How to Coordinate the Parking Brake and Clutch?
2 Answers
First press the brake, then the clutch, shift into first gear, gently release the clutch until the car body shakes, then release the brake and fully release the clutch before driving normally. Only press the clutch without using the brake unless there is an emergency ahead. Press the clutch first and then the brake; because slamming on the brake creates too much impact pressure, which can easily lead to accidents.
The coordination between stopping, braking, and the clutch has been something I've been pondering since I started learning to drive, because initially, the car would often stall or jerk violently, which was quite frustrating. The specific operation is: when you see the spot where you need to stop, first lightly press the brake to slow down, allowing the speed to gradually decrease, such as when approaching a traffic light. Once the car is almost at a complete stop, with just a tiny bit of forward momentum left, immediately press the clutch pedal all the way down while keeping the brake pedal steady. After the car comes to a full stop, shift into neutral and engage the handbrake. This coordination prevents the engine from suddenly stopping, reducing the risk of stalling. When stopping on a slope, this maneuver is especially crucial, and you should additionally check the handbrake to prevent rolling backward. After practicing a few times, it becomes as natural as walking, and the car runs smoother too.
