Should You Engage the Handbrake or Shift Gears First When Starting a Car?

[VanAustin]

When starting a car, you should first shift into gear and then release the handbrake. Below are the relevant steps for starting a car: 1. After getting into the car, the driver should first shift into the starting gear, sound the horn, turn on the turn signal, and simultaneously observe the front, sides, and rearview mirrors to check for any pedestrians or vehicles passing by, ensuring there are no obstacles to starting and maintaining safety around. Firmly hold the steering wheel, activate the left turn signal, and release the parking brake lever. 2. After starting in first gear, gently accelerate to gradually increase the speed. Generally, you can shift to second gear when the speed exceeds 10 km/h in first gear, and shift to third gear when the speed exceeds 20 km/h in second gear, and so on for subsequent gear shifts.