Should the Brake Be Fully Depressed When Starting?

[AndrewMarie]

Whether to depress the brake when starting a manual transmission car depends on the situation. On flat ground, it's not necessary, but on a slope, it's best to depress the brake; for automatic transmission cars, the brake should be fully depressed when starting, then shift into gear to drive. Related details are as follows: 1. Definition: The car braking system, also known as the automobile brake system, refers to the specialized braking mechanism installed in a car to ensure safe driving technically and improve the average speed of the vehicle. 2. Functions of the car braking system: (1) To forcibly decelerate or even stop a moving car as required by the driver. (2) To keep a stationary car stable under various road conditions. (3) To maintain a stable speed for a car moving downhill.

[JadeFitz]

In my years of driving experience, pressing the brake pedal all the way down when starting is a very safe choice. Especially in automatic transmission vehicles, firmly stepping on the brake can prevent the car from sliding unexpectedly, particularly on slopes or in crowded areas. Once in a busy parking lot, I didn't press firmly enough, and the car started to move. Fortunately, I reacted quickly and avoided a collision. This practice is not only for your own safety but also protects the transmission from damage. Many new cars have hill-start assist functions, but the basic operation should still become a habit. I believe that, regardless of road conditions, pressing the brake pedal all the way down before starting can reduce the risk of accidents and provide peace of mind.

[DelWilliam]

Having driven for over a decade, I don't always press the brake pedal all the way when starting off. For instance, on flat roads, I usually apply gentle pressure—just enough to keep the car stationary. But on slopes or slippery surfaces, I press firmly to prevent rolling. The key is adjusting the force based on conditions: a lighter touch is fine for daily commutes, but with passengers or kids, safety comes first. Ultimately, driving requires adaptability—don't rigidly follow rules. With experience, you'll learn to balance convenience and safety, provided you practice diligently without taking risks.

[VanRachel]

When I first started learning to drive, I was quite confused about starting and braking. The instructor always emphasized that pressing the pedal all the way down was the safest approach. Once, I didn't press firmly enough, and the car rolled forward, nearly hitting a pole. From then on, I made sure to press the brake pedal completely every time. Although it's a simple action, it ensures the car doesn't move, preventing common mistakes made by beginners. I recommend new drivers develop this habit early on and then gradually learn to adapt to different scenarios. Don't be like me, learning the hard way after a scare—it's crucial to build a solid safety foundation from the start.