Should You Press the Brake or Clutch First When Stopping in Subject 2?
2 Answers
When stopping in Subject 2, you should press the brake first. Below are specific tips for the Subject 2 exam: 1. Control the speed with the clutch semi-engaged: After hearing the voice command, turn on the right turn signal, observe the left, center, and right rearview mirrors, and control the speed by semi-engaging the clutch while slightly steering toward the right side of the area. 2. Observe the distance: When the right 1/3 point of the engine hood aligns with the roadside line, the distance between the car body and the roadside is about 30cm. 3. Specific operation: Control the speed with the clutch semi-engaged, slowly approach the stopping point, and when the lower edge of the left rearview mirror aligns with the second thick yellow line, press the foot brake first, then the clutch to bring the car to a steady stop, and turn off the right turn signal. 4. Hill start: Within 30 seconds after hearing the voice prompt, you must complete the hill start. During the hill start, slowly lift the clutch, turn on the left turn signal, and when the front of the car tilts upward and the body feels like it's vibrating, keep the clutch steady with your left foot, release the brake with your right foot, and the car will start smoothly and move up the slope. Turn off the left turn signal, and finally, after fully ascending the slope, descend smoothly and exit the hill stop and start test area.
As an instructor who has trained numerous students, I emphasize that for the Subject 2 parking test, you must press the clutch before the brake. The reason is simple: the clutch disengages the connection between the engine and the wheels, preventing the engine from stalling during sudden braking. This is not just an exam rule but also a fundamental of safe driving. If you do it the other way around—braking first—the engine's inertia can cause it to stall, leading to point deductions and failure in the test. During practice, simulate real parking scenarios like parallel parking or reversing into a garage to build muscle memory. In daily driving, following the correct sequence also reduces vehicle wear and extends component lifespan. Remember to perform the actions smoothly and gently: press the clutch fully, apply the brake lightly, and once the car is stable, shift to neutral and engage the handbrake. Repeated practice is key; otherwise, exam nerves may lead to mistakes.
