3:05 “the hardest shift in this car is 1st to 2nd” Amen, I bought a 2018 WRX, and getting into 2nd gear smoothly is harder than getting the car moving on first.
Will do, the smoothest I can get while under break in is shifting way early out of 1st then 2nd 3rd 4th 5th shifting at or around 3000rpm. Rev matching is pretty easy for 65mph in 6th to 5th just bump it to 2900 rpm and drop it
i bought the perrin shift stop and the boomba shift plate. it has the short throw shifter on it from the factory. luckily im not new to a manual trans. i also have a 2018.
1st to 2nd, just let the clutch out slower to avoid the jerking. Even a hard launch, relative to your speed, let the clutch out slower than normal. It works! Also, driving is flat bottom or thin soled shoes helps greatly as you can feel the tension in the clutch. When I wear cushy sneakers, I stall and jerk quite a bit because I can't feel the clutch accurately.
I have a 2015 wrx and it shifts smooth as butter. I've driven a clutch my entire life. Just run first gear up until 3.5k rpms, then shift normally into 2nd. No fancy footwork, no tricks or secrets. You just need to bring the transmission up into the speeds it's designed to work.
I'm about to get a 15 WRX and I've never driven stick before. I have a question; Can you down shift from 6 to 5 to and stop and put it in neutral at a red light? Is it only bad to shift down from 2nd to first? In traffic, is it ok to shift from 3rd to 2nd?
@@jgzero18 Owned my 18 wrx for a few months now. I wouldn't suggest going from 2nd to 1st under any circumstance. It's a rough transition and will definitely cause a jerk unless you heel-toe perfectly. On city roads, if I am doing 45 in 5th, i'll heel-toe downshift to 3rd and let the engine brake down to around 20-25mph. Then throw it in neutral and let it coast. Because of the weight of the clutch and the throw of the shifter, I dont feel too comfortable making more than one or two jumps downshifting, if necessary at all.
@@santoscarrillo2996you may as well start in 2nd if you’re just gonna shift that quickly. 3.5 is completely fine. Honestly it’s better since you’re going about 20 mph which is perfect for 2nd. You’re gonna lug 2nd if you shift 1st that low too
just got my wrx a few weeks ago love it as a first car and i love driving it the only part i need to practice is smooth shifting and try to learn downshifting great video
I was reading a book on this very subject a few days ago. The thing I got from it was to pause between shifts like you do in the neutral position so the synchros have a chance to get up to speed. Great video as well.
I drive a 2015 wrx as well. The first to second gear is very hard to shift smooth unless 1. hold in the clutch longer to let the rpm down low enough to shift since there is a rev hang 2. double clutching (back into neutral before going to second). the rev hang is really bad tho.
This was my first manual car that I owned, Ive driven an RX8 and a 12 WRX through test drives but this was one I had to drive every day many times a day. I learned all on my own no one really taught me but I can say to anyone starting out watch as many youtube videos on the basics. Anything after that you kinda just learn on your own like he said, through just driving the car. I dont have to look at my rpms anymore like I did when I first started because I know the feeling and sound of my car like a second nature. Ill never go back to automatic at this point!
That's exactly what I did after I took some lessons at a driving school. They didn't teach me everything. Also driving a regular manual car like a Corolla, Honda or Hyundai are different to driving a manual sports car like a WRX or STi. Yes, I agree, learning via youtube is one of the best ways. You learn lots of pointers from different people.
Nah don't get discouraged. It does take time. I recommend driving with the radio off and the windows down to help you hear your exhaust, and it makes it easier for you to focus on the feel of the vehicle. Once you get used to it you'll be shifting in your sleep.
Wow! You make driving manual look like a piece of cake! You handle the shifter with the tip of your fingers. I need my whole hand to handle that thing. Then you take a swig of your drink like it's nothing. You're my new hero!
@@Mdroudian well you don’t downshift into 1st lol. I do if i’m going under 10mph and my engine is lugging in 2nd but i don’t necessarily need to stop, but i don’t think you’re really supposed to.
@Marc D 1st shifts are for full stops only. When the car is moving even at 3mph you shift into 2nd.. you just kinda have to give it more gas and release the clutch slowly so that the car doesn't jerk.
Oddly enough, I was shifting MUCH smoother in a early 2000's manual Honda Accord compared to my 2018 WRX. I guess Honda transmissions are just butter smooth.
It's the gearing. WRX is geared for offroad and smoothes at high rpm. Civics, Accords, many other cars are better geared for city driving. Throttle mapping really doesn't help with that because hitting perfect rpm at lower speed can be a f&*&ing pain especially when downshifting or upshifting into second(hard to correct without risking the warranty). Finally theres the clutch delay valve which is built into the transmission now to protect the transmission from hard clutch drops, meaning you need to hold the clutch and a bit of throttle for a second at the bite point to let it catch up (very evident if you're shifting up or down quickly).
Bryce Chaffey Actually, I find that shifting the WRX into 2nd gear at an RPM of no more than 2,000 will cause the smoothest shifts. Essentially, you shift as soon as you start taking off.
