Why does a manual transmission car jerk when releasing the clutch?
2 Answers
When driving, the engine speed is relatively high, but the torque output from the engine to the wheels is zero. At this point, during startup, the car requires a relatively large torque to overcome forward or backward movement. If the clutch is released too quickly when starting the car, it is equivalent to applying a significant brake to the engine, preventing it from rotating, which can result in a sudden jerk forward or the engine stalling. Correct clutch pedal operation: When pressing the clutch pedal, place the ball of your foot on the pedal with your heel touching the ground. When the clutch is fully depressed, keep your knee slightly bent. Depress the clutch pedal fully: Avoid keeping the clutch engaged for extended periods to ensure complete disengagement and prevent wear.
When I first learned to drive, I often encountered this issue too. With a manual transmission car, when releasing the clutch pedal, the car would suddenly lurch forward, which felt quite scary. The main reason was releasing the clutch pedal too quickly without matching the throttle input, causing the car to lose balance momentarily and jerk. This is especially noticeable when starting in low gears or on slopes, where poor control makes it more pronounced. Through more practice, I learned to slowly release the clutch while gently pressing the accelerator, gradually achieving smooth starts. If the car is old, the clutch disc might be worn unevenly, causing more vibration during engagement, and replacing the disc is the only permanent solution. Additionally, low engine idle speed or carbon buildup can also cause jerking. I recommend regular maintenance, including cleaning the throttle body and spark plugs, to maintain stable idle speed. Driving requires patience—being too hasty can lead to problems, not only discomfort but also increased fuel consumption and part wear. Safety comes first, and with more practice, handling will become second nature.
