How to Step on the Clutch and Brake When Starting a Car?

[OwenLee]

Step on both the brake and clutch pedals slowly and simultaneously. Lift the handbrake and shift into neutral, then release the brake and clutch pedals to bring the vehicle to a complete stop. When preparing to start, first press down on both the brake and clutch pedals. Then shift into first gear while placing your right hand on the handbrake and your left hand on the steering wheel. Gradually release the clutch pedal while slowly releasing the brake pedal at the same time. When you feel the vehicle vibrate as the clutch engages, keep your foot steady on the clutch pedal while simultaneously releasing the handbrake with your right hand. Move your foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal, gently press the accelerator while slowly releasing the clutch pedal to start the vehicle moving.

[CourtneyLee]

I still remember when I first learned to drive, starting the car was the most frustrating part for me. Every time I pressed the clutch, I made sure to press it all the way down to ensure complete disengagement, then kept my left foot steady without rushing to release it. My right foot stayed on the brake to prevent rolling, especially on slopes—like at garage exits or when parked on steep inclines, where I had to press the brake first before doing anything else. Then, I slowly released the clutch until I felt the car slightly tremble or sensed the power engaging, at which point I gently pressed the accelerator while releasing the brake. During my first practice sessions, I kept stalling the engine. The instructor said it was because I released the clutch too quickly or didn’t give enough throttle. It took a lot of practice to find the rhythm. Now, starting the car feels natural to me—the key is to try a few times without panicking at traffic lights and to begin practicing on flat roads.

[StTaylor]

After driving a manual transmission car for so many years, starting has become second nature. Fully depress the clutch pedal with your left foot, and use your right foot to press the brake to stabilize the car and prevent it from rolling forward. When releasing the clutch to the biting point, the car will slightly tremble—this is when I gently press the accelerator while gradually releasing the clutch and brake. On slopes, extra caution is needed; don’t panic when using hill-start assist. The key is to finely control the clutch with your left foot while keeping your right foot ready on the accelerator without applying too much force, or the car might lurch forward. I often advise friends to start smoothly and patiently in city driving—this protects the clutch plate from excessive wear and makes daily driving much smoother. Also, remember to check that the floor mats don’t interfere with the pedals.

[McMax]

The coordination between the clutch and brake is crucial when starting. The clutch disengages the engine power, while the brake ensures stability. In operation, I press the clutch pedal all the way down with my left foot and apply the brake with my right foot to keep the car stationary. Then, I gradually release the clutch to find the engagement point. When I feel the car starting to move, I shift my right foot to the throttle and gently press it while releasing the brake. This process should be smooth to avoid excessive friction on the clutch plate, which could lead to overheating and damage. The operation is simpler on flat roads, but more caution is needed on slopes to prevent rolling back.

[LaLouis]

Safe driving starts with careful attention. I press the clutch pedal to its maximum depth and step on the brake with my right foot to ensure the car doesn't move. When releasing the clutch to the semi-engaged position, I simultaneously release the brake and apply the throttle to provide power. If the actions are too hasty or disorganized, it can easily lead to dangerous rollback or sudden lurching. Especially in rainy, snowy, or crowded conditions, I operate more slowly while observing my surroundings. Beginners are advised to practice thoroughly in open areas to avoid stalling or accidents.