What is Double Clutching?

Double clutching is a driving technique used primarily in manual transmission vehicles and a few vehicles with automated manual transmissions (AMTs). The technique involves operating the clutch pedal of a vehicle twice in quick succession, once to disengage the current gear and again to engage the desired gear. It involves engaging the clutch pedal near the end of your gear shift, which gives it an advantageous mechanical advantage when shifting and improves engine efficiency.

The Benefits of Double Clutching

Double clutching gives drivers a few essential benefits that occur both when driving and when shifting. For one thing, it helps keep your clutch parts in good condition as they don’t have to work as hard as when you are only using a single-clutching style. Additionally, double clutch shifting allows you to confidently shift without having to worry about the engine stalling or over-revving the engine, as the gear change has already been disengaged before the transition can occur. This also increases engine efficiency and helps you save on fuel.

How to Double Clutch

The process of double clutching can take some getting used to at first as it requires an extra step from the perspective of the driver. To double clutch, you will need to depress the clutch pedal to the point where it disengages the current gear and give it a little jump start on the transition. Once this is done, you will then need to press the clutch again to fully disengage it, quickly shift to the desired gear and then release the clutch pedal to engage that gear.

All told, double clutching is a skill that takes a bit of practice to get right. However, the important thing to remember is that the technique has its advantages and helps with both power and engine efficiency. Whether you are a novice driver or an experienced transmission operator, if you have done the legwork and understand the concept behind it, double clutching can be the key to a smoother, more efficient drive.