Should You Downshift or Rev-Match First When Downshifting?

[RemingtonRose]

When performing a rev-matched downshift, you should downshift first and then rev-match. Here are the specific steps for rev-matched downshifting: 1. Correct procedure: Press clutch and shift to neutral—Release clutch and blip throttle—Press clutch, release throttle, and shift to lower gear—Release clutch and press throttle to accelerate. 2. Pressing clutch: When needing to downshift for overtaking, first release the throttle, press the clutch pedal, and simultaneously use your right hand to shift to neutral position—completing the first gear change. 3. Releasing clutch and blipping throttle: While keeping the clutch pedal pressed with your left foot, quickly press the throttle with your right foot to raise the engine RPM. 4. Releasing clutch and pressing throttle: After blipping the throttle, shift to the lower gear to complete the second gear change. Then release the clutch and press the throttle. The rev-matched downshift is now complete.

[OPeyton]

When I first started learning to drive, my instructor emphasized the importance of sequence when practicing rev-matching for downshifting: after braking to slow down, the right foot should simultaneously prepare for the throttle blip—for example, while the heel of the right foot is grounded on the brake, use the ball of the foot to tap the throttle to raise the engine speed—then press the clutch with the left foot to downshift. If you downshift first and then blip the throttle, the car will jerk uncomfortably, compromising driving safety. Beginners often get this backward. I’ve experienced that jerking sensation a few times, and it’s particularly harsh on the clutch. Start practicing at low speeds, such as downshifting to second gear in traffic, synchronizing the throttle blip to match the engine speed. Over time, it becomes second nature. The key is to protect the car’s components and avoid damaging the gearbox—just simulate the motion a few times in a parking lot to get the feel.

[MacTeagan]

After driving a manual transmission car for ten years, rev-matching downshifts have become second nature to me. Technically speaking, it's not a sequential process but rather a fluid motion: the right foot brakes to decelerate while the heel lightly taps the throttle to blip, then the left foot depresses the clutch to downshift. If you hesitate and downshift before blipping, the mismatched engine RPM will cause a jerking sound, which is bad for the gearbox. I use this technique routinely when descending hills or taking sharp turns—it makes the car smoother and even saves some fuel. Just focus on coordinating the movements rather than rigidly memorizing the sequence; your body will naturally react. The key lies in right-foot finesse; with enough practice, it becomes effortless and actually extends clutch life.

[McClaire]

The core of rev-matching downshifts lies in the technique of synchronizing engine speed. During operation, the right foot presses the brake to reduce vehicle speed, followed by a quick tap on the accelerator with the right foot to increase engine RPM—this is known as the throttle blip—then the left foot depresses the clutch to downshift before releasing it. The throttle blip must begin before the downshift is completed to ensure the engine speed matches the gear change. Otherwise, excessively low RPM can shock the drivetrain, causing jerks or wear. The principle is simple: by using the throttle blip to eliminate the RPM gap, the downshift process becomes seamless. This skill is not only crucial in racing but also reduces parking risks during urban traffic congestion and improves overall driving smoothness.

[DelAnastasia]

As a car owner who pays attention to vehicle maintenance, I am quite cautious about the sequence of rev-matching downshifts: first apply the brakes to slow down, then use the right foot to blip the throttle and adjust the engine speed, followed by downshifting. If you accidentally downshift first and then blip the throttle, the jerking motion can wear out the clutch and transmission components. I recommend practicing at low speeds during daily driving, such as simulating the operation at 20 km/h, synchronizing the movement by pressing the throttle with the right foot for about 1 second. This not only enhances safety by reducing the risk of accidents but also prevents premature aging of parts. During regular maintenance, check the condition of the clutch to ensure this technique effectively extends the vehicle's lifespan and avoids unnecessary repair costs.