Should You Shift Gear or Release the Handbrake First When Starting an Automatic Car?

[Isabelle]

Shift to D gear first and then release the handbrake, as the handbrake should be released the moment you start driving for safety reasons. Below is more information about automatic cars: 1. Automatic cars usually use hydraulic transmission devices to replace the mechanical clutch in manual cars, so there is no clutch pedal. 2. Automatic cars consume more fuel than manual cars of the same model, approximately 1 liter more per 100 kilometers. 3. In terms of car costs, the cost of an automatic transmission is higher than that of a manual transmission in the same model. The advantage of an automatic transmission over a manual one is that it is easier to drive.

[McJanelle]

I've been driving automatic transmission cars for many years and have developed a habit of always operating in this sequence: press the brake to start the car, shift to D or drive gear, then release the handbrake or electronic parking brake button, and finally lightly press the accelerator to start. Why stick to this order? Because releasing the handbrake directly might cause the car to roll or put extra strain on the transmission, especially on slopes or in congested traffic, which can easily lead to accidents. I've seen many beginners hastily release the handbrake first, resulting in the car jerking suddenly, which is not only scary but can also damage parts. The transmission isn't made of stone, and repeated incorrect operations will shorten its lifespan. So maintaining a steady rhythm—engaging the gear before releasing the handbrake—is both safer and more fuel-efficient. In daily driving, these little tricks have saved me a lot of repair headaches.

[VonGriffin]

When I first learned to drive an automatic transmission, I always thought releasing the handbrake was simple and did it first. But once, when parked on a slope in my neighborhood, the car rolled backward and almost hit a neighbor's flowerpot! Since then, I've corrected my approach: after starting the car with my foot on the brake, I immediately shift to D, confirming the car is stable before releasing the handbrake. The advantage of this sequence is that the car's powertrain is ready, preventing any sudden sliding after brake release. Shifting into drive is like warming up the car—releasing the handbrake allows seamless acceleration. If you release the handbrake without shifting, the electronic handbrake might automatically re-engage, and a traditional handbrake lever could loosen, increasing maintenance costs. After forming this habit, I've never experienced unstable starts again—it's much safer and more worry-free.

[Juliet]

Regarding this issue, I need to explain from the vehicle's operational mechanism. The core of starting an automatic transmission car lies in coordinating power and braking control: you press the brake to start the engine, shift to drive (D), and then release the parking brake. This sequence ensures the transmission gears engage first, allowing power to be directly transmitted to the wheels after releasing the parking brake, avoiding excessive drag force that could affect component lifespan. If done in reverse—releasing the parking brake before shifting into gear—the vehicle might slide in neutral, putting extra stress on the transmission. Electronic parking brake systems automatically assist in adjusting the sequence, but manual types must strictly follow the steps; otherwise, the startup may be rough and shaky. Remembering this can extend the service life of parts.

[MariaFitz]

Safety first is my driving motto. When starting an automatic transmission car, I always shift to D position first and wait until the car is stable before releasing the handbrake. This prevents any potential sliding, especially on mountain roads or slippery surfaces. Experience has taught me that releasing the handbrake prematurely can cause the car to move suddenly, increasing the risk of accidents. For example, in traffic jams, a slight roll could lead to a rear-end collision. This sequence not only protects the transmission but also saves unnecessary brake wear. Forming this habit only takes a few seconds, bringing greater peace of mind.