Should You Release the Handbrake or Shift to First Gear First in Subject Two?
2 Answers
In Subject Two, you should shift to gear before releasing the handbrake. This is because the road surface when the vehicle is parked is not completely flat and may have a slope. If you release the handbrake before shifting to gear, the vehicle may roll backward. Below are the relevant details: 1. Starting Gear Control: Whenever the vehicle moves from a stationary position, the gear should remain in first. 2. Sequential Gear Shifting: Skipping gears during the Subject Two test is strictly prohibited. Gear changes must be sequential, such as from first to second gear or second to third gear. Otherwise, the test recorder will log it and deduct corresponding points. If you mistakenly shift to the wrong gear, immediately return the gear to the correct position and shift again. 3. Stable Gear Shifting: When shifting gears, the clutch must be fully depressed, and gear changes should only occur within a certain speed range. 4. Driving Speed: Master the key points of steering and turn at the right time. Control the driving route well—the vehicle's path mainly depends on the speed of steering wheel rotation and driving speed. When reversing, accurately observe the side lines and promptly adjust the direction to ensure the vehicle enters the garage straight.
As a driving instructor, I often teach students how to take the second subject test. The starting sequence must be firmly remembered: first shift into first gear, then release the handbrake. Why is this emphasized? Because during hill starts, shifting into gear first allows the engine's power to lock the wheels, preventing the vehicle from rolling backward. If done the opposite way—releasing the handbrake before shifting into gear—the sudden movement of the car can easily lead to accidents or result in point deductions by the testing system. I've seen too many students rush the start, releasing the handbrake first, only to have the car slip and fail the test. The correct approach is: press the clutch, shift into first gear, slowly release the clutch while adding throttle, and wait until the car is stable before releasing the handbrake. Practicing more to develop this habit is crucial. Before starting, also check the surroundings for safety and the dashboard lights to ensure they don't interfere with other operations.
