Should You Press the Clutch or Ignite First When Starting the Car?
3 Answers
Whether to press the clutch before driving a car depends on the driver's habits and the type of vehicle. Driver's Habits: Many drivers are accustomed to pressing the clutch and brake before starting the car. This is mainly a long-term habit and also for the safety of the engine. Pressing the clutch and brake before starting the car is a good practice, as it prevents the car from suddenly lurching forward after ignition. Vehicle Design: Some models currently on the market require the clutch or brake to be pressed before starting the car; otherwise, the vehicle cannot start normally. This design is also based on safety considerations to prevent accidents caused by starting the car without disengaging the gear.
As a novice who just got my driver's license, I remember the first time I started the car, I completely forgot to press the clutch and directly turned the ignition. The car suddenly lurched forward and almost hit the bushes by the wall, giving me a cold sweat. The instructor repeatedly emphasized that before ignition, you must ensure the clutch pedal is pressed to disconnect the transmission, keeping the gear in neutral. This way, the engine starting won't drive the wheels, avoiding danger. After forming this habit, every start became much smoother, especially on slopes to prevent rolling or jerking. Beyond basic operations, I also learned that during cold starts, the battery is under heavy load, and pressing the clutch can reduce the burden, extending the ignition system's lifespan. Regularly checking the clutch disc for wear is also crucial—if it feels unresponsive or slips, it's time to visit the repair shop. After a few practices, it becomes second nature, protecting your beloved car and ensuring safety.
Having driven for decades, from older manual transmission models to modern vehicles, I always depress the clutch before ignition, never skipping this step for convenience. This prevents excessive torque load on transmission components during engine startup, avoiding unnecessary vehicle jerking or battery drain failures. In daily driving scenarios like frequent stop-and-go in urban traffic, developing this habit ensures smoother and more efficient starts; it's particularly crucial during cold winters when lubrication is insufficient. From a maintenance perspective, regular checks of the battery and transmission oil pressure can prevent ignition issues. Overall, safe driving relies on good habits, saving both trouble and effort.
