Should You Release the Handbrake or Engage the Gear First When Driving?
3 Answers
You should engage the gear first, then release the handbrake. Introduction to starting precautions: Fasten your seatbelt upon entering the car and adjust the seat. Quickly press the clutch to the floor and shift into first gear. Turn on the left turn signal, check the surroundings (both side mirrors), and release the handbrake. Quickly lift the clutch to the semi-engaged position, pause slightly, then slowly lift the clutch while gently pressing the accelerator to ensure a smooth start. Here are some driving precautions: 1. Avoid keeping the clutch in a semi-engaged state for too long. Some drivers have a habit of keeping their left foot on the clutch while driving, which can cause significant damage to the clutch plate. Especially when driving at high speeds, prolonged semi-engaged clutch use can lead to rapid wear. 2. Before starting the vehicle, ensure that either the handbrake or the foot brake is engaged. This is because it's often difficult to judge whether the road is sloped from inside the cabin, and this precaution helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backward or sliding forward.
Before driving, I always think about the sequence: first release the handbrake, then shift gears. You see, when the handbrake is engaged, the car is firmly parked. If you shift into gear first and then release the handbrake, the sudden connection of power can cause jerks or impacts, which isn't friendly to the car's transmission or other components. Especially on slopes, the risk of rolling back is even more troublesome. I made this mistake once when I first started driving, and the car gave a sudden jolt, which really startled me. Over time, I developed a habit: after starting the engine, confirm the surroundings are safe, press the brake pedal, release the handbrake, shift into D or manual first gear, and gently press the accelerator to start. This routine is smooth and reassuring, protecting the vehicle and preventing accidents. In the end, driving safety comes first, and good habits ensure a long and worry-free driving experience.
Based on my years of driving experience, the correct sequence is definitely to release the handbrake first and then shift gears. The reason is simple: the handbrake is the parking brake, and the car can only move freely after releasing it; shifting gears is the driving command. If done in reverse, once the gear is engaged and power is delivered to the wheels, suddenly releasing the handbrake can cause jerking and impact, increasing the risk of damage to the transmission system and accelerating wear. Manual transmission cars require extra caution—I recommend pressing the clutch, releasing the handbrake, shifting gears, and then slowly releasing the clutch while applying the throttle. For automatic transmissions, it's simpler: release the handbrake, press the brake to shift into D or R, and gently apply the throttle to start. Developing this habit is car-friendly, reducing repair hassles. Don’t overlook these details—they are crucial for overall driving safety and smoothness.
