Should You Engage the Gear First or Release the Handbrake First When Driving?
4 Answers
Engage the gear first and then release the handbrake. The specific reasons are as follows: 1. Primarily for safety considerations, engaging the gear connects the power transmission route of the transmission. 2. When the gear is first engaged, the transmission is in first gear, where the torque is at its maximum. If the brake is not properly applied, the car may suddenly lurch forward. After engaging the gear, the handbrake should be released promptly to start moving. Below is some extended knowledge about the handbrake: 1. The handbrake, professionally referred to as an auxiliary brake, operates differently from the main brake. It uses a steel cable connected to the rear brake shoes to apply braking force to the vehicle. 2. Prolonged use of the handbrake can cause the steel cable to undergo plastic deformation. Since this deformation is irreversible, long-term use can reduce its effectiveness and increase the handbrake's travel distance. 3. The handbrake system also includes a return spring. When the handbrake is engaged, the spring is stretched, and when the handbrake is released, the spring returns to its original length.
When I first started learning to drive, my instructor repeatedly emphasized the correct sequence for starting a manual transmission: engage the gear first, then release the handbrake. This left a deep impression on me. Once on a slope at the training ground, I tried releasing the handbrake first, and the car rolled backward several meters, nearly hitting the railing—it gave me quite a scare. He explained that engaging the gear first (e.g., pressing the clutch and shifting into first gear) prepares the transmission to provide power. Then, by slowly releasing the clutch to find the biting point, you can feel the car's forward momentum before releasing the handbrake and gently pressing the accelerator. This ensures a stable start even on steep slopes, avoiding the risk of rolling. In daily driving, I've found that sticking to this habit not only enhances safety but also protects the clutch, reducing premature wear. Once, after a friend's gathering, I saw him rush by releasing the handbrake before engaging the gear, resulting in multiple stalls on a slope and the car jerking back and forth, ultimately damaging the clutch plate. I recommend beginners start with the basics and cultivate safe driving habits—don’t let momentary carelessness lead to hidden dangers.
From the perspective of how a manual transmission works, the optimal starting sequence is to engage the gear first and then release the handbrake. This approach is not only efficient but also extends the lifespan of components. When you engage the gear first, the clutch connects with the transmission, allowing the engine's power to be directly transferred to the wheels. This way, when you release the handbrake, the vehicle moves naturally. If you release the handbrake first, whether on a slope or flat ground, the wheels may be in a free state, causing the car to roll backward or forward, which places extra load on the clutch and can lead to slipping and wear. For example, in my daily driving, I always press the clutch, shift into first gear, then slightly release the clutch to the biting point. Once I feel the car signaling to move forward, I release the handbrake and accelerate. This synchronized action ensures a smoother start and saves fuel. Ignoring this, some drivers may frequently stall their cars or experience clutch smoke, leading to higher repair costs later. Remember, no detail in driving is trivial—a small step can impact overall performance.
The correct sequence for manual transmission startup is to engage the gear before releasing the handbrake to ensure safe vehicle control. The basic steps are straightforward: depress the clutch, shift into first gear, then slowly release the clutch to find the friction point. When you feel the car begin to move forward, quickly release the handbrake and apply throttle to start. This prevents the vehicle from rolling backward on inclines or unintended sliding. Avoid releasing the handbrake first, as free wheels may cause unintended movement. Each operation should be coordinated to minimize stalling risks. The key is practicing clutch control at the friction point – proficiency leads to smooth operation.
