Should You Release the Clutch or the Brake First in Subject Three?

[Jonathan]

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.

[Kendra]

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.

[StBryce]

As an experienced instructor who has taught countless students, I've noticed that beginners often make mistakes in the starting sequence. They tend to release the clutch first, thinking it will get the car moving sooner. This is completely wrong, as it can instantly overload the engine and cause stalling. The correct approach is: press both the clutch and brake pedals, then release the brake first. Wait until the car shows slight movement intention before gradually releasing the clutch while gently applying the throttle for smooth operation. I've observed that students who pass their tests have all mastered this rhythm, which also prevents rolling risks. During the Category 3 driving test, examiners focus precisely on such details - like releasing the brake first on slopes to prevent rolling into vehicles behind. This principle applies to daily driving too - maintaining the correct sequence results in smoother operation and better fuel efficiency. During practice sessions, I emphasize repeated simulation exercises in parking lots, using timers to measure reaction speeds.

[VonEmilia]

Last year, I just passed the third driving test, and I stuck to a trick when starting: release the brake first, then the clutch. At first, I didn't understand why, but after trying a few times, I found that if the order was reversed, the car would shake violently or even stall, affecting the test score. The examiner told me that this sequence ensures a smooth start and reduces rolling back. In daily driving, this method also saves effort, especially on steep slopes or in traffic jams. I recommend practicing the coordination with automatic throttle compensation more often and remembering to relax your foot feel.