How many points are deducted for starting the engine with gear engaged?

[VanKathryn]

During the Subject 2 driving test, starting the engine with gear engaged may result in a deduction of 10 or 50 points, or even a direct 100-point deduction; in Subject 3, it directly results in a 100-point deduction. Additional information: The disadvantages of starting with gear engaged: damages the starter motor, harms the parking brake, causes wear and tear on car components, and may lead to the vehicle lurching forward, potentially causing accidents. Manual transmission stationary state: A manual transmission car should be in neutral when stationary, except on steep slopes where it's necessary to engage a gear to prevent rolling backward. However, personal habits sometimes lead to leaving the car in gear when parked, so before starting the engine, always check whether the car is in neutral. The car must be in neutral to start the engine.

[LaJohn]

As a veteran driver with decades of experience, I've encountered various driving mistakes, and starting the engine in gear is a particularly dangerous habit. If a manual transmission car isn't in neutral when starting, the engine can cause the vehicle to move forward or backward, leading to loss of control or rolling. During driving tests, examiners particularly dislike this behavior as it demonstrates poor safety awareness, usually resulting in heavy penalties like deducting over 10 points—enough to fail the test. I remember accompanying a friend during his Category 3 test when he started the car without shifting to neutral, causing the vehicle to jerk suddenly and terrifying the examiner, who immediately failed him. Never make this mistake in daily driving either, as it can easily damage the clutch and engine. The correct method is to always press the clutch pedal, confirm the gear is in neutral, and then start the engine. Developing this habit can prevent many accidents.

[MacAubrey]

I just got my driver's license not long ago, and the instructor repeatedly emphasized the importance of starting the engine in neutral. During the driving test (Subject 3), making this mistake would result in a major deduction of at least 15 points due to the high risk involved, immediately catching the examiner's attention. During practice, I once tried starting the engine without shifting to neutral, and the car almost hit a wall, earning me a long scolding from the instructor. After the test, a friend shared that starting the engine in gear could deduct 20 points, and with other minor mistakes, it would surely lead to failing the test. It's recommended to simulate the startup procedure multiple times before the test: pull the handbrake first, shift to neutral, and then start the engine. Don't underestimate this detail; it could potentially damage the car and cost you money.

[MadelynFitz]

The examiner places the highest priority on operational procedures during the test. Starting the engine while in gear is a fatal mistake. Before starting the car, you must confirm that the gear is in the neutral position; otherwise, it will be considered a violation of operating regulations during the test, resulting in severe point deductions, typically in the range of 10-20 points, which will most likely lead to test failure. More dangerously, if you start the engine while in gear, the vehicle may move suddenly, causing a collision. This applies to real driving as well, especially on slopes where the risk is even greater. My suggestion is to press the clutch pedal first after getting in the car, check the gear position, and ensure safety before ignition. This can avoid unnecessary trouble.

[NathanDella]

As an ordinary car owner, I've learned from personal experience. Starting the car in gear during the test costs significant points—at least 10, and sometimes results in immediate failure. More practically, this starting method damages the car and wears out the transmission, leading to unnecessary repair costs over time. In test scenarios, examiners are strict and will deduct points as soon as they notice, potentially triggering a chain of errors. For example, forgetting to press the brake may cause the car to roll, leading to panic. The correct procedure is to shift to neutral and press the brake pedal before starting. Developing this good habit not only preserves test scores but also ensures peace of mind in daily driving.

[MadelynFitz]

Starting the engine with the gear engaged is heavily penalized in driving tests, often resulting in a deduction of 15 points or more, which essentially means failing the exam. The core issue is the significant safety hazard: if the vehicle is in gear when started, it may collide with pedestrians or other vehicles, especially in congested areas. The test assesses fundamental skills, and neglecting this detail demonstrates a lack of experience. The same applies to everyday driving—always ensure the gear is in neutral before starting the engine to prolong the vehicle's lifespan. Remember, safety always comes first; don't let small oversights lead to major consequences.