Is the shifting affected by the ECU? No matter what I do, the shift into first is not as smooth as I would like. 1st to second is nice now after breaking in. Can the feel of the clutch be affected by the ECU? Could resetting it change the friction point?

 

Anyone?

 

I say NO.

I have no facts or references. I do have a 04 6MT. I can't think of one single way the ECU would/could effect the shifting behavior of a traditional manual transmission.

The rough shifts into first are talked about pretty often, a lot of people experience it. Most people say it's different than their previous Hondas, BMWs etc.

I agree it is a little tough to get a smooth start, but I think it just takes time to get used to it. I have a hard time because I drive the 04 6MT and a 98 Altima 5SP. Those clutches/shifters are as different as can be - so I am often getting readjusted to each one...

 

I don't see how the ECU could be changing the physical clutch engagement / friction point, so I don't think that is as issue.

However, from what I understand, newer cars [like ours] when a person pushes down on the clutch pedal, the ECU will immediately reduce the amount of gas. Supposedly, this is a gas savings / economy trick that is done, even though the time period is so brief. What this does though is mess around with the RPM's and that would make smooth shifting a little bit more challenging.