What is riding the clutch?

Riding the clutch is a term used to describe the practice of continuously holding the clutch pedal partially engaged while driving a manual transmission vehicle. This can happen when the driver rests their foot on the clutch pedal without fully disengaging it from the engine.

Riding the clutch can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the clutch components, leading to premature wear and potential damage. It can also result in decreased fuel efficiency and increased risk of overheating the clutch.

To avoid riding the clutch, it is important to only use the clutch pedal when shifting gears or coming to a stop. It is also important to fully engage or disengage the clutch pedal to prevent excessive wear on the clutch components. Proper clutch usage can help prolong the life of the clutch and improve overall driving performance.