To those who drive

[caroline29woohooo]

I've recently passed my test and have my first car. I always rest my left foot on clutch so that I can stop and gear change quickly. My instructors never questioned it. I just read though that this can wear out clutch (even just gently resting) Just wondered if anyone else does this?

No - it wears out the clutch, quickly. Replacing a clutch is an expensive repair

Agree. It's bad practise. Don't do it.
Why do you need to do it?

I did that for years and did seem to need clutch repairs on a regular basis. Someone eventually pointed it out to me and I gradually got out of the habit and clutches do seem to last a lot longer.
Hope I haven't just tempted fate and get in the car tomorrow to find I have a faulty clutch

Don't do it. You don't need to use the clutch to brake initially, and you shouldn't need to change gear so quickly that you need to keep your foot on the clutch.

Agree with all the PPs. Clutches are expensive!

Another thing a lot of people do is to keep their foot on the brake pedal at lights instead of putting the handbrake on. Put the handbrake on, take your foot off the brake pedal and have your discs last a lot longer because they won't warp due to the residual heat from the pads (first sign of warped discs is juddering brakes and if they are you'll need replacement discs, also v expensive!).

...and remember to push the button on the handbrake, not just crunch it on.

Yes, riding the clutch is very bad. If you can't find the clutch easily with your left foot, that needs sorting. Check the mat or carpet isn't in the way and obviously don't drive in heels, wellies, flip flops or bare feet.