Is the Handbrake Necessary for Hill Starts?
2 Answers
Proper hill starts require the use of the handbrake, but in daily driving, the foot brake method is more commonly used because it is more convenient. It can be said that in everyday driving, hill starts should first be attempted using the foot brake method. If the vehicle stalls during the semi-clutch phase or starts rolling backward, then the handbrake method should be used for the hill start. Here are some relevant tips for hill starts: Lightly Press the Accelerator: For a hill start, first, hold the handbrake switch, then lightly press the accelerator. Watch the dashboard—when the engine speed reaches around 3000 RPM, hold the accelerator steady and gradually release the clutch. Release the Clutch: While releasing the clutch, pay close attention to the front of the car and listen carefully to the engine sound. When the clutch is released to a certain point, the front of the car will begin to lift but cannot move forward, and the engine speed will gradually drop. The engine sound will become quieter, indicating it is about to stall. At this point, press the accelerator a bit harder. When the dashboard shows the engine speed exceeding 2000 RPM, gently release the handbrake. Release the Handbrake: It’s okay if the clutch isn’t fully released yet. The vehicle will slowly move up the slope. Once the handbrake is fully released, also release the clutch. Maintaining the same accelerator pressure as at the start will ensure a 100% successful hill start without stalling or rolling backward.
I've been driving a manual transmission car for a few years now, and I believe the best way to start on a slope is by using the handbrake, otherwise the car is prone to rolling back and causing accidents. For example, last time when I was waiting at a red light on a slope in the city, without using the handbrake, the car started rolling back as soon as I released the foot brake. Fortunately, I reacted quickly and stepped on the brake to avoid an accident. The operation is simple: stop and pull the handbrake, shift into first gear, press the clutch halfway with the left foot, lightly press the accelerator with the right foot until the RPM rises, and when you feel the front of the car slightly lift, slowly release the handbrake and start moving. This way, the car starts smoothly and safely. It's especially important to develop this habit with manual transmissions. Although automatics sometimes have assist functions, using the handbrake is still safer on steep slopes. New drivers will get used to it after a few practices—don't find it troublesome, safety comes first. I used to think I could manage without it, but after a few close calls, I decided to stick with it. Now, I've never had any problems with hill starts.
