How to Start a Dual-Clutch Transmission Car?
3 Answers
Correct method to start a dual-clutch transmission car: 1. When starting, make sure to press the brake pedal, then shift into N (Neutral) gear to start the engine. 2. After the engine starts, shift into D (Drive) gear, release the brake pedal, and gently press the accelerator to start moving. Additional information about dual-clutch transmission: 1. The dual-clutch transmission may exhibit noticeable jerking during start-up, which is caused by its structure and shift logic. To mitigate this, switch to manual mode during start-up to delay upshifting, effectively reducing the jerking sensation. 2. Correct method to park a dual-clutch transmission car: When parking, first press the brake pedal until the car comes to a complete stop, then shift into N (Neutral) gear, turn off the engine, and finally shift into P (Park) gear.
I've been driving a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) car for ten years, and starting is actually quite intuitive—the key lies in smooth control. Press the brake to ignite, shift into D (Drive) or R (Reverse) gear, then slowly release the brake, and the car will smoothly glide forward. The DCT intelligently manages clutch engagement, allowing movement without even touching the throttle. It’s most hassle-free in city traffic jams—quick starts with no jerking, much easier than a manual transmission. On slopes, it’s also safe thanks to its built-in hill-start assist, preventing rollback when releasing the brake. For daily use, I recommend forming the habit of checking if the parking brake is fully released to avoid hindered starts. Regularly changing the transmission fluid during maintenance can extend its lifespan. For better power response during starts, you can use S (Sport) mode, but beginners should practice with D mode first for safety.
When I first started using the dual-clutch transmission, I found it quite novel. The starting procedure is simple and consists of three steps: press the brake firmly to start the engine, then push the gear lever to D (drive position), and gently release the brake—the car will start moving slowly on its own. There's no need to rush to press the accelerator at this point; it moves smoothly like automatic cruise control. If the car doesn't move, check if the foot brake is released or the electronic handbrake is disengaged. When accelerating after starting, the gear shifts are incredibly fast, with no noticeable jerking, making it ideal for quick reactions in congested traffic. Remember not to stomp on the accelerator when starting to avoid wear on the transmission. Also, be careful not to accidentally press the gear shift button when cleaning the windshield or adjusting the AC. After a few tries, it becomes second nature, and it's really convenient to let the computer handle the most strenuous part of starting.
