Pressing clutch pedal down during start up

[baz_r]

I've just been reading the owners manual for the diesel altea and it says that you should press the clutch down during start up- for both petrol and diesel models- so that the engine isnt turning over the clutch from a cold start. I wasn't aware of this before and have never done it but will from now on.. but i was wondering if many others out there were aware that you should do this? and what kind of damage does it do if you dont press the clutch?
This must be why new cars with press button starters force the driver to press the clutch before it starts up

 

[Dandle]

I have done it for years. It's just good practice and reduces the load on the starter and battery as the starter doesn't have to turn the gearbox over. Also years ago alot of people used to leave the car in gear when parked incase the handbrake failed. Cars with push start require the clutch down incase they are left in gear as you can just stop the start same as releasing a key.

 

[drummer.gavin]

I just bought an FR and I too noticed that in the Manual. Something I will have to get in the habit of doing!

 

[lumor]

Done it for years, says it in all car manuals? dating back to 1996 at least

 

[toledo7175]

I've done it since taking my driving test, doesn't everyone ?