Kevin Norris Second gear smootheness is about clutch release and a good rev match, like any shift, and simply exacerbated by the difference from first gear. The rpm doesn't really matter, aside from how much time you have to get into gear in direct relation to pressure required on the throttle so that the revs line up. Higher rpm in the WRX's case, because of the jumpy electric throttle, means a bigger pressure window on the gas (less chance of over or underreving) and helps compensate for the delay from the clutch engagement valve. You can shift smoothly at any rpm but if you're coming into second at 1000-1500 rpm or just letting completely off the clutch before it has time to engage it isn't a "perfect" shift (if such a thing is even possible in the real world). For daily driving shifting from around 2500 and catching it at 2000 is pretty much ideal for any gear. It keeps you out of unecessary boost and saves gas, gives the clutch the time it needs to engage and limits it's wear, and places the engine into that sweet spot with zero bogging.
I think what so many people don't realize is that shifting a gear on the shifter is 2 parts. First into neutral and then into the next gear, it isn't one motion.
Unless you are actually running dow a drag strip and willing to accept the wear and tear on your vehicle to get the time you want (which many people do and that is fine), it is always good to give the synchronizers some time to do their job.
honestly, out of every video on this subject, yours was the best. never cut yourself short. you helped me realize that its going to come with experience and practice. no other video said this.
I just got my 2017 WRX 5 days ago. My first WRX and my first manual car in a while. Been practicing my shifting a lot and it's getting better now my issue is... I live in an area with hills and there are several traffic lights in the middle of hill. Thankfully haven't had to stop at one yet but I know it's a matter of time. When it comes to starting the car on a hill, what I used to do in my old car was just hold the clutch just before the biting point and and hold the gas pedal slightly at the same time, that way the car wouldn't roll backwards without me having to put a foot on the break and I was ready to go forward soon as the light turned green. I was thinking of using the same method but I was reading through the owners manual and it says this ... "do not use the clutch to hold your vehicle at a standstill on an upgrade. That action may cause clutch damage"I literally copied and pasted that from the manual. So does that mean i should not use the method I was using before?
your 2017 has a hill-assist mode that should engage any time your car senses your are on a hill above a certain grade. This basically brakes for you and gives you a second as you disengage your clutch and shift into first to proceed. You can practice this on smaller hills until you're comfortable using the feature. It works very well, though. ( I also have a 2017 WRX Premium) Good Luck!
I've heard that puts wear on your clutch. A good hint I was told is (if you dont have hill asst) pull the hand brake and set up your clutch bite and then release the handbrake to get going. Gl
Just purchased a 2016 WRB WRX, picking up next week, loved the video man! This area looks so familiar to where I am just outside of Toronto. Gotta love those long stretches and the winding roads. Where the car seems to shine :)
Everyone please buy a COBB Accessport and install their tune. It makes driving the car so much better and 1st to 2nd is no longer a problem. If there is one mod to get, that is it. Always start with the CAP!
It's like double clutching without...double clutching. I shift the same way, just out of habit of driving semi's I don't push the clutch all the way in unless I'm really giving it the beans. Nice vid
Don't have a super cool wrx like most of you guys, but I got a 17' kia forte, and oh boy are manuals fun. I no longer stall off launch so i'm so exited to drive every time I get in, but 1st to 2nd is jerky
+Dalton Elliott (NorthTexasExotics) Its notchy. I have my windows rolled down (car at standstill) and just go through the gears one by one, I can still hear a metal sound when it passes neutral.
+pyro697989 it's just the sound of the synchros and the transmission clunking into gear. You don't hear it at higher speeds because road noise drowns it out. It's just a clunky gear box, if it makes a bad sound there won't be any doubt in your mind that it is bad hahaha
I just bought a 17 WRX today. First to Second is definitely a little jerky. Its because there is some rev hang there. When you let off the gas the rpm's stay for a second.
just got my license and my take offs and shifts were sooo mcuh better in a shitty toyota, now that im driving my WRX, im having huge problems taking off smoothly and switching gears smoothly :S
I figured that it really has to be a smooth and slow movement when ur taking your foot off the clutch when going 1st or 1st to 2nd. Slipping the clutch quite a bit tho :S
So what i figured out today, is just learn where the engagement is for the clutch, and when it starts going and you give it gas do a smooth even release of the clutch, dont just let off. My problem is i was starting the release before the engagement, and into second gear the same smooth even release completely out of it once it engages and a little gas
Hey @brentd86. Have had my 17' WRX for just a little over 2 months, driven around 1,000 miles so far. First manual car but having trouble with 1st and 2nd gear shifting smoothly. How do you deal with the rev hang to shift smoothly? I feel like I am putting unnecessary wear on the clutch by slipping it to shift smoothly. Iven driven other manual cars with no issue whatsoever. This seems very difficult
Greg Koz shifting 1st-2nd is always the hardest gears to shift across smoothly. The trick is letting go of the clutch slowly but not too slow, and as soon as the clutch catches a little, you need to apply a little gas to get a smooth shift. If you're revving your engine high on the other hand, you must drop the clutch a little faster and get back on the gas faster, for example if you floor it in first and are shifting close to redline, then you have to push in the clutch, shift, and then drop the clutch as you resume 100% throttle. Tell me if you're confused by what I said in anyway.
Hey thanks for the response. I definitely understand what your talking about. I have become increasingly frustrated over the past few days that this hasn't become second nature to me yet. I am thinking that since I've driven automatics all my life that I am striving for that silky smooth shift every time - which does not seem to be achievable with this particular vehicle. I can count on one hand the times that I've made any "bad" mistakes while driving my car (smelt the clutch burning 2 times going over a speed bump on a hill) and a few missed shifts. How durable are these clutches? Do you think I could have done any real damage to the car?
