Should You Release the Handbrake or Shift Gear First When Starting the Car?
2 Answers
When starting the car, shift to gear first, then release the handbrake. Below is relevant information about starting the car: 1. Starting precautions: Get in the car, fasten the seatbelt, and adjust the seat. Quickly press the clutch pedal to the floor and shift to 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 release the clutch while gently pressing the accelerator to achieve a smooth start. 2. Driving precautions: Avoid keeping the clutch in the semi-engaged state for too long. Some drivers have the 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 state will rapidly wear out the clutch plate.
I've been driving for decades, and experience has taught me that you must never release the handbrake first when starting off. I always shift into gear first—for manual transmission cars, I depress the clutch and shift into first gear; for automatic transmission cars, I step on the brake and shift into D gear—before gently releasing the handbrake to start moving. This sequence is absolutely crucial, especially when parked on a slope. If you release the handbrake first, the car can roll backward. I once had this happen to me when I was younger on a mountain road—the car rolled and nearly hit the vehicle behind me, costing me hundreds in repairs. Since then, I've strictly adhered to the habit of shifting into gear before releasing the handbrake. The same applies to automatic transmission cars: start the engine, step on the brake, shift into gear, release the handbrake, and then release the brake. This process not only prevents accidents but also protects the transmission from shock. Before driving, I also check the rearview mirrors and surroundings to ensure safety. In short, shifting into gear before releasing the handbrake is a fundamental driving practice—cultivating this good habit makes travel safer and more reliable.
