Release the Clutch First or the Brake First?
2 Answers
After completing preparatory tasks such as adjusting the seat and rearview mirrors, press the clutch all the way down, shift into neutral, and start the engine. When beginning to move, slowly release the clutch to the semi-engaged position. Once the vehicle gains some power (i.e., when there is a slight vibration), then release the brake. 1. Foot Brake Start: While keeping the foot brake pressed, depress the clutch, shift into first gear, and release the clutch to the semi-engaged position. When the body shows slight vibration and the front of the car lifts slightly, release the foot brake, and the vehicle will start moving slowly forward. 2. Hand Brake Start: When using the hand brake, there is no need to press the foot brake. This method is used on slopes to stabilize the parked vehicle by pulling the hand brake. The specific steps are: hold the steering wheel firmly with the left hand, depress the clutch, shift into first gear, place the right hand on the hand brake, release the clutch to the semi-engaged point, and immediately release the hand brake to allow the vehicle to move forward smoothly.
My driving instructor drilled this into me a thousand times! When starting, you must press both the clutch and brake pedals simultaneously, shift into first gear, then slowly release the clutch to the bite point—at this moment, the car will slightly tremble or the tachometer will dip slightly. Once you feel this state, immediately release the brake, then continue to slowly lift the clutch while gently pressing the accelerator. The whole motion should flow smoothly like turning a key to unlock a door. Beginners can practice this a few times to build muscle memory. Remember, releasing the clutch too abruptly at the bite point will stall the engine, while releasing it too late will wear out the clutch plate. Once, my friend failed to coordinate this properly on a slope and ended up rolling backward, hitting the rear bumper of the car behind.
