Should You Release the Handbrake or Shift Gear First When Starting the Car?
2 Answers
When starting the car, you should shift gear first and then release the handbrake. On uneven roads, there might also be issues with the throttle or clutch. The benefits of shifting gear before releasing the handbrake include preventing the car from rolling forward or backward, thus avoiding dangerous situations. The correct method to start driving is to first insert the key, then turn on the ignition switch, and start the car. The handbrake, professionally known as the auxiliary brake, operates differently from the main brake. It uses a steel cable connected to the rear brake shoes to apply braking force to the car. Long-term use of the handbrake can cause the steel cable to undergo plastic deformation, which is irreversible and will reduce its effectiveness over time, increasing the handbrake's travel distance. The handbrake system also includes a return spring; when the handbrake is engaged, the spring stretches, and when released, it returns to its original length.
When I first started driving, I was also confused about the sequence. Later, I asked several experienced drivers and finally learned the correct procedure. The proper steps are: first, press the brake pedal to start the engine, then shift the gear to drive or reverse, and finally release the handbrake. I've been driving automatic transmission cars for over ten years, and I always follow this sequence, especially on slopes—the car stays perfectly stable without rolling back. The same principle applies to manual transmission: you must shift into gear before releasing the handbrake. Otherwise, the transmission and handbrake systems will work against each other, accelerating wear over time. Pay extra attention when starting on steep slopes—getting the sequence wrong could cause the car to roll back and collide with vehicles behind, which is extremely dangerous. On icy or snowy roads in winter, standardized operation is even more critical—safety should always come first.
