Should You Engage the Gear or Release the Handbrake First When Starting?

[OBryce]

For manual transmission vehicles, the correct operation is to engage the gear first and then release the handbrake. This method helps prevent the vehicle from rolling. For automatic transmission vehicles, it doesn't matter whether you engage the gear before releasing the handbrake or release the handbrake before engaging the gear, as automatic vehicles require the brake pedal to be pressed to start and shift gears. The correct operation for driving an automatic vehicle is to press the brake pedal, then start the engine and engage the gear. Once the gear is engaged, the transmission's power transfer path is connected. Initially, the transmission is in first gear, where the torque is the highest. If the brake is not properly pressed, the vehicle may suddenly lurch forward, potentially causing an accident.

[Denise]

When starting off, I always engage the gear first before releasing the handbrake. Why? Because after engaging the gear, the vehicle's powertrain is connected and the wheels are locked. Only then can I release the handbrake to avoid the risk of rolling back. Especially with manual transmission cars, I always press the clutch, shift into first gear, then gradually release the clutch while adding some throttle. Once I feel the car has power, I release the handbrake. This is even more crucial when starting on a slope - otherwise the car can easily roll backward, which is very unsafe. It's similar with automatic transmissions: hold the brake, shift to D, and release the handbrake smoothly after the engine stabilizes. Remember to ensure the road is level before starting, and practice several times to develop muscle memory for safer driving. This not only protects the transmission but also extends the handbrake's service life.

[LeLorenzo]

As a young driver, my instructor repeatedly emphasized starting by shifting into gear before releasing the handbrake, and never reversing the sequence. Once I tried releasing the handbrake first before shifting, resulting in the car rolling back half a meter on a slope, which gave me a cold sweat. Since then, I've developed a habit: for manual transmissions, press the clutch, shift into first gear, hold the clutch position steady, give a little gas, and only release the handbrake when I feel the wheels start to move; for automatic transmissions, it's simpler—press the brake firmly, shift into D, and release the handbrake once the engine sound evens out. This method ensures smoother starts and reduces wear on the vehicle. Beginners are advised to practice in an empty parking lot until they get familiar with the car's feel—then it'll be no problem.

[Alivia]

From a mechanical perspective, it's safest to engage the gear before releasing the handbrake when starting off. This is because engaging the gear connects the power to the wheels, preventing the vehicle from moving freely. If the handbrake is released first, the unconstrained wheels may roll backward. For manual transmission vehicles, coordination between the clutch and throttle is required. After shifting into gear, gradually release the clutch while adding a bit of throttle to ensure power is transmitted before releasing the handbrake. Automatic transmissions are simpler—just press the brake, shift to D (Drive), and the power is automatically transmitted. On slopes, using the handbrake for assistance can prevent rolling. Developing this habit helps protect the braking system.