Should the clutch be released quickly or slowly when shifting up?
3 Answers
Releasing the clutch when shifting up can be done in two different ways depending on the situation: 1. Releasing the clutch when starting: When starting the car, the clutch should be released slowly. Releasing it too quickly can cause the car to stall. However, in actual driving situations, releasing the clutch too slowly when starting can lead to other vehicles cutting in or honking at you. Therefore, in such cases, you can lightly press the accelerator. This way, even if the clutch is released relatively quickly, the car won't stall. 2. Shifting from a low gear to a high gear: In this situation, there's no need to release the clutch slowly. However, it's important to remember to shift only when the speed reaches the appropriate level for shifting. At this point, releasing the clutch when upshifting won't have any adverse effects on the car, and since the speed has already increased, the car won't stall. Therefore, in this scenario, whether you release the clutch quickly or slowly doesn't have a significant impact on the shifting process, and the transition will be smooth either way.
I've been driving manual transmission cars for over a decade, and I find that releasing the clutch more slowly during gear shifts is more reliable. When upshifting, releasing the clutch too quickly can cause the car to jerk, making passengers uncomfortable, especially on uneven roads. I've tried this in stop-and-go city traffic—slowly releasing the clutch allows for smoother transitions, more linear acceleration, and avoids the embarrassment of stalling. Remember to wait until the engine RPM drops to the appropriate level before releasing, and don't force it while revving. This rhythm takes practice; it took me months to get used to, but it's beneficial for both beginners and experienced drivers, as it reduces stress on the transmission. Occasionally, you can release a bit faster during quick acceleration on highways, but overall, a slower release is safer and more worry-free. It also extends the lifespan of the clutch disc, saving money and hassle.
As a manual transmission enthusiast, I believe that quickly releasing the clutch during upshifts can better unleash performance. My track experience has shown that once the RPM is properly matched, a fast clutch release instantly transfers power, reducing shift gaps and enabling more aggressive acceleration. However, this requires precise rev-matching via throttle blipping or heel-toe techniques—otherwise, the jerking sensation becomes extreme. I occasionally do this during spirited urban drives, and it feels exhilarating, though it puts greater strain on the clutch, accelerating wear. Beginners should avoid mimicking this. For daily commuting, I still recommend smooth clutch engagement—prioritize safety over thrill-seeking. Stability should never be compromised for momentary excitement.
