Should the handbrake be released before or after ignition?
2 Answers
The handbrake should be engaged before igniting the car. Before ignition, you should first depress the clutch. Before braking, you should first apply the foot brake, then depress the clutch, and only after the car has come to a complete stop should you engage the handbrake. Below are the functions of the handbrake: 1. The handbrake is used to keep the car stationary when parked by pulling it up, preventing the car from rolling downhill. While driving, pulling up the handbrake during a turn can create a drifting effect, and in emergencies, the handbrake can serve as a brake. 2. It is used for braking when parking on flat ground or slopes, preventing the car from moving automatically when unattended, thus avoiding traffic accidents.
I've been driving for over a decade and always make it a habit to release the handbrake only after starting the engine. Safety first - if you release the brake before ignition when the engine isn't running, the car might roll away, which is especially dangerous. This is particularly crucial when parked on slopes. After starting the engine, wait for the dashboard lights to go off before gradually releasing the handbrake. This habit has helped me avoid several potential accidents. New drivers often get impatient, but never release the handbrake before ignition - if the car happens to be in neutral, it could roll and hit a tree, causing serious trouble. In cold winters when brake pads tend to freeze, gently tapping the accelerator after ignition will free them up. Remember, developing this small habit makes a big difference in driving safety.
