Can You Start Without Pressing the Brake?
3 Answers
Under normal circumstances, when the car is on a flat road, there is no need to press the brake. Therefore, when starting, there is no need to worry about whether to release the clutch or the brake first; simply release the clutch to the semi-engaged position. However, during driving practice, instructors usually instruct to press the brake to prevent the car from lurching forward if the gear is not in neutral. For automatic transmission cars, it is necessary to press the brake when starting the vehicle. How automatic transmission works: The engine's power is transmitted through the transmission, which is also a key factor affecting fuel consumption. Generally, automatic transmissions consume 10% more fuel than manual transmissions. Whether manual or automatic, the more gears a transmission has, the more fuel-efficient it is. Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in automatic cars: It is a type of automatic transmission that overcomes the shortcomings of conventional automatic transmissions, such as "sudden gear shifts," slow throttle response, and high fuel consumption. It is simpler in structure and more compact than traditional automatic transmissions, allowing for free changes in the gear ratio to achieve seamless shifting throughout the entire driving process.
When I used to drive an automatic transmission car, I had to press the brake to start; otherwise, I couldn't shift gears at all, and the car wouldn't move, as if it were dead. With a manual transmission, you don't need to press the brake to start—just press the clutch, shift into first gear, slowly release the clutch, and give it some gas. Nowadays, many cars are automatic, and the design requiring the brake to be pressed is for safety reasons, such as when parked on a slope. Without pressing the brake, the car might roll away and hit someone or something. My experience has taught me to develop a habit: no matter what car I'm driving, I subconsciously press the brake before starting, check my surroundings, and then proceed. Although this adds an extra second, it helps avoid accidents caused by misoperation. Driving is a task where details can't be overlooked, especially for beginners who might easily neglect these small actions.
I think stepping on the brake when starting is a basic safety measure, especially for automatic transmission vehicles. If you don't, the car might suddenly move, which could easily lead to scratches or collisions with other vehicles in parking lots or crowded areas. Manual transmission cars don't require this, but they rely on clutch control—improper operation can cause the car to jerk or stall. Modern cars are designed to require pressing the brake to shift gears, which is actually a protective feature to prevent accidental starts. Developing this habit has many benefits, such as reducing wear on the clutch or transmission and saving money on repairs. Every time I drive, I instinctively press the brake to confirm the car's status before starting—it's much better than regretting it afterward.
