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Techniques Every Driver Should Use with a Manual Gearbox

Writer's picture: The Gearbox SpecialistsThe Gearbox Specialists

Updated: 5 days ago

Do you drive a vehicle with a manual gearbox? If so, there are a few things you should be careful of when driving your vehicle, to avoid future repairs.


Move Your Foot Off the Clutch

When you’re not actively changing gears, your foot should not touch the clutch pedal. Even minor pressure can affect the clutch and it will eventually wear the clutch down. You’ll find that it burns out long before it should when you ride the clutch.


Use Your Emergency Brake

To avoid wear and tear on the regular brake system, you should be sure to use the emergency brake as needed. For example, if you are on a hill and using your brake or need to stop for a moment, you’ll want to engage the emergency brake. This will save wear and tear on the regular brakes and it offers a little extra safety.


Avoid Driving in Neutral

Going down a hill, it could be tempting to move into neutral and enjoy the ride. You actually have far less control over a vehicle that is in neutral.

While you do save money by coasting in neutral, you are at much higher risk of an accident, as you won’t be able to react in the same amount of time. It requires more brake pressure to stop, which can also overheat the brake if you’re going downhill at the time.



Switch Gears to Increase RPMs

Often, drivers will press the gas to spike the RPMs, but it’s a much better idea to shift gears if you wish to accelerate. The engine will become stressed and you will end up causing more damage than if you adjust the gears to suit the vehicle’s needs.

Your manual transmission requires special care as you drive. If you pick up bad driving habits, such as spiking your RPMs and coasting in neutral, you’ll find that your entire vehicle has more wear and tear than it might otherwise.

Need a good mechanic for your manual gearbox? At Gearbox Specialists, we are experienced enough to give your vehicle the care it needs. 

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