How to Start a Manual Transmission for Beginners
2 Answers
Method for beginners to start a manual transmission: 1. Insert the key, turn on the ignition switch, and start the engine. Normally, you need to observe the indicator lights on the dashboard; 2. Press the clutch pedal, shift the gear lever into 1st gear, and observe the surroundings of the vehicle to ensure safety. Then, release the parking brake lever, also known as the handbrake; 3. Lift the clutch pedal, first quickly lift the clutch pedal until the engine sound becomes lower, then slow down the lifting speed. When the vehicle body slightly shakes, pause the clutch pedal for a moment, while adding a little throttle, then slowly lift the clutch pedal, and then gradually increase the throttle. A manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox, requires manually moving the gear lever to change the gear meshing device inside the transmission, thereby altering the gear ratio to achieve the purpose of shifting.
I used to be an experienced manual transmission driver and have taught many friends about starting the car. For beginners, the first step is to sit in the driver's seat, press the brake pedal with your right foot as a precaution, and firmly press the clutch pedal with your left foot—all the way down. Then, use your right hand to check if the gear shift lever is in the neutral position; if it's not, starting the car could cause issues. Next, turn the key or press the start button, and the engine's humming sound indicates a successful start. Here's the key: slowly release the clutch pedal—don't let it go all at once—while lightly pressing the accelerator with your right foot to prevent the engine from stalling. The first time I drove, I released the clutch too quickly, and the car shook for a long time before stabilizing. Practice more in an open area, and once you get familiar with the feeling, it becomes muscle memory. Don't be nervous during the whole process; stay relaxed, and it'll flow as smoothly as water.
