Should You Press the Clutch When Turning a Car?
2 Answers
You should not press the clutch when turning a car, because once the power is disconnected, the tires will lose traction. At higher speeds, the vehicle may skid due to inertia, potentially causing an accident. The correct method is to release the accelerator to slow down before entering the turn, then gently press the accelerator to maintain a steady speed while navigating the curve. This ensures the car moves smoothly through the turn without any drifting sensation. If an obstacle appears ahead and you must brake, remember not to press the clutch—brake while in gear to prevent drifting before coming to a complete stop. For vehicles equipped with ABS, brake firmly and decisively to ensure the ABS functions correctly. In urban areas or when turning at intersections, where speeds are naturally low and drifting is unlikely, you can use the half-clutch technique to control speed if necessary.
As a driver with over 20 years of experience, I've observed that many people instinctively press the clutch when turning, which is completely unnecessary and can even be dangerous. The clutch is primarily used for gear shifting. If you depress it during a turn, the vehicle's power will be interrupted, causing sudden wheel deceleration that may lead to unstable steering or loss of control—especially risky during sharp turns or on slopes. The correct approach is to reduce speed to a safe level (e.g., 30 km/h) before entering the turn, shift to a lower gear like second, maintain steady throttle input, and let the car glide smoothly through the curve. Gradually accelerate after exiting the turn. Remember, focus should be on the steering wheel and road ahead—don't distract yourself with clutch operation. Keeping the engine connected during turns ensures continuous power delivery, which is the safest and most stable method.