Greg Koz don't worry about burning your clutch sometimes, it's not like it's permanent damage. I have an FRS and I can't remember how many I've burned my clutch or missed shift or grinded a gear. Now remember it's very hard to shift a manual as smooth as an automatic, so don't be hard on yourself if you can't shift as smooth as a computer controlled transmission, no one is that perfect lol. Now the only way you can really damage your car is by over revving your engine, don't stay close to redline for too long and you should be fine. Remember, changing your clutch isn't a problem, changing an engine is expensive. But anyways keep practicing, the WRX clutch is kinda tricky and heavy compared to the average stick shift but if you master it, you should be able to drive any stick.
Thanks, I was getting ready to throw in the towel and trade her in haha. One last question and I know this is probably a matter of preference and opinion however I figure I'll ask. From your experience, when approaching a turn in let's say 4th gear at 40mph...do you tend to downshift and revmatch into 2nd to make the turn or just downshift into 2nd and slowly release the clutch? I know using engine braking reduces clutch life-but I am just trying to get some information on this. Thanks
Greg Koz that's a good question. Rev matching is useful if you want to save clutch life, but you can also engine brake and no rev match. I like rev matching because I find it more amusing, but engine braking is fine, before rev matching became popular, that what everyone used to do when slowing down preparing to turn, but I'd practice your rev matching.
I typically don't put any gas when switching until there's point where the clutch will push back on its own and ever cars different for example when I first got mine( it's a 95 Honda ex accord) I was jerking so bad but then I started putting gas when I felt the clutch start pushing back against my foot and I was able to switch gears smoothly and reverse smoothly but hills still suck.
Couple of questions im hoping someone here can answer for me. Im starting to look to replace my car now with a 4wd car and the subaru wrx is a candidate. Is the gearbox as weak as i have heard (mostly the older WRX cars) as if its made out of glass. And how much room would you say is there for the driver, Im 193cm and not the fittest, but i have driven a slightly modified impreza from around 2000 ish and i liked it exept for the realy bad bucket seats. Hope someone can answer this.
+naknak95 it can be tough, my issue in vehicles is I am just shy of 6 feet tall but most of my height comes from my legs. What I do is adjust how far the seat sits from the dash first by sliding it back to find a comfortable place for my legs pushing the peddles. After that I adjust the backrest until I am comfortable and can see out my mirrors and blind spots well. Then i telescope the steering wheel out to a position that I can comfortable steer (for me this is if ai have my hands at 10 and 2 there is a slight be d in my elbow). That is my order of adjusting the wrx seat. Be prepared anytime you take it in they will move your seat and then it sux getting it back where you like it.
Hey, i need some help, i have a peugeot 307 from 2002, i have a problem with clutch pedal , when i change gear, i feel a shock, like back to front, i dont get it why? is becouse i dont have the exactly RPM?
You dont want to loose boost though, if you're hesitating between shifts too much, the car is not going to stay in boost. Make fast shifts in this thing. RAM IT
I agree with this but i have an '11 STi. It feels really different around 2800rpms like it has a hiccup and makes it even more challenging to shift into 2nd. Do you have this issue with the 2.0? Maybe the accessport would help?
Honestly the STI has a different engine, turbo, trans, and tune.... completely different car so I can’t comment. Tunes can normally smooth things out some but I am unsure of how much for your car.
Thanks. I found that it is most likely a fuel oressure regulator install that is needed. It is a common issue with STi' i guess at 2800 rpms. Good luck with your car.
Good luck on your trip up here for the wedding. I will be taking my snows off this week so I can drive my WRX more........right now, I'm in my Smart Car....ya, I know.
Bought my 18 sti saturday my question is this how far down do you have to puah the clutch when shifting gears because when i push it down to start the car it has to be all the way to the floor, is that how deep im supposed to be stepping on the clutch or is like 90 -95% deep enough?
The Dookie Blaster you should always press the clutch all the way to the floor and hold it there until you are completely in the next gear. Then release. Pushing it in partially will cause premature wear on parts.
@@erdinczor1 What I’ve been doing now is give it between 1,000-1,500 RPM with clutch fully engaged, then I slowly disengage clutch and when it grabs I give it some more gas. I’m getting used to it now and it works well. I’ve read in multiple places that the little RPM does wear a little but it’s not too bad in the long run - It’s acceptable wear. Anyway that’s the only way I found which was reasonable because the grabbing point is so far from full clutch, and while at grab I can’t seem to give it as much gas as I could in my last standard car (assuming I did not start giving it gas before reaching grab - I just assume it has to do with it being a sports car, or the way the clutch works)
@@delicious9930 same. in the week since my comment I've gotten much more use to the clutch. Same about 1k-1.5k rpm and then bite. Except for the occasional over-rev from the sensitive gas pedal gets to like 3k out of nowhere lol. Just simply don't engage the clutch at that point til it drops back down. Stop and go and heavy highway traffic is still annoying, especially since we only seem to come to stops when I'm on a hill lol still a blast to drive though
@@erdinczor1 Yes such a blast, feeling its power is just amazing. My brother has a corolla SE and he pays the same monthly charge as me for a longer term 😂 And my WRX is just amazing in the snow here in Canada. Super great value car, would probably expect the same power in a good Mercedes
I'm 16, I have my liscene and I own a 07 dodge ram "auto" I live with my mom and she has a 14 Mustang GT 6 speed.. Well, I was never able to get going without the violent shaking of the car getting 0 to 10... now for some reason after driving with flip flops.. I have acquired the ability to get to 10 so smooth and beautifully... so I just let of the clutch very slow until the car started moving slowly without gas and learned the bite point.. my problem is going 1 to 2 without the violent shake.. or the, You're a noon shifter feeling...
