the content of Subject 3: Introduction to Subject 3: Subject 3 includes the road driving skills test and the safety and civilized driving knowledge test, which are part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment. It is the abbreviated name for the road driving skills and safety and civilized driving knowledge test subjects in the motor vehicle driver's examination. The content of the road driving skills test varies for different types of vehicles eligible for driving. Content of Subject 3: The road driving skills test of Subject 3 generally includes: preparation before starting, simulated lighting test, starting, driving straight, shifting gears up and down, changing lanes, pulling over, going straight through intersections, turning left at intersections, turning right at intersections, crossing pedestrian crossings, passing school zones, passing bus stops, meeting oncoming vehicles, overtaking, making U-turns, and driving at night. The safety and civilized driving knowledge test generally includes: requirements for safe and civilized driving operations, knowledge of safe driving under adverse weather and complex road conditions, methods for handling emergencies such as tire blowouts, and knowledge of handling procedures after traffic accidents.
When pulling over and shifting gears, regarding clutch operation, I remember that after driving a manual transmission for so many years, stopping is a basic skill. After shifting into first gear, you must release the clutch; otherwise, the clutch plate will remain pressed, leading to wear and even overheating, which shortens its lifespan. In practical operation, I recommend first stabilizing the car, pressing the brake and clutch, and shifting into neutral—this is the wisest approach. Because stopping in first gear without releasing the clutch may cause the car to suddenly jerk or stall, affecting smoothness. If on a slope, to prevent rolling, after stopping, shift into first gear, release the clutch while pulling the handbrake tight, and use the engine's resistance to secure the vehicle. In short, safety first—always check the gear status after stopping, and developing good habits can reduce accidents.
This was a question that puzzled me when I first learned to drive. After pulling over and coming to a complete stop, if you shift gears—for example, into first gear—you should release the clutch pedal and avoid keeping it depressed for too long. Holding the clutch down for extended periods can wear out internal components and may also place extra strain on the engine. More importantly, leaving the car in first gear without releasing the clutch after stopping can cause slight movement or unusual noises, especially on uneven roads. In practice, my advice is to shift directly into neutral when parking—it's simpler and more relaxed. Only engage a gear and release the clutch when you need to prevent rolling on a slope. Always double-check your gear position when parking, and use the handbrake in combination to ensure driving safety and minimize wear on the clutch system.
