Should You Engage First Gear or Release the Handbrake First When Starting a Manual Transmission Car?
3 Answers
When starting a manual transmission car, you should engage first gear first, then release the handbrake. The correct starting procedure and the reason for engaging the gear before releasing the handbrake are as follows: Correct starting procedure: After getting in the car, fasten your seatbelt and adjust the seat. Quickly depress the clutch pedal to the floor and engage first gear. Turn on the left turn signal, check the surroundings (both side mirrors), and then release the handbrake. Quickly lift the clutch to the semi-engagement point, pause slightly, then slowly release the clutch while gently pressing the accelerator to allow the car to start smoothly. Reason for engaging gear before releasing the handbrake: The reason for engaging the gear before releasing the handbrake when starting is to prevent the car from rolling backward. If you release the handbrake first, the car will be in neutral for a period before engaging the gear, and you may not know if the ground is level when starting. If the ground is inclined, the car in neutral may roll backward, potentially causing an accident.
I've been driving manual transmission for over a decade and noticed many people get confused about the proper sequence. After parking, you must engage the handbrake to prevent rolling; when starting off, release the handbrake first before shifting into 1st gear - that's the safe way to begin moving. If you shift into gear before releasing the handbrake, the car might lurch forward suddenly, especially on slopes or in crowded areas, which could easily cause accidents. I've even encountered several cases where people forgot to release the handbrake before starting, resulting in severe clutch plate wear that cost thousands to repair. Safe driving isn't just about technique - it's a habit. Before every start, I make it a routine to lightly press the foot brake for stability, then release the handbrake, shift gears, and gradually release the clutch while applying throttle - this ensures smooth and worry-free operation. When it comes to driving, getting the sequence wrong can turn minor issues into major hazards.
When I was learning manual transmission, the instructor repeatedly emphasized: release the handbrake first before shifting into gear when starting. When parking, make sure to pull the handbrake tight; when starting, check if the handbrake is released before shifting into 1st gear. I once tried shifting into gear without releasing the handbrake—the car buzzed but didn't move, and rolling back on a slope gave me a scare. Later, I understood that the handbrake acts as a safety lock. Releasing it before shifting allows the clutch to engage properly, avoiding overload on the drivetrain. Daily driving requires forming this habit, like using the handbrake instead of the footbrake at red lights for a smoother start. Don’t skip steps out of laziness—I caused a minor accident as a newbie by rushing. Now, every time I start, I follow the routine: release the handbrake, press the clutch and shift into 1st gear, then gently accelerate. Driving steadily has improved my mindset too.