Hey I'm new to manual and I got a 15 wrx. The hardest part for me is moving from stationary to 1st gear. So usually I have my foot on the break pedal while I let go of the clutch. For my car for some reason I dont need the gas pedal to get it moving I just let go of the clutch slowly. If anybody got any tips or advice it's well appreciated, thanks in advance.
i have the new RA and i keep banging the transmission sometimes. had an sti 2016 before the RA and the same, band bang jerk jerk. i guess i have bad feet for the Japanese cars.
Miguel Olaez Lol. It has been 2 month since I posted this comment. My manual driving skill has improved tremendously compared to 2 months ago. Just remember to relax and not to over think the concept. Try adding a bit of gas while shifting to 2nd that should make your shifts more smooth.
I have been driving my STi for two months and at first my 1st to 2nd were jerky too, then I learned to SLOWLY let my foot off the clutch when I put it into 2nd, then your shift will be smooth. Like the guy in the video said, SLOW off of the clutch "granny it". Only then will your transitions be smooth.
I drive a 2015 wrx as well. The first to second gear is very hard to shift smooth unless 1. hold in the clutch longer to let the rpm down low enough to shift since there is a rev hang 2. double clutching (back into neutral before going to second). the rev hang is really bad tho.
3:05 “the hardest shift in this car is 1st to 2nd”
Amen, I bought a 2018 WRX, and getting into 2nd gear smoothly is harder than getting the car moving on first.
Al Cam I'm a 18 owner as well I agree, ordered a Perrin shift stop, still waiting on it, will update after install!
Dallas Williams let me know how it works out, I just researched this and a lot of people have the same issue.
Will do, the smoothest I can get while under break in is shifting way early out of 1st then 2nd 3rd 4th 5th shifting at or around 3000rpm. Rev matching is pretty easy for 65mph in 6th to 5th just bump it to 2900 rpm and drop it
Thought I was the only one lmao
i bought the perrin shift stop and the boomba shift plate. it has the short throw shifter on it from the factory. luckily im not new to a manual trans. i also have a 2018.
i stalled only once today!!! and its my second day driving a standard!!! woooo
Didn't stall my second time....
Oh wait, I did and got beeped at.. :(
Good shit! Im gettin my wrx friday im never af never drove manual as a dd so i stalled once on test drive
Nervous*
@@Guitarfreaklordd how is it / how are you doing?
1st to 2nd, just let the clutch out slower to avoid the jerking. Even a hard launch, relative to your speed, let the clutch out slower than normal. It works! Also, driving is flat bottom or thin soled shoes helps greatly as you can feel the tension in the clutch. When I wear cushy sneakers, I stall and jerk quite a bit because I can't feel the clutch accurately.
+ALT3REDB3AST new manual driver, thanks for the tips bro
+DatNinjaGuy :D no problem!
oko
Yes true I keep using snickers they are falling apart but I feel the best in them driving manual
Still driving this beautiful car, let create…😂
I have a 2015 wrx and it shifts smooth as butter. I've driven a clutch my entire life. Just run first gear up until 3.5k rpms, then shift normally into 2nd. No fancy footwork, no tricks or secrets. You just need to bring the transmission up into the speeds it's designed to work.
I'm about to get a 15 WRX and I've never driven stick before. I have a question; Can you down shift from 6 to 5 to and stop and put it in neutral at a red light? Is it only bad to shift down from 2nd to first? In traffic, is it ok to shift from 3rd to 2nd?
@@jgzero18 Owned my 18 wrx for a few months now. I wouldn't suggest going from 2nd to 1st under any circumstance. It's a rough transition and will definitely cause a jerk unless you heel-toe perfectly. On city roads, if I am doing 45 in 5th, i'll heel-toe downshift to 3rd and let the engine brake down to around 20-25mph. Then throw it in neutral and let it coast. Because of the weight of the clutch and the throw of the shifter, I dont feel too comfortable making more than one or two jumps downshifting, if necessary at all.
What that's quite high I shift around 1500 for 1st to second in a 2021 wrx and it's smooth that would seem very over revved to me
@@santoscarrillo2996you may as well start in 2nd if you’re just gonna shift that quickly. 3.5 is completely fine. Honestly it’s better since you’re going about 20 mph which is perfect for 2nd. You’re gonna lug 2nd if you shift 1st that low too
just got my wrx a few weeks ago love it as a first car and i love driving it the only part i need to practice is smooth shifting and try to learn downshifting great video
I was reading a book on this very subject a few days ago. The thing I got from it was to pause between shifts like you do in the neutral position so the synchros have a chance to get up to speed. Great video as well.
I’ll try this out. I mean, I don’t shift super quick, but still. I’ll take like a quick pause before shifting into a higher gear
I drive a 2015 wrx as well. The first to second gear is very hard to shift smooth unless 1. hold in the clutch longer to let the rpm down low enough to shift since there is a rev hang 2. double clutching (back into neutral before going to second). the rev hang is really bad tho.
