Should You Shift Gear or Release the Handbrake First When Starting an Automatic Car?
4 Answers
Generally, you should shift gear first and then release the handbrake. Here is an introduction to the gears of an automatic car: 1. P——Parking, the parking gear. When the car is parked and not in use, the gear is in this position, and the wheels are mechanically locked to prevent rolling. 2. R——Reverse gear, used when reversing. 3. N——Neutral, used when temporarily stopping (e.g., at a red light). 4. D——Drive, the forward gear, also known as the driving gear. Used when moving forward. 5. L——Low, the low gear. Used when going downhill. 6. OD, Overdrive, used when driving at high speeds.
I believe you must engage the gear before releasing the handbrake when starting off. In an automatic transmission car, I always emphasize this sequence: press the brake, shift from P to D or R, and then release the handbrake. The reason is simple—if you release the handbrake first, the vehicle may roll freely, especially on slopes or uneven surfaces, increasing the risk of unintended rolling or collisions. I’ve seen novice drivers cause minor accidents due to incorrect sequences, ranging from scratched bumpers to rear-ending others. Moreover, prolonged incorrect operation may add unnecessary strain to the transmission. Modern cars with electronic handbrakes automatically release the handbrake when shifting gears, but traditional mechanical handbrakes require following this rule. Safety always comes first, and developing good habits helps avoid risks. Remember the details and practice more to drive more steadily.
I remember making a mistake the first time I drove an automatic transmission car. I released the handbrake in a hurry and the car suddenly moved, which gave me a scare. Later, I learned from experience that when starting off, you must shift into gear before releasing the handbrake. This prevents the car from suddenly rolling and ensures smoother control. Especially on slopes or at parking spots, getting the sequence wrong can be dangerous. Now, after driving for a long time, I've developed a habit: brake, shift to D, release handbrake, and accelerate—all in one smooth motion. It makes driving feel more secure and reduces the nervousness of the beginner phase. I recommend practicing starting and stopping in an empty space to familiarize yourself with the process—it's like mastering a rhythm, so the car won't feel chaotic on the road. The car responds to your actions, and only when the sequence is right will the experience feel smooth.
From a mechanical perspective, the automatic transmission locks the gearbox in P (Park) position; when shifted to D (Drive) or R (Reverse), the drivetrain prepares to engage the wheels. If the parking brake is released first, the vehicle may move freely, posing significant risks on slopes. The correct procedure is: press the brake pedal, shift gears, release the parking brake, and then release the brake pedal to start moving. This reduces component stress and protects the vehicle. Smooth operation ensures greater reliability.
