Should You Release the Handbrake or Shift Gears First in a Manual Transmission?

[DaniellaLee]

When starting the car, you should shift into gear first, then release the handbrake. Below are the related operations for a manual transmission: 1. Correct starting procedure for a manual transmission: The proper steps when starting are to shift the gear lever into the starting gear after getting into the car. Sound the horn, turn on the turn signal, and observe the front, sides, and rearview mirrors to check for any pedestrians or vehicles behind, ensuring there are no obstacles to starting, with special attention to safety. Firmly hold the steering wheel, activate the left turn signal, and release the parking brake lever. 2. Reason for shifting into gear before releasing the handbrake: The reason for shifting into gear first and then releasing the handbrake when starting is to prevent the car from rolling backward. If you release the handbrake first, the car will be in neutral for a period before you shift into gear. Moreover, when starting, you may not know if the ground is level. If it's inclined, the car in neutral could roll backward, leading to an accident.

[Warren]

I've been driving manual transmission cars for over a decade, and my usual practice is to engage the gear first before releasing the handbrake. This approach is crucial for safety, especially when parked on a slope. If you release the handbrake first, the car might roll back—I learned this the hard way when I was younger, almost hitting a roadside guardrail on a slope in my neighborhood. By engaging first gear, holding the clutch, and then releasing the handbrake to start, you ensure the engine is ready for a smooth takeoff. New drivers often panic and reverse the sequence, leading to stalling or rolling, which not only increases risks but also wears out the gearbox. Now, it's become second nature to me—whether on a slope or flat ground, this method ensures peace of mind, reduces effort, and extends the vehicle's lifespan.

[VanNora]

As someone who enjoys the control of a manual transmission, I always insist on pressing the clutch to shift gears first, then slowly releasing the handbrake. This sequence ensures a smoother power delivery and prevents sudden clutch load that could cause jerking or wear. Once, I tried releasing the handbrake before shifting, and the car would lurch forward uncontrollably during takeoff. I often drive through mountain roads, and stopping on steep slopes requires extra attention to this sequence—engaging first gear to match the revs before releasing the handbrake to start, combined with throttle input, reduces stress on the transmission. This simple and efficient method is great for daily driving, and I recommend beginners practice rev-matching techniques to make manual driving more enjoyable.

[ColeFitz]

I've been driving manual transmission cars for decades, and the rule has always been to shift into gear first before releasing the handbrake. This prevents the vehicle from rolling, especially on uphill slopes where releasing the handbrake without being in gear can cause the car to roll back, potentially leading to accidents. Beginners often do it the opposite way, thinking speed is all that matters, but this frequently results in stalling or excessive engine load. I believe safety is paramount, and developing this habit helps protect both the brakes and transmission.