This was my first manual car that I owned, Ive driven an RX8 and a 12 WRX through test drives but this was one I had to drive every day many times a day. I learned all on my own no one really taught me but I can say to anyone starting out watch as many youtube videos on the basics. Anything after that you kinda just learn on your own like he said, through just driving the car. I dont have to look at my rpms anymore like I did when I first started because I know the feeling and sound of my car like a second nature. Ill never go back to automatic at this point!
Automatic assuming that it doesn't have e shift, are confusing
That's exactly what I did after I took some lessons at a driving school. They didn't teach me everything. Also driving a regular manual car like a Corolla, Honda or Hyundai are different to driving a manual sports car like a WRX or STi. Yes, I agree, learning via youtube is one of the best ways. You learn lots of pointers from different people.
So don't get discouraged if I'm having some rough shifts? I've been driving manual for about three weeks
Nah don't get discouraged. It does take time. I recommend driving with the radio off and the windows down to help you hear your exhaust, and it makes it easier for you to focus on the feel of the vehicle. Once you get used to it you'll be shifting in your sleep.
Getting an aftermarket exhaust helped me immensely. You can really hear what the car is doing and what it wants. Plus it sounds cool lol
Dam props to you sir.
I think that’s has been the best advice I’ve heard so far.
Wow! You make driving manual look like a piece of cake! You handle the shifter with the tip of your fingers. I need my whole hand to handle that thing. Then you take a swig of your drink like it's nothing. You're my new hero!
Shifting from 1st to 2nd takes practice
Shifting into 1st is the monster.... Its super temperamental. I feel like i have to blip to first gear.
@@Mdroudian you don’t downshift into 1st
@@Mdroudian well you don’t downshift into 1st lol. I do if i’m going under 10mph and my engine is lugging in 2nd but i don’t necessarily need to stop, but i don’t think you’re really supposed to.
@Marc D 1st shifts are for full stops only. When the car is moving even at 3mph you shift into 2nd.. you just kinda have to give it more gas and release the clutch slowly so that the car doesn't jerk.
Oddly enough, I was shifting MUCH smoother in a early 2000's manual Honda Accord compared to my 2018 WRX. I guess Honda transmissions are just butter smooth.
It's worth noting that I only have issues between 1st and 2nd gear.
It's the gearing. WRX is geared for offroad and smoothes at high rpm. Civics, Accords, many other cars are better geared for city driving. Throttle mapping really doesn't help with that because hitting perfect rpm at lower speed can be a f&*&ing pain especially when downshifting or upshifting into second(hard to correct without risking the warranty). Finally theres the clutch delay valve which is built into the transmission now to protect the transmission from hard clutch drops, meaning you need to hold the clutch and a bit of throttle for a second at the bite point to let it catch up (very evident if you're shifting up or down quickly).
Bryce Chaffey Actually, I find that shifting the WRX into 2nd gear at an RPM of no more than 2,000 will cause the smoothest shifts. Essentially, you shift as soon as you start taking off.
Kevin Norris Second gear smootheness is about clutch release and a good rev match, like any shift, and simply exacerbated by the difference from first gear. The rpm doesn't really matter, aside from how much time you have to get into gear in direct relation to pressure required on the throttle so that the revs line up. Higher rpm in the WRX's case, because of the jumpy electric throttle, means a bigger pressure window on the gas (less chance of over or underreving) and helps compensate for the delay from the clutch engagement valve. You can shift smoothly at any rpm but if you're coming into second at 1000-1500 rpm or just letting completely off the clutch before it has time to engage it isn't a "perfect" shift (if such a thing is even possible in the real world). For daily driving shifting from around 2500 and catching it at 2000 is pretty much ideal for any gear. It keeps you out of unecessary boost and saves gas, gives the clutch the time it needs to engage and limits it's wear, and places the engine into that sweet spot with zero bogging.
My girlfriends 2016 wrx has the worst rev hang from first to second where as my 2001 accord has virtually no rev hang compared to her car
I think what so many people don't realize is that shifting a gear on the shifter is 2 parts. First into neutral and then into the next gear, it isn't one motion.
Unless you are actually running dow a drag strip and willing to accept the wear and tear on your vehicle to get the time you want (which many people do and that is fine), it is always good to give the synchronizers some time to do their job.
honestly, out of every video on this subject, yours was the best. never cut yourself short. you helped me realize that its going to come with experience and practice. no other video said this.
Bro love the video it’s always nice to get a different perspective from others and as grow you learn
I just got my 2017 WRX 5 days ago. My first WRX and my first manual car in a while. Been practicing my shifting a lot and it's getting better now my issue is... I live in an area with hills and there are several traffic lights in the middle of hill. Thankfully haven't had to stop at one yet but I know it's a matter of time. When it comes to starting the car on a hill, what I used to do in my old car was just hold the clutch just before the biting point and and hold the gas pedal slightly at the same time, that way the car wouldn't roll backwards without me having to put a foot on the break and I was ready to go forward soon as the light turned green. I was thinking of using the same method but I was reading through the owners manual and it says this ... "do not use the clutch to hold your vehicle at a standstill on an upgrade. That action may cause clutch damage"I literally copied and pasted that from the manual. So does that mean i should not use the method I was using before?
your 2017 has a hill-assist mode that should engage any time your car senses your are on a hill above a certain grade. This basically brakes for you and gives you a second as you disengage your clutch and shift into first to proceed. You can practice this on smaller hills until you're comfortable using the feature. It works very well, though. ( I also have a 2017 WRX Premium) Good Luck!
