What is the correct way to depress the clutch when going downhill?
2 Answers
When going downhill, you can either fully depress the clutch or not, but it is best to fully depress the clutch and let the car coast under its own gravity, controlling the speed with the brakes. Additionally, when braking downhill, it is important to press the brake gently. Pressing the brake suddenly while the clutch is fully depressed can easily cause the car to stall. The passing standards for Subject 2 are introduced as follows: 1. Introduction one: The full score is 100 points, with evaluation criteria set for disqualification, deduction of 20 points, deduction of 10 points, and deduction of 5 points. 2. Introduction two: Passing the exam according to the regulations, such as applying for large passenger cars, tractors, city buses, medium-sized passenger cars, or large trucks, requires a score of 90 or above.
Downhill clutch operation requires proper technique, not casual use. When I was learning to drive, I made the mistake of lightly depressing the clutch on a long descent thinking it would stabilize speed control. The result? A burnt smell upon stopping – the clutch friction disc was scorched. The correct method is to select a low gear (e.g., 1st or 2nd) before descending, only engaging the clutch pedal during gear shifts and immediately releasing it afterward, allowing engine braking to naturally control speed. Never ride the clutch in a partially engaged state – this overheats friction materials causing damage, wastes fuel, and creates unstable speed control risking accidents. For steep slopes, combine with brake application rather than relying solely on the clutch. Regular practice of gear shifts on flat roads develops safer habits. Remember: the clutch should only be used for starting and gear changes – leave other situations to engine braking.
