How to Start Driving a Car?
2 Answers
Steps to start driving a car: 1. After getting into the car, adjust the seat properly. An improper sitting posture can lead to abnormal sensations while driving and cause significant fatigue when controlling the throttle and clutch for extended periods. 2. Start the engine. Usually, observe the indicator lights on the dashboard. If a warning light stays on for a long time, it indicates an abnormality in the corresponding component. Immediately turn off the engine, inspect the vehicle, and restart the engine after resolving the issue. 3. Fully depress the clutch. Use your left foot to press the clutch pedal all the way down. If the clutch pedal is not fully depressed, there will be a gear-grinding sound when shifting, or you may not be able to engage the gear, which can easily damage the transmission gears. 4. Shift into first gear, release the parking brake lever, and observe the surroundings to ensure all conditions for starting are met. 5. Release the clutch slowly, finding the semi-engagement point by listening to the engine sound, feeling vibrations, and observing the RPM. 6. Once the clutch engagement point is found, gently press the throttle. The vehicle will slightly vibrate. Then, move your left and right feet in opposite directions: the left foot continues to slowly release the clutch pedal upward, while the right foot gradually presses the throttle pedal downward. The movements should be smooth.
As a novice who just got my driver's license, I clearly remember the nervousness during my first start. The key to starting a car lies in mastering the basics: after getting in, first fasten the seatbelt and adjust the seat and rearview mirrors to ensure clear visibility; check if the surroundings are safe, especially looking for pedestrians or vehicles in the rearview mirror. Then, press the brake pedal, start the engine, and wait until all indicators on the dashboard are normal. For manual transmission cars, press the clutch pedal and shift into first gear, while for automatic transmission, shift to D gear; slowly release the handbrake, lift the left foot off the clutch while gently pressing the accelerator with the right foot to enter the road. This process should be smooth and calm to avoid jerky starts or stalling. On uphill starts, you can use the handbrake for assistance. Remember to practice more in parking lots to gradually develop a feel, and controlling speed is crucial to prevent unstable starts and collisions with obstacles. Over time, you'll gain more confidence, but for now, I remind myself that safety comes first with every start.
