I have an '05 HCH manual and have noticed sometimes during a shift (usually downshift from 5-4 or 4-3, the engine will stop and the battery / oil light will come on while the clutch is depressed. When I let the clutch out the car jerks and then the engine restarts. I'll be taking it in for service unless someone can tell me this is 'normal'?

Thanks,
Eric

I've noticed this a few times, most recently yesterday when switching from 4th to 5th at about 35mph. My theory is that it happens when I let the clutch out too fast with the engine too far from the proper rpm.

I have noticed this also. However, since I employ the reboot methodology occasionally, it does not phase me.

My theory is that the car is supplying massive amounts of electricity to the accessories in the car (from the 12v battery) fan, lights, radio, A/C etc, that the suddent drop from 2-3krpm to 800rpm puts a strain on the car.

Ease the car back into the gear desired, and use a little more than usual care letting out the clutch.

I have not perceived this to be a big issue and would not consider taking this in for service.

-Charlie...

That is definitely not normal. All I can suggest is blipping the throttle a bit more on your downshift. After all, you should never downshift without using the throttle to rev-match engine speed in the first place.

I do blip the throttle on all downshifts. The problem is that the engine is already shut off by the time I try and press the gas pedal down. So, I have to slowly let the clutch out and let the engine start up again. VERY frusturating when trying to downshift to pass!