I've heard that puts wear on your clutch. A good hint I was told is (if you dont have hill asst) pull the hand brake and set up your clutch bite and then release the handbrake to get going. Gl
Just purchased a 2016 WRB WRX, picking up next week, loved the video man! This area looks so familiar to where I am just outside of Toronto. Gotta love those long stretches and the winding roads. Where the car seems to shine :)
Does anyone else have a notchy gearbox? Almost every gear in my 2020 feels like it crunches. Had it for a few months
Yes idk what’s wrong
Everyone please buy a COBB Accessport and install their tune. It makes driving the car so much better and 1st to 2nd is no longer a problem. If there is one mod to get, that is it. Always start with the CAP!
Great I’m in for COBB stage 3 this May 2020 so let me see how that goes
It's like double clutching without...double clutching. I shift the same way, just out of habit of driving semi's I don't push the clutch all the way in unless I'm really giving it the beans. Nice vid
Thanks, it was requested by a viewer who is new to it. I'm sure some will bash it but we all started somewhere.
Don't have a super cool wrx like most of you guys, but I got a 17' kia forte, and oh boy are manuals fun. I no longer stall off launch so i'm so exited to drive every time I get in, but 1st to 2nd is jerky
Hey man excellent pointers on this video, the WRX is my first manual car and this def helps. The access port has helped also. Cheers!
Got the same shift knob. Absolutely love it.
Im a '14 WRX owner (to prevent stall, just practice driving and the main thing is FEEL your car out)
that gearbox looks like it shifts so solid. i have a bmw and they have the spongiest gearboxes ever. it's way too easy to accidentally downshift.
+Dalton Elliott (NorthTexasExotics) Its notchy. I have my windows rolled down (car at standstill) and just go through the gears one by one, I can still hear a metal sound when it passes neutral.
+Abhilash Sukumari i hear this sound too at low speed shifts. do you know what it is?
+pyro697989 it's just the sound of the synchros and the transmission clunking into gear. You don't hear it at higher speeds because road noise drowns it out. It's just a clunky gear box, if it makes a bad sound there won't be any doubt in your mind that it is bad hahaha
brentd86 word, thanks mate.
+brentd86 ... nice vid man!!
I just bought a 17 WRX today. First to Second is definitely a little jerky. Its because there is some rev hang there. When you let off the gas the rpm's stay for a second.
just got my license and my take offs and shifts were sooo mcuh better in a shitty toyota, now that im driving my WRX, im having huge problems taking off smoothly and switching gears smoothly :S
I just got my wrx the other day! Now that im over the clutch the start to 1st and 1st to 2nd is rough most of the time =/
I figured that it really has to be a smooth and slow movement when ur taking your foot off the clutch when going 1st or 1st to 2nd. Slipping the clutch quite a bit tho :S
Yeah in residential if I do a smooth let off in good, on the streets I can't get it lol
So what i figured out today, is just learn where the engagement is for the clutch, and when it starts going and you give it gas do a smooth even release of the clutch, dont just let off. My problem is i was starting the release before the engagement, and into second gear the same smooth even release completely out of it once it engages and a little gas
Yes! Exactly what i realized yesterday too :D
Good luck and have fun with your wrx ^^
Hey @brentd86. Have had my 17' WRX for just a little over 2 months, driven around 1,000 miles so far. First manual car but having trouble with 1st and 2nd gear shifting smoothly. How do you deal with the rev hang to shift smoothly? I feel like I am putting unnecessary wear on the clutch by slipping it to shift smoothly. Iven driven other manual cars with no issue whatsoever. This seems very difficult
Greg Koz shifting 1st-2nd is always the hardest gears to shift across smoothly. The trick is letting go of the clutch slowly but not too slow, and as soon as the clutch catches a little, you need to apply a little gas to get a smooth shift. If you're revving your engine high on the other hand, you must drop the clutch a little faster and get back on the gas faster, for example if you floor it in first and are shifting close to redline, then you have to push in the clutch, shift, and then drop the clutch as you resume 100% throttle. Tell me if you're confused by what I said in anyway.
Hey thanks for the response. I definitely understand what your talking about. I have become increasingly frustrated over the past few days that this hasn't become second nature to me yet. I am thinking that since I've driven automatics all my life that I am striving for that silky smooth shift every time - which does not seem to be achievable with this particular vehicle. I can count on one hand the times that I've made any "bad" mistakes while driving my car (smelt the clutch burning 2 times going over a speed bump on a hill) and a few missed shifts. How durable are these clutches? Do you think I could have done any real damage to the car?
Greg Koz don't worry about burning your clutch sometimes, it's not like it's permanent damage. I have an FRS and I can't remember how many I've burned my clutch or missed shift or grinded a gear. Now remember it's very hard to shift a manual as smooth as an automatic, so don't be hard on yourself if you can't shift as smooth as a computer controlled transmission, no one is that perfect lol. Now the only way you can really damage your car is by over revving your engine, don't stay close to redline for too long and you should be fine. Remember, changing your clutch isn't a problem, changing an engine is expensive. But anyways keep practicing, the WRX clutch is kinda tricky and heavy compared to the average stick shift but if you master it, you should be able to drive any stick.
