Is it possible to start without stepping on the brake?
3 Answers
Under normal circumstances, when the car is on a flat road, there is no need to step on the brake. Therefore, when starting, there is no so-called question of whether to release the clutch or the brake first; you can directly release the clutch to the semi-engaged position. However, during driving practice, instructors usually instruct to step on the brake to prevent the car from lurching forward if the gear is not in neutral. For automatic transmission cars, it is necessary to step on the brake when starting the car. Below is additional information: 1. How an automatic transmission works: The engine's power is transmitted through the gearbox, which is also a key factor affecting fuel consumption. Generally, an automatic transmission consumes 10% more fuel than a manual transmission. Whether manual or automatic, the more gears there are, the more fuel-efficient the car is. 2. Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in automatic cars: It is a type of automatic transmission, but it overcomes the shortcomings of conventional automatic transmissions, such as 'sudden gear shifts,' slow throttle response, and high fuel consumption. It is simpler in structure and more compact than traditional automatic transmissions, allowing it to freely change the transmission ratio and achieve stepless shifting throughout the entire range.
After driving for so many years, I've learned that starting a manual transmission car without stepping on the brake is possible. For example, on flat ground, you can simply release the clutch and add some gas to move forward, which feels quite convenient since you don't need to touch the brake pedal. However, once when starting on a slope without using the brake, the car rolled back slightly. Fortunately, I reacted quickly, and nothing bad happened. From then on, I understood that safety comes first. Although manual transmission cars are flexible, starting without the brake carries significant risks, especially for beginners or in unfamiliar terrain, as it can easily lead to rolling or loss of control. I recommend developing the habit of stepping on the brake—even a one-second pause ensures a stable start. Driving isn't about speed but ensuring safety for yourself and others. Small details prevent big mistakes. When driving in the city, I always step on the brake before moving, a habit that has kept me out of trouble even in heavy traffic. Don’t skip it for convenience—safe driving is what truly matters.
When I first started learning to drive, the instructor repeatedly emphasized that you must press the brake when starting the car, saying it's a basic rule. He explained that in an automatic transmission car, if you don't press the brake, the gear is locked and won't move—this is a protective mechanism designed by the manufacturer. For manual transmission cars, theoretically, you don't have to press the brake, but in practice, it's easy to cause accidents. Once, I tried starting in neutral without pressing the brake, and the car slid forward slightly. The instructor immediately yelled to stop, saying it could roll back on a slope. Now, every time I drive, I remember to press the brake before releasing the clutch or shifting gears, and it feels much safer. Pressing the brake adds an extra layer of control, preventing accidental movement that could harm people or objects, especially during peak traffic hours when even a small oversight can lead to a rear-end collision. Developing good habits is key—it's more intuitive for beginners, reduces panic, and safe driving starts with simple actions. Using the brake when starting not only protects yourself but also respects other road users.
