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.

[VanEmmett]

When starting the car, I always make it a habit to pull the handbrake first before shifting gears. As a commuter with over a decade of driving experience, I've found this helps prevent accidental rolling, especially when starting on slopes. I remember one time when I forgot to engage the handbrake - the car lurched forward slightly upon starting, and I narrowly avoided a collision thanks to quick reflexes. The standard procedure is to start manual transmission cars in neutral before shifting, while automatic transmissions should be started in Park. Having the braking system prepared before engine startup reduces wear and safety risks. After making this sequence a habit, my driving has become more composed, and maintenance frequency has decreased. Now I instinctively check the handbrake status every time I get in the car. Ultimately, safety comes first above all else, particularly during rainy or snowy conditions when roads are slippery - extra caution is essential.

[DeIsaac]

From a technical perspective, starting a car should begin with engaging the handbrake to ensure vehicle stability, followed by shifting gears to prepare for engine ignition. For example, automatic transmission vehicles typically require starting in the P (Park) position, which protects the transmission from startup shock. Manual transmission vehicles are more reasonably started in neutral gear, and combining this with the handbrake can prevent the risk of rolling if the clutch isn't fully depressed. I've studied some maintenance cases where improper sequences could lead to vehicle shaking or premature component wear, especially more prone to issues at idle speed. Long-term neglect of this can increase maintenance costs. Ensuring precise execution of each step can extend vehicle lifespan and also improve fuel efficiency.

[HavenMarie]

When I first started learning to drive, my instructor always emphasized pulling the handbrake before starting the engine and then shifting gears. I forgot a few times in the rush, and the car slid slightly on a slope, which scared me. Now I've developed a habit: with a manual transmission, I start the engine in neutral with the handbrake on, and only shift into gear once everything is stable. It's similar with an automatic transmission—pull the handbrake and set it to P before starting. This sequence helps beginners avoid many mistakes and makes starting smoother. After practicing for a while, it feels natural and reliable.