How to Step on the Clutch and Brake When Starting?
3 Answers
For a manual transmission car, when starting, shift into first gear, press the clutch pedal all the way down, and place your right foot on the accelerator pedal ready to go. When starting to move, slowly lift the clutch pedal with your left foot to about halfway. When you feel the vehicle begin to vibrate, promptly release the brake to complete the start.
When I first started learning to drive, I was always flustered during take-off, afraid of stalling and getting honked at by cars behind me. Simply put, when stationary, first press the brake with your right foot to keep the car steady; simultaneously press the clutch all the way down with your left foot and shift into first gear. Then, gently lift the clutch with your left foot, slowly finding the biting point—when you feel the engine vibrate slightly and the car starts to move forward a bit. At this point, release the brake with your right foot, switch to the accelerator, and lightly press to give it some gas, and the car will start smoothly. The key is to practice more and not rush when finding the biting point. Lifting the clutch too quickly can cause stalling, while doing it too slowly wastes time. After practicing over a dozen times in an open area, my take-offs are much smoother now, and I don’t panic at traffic lights during my commute. Don’t get discouraged by stalling a few times—everyone goes through this phase, and it becomes muscle memory once you get the hang of it.
As a seasoned driver who frequently navigates city traffic, I must emphasize the importance of safe starting procedures. After coming to a complete stop, keep your right foot firmly on the brake to prevent rolling, especially on slopes; depress the clutch pedal fully with your left foot and shift into first gear. When finding the bite point, release the clutch slowly—once you feel slight vibrations, immediately release the brake with your right foot and transition it to the accelerator for gentle throttle input. In congested traffic, ensure the vehicle is stationary before starting to avoid rear-end collisions. I also routinely check the handbrake coordination—using it as an aid during hill starts enhances safety. Smooth starts not only save fuel but also prolong clutch life, making it crucial to develop good habits.
