Know the Position of the Manual Car Pedals and How to Use Them

For those of you who are learning to drive a manual car, you need to know the position of the manual car pedals and how to use them. This can speed up the process of controlling the car. For those of you who are not familiar with the complete pedal positions and how to use them, please pay attention to the following review. 

Position of Manual Car Pedals and How to Use Them 

Here are the positions of the pedals in a manual car that you need to know along with how to use them. 

1. Right Position

On the right position, there is the gas pedal. As the name suggests, this pedal functions to increase the gas or speed of the car. The gas pedal is usually used to move or accelerate the car. Here is an example of how to use the gas pedal.

For example, if you want to accelerate the car, you need to release the clutch pedal before pressing the gas pedal. Press the gas pedal slowly while releasing the clutch pedal gradually. Make sure both pedals are balanced when released or pressed. 

When pressing the gas pedal, use your right foot and press the gas pedal gently. Avoid resting your right foot on the gas pedal to prevent it from being pressed at unnecessary times. This can increase the risk of accidents. 

2. Middle Position

In the middle position, there is the brake pedal. This pedal is used to brake (reduce speed) the car gradually. The way to use the brake pedal in a manual car is very easy. 

When you want to brake, you can press the clutch pedal first and then press the brake pedal. Alternatively, you can also press the brake pedal first and then press the clutch pedal. The second method is more recommended because it allows for a more measured and smooth braking as the car's speed decreases gradually and systematically. 

In addition to the methods above, you can also brake using the pivot technique. Here’s how to do it. 

• Place your right foot on the brake pedal. Make sure to position your heel on the car floor, leaving only the front part of your foot to press the brake pedal. 
• Then, shift more weight onto your heel, so the brake pedal does not receive too much pressure from your foot when pressed. 
• Then, press the brake pedal slowly to slow down the car. 
• As the car's speed gradually decreases, you can ease the pressure on the brake pedal little by little. This is necessary so that when the car comes to a stop, it does not bounce too much. 

3. Left Position

On the left position, there is the clutch pedal. This pedal functions as a distributor and disconnects the engine power to the wheels through the transmission. In addition, the clutch pedal also serves to lift the engine when the car is about to accelerate, making the car's movement feel smooth and seamless. 

Not only that, the clutch pedal also functions to control gear changes, whether to upshift or downshift. When you press the clutch pedal, the engine power will not be transmitted to the transmission, making it easier for the driver to change gears without damaging the components of the transmission system. 

The way to use it is quite easy. You just need to press or step on the clutch pedal first before shifting gears (either upshifting or downshifting). 

Read Also: 5 Ways to Start a Manual Car Correctly and Safely

That concludes the review of the pedal positions in a manual car and how to use them. Considering the functions of these three pedals are very important for driving, you need to check these three pedals regularly. If any of the pedals feel too heavy or problematic, make sure to have them serviced at an official Daihatsu workshop.