How long to release the brake when the car shakes during hill start?
4 Answers
Release the brake when the car shakes for about five minutes during hill start. Here are the precautions for hill start: 1. Lift the clutch: When lifting the clutch, observe the RPM or engine sound. When the RPM meets the requirement or the engine emits a low sound, slow down the speed of lifting the clutch and then gently press the accelerator. 2. Prevent rolling: Before releasing the handbrake, it is best to observe the road conditions ahead. If it is an uphill or downhill, it is recommended to press the brake with the right foot, slowly release the clutch, and when the car starts to shake significantly, stabilize the clutch pedal with the left foot, slowly release the brake with the right foot, and when the car starts to move, completely release the brake.
I've been driving manual transmission cars for many years. When starting on a slope, the body shaking is a signal that the clutch is about to engage. As soon as you feel noticeable shaking, immediately release the foot brake while gently pressing the accelerator to make the car move forward steadily. The action should be quick but not rushed, usually completed within one or two seconds after the shaking, otherwise the car is prone to rolling back or stalling. When I first learned to drive, I hesitated to release the brake too slowly and rolled back several times on steep slopes. Later, I used the handbrake for assistance: pull up the handbrake to start, release the brake and add throttle when shaking, then release the handbrake—safe and handy. This all relies on muscle memory formed through practice. Beginners can find an unmanned slope to practice slowly, don't be too nervous, it becomes natural once you're familiar with it. The key is to control the balance between the clutch and the accelerator.
Back when I was learning to drive, my instructor always said that the car shaking on a hill start was the signal to move. I'd decisively release the brake when I felt distinct shaking, almost simultaneously tapping the accelerator, completing the sequence smoothly in about a second - any slower and the car might roll backward. At first, I kept procrastinating, releasing the brake too late and stalling, earning angry honks from cars behind. Later, I practiced daily on neighborhood slopes, and now my movements are much sharper. Automatic transmission drivers might not worry about this, but manual drivers should take it seriously, especially during uphill queue starts in the city. Maintain extra distance from the car ahead, execute the maneuver steadily but swiftly to avoid rolling into others - safety awareness is crucial.
I usually drive to commute, and the body shaking during hill starts is a cue for me. When the shaking becomes noticeable, I gently release the brake and add a bit of throttle to let the car move smoothly. The entire operation should be completed within a second after feeling the shake. This requires some patient practice, especially on steep slopes during rainy days—releasing too quickly causes the car to jerk, while too slowly leads to stalling. So, I find a safe slope near my home and practice a few times until it feels natural. Female drivers, don’t be afraid—just stay focused, keep the movements continuous, fasten your seatbelt, and practice a few more times. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll naturally feel steady.
