Should You Shift Gear First or Release the Handbrake First in a Car?
2 Answers
The starting sequence is the same for both automatic and manual transmission cars: you should shift into gear first and then release the handbrake. After engaging the gear, the power transmission path of the gearbox will be connected. When you first shift into gear, the transmission is in first gear, where the torque is at its maximum. If the brake is not properly applied, the car might suddenly lurch forward. The correct sequence for starting a car is: shift into first gear, release the handbrake, gently press the accelerator, and slowly release the clutch. The sequence for stopping a car is: press the brake to bring the vehicle to a stop, shift into neutral, engage the handbrake, and then turn off the engine before exiting the vehicle. Manual transmission car braking techniques: When braking in a curve, you must brake before entering the curve to reduce speed. Accelerate when exiting the curve. If you need to brake while in the curve, adjust the braking force according to the vehicle's arc to avoid skidding or drifting. Avoid slamming on the brakes! When going uphill, if you brake too hard, the vehicle will slow down quickly. Therefore, when braking on a slope, unless there are special circumstances, you should tap the brake and release it faster than usual to prevent the car from rolling back or being rear-ended due to excessive slowing. Note that for manual transmission cars, you should shift gears promptly after braking and avoid using high gears when climbing hills. When going downhill, the brake serves as an auxiliary tool for slowing down and should not be pressed continuously. Continuous braking may cause the brake pads to overheat, leading to brake failure. Generally, manual transmission cars should use third gear to maintain a stable speed. For automatic transmission cars, switch to manual mode and adjust the gear according to the slope (some cars have up to seven gears, so it's hard to specify). The brake's role here is to assist in controlling speed—avoid relying solely on the brake to manage speed.
Generally speaking, you should release the handbrake first before shifting gears. This is a safety habit I've developed after driving for ten years. After starting the engine, press the brake firmly, slowly release the handbrake to disengage the vehicle's braking, and then shift to D or R gear to start. This prevents sudden stress on the transmission, especially when parked on a slope. If you shift gears before releasing the handbrake, the car may roll forward or backward, which can easily panic beginners into pressing the wrong pedal. If the slope is too steep and the handbrake is tightly engaged, you might hear distressing clunking sounds from the transmission gears. Automatic transmission cars have slightly stronger protection mechanisms, but older manual transmission vehicles could directly damage the clutch plates. Driving instructors always emphasize this sequence repeatedly, and developing this habit makes driving much safer and worry-free.
