Can You Release the Clutch While Keeping the Brake Pressed During Start-Up?

[DeHayden]

Under normal circumstances, when the car is on a flat road, there is no need to press the brake during start-up. Therefore, there is no need to consider whether to release the clutch or the brake first; simply release the clutch to the semi-engaged position. However, during driving practice, instructors often instruct learners to press the brake for safety reasons, to prevent the car from lurching forward if the gear was not in neutral. Below is an introduction to car start-up procedures: Foot Brake Start-Up: While keeping the foot brake pressed, depress the clutch, shift into first gear, and release the clutch to the semi-engaged position. When the body of the car slightly vibrates and the front lifts, release the foot brake, and the car will start moving slowly forward. Hand Brake Start-Up: When starting with the hand brake, there is no need to press the foot brake, provided that the car is parked on a slope and the hand brake is engaged to stabilize the car. The specific operation method is: hold the steering wheel steady with the left hand, depress the clutch, shift into first gear, place the right hand on the hand brake, release the clutch to the semi-engaged point, and immediately release the hand brake, allowing the car to move forward smoothly.