Should You Release the Clutch or Brake First When Starting in Subject 2?

[EllaFitz]

Release the clutch first when starting in Subject 2. Relevant information about Subject 2 is as follows: 1. Introduction: Subject 2, also known as the small road test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment. It refers to the field driving skills test. For small vehicles (C1/C2), the test items include five mandatory components: reverse parking, parallel parking, stopping and starting on a slope, right-angle turns, and curve driving (commonly known as S-turns). Some regions may include a sixth item, such as highway toll card collection. For large vehicles (A1/A2/A3/B1/B2), the test items include pole test, stopping and starting on a slope, parallel parking, single-plank bridge crossing, curve driving, right-angle turns, limited-width gate passing, continuous obstacle negotiation, bumpy road driving, narrow road U-turns, as well as simulated highway driving, continuous sharp turns on mountainous roads, tunnels, rain (fog) conditions, slippery roads, and emergency handling. 2. Teaching Objectives: Master the basic driving operation essentials and possess fundamental vehicle control abilities; proficiently grasp the basic methods of field and road driving, with the capability to rationally use vehicle controls, correctly manage the vehicle's spatial position, and accurately control the vehicle's position, speed, and route.

[LilahLynn]

I remember when I was taking the driving test for Subject 2, the instructor repeatedly emphasized that the starting sequence must be correct: first release the clutch pedal slightly to find the semi-engagement point, wait until the car starts to vibrate slightly or you feel power transmission, and then release the brake. Especially during hill starts, this step is crucial. If you do it the opposite way—releasing the brake first—the car is prone to rolling backward or stalling, which would ruin the test. I made this mistake myself during practice; once, the car rolled backward on a slope, and I almost broke into a cold sweat. After developing the right habit, starting became much smoother. Practice more to get a feel for the semi-engagement point, control the clutch with your left foot patiently, and keep your right foot steady on the brake. This way, driving becomes safer and more reassuring, and Subject 2 isn’t so difficult anymore. Just maintain good rhythm and take it step by step—no problem.

[DiHarley]

I always teach people this way for the starting operation in Subject 2: First, slowly release the clutch pedal until the vehicle reaches the semi-engaged state, which is when the engine sound becomes lighter or the car body slightly vibrates, then completely release the brake pedal. This sequence must never be reversed, otherwise it can easily cause stalling or rolling backward. In daily driving, this technique can prevent many accidents, such as being rear-ended at intersections. I recommend practicing several times to get the feel, find a safe place to repeatedly practice starting, and ensure coordination between both feet. The left foot should gently release the clutch, while the right foot should keep steady on the brake without unnecessary movement. With enough practice, it becomes muscle memory, and you'll naturally become proficient. The most important thing in driving is a smooth start—don't rush. Safety first is more important than anything else.

[VincentDella]

Not long after passing Subject 2, I learned that when starting the car, you should first release the clutch to the semi-engaged point, feel the car shake, and then release the brake. If the sequence is wrong, the car will roll back or stall directly, especially on slopes. I remembered this by making many mistakes during practice. Don't release the clutch too quickly; release it a little and wait for the power to engage, then you can start smoothly. Driving more often makes it easier to master the rhythm.