Should You Engage the Handbrake or Shift Gears First When Starting a Car?
4 Answers
When starting a car, you should shift gears first and then engage the handbrake. Here is some additional information about shifting gears: 1. Once you are familiar with the car and the driver's operation is sensitive, it is also possible to release the handbrake first and then shift gears. However, before releasing the handbrake, you need to step on the brake, then shift gears, release the brake, press the accelerator, and start the car. 2. Before starting the vehicle, ensure that either the handbrake or the brake is in working condition. This is because, in actual driving, it is often difficult for the driver to determine whether the road has a slope from inside the cabin. This operation can prevent the vehicle from rolling backward or sliding forward. When starting, remember to quickly accelerate the car and shift to second gear to avoid affecting the vehicles behind.
I've been driving for almost twenty years, and I always make sure to engage the handbrake first before shifting into the appropriate gear when starting the car. For automatic cars, just put it in P (Park), and for manual transmissions, it's best to start in N (Neutral). I developed this habit because once I forgot to engage the handbrake on a slope and almost rolled backward into the car behind me—it was terrifying. Safety first: secure the car's position with the handbrake, then adjust the gear before starting. This sequence may seem small, but it prevents transmission damage or unintended rolling, especially on slippery winter roads. I recommend always engaging the handbrake after parking and double-checking before starting. This simple habit can save a lot of trouble and protect your beloved car.
I just got my driver's license, and my instructor taught me that pulling the handbrake first is a mandatory step when starting the car, followed by shifting gears to start. Beginners might wonder why not just shift gears directly, but if you don't pull the handbrake, the car might move when starting on a slope, potentially causing it to rush out of the garage and injure someone. Now, every time I get in the car, I first make sure the handbrake is pulled tight, shift to P or N gear, and then start the engine. This safety tip is very practical, and I've also read some manuals that emphasize this sequence to reduce wear and accident risks. In fact, driving is all about accumulating details—good habits from the start make driving easier later. Remember, don't skip steps for convenience; safety is no small matter.
After years of repairing cars, a common issue is drivers shifting gears without engaging the handbrake before starting. The correct method is to first firmly pull the handbrake, then adjust the gear before starting. Otherwise, it puts excessive load on the engine and can easily wear out the transmission or clutch plates. Especially on inclined surfaces, not engaging the handbrake may cause the car to slide, creating safety hazards. I recommend always pressing the foot brake first before starting, engaging the handbrake to secure the position, then shifting to P mode to start an automatic car, or N mode for a manual car. Maintaining these habits can extend the lifespan of components and reduce unexpected repairs. It's also crucial to regularly inspect the handbrake system during routine maintenance—don't overlook it.
