Should I shift gears or release the handbrake first when starting the car?

[LaJudah]

You should shift gears first and then release the handbrake. Here are the reasons: 1. The primary reason for this is safety. After engaging the gear, the power transmission path in the gearbox is connected. When you first shift into gear, the transmission is in first gear, which provides the highest torque. If the brake is not properly engaged, the car might suddenly lurch forward. 2. Engaging the gear without releasing the handbrake means all the power output from the engine will be absorbed by the torque converter, causing its temperature to rise sharply. Prolonged exposure to such conditions can damage the torque converter. 3. For dual-clutch transmissions, after engaging the gear, the clutch friction plates will be in a semi-engaged state. Prolonged semi-engagement can lead to burning out the friction plates, so it's necessary to start moving as soon as possible.