Many drivers of cars with manual gearboxes make a frequent mistake at traffic lights: they keep the clutch pedal pressed down during the entire wait for the green light, intending to accelerate faster. This behavior, although it seems harmless, can contribute to the premature wear of important car components.
The problem is related to the operation of the release bearing, also known as the throw-out bearing. This component was designed to act during the gear change process, when the pedal is pressed, but not to remain continuously under strain during long periods. When the driver keeps the pedal pressed during a prolonged stop, the bearing remains under load, which can accelerate its wear over time.
According to the El Motor portal, a possible repair can be expensive, as replacing clutch components requires dismantling the gearbox, considerably increasing labor time. For this reason, when there is significant wear, it is common for replacement of the complete clutch set to be recommended. The recommendation to avoid this problem is simple: put the gearbox in neutral, release the clutch and keep the car immobilized with the brake.
The article also warns against another habit to avoid: keeping your hand resting on the gear lever. Although the force may seem minimal, the pressure can be transmitted to internal components of the gearbox, favoring contact between parts of the selector mechanism and contributing to unnecessary wear. The source points out that making these gestures occasionally does not cause immediate breakdowns, but when they become routine over years, they can bring forward repairs that might otherwise occur much later.
