Should You Shift Gear First or Release the Handbrake First?
3 Answers
You should shift gear first and then release the handbrake. Below is an introduction about the handbrake: Correct Method of Pulling the Handbrake: Press the handbrake button before pulling it; apply gentle force when pulling the handbrake; pulling the handbrake to about 70% is sufficient, as pulling it to the maximum height will shorten the lifespan of the handbrake cable. Dangers of Forgetting to Pull the Handbrake While Driving: The brake pump cannot provide sufficient braking force, causing the engine to stall; accelerated wear of the brake discs and hardening of the brake pads due to friction heat; elongation of the handbrake cable; leading to brake fluid leakage from the brake caliper and failure of the braking function. Function of the Handbrake: When the vehicle is stopped, tightening the handbrake causes the brake shoes to press against the brake drum or disc, keeping the vehicle in a braking state to prevent dangerous movement.
Every time I start driving, I make it a habit to first press the brake and clutch, start the engine, shift into first gear or reverse, and only then release the handbrake. This is mainly to prevent the car from rolling, especially when parked on a slope. I remember when I first bought the car, there was a time in the underground garage slope when I released the handbrake first, and the car suddenly rolled back half a meter, almost hitting the wall, which gave me a cold sweat. Now, with this habit, starting is much smoother. Although experienced drivers often say the sequence isn't that rigid, I prefer to play it safe, especially when the roads are slippery in the rain.
During driving tests, instructors repeatedly emphasize: after starting the engine, shift gears first before releasing the handbrake. The principle is simple - engaging the gear allows the drivetrain to connect, with the engine preparing to turn the wheels. Releasing the handbrake at this moment enables the vehicle to start moving smoothly immediately. If the sequence is reversed, the tires lose braking force and may instantly roll backward on slopes. Having driven manual transmission cars for ten years, maintaining this habit has helped me avoid three rear-end collisions. By the way, automatic transmission vehicles also preload power when shifted to D gear, so it's equally advisable to shift gears first before releasing the electronic parking brake.