Thanks, I was getting ready to throw in the towel and trade her in haha. One last question and I know this is probably a matter of preference and opinion however I figure I'll ask. From your experience, when approaching a turn in let's say 4th gear at 40mph...do you tend to downshift and revmatch into 2nd to make the turn or just downshift into 2nd and slowly release the clutch? I know using engine braking reduces clutch life-but I am just trying to get some information on this. Thanks
Greg Koz that's a good question. Rev matching is useful if you want to save clutch life, but you can also engine brake and no rev match. I like rev matching because I find it more amusing, but engine braking is fine, before rev matching became popular, that what everyone used to do when slowing down preparing to turn, but I'd practice your rev matching.
I have a 2009 wrx. I want to know when I go from 1st to second. Do I let go of the clutch all the way or give a little bit of gas while releasing?
I typically don't put any gas when switching until there's point where the clutch will push back on its own and ever cars different for example when I first got mine( it's a 95 Honda ex accord) I was jerking so bad but then I started putting gas when I felt the clutch start pushing back against my foot and I was able to switch gears smoothly and reverse smoothly but hills still suck.
nice video, im from upstate ny, first time watching, SUBBED
I'm from upstate NY too!
Good video man. Would love to see some footage from NY. That'll be a fun trip dude, hope it goes well!
I just got the 2017 WRX . I wanted to know if you apply gas while releasing the clutch?
+Fernando Meza yes, I do. How much depends on the shift and what rpm.
Couple of questions im hoping someone here can answer for me. Im starting to look to replace my car now with a 4wd car and the subaru wrx is a candidate. Is the gearbox as weak as i have heard (mostly the older WRX cars) as if its made out of glass. And how much room would you say is there for the driver, Im 193cm and not the fittest, but i have driven a slightly modified impreza from around 2000 ish and i liked it exept for the realy bad bucket seats. Hope someone can answer this.
Just got my 2015 WRX a month ago, but can't find a comfortable spot with the seat. Any tips on how I should try adjusting the seating position?
+naknak95 it can be tough, my issue in vehicles is I am just shy of 6 feet tall but most of my height comes from my legs. What I do is adjust how far the seat sits from the dash first by sliding it back to find a comfortable place for my legs pushing the peddles. After that I adjust the backrest until I am comfortable and can see out my mirrors and blind spots well. Then i telescope the steering wheel out to a position that I can comfortable steer (for me this is if ai have my hands at 10 and 2 there is a slight be d in my elbow). That is my order of adjusting the wrx seat. Be prepared anytime you take it in they will move your seat and then it sux getting it back where you like it.
Hey, i need some help, i have a peugeot 307 from 2002, i have a problem with clutch pedal , when i change gear, i feel a shock, like back to front, i dont get it why? is becouse i dont have the exactly RPM?
+Alexandru Serbu sounds like the rpm aren't quite matched right for the speed and you may be releasing the clutch a little too quickly
You dont want to loose boost though, if you're hesitating between shifts too much, the car is not going to stay in boost. Make fast shifts in this thing. RAM IT
I agree with this but i have an '11 STi. It feels really different around 2800rpms like it has a hiccup and makes it even more challenging to shift into 2nd. Do you have this issue with the 2.0? Maybe the accessport would help?
Honestly the STI has a different engine, turbo, trans, and tune.... completely different car so I can’t comment. Tunes can normally smooth things out some but I am unsure of how much for your car.
Thanks. I found that it is most likely a fuel oressure regulator install that is needed. It is a common issue with STi' i guess at 2800 rpms. Good luck with your car.
Good luck on your trip up here for the wedding. I will be taking my snows off this week so I can drive my WRX more........right now, I'm in my Smart Car....ya, I know.
does it roll back on hills
Bought my 18 sti saturday my question is this how far down do you have to puah the clutch when shifting gears because when i push it down to start the car it has to be all the way to the floor, is that how deep im supposed to be stepping on the clutch or is like 90 -95% deep enough?
The Dookie Blaster you should always press the clutch all the way to the floor and hold it there until you are completely in the next gear. Then release. Pushing it in partially will cause premature wear on parts.
brentd86 thanks for the response my friends advised me the same so i adjusted my seat so i can actually reach the floor... short person problems
I thought I was the only one with my 16 wrx and thought I don’t know how to drive manual but turns out everyone is having the same issue
Having a hard time launching from a red light because I dont want to tear my transmission, I do 1st to 2nd like a granny
Yes the clutch grab point is far from floor . Really hard to get a fast take of without a jerk lol
Same. And I do a ton of city driving in NYC. Slow take offs everytime. I get honked at daily by impatient nyc drivers in automatics lol 🤷♂️
@@erdinczor1 What I’ve been doing now is give it between 1,000-1,500 RPM with clutch fully engaged, then I slowly disengage clutch and when it grabs I give it some more gas. I’m getting used to it now and it works well. I’ve read in multiple places that the little RPM does wear a little but it’s not too bad in the long run - It’s acceptable wear. Anyway that’s the only way I found which was reasonable because the grabbing point is so far from full clutch, and while at grab I can’t seem to give it as much gas as I could in my last standard car (assuming I did not start giving it gas before reaching grab - I just assume it has to do with it being a sports car, or the way the clutch works)
@@delicious9930 same. in the week since my comment I've gotten much more use to the clutch. Same about 1k-1.5k rpm and then bite. Except for the occasional over-rev from the sensitive gas pedal gets to like 3k out of nowhere lol. Just simply don't engage the clutch at that point til it drops back down. Stop and go and heavy highway traffic is still annoying, especially since we only seem to come to stops when I'm on a hill lol still a blast to drive though
@@erdinczor1 Yes such a blast, feeling its power is just amazing. My brother has a corolla SE and he pays the same monthly charge as me for a longer term 😂 And my WRX is just amazing in the snow here in Canada. Super great value car, would probably expect the same power in a good Mercedes
Love watching ur videos. I"ll be going to test drive a WRX soon. Not sure if I'm waiting on the 16 MY to come out or grabbing a 15 though
William Ly i've heard the 2016's are due around june to july.
