How to Start a Car Correctly?
2 Answers
Starting on flat ground: Press the clutch, shift the gear lever to neutral, continue pressing the clutch, turn the key to the first position to allow the car to self-check. After the self-check is completed, continue turning the key to start the engine (while still pressing the clutch). Once the engine starts, since the clutch is already pressed, directly shift to first gear, slowly release the clutch, and when you feel the car slightly vibrating, gently press the accelerator to give some gas. When the front of the car slightly lifts, release the handbrake, and the car will start moving. Starting on a slope: Steps 1~4 are the same as starting on flat ground. Slowly release the clutch until you feel the car vibrating noticeably, then press the accelerator slightly harder. Note: At this point, more gas is needed compared to starting on flat ground because the car has to overcome not only the static friction from flat ground but also the work done by its own gravity. When the accelerator is pressed to the point where the car's front lifts noticeably, stabilize the accelerator and release the handbrake. Once the car starts moving, give a bit more gas while stabilizing the accelerator to ensure the car moves forward smoothly without rolling backward.
Starting the engine correctly is actually quite simple. Here's how I usually do it: For automatic transmission cars, always press the brake pedal first before turning the key. You'll hear the engine start smoothly. For manual transmission, remember to fully depress the clutch pedal and shift to neutral before ignition. In winter, I prefer to power on first to let the fuel pump work for a few seconds, waiting until the dashboard indicators stabilize before starting, which protects the engine. If the key won't turn because the steering wheel is locked, gently wiggle the steering wheel left and right to unlock it. After each start, don't rush to press the accelerator; wait patiently for about half a minute to let the oil fully circulate, especially in cold weather. When turning off the engine, also make sure to wait until it completely stops before removing the key to avoid damaging the ignition system.
