Should the clutch be fully released or partially engaged when starting on a slope?

[DeVanessa]

When starting on a slope, the clutch should be partially engaged because, whether on flat ground or an uphill slope, fully depressing the clutch cuts off power output. If the clutch is suddenly depressed on flat ground, the car will continue to move forward slowly due to inertia but will gradually slow down until it stops because of frictional resistance. However, if the clutch is suddenly depressed on an uphill slope, the car will usually stop quickly and even roll backward. The "slope fixed-point parking and starting" test item has been removed from the Category 2 driving test for small automatic transmission vehicles. Tips for the Category 2 driving test: 1. Pre-test preparation: After getting into the car, adjust the seat, rearview mirrors, and fasten the seatbelt. 2. Adjust the car's position relative to the boundary line: Adjust the distance between the car and the boundary line before entering the reverse parking area. 3. Control the speed: When depressing the clutch, do not do it too quickly or too slowly.

[LaLily]

When starting on an uphill slope with a manual transmission car, I'm used to partially engaging the clutch rather than fully releasing it. Fully releasing the clutch often leads to stalling, especially on steep slopes where the heavy vehicle risks rolling backward. Half-engaging the clutch while gently pressing the throttle is more reliable, allowing the engine power to deliver smoothly and preventing rollback. Recalling my practice sessions on garage ramps, the lesson from fully releasing the clutch was the engine stuttering to a halt and rolling back half a meter until hitting the guardrail—utterly nerve-wracking. Since then, I always gradually lift the clutch to the friction point during starts. Feeling the car body slightly vibrate, I then add throttle and release the handbrake, and the car climbs steadily. In practice, this technique saves a lot of trouble, especially in heavy traffic. After practicing a few times to find the clutch's bite point, it becomes second nature. In short, safety first—don't rush to fully release the clutch.

[EliasAnn]

I think when starting on a slope, you must partially depress the clutch and not release it completely. Fully releasing the clutch can easily cause the engine to stall, and the car rolling backward may lead to an accident. I remember once waiting at a red light on a slope when I was a beginner—fully releasing the clutch caused the car to roll back, almost resulting in a rear-end collision. Fortunately, I braked in time. Later, I learned to half-depress the clutch while gently applying the throttle to control power delivery smoothly, which effectively prevents rolling back. Safe driving is fundamental—always maintain a safe distance and check the rearview mirror in advance. An additional technique is using the handbrake for a safer start: engage the handbrake until reaching the biting point, then release it while simultaneously applying the throttle. This method doesn’t strain the car or require much effort, making it suitable for all manual transmission vehicles. With repeated practice, hill starts become effortless—the key is patience, not rushing. This ensures both safety and peace of mind while driving.

[RubyLynn]

I always press the clutch slightly when starting uphill. Partially engaging the clutch ensures smooth power transfer and prevents stalling when fully released. Simply put, the engine torque in the semi-engaged clutch state is sufficient to pull the car uphill, and adding throttle ensures stable power output. During operation, don't release the clutch too quickly—gradually add throttle when you feel the car gaining power to ensure a smooth ascent without rolling back. Compared to the failure of fully releasing the clutch, slightly pressing the clutch is both practical and reliable.

[RyderRose]

Every time I start on a slope, I have to press the clutch a bit and can't release it fully. Fully releasing it during the start can easily cause the engine to stall and the car to roll back, which is quite scary. I learned this the hard way during driving lessons—stalling and rolling back got me yelled at by the instructor. Later, I changed my approach: partially lifting the clutch until the car slightly moves, while gently pressing the accelerator to steadily climb the slope. This coordination feels more reassuring and reduces tension. After practicing a few times, you’ll get the rhythm—just don’t rush to release the clutch, as it can compromise safety. Avoid these common beginner mistakes.