If its that soon, then I have no problem of waiting for the MY16's then. Upgraded stereo/screen so far is all I see thats changed.
aaromon43
I hate shifting from 1st to 2nd, it's the hardest shit. I could never get a perfect shift and feel the car pull. Fml
what camera do you have set up to film this video?
It's a gopro hero 3+ black edition suction cupped to the rear passenger window
+brentd86 thank you!!
I'm 16, I have my liscene and I own a 07 dodge ram "auto" I live with my mom and she has a 14 Mustang GT 6 speed.. Well, I was never able to get going without the violent shaking of the car getting 0 to 10... now for some reason after driving with flip flops.. I have acquired the ability to get to 10 so smooth and beautifully... so I just let of the clutch very slow until the car started moving slowly without gas and learned the bite point..
my problem is going 1 to 2 without the violent shake.. or the, You're a noon shifter feeling...
me too
Hey I'm new to manual and I got a 15 wrx. The hardest part for me is moving from stationary to 1st gear. So usually I have my foot on the break pedal while I let go of the clutch. For my car for some reason I dont need the gas pedal to get it moving I just let go of the clutch slowly. If anybody got any tips or advice it's well appreciated, thanks in advance.
you’ll need it on heels and learning the transition from brake to gas and the sweet spot
would starting in second gear be better?
what kind of short shifter do you have?
Factory sti short throw shifter
i have the new RA and i keep banging the transmission sometimes. had an sti 2016 before the RA and the same, band bang jerk jerk. i guess i have bad feet for the Japanese cars.
Just recently sort of learned how to drive a manual on the WRX and my 1st to 2nd gear is extremely jerky
+Kevin Lam it will come with time, keep at it.
I'm the same way I been driving a week and that's the worst one that I'm doing
Miguel Olaez Lol. It has been 2 month since I posted this comment. My manual driving skill has improved tremendously compared to 2 months ago. Just remember to relax and not to over think the concept. Try adding a bit of gas while shifting to 2nd that should make your shifts more smooth.
I have been driving my STi for two months and at first my 1st to 2nd were jerky too, then I learned to SLOWLY let my foot off the clutch when I put it into 2nd, then your shift will be smooth. Like the guy in the video said, SLOW off of the clutch "granny it". Only then will your transitions be smooth.
Now how do u shift smooth with the ac on...
Turn your music up and give it gas lol
Nice video, hope you will do another one way to NY
Hopefully i can do several and make them in a few episodes documenting the trip
What part of the world are you in, sir? That's an amazing countryside.
+Vasili Leung kentucky, USA
what part of new york?
i just got my sti today and its embarassing engine rev high stalling and stuff..lol..thats why im hear...
Shifting through 2nd gear is hardest thing about driving manual
Where’s the how to part?
Thank you this helped!
Same concept for a 2012 Wrx?
I honestly couldn't tell you. I have never driven one and that model had a different transmission.
Is this Kentucky??
It is
you live in ketnucky?
+Bharath Kumar cant even type.. Kentucky
I do, just outside of Lexington
+brentd86 cool. I live in Lexington. Like your all white wrx
Cool, and thanks. It's actually silver though
+Bharath Kumar my buddy Timmy riddle is from Lexington Kentucky you know him?
0:43 was that a money shift???
Haha no it was in 3rd, I was just up to speed so I pulled it back out and tossed it in 5th to cruise.
@@brentd86 hahaha lol ok I thought you went back to first for a sec
Was that a beer?
+ju sung energy drink haha, I don't drink and drive
I always read about granny shifting, I guess watching a video of someone doing it does better
This is in Kentucky right? Around Lexington? anyway I also have a WRX if you wanna meet up msg me.
Yup exactly where it is we'll have to do it sometime. In the meantime what color is yours, maybe I'll pass you on the road sometime lol
+brentd86 right on bro sounds fun. None of my friends are gear heads
Mine is dark grey with tinted windows and a WRX front plate.
HMU on FB - Devin Goodnight
first to second gear is the most annoying shit in the world it’s frustrating
Video starts at 1:30
These stis have very heavy clutches
I have a 2018 STI and its a bitch on hills
WTF your 0-60? This is the reason why STI a thing… @OKAY SO, Ytoob search don’t listen to this bug
hahaha at 3:30 the speed limit says 35
Lol its just about how fast uou drop the clutch dont need video for it
Shouldve bought an sti
+Sammy Ramos for 10k more, I will wait until the sti has a more reliable engine
brentd86 there is IAG block you can buy closed deck block 5-6k
how to drive smoothly? just change your old crappy junk to subaru 2017 wrx
What he just open a beer lol jk
u talk too much
I drive a 2015 wrx as well. The first to second gear is very hard to shift smooth unless 1. hold in the clutch longer to let the rpm down low enough to shift since there is a rev hang 2. double clutching (back into neutral before going to second). the rev hang is really bad tho.
Its bad but not nearly as bad as say the civic si. That's just an example but there are cars out there which are much worse.