"The clutch" is the connection between engine and gearbox. Thanks to that link, you can simply move up and down without problems. A component to treat with care. Repair is usually an expensive affair because the engine or gearbox must be removed and installed. Some tips to enjoy that part for a long time. You do 'start' the engine - with a classic - contrary to what many experts (...) want to claim, never with an interlocked clutch. In addition to excessive and unnecessary loading of the thrust bearing and thrust group, you 'press' the crankshaft against the axial bearings that have not (yet) lubricated. Check whether there is still enough 'free stroke' of the pedal. Adjust if necessary. If not, it will quickly cost you a thrust bearing. Using the clutch pedal as a "footrest" is out of the question, because you ensure that the thrust bearing is permanently loaded. Does not find such a part 'nice' and the thrust bearing will wear out quickly. Stopping the car at a hill with a slipping clutch is deadly for not only the thrust bearing, but especially for the clutch plate. In such a case, use the parking brake. How often are cars waiting for minutes with an interlocked link in front of a (red) traffic light, a closed level crossing, in a traffic jam. Extra and unnecessary loading of the thrust bearing. So put the thing in neutral and take your foot off the coupling. Never engage the first gear if your car is still rolling backwards, let alone that you pull away (with squeaky tires), but also not reverse if the car is still rolling forward ...