Should You Engage the Handbrake or Shift Gears First When Getting in the Car?
3 Answers
Shift gears first and then engage the handbrake when getting in the car. Here is the extended content: 1. Benefits of shifting gears before releasing the handbrake: Prevents the car from rolling forward or backward. This operation helps avoid dangerous situations. 2. Develop correct driving habits. Before driving, always check whether the handbrake has been released, and pay attention to the dashboard. The dashboard displays the most comprehensive information. By observing the dashboard and warning lights, you can avoid driving with the handbrake engaged. 3. Beginners should pay special attention during hill starts. If the handbrake is released too quickly while the clutch is not fully engaged, the car may roll back. The best method is to press the clutch and brake when starting; the handbrake is optional. Release the brake when the clutch is halfway engaged—the car will then be in a semi-clutch state and won't roll back. Gradually press the accelerator while slowly releasing the clutch to start successfully.
As someone who enjoys studying automotive safety, I believe the sequence after getting into the car is crucial, especially when parked on a slope. The first thing to do is press the brake pedal firmly to ensure the vehicle is completely stationary, preventing accidental rolling that could lead to a collision. Then, start the engine and check the handbrake status; if it's engaged, release it before shifting into D or R gear to move. This sequence is not only standard practice but also helps protect the transmission from wear and prolongs the vehicle's lifespan. I remember one time parking in the mountains when I forgot to press the brake before shifting, and the car nearly rolled downhill—fortunately, I corrected it in time. Developing this habit also prevents common mistakes made by new drivers, such as fumbling with controls. In short, safety comes first, and the brake is always the starting point, whether for automatic or manual transmissions.
Having driven manual transmissions for years, I've found that the sequence of handling the handbrake and gear shift actually depends on the car model. With manual cars, it's common to park in a low gear to utilize engine braking, so after starting, I first press the clutch and brake, ignite the engine, release the handbrake, and then shift into gear to start moving. However, automatic transmissions are much simpler: get in, press the brake, ignite, release the electronic or manual handbrake, and shift into D. Although there are differences, the core principle is similar—ensure the vehicle is stable first to avoid any risk of movement. Especially in rainy or snowy weather when the ground is slippery, changing gears without pressing the brake can easily lead to loss of control. I recommend adjusting your operations based on your car type rather than rigidly following a set formula. Starting only when the car is stable is both worry-free and efficient.
