Should the Clutch Be Released Slowly When Shifting from 3rd to 4th Gear?
4 Answers
When shifting from 3rd to 4th gear, the clutch should be released slowly; otherwise, the car may experience jerking. Relevant information about the clutch is as follows: Slow release of the clutch during gear shifting: Manual transmission cars have a clutch pedal, and the clutch is an important component of the vehicle. The driver needs to use the clutch when starting and shifting gears. After shifting, if the clutch pedal is released too quickly, the car may experience significant backward force, which reduces ride comfort and driving safety. Usage of the clutch: When using the clutch, coordination with the accelerator pedal is necessary. When depressing the clutch, it should be done quickly, and the clutch pedal must be fully depressed. When releasing the clutch pedal, it should be done slowly, preferably while pressing the accelerator pedal with the right foot to prevent jerking after shifting. When starting a manual transmission car, the half-clutch technique is required. Half-clutch means the clutch is partially engaged but not fully.
As someone who frequently studies automotive mechanisms, I believe there's no need to deliberately slow down the clutch release when shifting from 3rd to 4th gear. This upshift occurs during steady driving at higher speeds, where engine RPM and vehicle speed are well matched, allowing the clutch to be lifted smoothly and quickly to avoid unnecessary power interruption. Conversely, slower clutch release during lower-gear shifts like 1st to 2nd prevents jerking, but rapid clutch engagement in higher gears like 4th is actually more efficient—reducing clutch plate wear and ensuring smoother operation. Deliberately slow release increases friction duration, raising component wear risks. Beginners may hesitate, but practice helps find the optimal rhythm.
I've been driving manual transmission cars for many years, and the 3rd to 4th gear upshift scenario is very common, such as when operating at speeds of 40 to 60 km/h on expressways. At that time, the clutch doesn't need to be released slowly - quick release results in smooth gear changes with almost no body jerking. My personal habit is to slightly press the accelerator when releasing the clutch after shifting, synchronizing the RPM to make it more effortless. This is much simpler than the slow release required for 1st to 2nd gear shifts, where you must control the slow release during the starting phase to prevent stalling. Developing this habit in daily driving can protect vehicle components and reduce unnecessary fuel consumption, especially effective during long-distance driving.
Releasing the clutch too quickly or too slowly each carries risks, but from a safety perspective, there's no need to release it slowly when shifting from 3rd to 4th gear. At this point, the vehicle speed has stabilized, and normal clutch release won't cause significant vibration. Deliberately delaying the release may instead lead to delayed power response and increase potential faults. The clutch is designed for efficient power transmission, and quick operation is optimal when properly matched. I emphasize making slight adjustments only on slopes or under load, but in most urban driving conditions, quickly releasing the clutch both protects the equipment and enhances driving continuity, making it a habit worth developing.
