What does it mean when a car has no clutch?

[DelFernando]

In fact, it's not that there is no clutch, but rather an electronic mechanism replaces the driver's task of pressing the clutch pedal, which is called an electronic clutch. The following are specific descriptions of clutch failure symptoms: 1. Clutch slipping: When starting the car in low gear, after releasing the clutch pedal, the car cannot start or has difficulty starting; when accelerating, the speed does not increase with the engine speed, feeling powerless, and in severe cases, there may be a burnt smell or smoke. 2. Incomplete clutch disengagement: Even when the clutch pedal is pressed all the way down, the power between the clutch's driving and driven plates cannot be completely cut off, resulting in difficulty shifting gears, gear grinding, inability to stop, or the clutch overheating. 3. Clutch shudder: The whole vehicle shakes when starting, especially when idling and gradually releasing the clutch pedal in low gear, the car experiences continuous jerking.

[MacIsla]

A few days ago, a friend suddenly asked why there was no clutch pedal when riding in my car, and I couldn't help but laugh. Nowadays, automatic transmission cars are basically like this—no need to press the clutch. Back when I was learning to drive a manual transmission car, it was such a frantic experience, always afraid of stalling. Automatic transmissions integrate the clutch function into the gearbox, with the onboard computer controlling the coordination of throttle and clutch. You just need to press the accelerator or brake, and the computer handles all the gear shifts. It saves time and effort, especially suitable for city traffic jams, completely freeing your left foot. However, manual transmission enthusiasts still adore the mechanical control feeling, saying driving an automatic is like playing a mobile game. As for me, I'd say automatic transmissions are the way to go for daily commuting—it's especially noticeable when stopping at red lights or starting on a slope.

[EmilyFitz]

People who have driven manual transmissions might feel confused when first encountering an automatic. The missing clutch isn't a malfunction—it's a sign of automotive evolution. Automatic transmissions use torque converters and planetary gear sets instead of manual shifting mechanisms. Having driven a DSG dual-clutch model, I found it even more remarkable: two clutches alternate operation, shifting three times faster than human reflexes. On long drives, the convenience is obvious—just control acceleration and braking with your right foot. Some complain automatics feel like bumper cars with no fun, but I believe it depends on personal needs. For commuter cars, there's no need to exhaust your left foot—saving energy for listening to the radio is perfectly fine.

[StMariana]

Once while helping a neighbor move his car, he kept asking me where the clutch was. Nowadays, most cars come from the factory as automatics, with the clutch replaced by computer control. Specifically, it's the hydraulic system or solenoid valves inside the transmission doing the work. When you shift to D and press the accelerator, sensors notify the control unit to engage the gear. In traffic jams, there's no need for repeated clutch feathering - just control speed with your right foot. However, it's best to switch to manual mode during long descents to prevent brake overheating. Automatic transmissions cost slightly more to maintain, but they're certainly more convenient. Beginners should check if there are paddle shifters on the steering wheel - those usually indicate a manual-automatic transmission.