Should You Press the Brake When Turning the Key?

[LeColin]

Turning the key to start the engine requires pressing the brake. For safety and vehicle control, it is necessary to press the brake when starting the engine; otherwise, the vehicle cannot be started. Some vehicles may roll away if the brake is not pressed when starting, especially if the gear was not properly disengaged when the engine was last turned off. Additional information: 1. When the vehicle is temporarily parked and needs to be restarted shortly after, the parking function is handled by the ESP-controlled braking system. 2. The onboard computer uses a series of sensors to measure the vehicle's level and wheel torque, determining any tendency for the vehicle to roll, and applies an appropriate braking force to keep the vehicle stationary.

[NicoleLee]

I usually drive an automatic transmission car. When parking, I shift to P and turn off the engine. To start it, I must press the brake pedal, otherwise turning the key won't work—this design prevents rolling. But with an old manual transmission car, it's different; pressing the clutch is enough to start, and generally, you don't need to press the brake. Still, I prefer pressing both for extra stability, especially when parked on a slight slope. Remembering these habits helps prevent unexpected vehicle movement, like in residential areas or crowded parking lots. Before turning off the engine, I always engage the handbrake first and then shift gears to reduce strain on the battery. Forgetting to press the brake while starting could make the car lurch forward, which would be a big problem—safety first. Developing this habit of pressing the brake is great—it takes just two seconds but ensures peace of mind for the whole family.

[Catherine]

From a technical perspective, automotive ignition requirements are crucial. Automatic transmission vehicles are equipped with a sensor-based starting system that only completes the circuit and permits ignition when the brake pedal is depressed, preventing accidents caused by incorrect gear selection during engine startup. Manual transmission vehicles primarily rely on depressing the clutch to disengage power transmission during startup - theoretically, brake pedal engagement isn't mandatory, though modern vehicle designs emphasize dual safety measures. Personally, regardless of vehicle type, I've developed the muscle memory of instinctively depressing the brake when starting. Consistently neglecting this brake engagement habit, particularly on inclines, could lead to vehicle rollaway or sudden lurching if gears aren't properly engaged, posing significant risks. When inspecting brake systems, it's worthwhile to evaluate whether your starting habits are appropriate. Parking environment also matters - level surfaces enhance safety. Never underestimate this detail, as it directly impacts driving experience and risk exposure.

[DeTessa]

When I first learned to drive, my instructor repeatedly reminded me to always press the brake before turning the key to start the engine. He said whether it's an automatic or manual transmission car, developing this habit prevents accidents, especially when learning manual where the engine might suddenly sputter and startle you. Now that I drive on my own, I always follow this rule during startup. I feel pressing the brake makes the starting process smoother and is better for the car's longevity. For manual transmission cars, pressing the clutch is key, but adding the brake provides extra safety. Beginners often make mistakes - I once nearly rolled backward on a slope by overlooking this detail, which was quite scary. After practicing a few times, it becomes second nature. Also, remember to engage the parking brake for added stability when parked.

[DelTravis]

For safety reasons, I always insist on pressing the brake when starting the car. Automatic transmission vehicles won't start at all without pressing the brake, a design intended to prevent accidental movement upon startup. Manual transmission cars theoretically only require pressing the clutch to start, but developing the habit of also pressing the brake provides an extra layer of security, especially when parking in underground garages or during rainy days. Regarding risks, if you start the car without pressing the brake while it's in gear, the vehicle could lurch forward, turning a minor oversight into a major incident. I've seen many people neglect this, resulting in collisions with obstacles immediately after engine startup. Always confirm the gear and handbrake are properly set before parking, and don't rush the starting process. Developing this habit makes driving much more reassuring.