Should You Release the Clutch or the Brake First in Subject Three?
2 Answers
In Subject Three, when starting the vehicle, release the brake first, then engage the clutch to the semi-linked state, and finally release the brake completely. Points to note when starting: 1. When starting, slowly lift the clutch with your left foot to about halfway, and when you feel the vehicle vibrating slightly, release the handbrake promptly. 2. Then gently press the accelerator slightly. When the vehicle starts to move forward, slowly release the clutch and add a bit more throttle to successfully start. 3. Beginners should pay special attention when starting on a slope. If the handbrake is released too quickly while the clutch isn't lifted sufficiently, the vehicle may roll back. The best method is to press both the clutch and brake when starting (the handbrake is optional). Lift the clutch halfway and then release the brake. At this point, the vehicle is in a semi-clutch state and won't roll back. Simultaneously, press the accelerator and slowly release the clutch to start successfully.
During the starting phase of the Driving Test (Subject 3), I always remember to release the brake first, then gradually release the clutch—this was a lesson learned through blood and tears. When I first started learning to drive, I would get nervous and instinctively lift the clutch first, causing the car to stall multiple times and earning me quite a few scoldings from the instructor. Later, I discovered that releasing the brake to allow the wheels to roll slightly, then gently releasing the clutch to the semi-engaged position, results in a smooth start without rolling back or jerking. This is especially crucial on slopes: releasing only the clutch overloads the engine and risks stalling, while releasing only the brake may cause the car to roll backward. I recorded every practice session to review and finally understood why the sequence matters—it ensures stability and fuel efficiency. On the test, the examiner pays special attention to this operation as it impacts overall driving safety. I recommend practicing simulated hill starts repeatedly; mastery through practice truly reduces failure rates.
