Should You Press the Clutch or the Brake First When Starting to Drive?

[EllianaMarie]

When starting a manual car, partially release the clutch before releasing the brake. Below are the steps for starting a manual transmission car: 1. Adjust the seat before starting to drive, ensuring your feet can firmly and comfortably press the clutch, brake, and accelerator. 2. For a manual transmission car, engage first gear when starting, press the clutch all the way down, and place your right foot on the accelerator, ready to go. 3. When starting to move, slowly lift the clutch with your left foot to about halfway, and release the handbrake promptly when you feel the vehicle begin to vibrate. 4. Then lightly press the accelerator, and as the car starts to move forward, gradually release the clutch, then add a bit more accelerator to successfully start the car.

[Barry]

When I first started learning to drive a manual transmission car, I was confused about which pedal to press first when starting off, and the instructor scolded me harshly. Back then in the driving school car, I mistakenly thought I should press the brake first, but the engine didn’t respond and stalled, nearly causing me to hit the car behind. He corrected me: For a normal start, you must press the clutch pedal first to disconnect the engine from the wheels before shifting into first gear, then slowly release the clutch while gently pressing the accelerator, and the car will move smoothly. If you’re stopped on a steep slope, to prevent rolling back, you need to either pull the handbrake or lightly press the brake pedal for assistance, either simultaneously or beforehand. Now, after years of driving, I’ve developed a habit: before moving, I always confirm that my foot is on the clutch to avoid accidental stalling or rolling. Beginners shouldn’t panic—practice makes perfect, and safe driving is the most important thing.

[Tim]

Having driven manual transmission for over twenty years, I've seen this issue countless times. The key to starting is to first press the clutch pedal, which disengages the power connection and ensures smooth gear shifting; then engage first gear, gradually release the clutch while applying the throttle, and the car will naturally move forward. Pressing the brake isn't a necessary step for starting unless you're parked on a slope and need the handbrake or brake to prevent rolling. Back in my younger days when I drove long distances, I saw beginners trying to start by pressing the brake, only to have the wheels lock up. Remember: develop muscle memory—clutch first, then start. It's simple, efficient, and protects the transmission for longer lifespan.

[LaNoah]

From a safety perspective, incorrect starting sequences can easily lead to accidents. First pressing the clutch ensures power interruption, preventing sudden stops or jerks. If the brake is pressed first, the engine may overload and stall or lose control, especially at congested intersections. Hill starts require extra caution: press the brake to prevent sliding, then press the clutch to engage the gear, reach the semi-engagement point, release the brake, and apply the throttle. Neglecting this increases collision risks, so rigorous practice is essential to ensure safe daily driving.