Shift Gear First or Release Handbrake First
3 Answers
Shift gear first before releasing the handbrake to prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when parked on a slope. Releasing the handbrake first may cause the vehicle to roll, while shifting gear first and then releasing the handbrake can prevent this issue. The steps for starting a car are: 1. Adjust the seat to ensure your feet can comfortably and firmly press the clutch, brake, and accelerator; 2. Engage first gear, fully depress the clutch, and place your right foot on the accelerator; 3. Lift the clutch with your left foot to about halfway, and release the handbrake promptly when the vehicle starts to vibrate; 4. Lightly press the accelerator, slowly release the clutch as the car begins to move forward, and then press the accelerator further. Precautions for starting: 1. Use the clutch pedal, accelerator pedal, and brake pedal appropriately; 2. Select the appropriate gear based on the car's condition, road situation, and slope gradient.
I've been driving manual transmission for fifteen years and have developed a habit: after parking, I first press the foot brake firmly, then shift to neutral. At this point, I release the foot brake to let the car settle smoothly before pulling up the handbrake and turning off the engine. This gives the transmission gears a breather, especially noticeable when parking on slopes. Some beginners take shortcuts by shifting directly to P and then pulling the handbrake. On flat ground, it's fine, but doing this on a slope can cause a loud 'clunk' from the transmission when shifting gears next time, which is heartbreaking to hear. My method, though it adds an extra step, is much gentler on the car.
The veteran instructors at the driving range always nag: 'After coming to a complete stop, engage the handbrake first before shifting gears—this rule can save lives!' Especially during the hill start test, if you shift to neutral without applying the handbrake first, the car rolling backward means an instant fail. In real driving, I once forgot to engage the handbrake on a steep slope and shifted to Park first. When I returned to the car, I found the entire vehicle's weight resting on the transmission gears, making the gearshift stick immovable. Now I've learned my lesson—whether it's flat ground or a slope, the four-step routine never falters: brake to a stop → lock the handbrake → shift to neutral → turn off the engine.
