Should You Release the Handbrake or Shift Gear First When Driving an Automatic Car?
3 Answers
When starting an automatic car, you should shift gear first and then release the handbrake. Here are some related introductions about automatic cars: 1. Working principle: The automatic transmission mainly relies on the hydraulic transmission principle of the torque converter to complete the gear shifting action; the vehicle will automatically select the appropriate gear according to the driving speed and traffic conditions, and the automatic transmission is safer when shifting gears. 2. Advantages of automatic transmission: The automatic transmission uses a torque converter to replace the clutch of manual transmission cars, so the automatic transmission does not require frequent gear shifting operations. In terms of operational convenience, the automatic transmission is more suitable for beginners.
When driving an automatic transmission car, I always start by turning on the ignition while keeping my foot firmly on the brake pedal to ensure the car is securely stationary. Then, I shift into D gear, at which point the transmission engages. Next, I release the handbrake completely, waiting for the indicator light to disappear before gently lifting my foot off the brake, allowing the car to start moving forward. This sequence is crucial, primarily for safety reasons. If the handbrake is released first, the car might immediately roll backward on a slope, potentially causing an accident. During my driving school lessons, the instructor repeatedly emphasized this point, explaining that it helps prevent transmission wear and accidental movement. Extra caution is especially necessary on slippery roads. Once this routine becomes a habit, the entire process feels natural. Taking an extra two seconds before each start to check the handbrake status and safety position makes driving more reassuring and reduces the likelihood of vehicle malfunctions.
As a beginner learning to drive an automatic transmission car, I once tried releasing the handbrake before shifting gears, which caused the car to move slightly in the parking lot and gave me a scare. Later, I realized that it's smoother to first shift to D gear and then release the handbrake. My habit now is to press the brake immediately after starting the engine, select the desired gear (R or D), confirm the dashboard indicator is correct, and only then release the handbrake button or lever. This prevents rolling issues and is much safer, especially on slopes. A quick tip: If you forget to release the handbrake, the dashboard warning light will illuminate as a reminder to check. This habit can also extend the lifespan of your brakes. I often drive to shopping areas where crowded conditions make this orderly operation even more essential to avoid scratches or nervous situations. Practice makes perfect – learning from mistakes is part of the process.
