Do You Need to Press Both the Brake and Clutch When Starting the Car?
3 Answers
Generally, when the car is on a flat road, there is no need to press the brake, so when starting, there is no question of releasing the clutch or brake first—simply release the clutch to the semi-engaged position. However, during driving practice, instructors often instruct learners to press the brake to prevent the car from jerking forward if the gear is not in neutral. For automatic transmission cars, it is necessary to press the brake when starting the vehicle. Below is additional information: 1. How an automatic transmission works: The engine's power is transmitted through the gearbox, which is also a key factor affecting fuel consumption. Generally, an automatic transmission consumes 10% more fuel than a manual transmission. Whether manual or automatic, more gears mean better fuel efficiency. 2. Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in automatic cars: This is a type of automatic transmission that overcomes common drawbacks 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 and achieving seamless shifting throughout the driving range.
When I first learned to drive a manual transmission, my instructor taught me this trick: you don't need to press both the brake and clutch simultaneously to start. The steps are simple: on flat ground, first press the clutch pedal and shift into first gear, then slowly release the clutch until the car starts to shake slightly, gently press the accelerator to speed up while continuing to release the clutch—this way, the car starts smoothly. If you still press the brake at this point, the car will stall or become more unstable. However, hill starts are different. To prevent rolling back, you can press the brake or use the handbrake, shift into gear, then release the clutch to the biting point where you feel the car wants to move, and while pressing the accelerator, slowly release the brake. Now that I'm used to driving, I find that I only need to briefly operate both on slopes. I recommend beginners practice flat starts more to get a feel for the clutch point without panicking. Driving an automatic in the city is more convenient—just release the brake and press the accelerator—but mastering a manual gives you more control.
I've been driving for years, and starting the car comes naturally to me. For manual transmissions, I only use the clutch and throttle in coordination, never stepping on the brake at the same time. On flat ground, I press the clutch, shift into first gear, and when the light turns green, I gently release the clutch while adding throttle to move off without ever touching the brake. On slopes, I use the handbrake or briefly step on the brake to prevent rolling back, then quickly release the clutch and apply throttle. Years of experience have taught me that operating both simultaneously is unnecessary and can lead to confusion. Starting an automatic transmission car is even simpler—just switch from the brake to the throttle directly after pressing the brake, without the multiple steps required in a manual. The key lies in coordinating the clutch and throttle for a smooth start that also saves fuel. Safety is the top priority when driving, and developing good habits helps prevent accidents.
