Should the handbrake be pulled up or released during driving practice?
3 Answers
When starting during driving practice, the handbrake needs to be released, and when parking, the handbrake needs to be pulled up. Here are some precautions during driving practice: 1. Understand the functions of the dashboard: including the speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, water temperature gauge, oil pressure warning light, brake system warning light, etc. 2. Correctly operate the steering wheel: achieve the following: turn as much as you return, turn less and return less, turn slowly and return slowly, turn more and return more, turn quickly and return quickly. Familiarize yourself with the positions of each gear and the switching between gears. 3. Coordinate the cooperation between the clutch and the accelerator: when starting, master the operation essentials of the clutch pedal to achieve smooth starting, no stalling, no gear bumping, and smooth driving especially during hill starts, traffic jams, and following cars.
Whether to pull up or release the handbrake during driving practice depends on the specific situation. Generally, you should engage the handbrake when parked and waiting, such as at traffic lights or on a slope, to secure the vehicle and prevent it from sliding and causing accidents. Before driving, you must release the handbrake; otherwise, the braking system will drag, the engine may struggle or even shake, which is bad for the car. When I was learning to drive, I often forgot this, resulting in difficulty starting and the car not moving, until the instructor reminded me several times to remember. Beginners practicing hill starts at driving school especially need to engage the handbrake to stabilize the car and gradually master the coordination of the clutch and accelerator. Once you develop the habit, check the handbrake position as soon as you get in the car to ensure safety first and reduce the risk of accidents. Remember, this is not a rigid rule but should be applied flexibly in practice.
As a novice who just got my driver's license, I've been following the coach's instructions when practicing handbrake operations. You must pull it up when parking to prevent the car from sliding or moving unexpectedly; when starting, press the brake first, then release the handbrake, and slowly release the clutch while giving gas. This process requires practice—I was so nervous at first that I often forgot to release it, causing the car to jerk when starting and wasting time. On flat ground, you can be a bit more relaxed, but on slopes, you must be strict. Once mastered, driving becomes smoother and unnecessary wear on car parts is avoided. I recommend beginners start with simple scenarios, like practicing in an empty parking lot to get familiar with handbrake timing. Keep at it, and it will become second nature.
