What is the correct operation method for manual transmission gear shifting?

[DiLawson]

Here is the correct operation method for manual transmission gear shifting: 1. Appropriate gear speed and gear position: The adaptation range of each gear is from the lowest gear speed to the highest gear speed, and prolonged use of the lowest or highest gear speed should be avoided as much as possible. 2. Gear shifting: In principle, as long as the gear speed range is reached, gear shifting can be performed. The choice of gear position should consider vehicle speed, power performance, and fuel economy. 3. Lugging: Speeds below the lowest gear speed are generally referred to as lugging, which can cause the vehicle to lose power and jerk forward and backward, and in severe cases, can lead to engine stalling. 4. Upshifting: When the vehicle speed reaches the speed of the next higher gear, upshifting should be performed. Generally, for high-speed vehicles, upshifting is performed when the engine speed is between 3500-4500 rpm. 5. Downshifting: When the vehicle speed approaches the lowest speed of the current gear, downshifting should be performed. For high-speed vehicles, the timing for downshifting should be within the mid to slightly low range of the current gear speed, and should not be later than the lowest speed of the current gear. The choice of downshifting timing should be based on road conditions and power requirements.

[HarleyLee]

Having driven manual transmission cars for over a decade, I believe the key to gear shifting lies in timing and smoothness. When upshifting, wait until the speed increases and the RPM reaches around 2500, gently press the clutch, move the gear lever to the next higher position, such as from second to third gear, then slowly release the clutch while smoothly applying the throttle to avoid jerking. Downshifting should be done in anticipation of deceleration, like when slowing down before a red light by pressing the brake and simultaneously engaging the clutch to shift to a lower gear. If the road is slippery or the curve is sharp, remember to match the RPM by lightly tapping the throttle before releasing the clutch to prevent the car from lurching forward. With more practice, you'll find the rhythm. Keeping shifts between 2000-3000 RPM during commutes is the most fuel-efficient and safe. Avoid sudden downshifts at high speeds to prevent engine roaring, and don't use high gears at low speeds to avoid lugging the engine.

[MacRicardo]

For daily commuting with a manual transmission, I prefer to keep gear shifting simple and efficient. To upshift, wait for the speed to increase—for example, shift to second gear at 20 km/h, third gear at 40 km/h—press the clutch, move the gear lever, and gradually release the clutch while gently applying throttle. Downshifting is done when decelerating: brake to reduce speed, then press the clutch and shift to a lower gear. Remember to use the handbrake for hill starts to prevent rolling back. In the city, second and third gears are often used to avoid frequent shifting and traffic disruption. Safety first—check the mirrors before shifting, and don’t rush. Pay attention to the engine sound; a buzzing noise means it’s time to shift, so you don’t need to glance at the gauges and get distracted.

[LaAlivia]

As a new manual transmission driver who just got my license, my instructor taught me the basic steps for shifting gears: When upshifting, first ease off the accelerator, press the clutch, shift to the next higher gear, then gradually release the clutch while giving some gas. Don't rush it - releasing the clutch too quickly may stall the engine. Downshift after slowing down, such as when going downhill or encountering pedestrians - press the brake to reduce speed, press the clutch and shift to a lower gear like second. If the car shakes, it means you should've downshifted earlier. It's recommended to start in lower gears and shift up only after gaining familiarity. Avoid riding the clutch too long to prevent component wear. For city driving, frequent shifting between second and third gears ensures safety and stability.