When Shifting Gears, Should You Shift First or Press the Clutch First?
2 Answers
When shifting gears in a manual transmission car, first release the accelerator, then press the clutch, shift gears with the clutch fully depressed, and then press the accelerator again. Below are the correct steps: 1. Master the operation of the clutch pedal through practice. Be steady and develop good habits: press the clutch all the way down and release it slowly. 2. Coordinate the accelerator and clutch properly. When starting, shift into first gear, slowly release the clutch, and press the accelerator when the clutch is halfway engaged. Only release the clutch completely after the car starts moving. 3. Learn the right timing for shifting gears. Shift when the engine speed is around 2000 RPM—first reduce the accelerator, then press the clutch to avoid forced disengagement, and then shift. The upshift sequence must be first gear → second gear → third gear → fourth gear → fifth gear; skipping gears is not recommended. Downshift based on speed and your car’s condition, usually when the engine speed drops below around 1500 RPM.
I remember when I was first learning to drive, the instructor always nagged about pressing the clutch before shifting gears. He explained that the clutch is like a switch—stepping on it disconnects the engine power from the transmission to prevent grinding. During my first few attempts, I foolishly tried to shift without pressing the clutch, causing the car to jerk and rattle loudly, turning the instructor’s face green. Later, as I got more skilled, driving in the city became smoother: slowing down before a red light, pressing the clutch to shift into neutral for fuel-efficient coasting, then at green light, pressing the clutch all the way down, shifting to second gear, releasing the clutch, and accelerating smoothly. The same quick and safe rhythm applies to overtaking on the highway. Ultimately, this sequence protects the transmission from excessive wear, not to mention prioritizing safety. Beginners should practice slowly in open areas to get the feel—don’t cut corners by shifting directly, as it harms the car and costs money. Over time, it becomes as natural as eating or drinking.
