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Tell Clutch Press From Neutral Gear In Manual Transmission Car?

ByMatsumoto Naoki-January 21, 2019

In a manual transmission car, it is often confusing for some drivers to differentiate between operating the vehicle with the clutch or neutral gear. Thus, it makes it difficult for some to stop their car at a red light and keep the engine running at the same time. One question on everyone’s mind is whether the clutch press or neutral gear is the same thing in a manual transmission car.

Are The Clutch Press & Neutral Gear Same In Manual Transmission Car?

Some drivers kick into neutral gear a few meters away from the red light and stop at the right time; while others reduce the gears and apply the clutch and brake to stop the vehicle. We will help you differentiate what makes driving a manual transmission car in neutral from a clutch down. You can also browse online to get the best driving tips to stop the car when driving down a hilly road or on the highway.

1. What Does Shifting To Neutral Gear Early Do To The Car?

If you try to shift the car immediately to the neutral gear before the actual stoppage, it will increase the risk of the damage to the brakes of your manual transmission car. Experts recommend that the only way to slow down the vehicle is using the brakes. There is no doubt that these would reach high temperature when you try to stop the car in gear.

There have been instances where drivers have completely burnt out the brakes while trying to stop at neutral gear. It also leads to unnecessary clutching, and less control over the vehicle, which might even lead to a bad situation.

Shifting to Neutral Gear in Manual Transmission Car may burn the brake

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2. The Clutch

Experts recommend that when driving a manual transmission car, it is better to shift down in a sequence. When you decide to stay in gear while slowing down the vehicle, you maintain total control over the steering, braking, and acceleration of the car. One way is to shift down sequentially from the fourth gear to the first to stop the vehicle.

However, shifting down has its cons as well. It was suited to earlier car models. However, with the modern vehicles having disc brakes and ABS technology, it is not a good idea. The sequential downshifting, however only leads to more resistance in the front wheels, and can lead to increased stopping distance on slippery roads. It could cause wheel lockup, which will add to the problem.

3. The Best Way To Stop The Vehicle

The best way to stop the vehicle before it’s too late is to use a combination of both neutral gear and the clutch. You need to start braking in the manual transmission car but keep the clutch engaged with both hands on the steering wheel. Next, disengage the clutch, and drop quickly to the shifter at the same time.

Afterward, you need to shift to neutral gear and switch to the first before the car stops. If you are looking to wait and then drive again, then leave it to be neutral and release the clutch but keep the foot on the brake.

How to stop manual transmission cars in the best way

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Summary

Thus, if you are still wondering as to is clutch press & neutral gear in manual transmission car the same, then the answer is NO. You would need the combination of both to stop your manual transmission car vehicle in time.

Matsumoto Naoki is senior car blogger at Car From Japan. Having background in mechanical engineering, he has a unique perspective on a lot of new car innovations. Prior to Car From Japan, Matsumoto was Mechanical Design Engineer at Yajima Plant, Subaru Corporation. His articles provide detailed DIY instructions and how-tos to help you get your new car on the road. If you want to save money and feel more confident when working on your cars, you should not ignore Matsumoto’s sharing posts. He presents driving tips and tricks for everyone through easy-following steps and mechanically but friendly writing.

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