I have noticed that when I am downshifting from 2nd to 1st, the shifter seems to get stuck between 2nd and 1st, especially when I am going over 5mph. First of all, does anyone else notice this, it takes a little extra effort to push the shifter into first, as opposed to the other gears when downshifting. Also, I am holding in the clutch the entire time, from 2nd to 1st then stopping, not letting it out, so the engine does not rev at all. Also, when I am completely stopped and still in second, or any other gear, THEN shift into 1st, it is as smooth as butter! Any help please?!?!

 

This is done to discourage you from downshifting to 1st... You can mess up the syncros. Just press clutch in all the way, and shift slowly but push harder than usual.

 

Yeah, I have heard it is bad to downshift into 1st, that's why I hold the clutch in the entire time. I just like to be ready to step on the gas the minute I stop, so being in 1st before I stop helps me accomplish this.

 

The car does that to prevent you form shifting into first. That is putting wear and tear on your trans. Thats why it requires force to get it into gear because..well..you shouldnt.

 

normal

 

double down if you want first before you coming to a stop.

 

Just use 2nd gear. Like others have said, shifting into 1st while you're moving is a no-no.

 

I must be f'in up my gears then! I downshift to first all the time on spirited drives to keep the RPMs in vtec. It was never difficult for me to get it into first, but I do heel and toe. If youre not matching RPMs, that may be why you cant get it into first. This car is easy to get into first once you've learned proper technique! I should add though that rev matching to first is harder than any other gear. I definitely dont think you damage the trans at all, if done properly.

And why do you guys hold the clutch in?? My friends do this and it actually annoys me. I keep telling them to learn how to downshift properly just in case they get into an accident avoidance situation. Not trying to piss anyone off, just curious as to why.

 

Heel and toe doesn't affect the shift - it just affects the declutch afterwards.