Should You Start the Engine or Walk Around the Car First in the Subject 3 Driving Test?

[EmmaDella]

Before getting into the car for the Subject 3 driving test, you should first perform a walk-around inspection to ensure safety, then open the door and enter the vehicle. After entering, start the engine. Walk-around inspection: Regardless of where the examinee is standing, they must walk around the car to inspect the vehicle's exterior and surrounding environment before getting in. The inspection sequence involves walking from the driver's side around the rear of the car and back, observing carefully. Only after confirming safety can you enter the vehicle. Correct steps to start the engine: Press the brake pedal with your right foot, insert the mechanical key into the ignition, turn it clockwise to the "START" position, and hold for 1-2 seconds until you hear the engine start.

[Clarence]

I got my driver's license last year, and I still remember that every step of the road test (Subject 3) must be strictly followed. At the beginning of the test, you must walk around the car to carefully inspect the surroundings, such as checking if the tires are in good condition and whether there are any stones or obstacles. Only after confirming safety can you get in the car and start the engine. If you skip the walk-around and start the engine directly, the examiner will immediately fail you because this step is designed to prevent accidents and cultivate safe habits. I once witnessed a candidate who forgot to walk around the car and started the engine, resulting in immediate termination of the test and a wasted opportunity. In daily driving, I’ve also developed this habit—walking around the car before getting in—which has helped me avoid many potential risks. In short, the test design has its reasons, and following the requirements is always the right approach.

[StCharlie]

On the day of the driving test (Subject 3), I was so nervous that my palms were sweating. The instructor had reminded me beforehand to always walk around the car for inspection before getting in, and not to rush to start the engine. The test regulations require the candidate to report upon reaching the car, then walk around it once to inspect the body, tires, mirrors, and other parts. Only after completing this should you get in, fasten the seatbelt, and start the engine. Skipping the walk-around and starting the engine directly will result in point deductions or even failure. My friend was given a zero score for lazily skipping this step. Now, even when driving on my own, I follow this routine—taking a quick look around the car before getting in to ensure the surroundings are safe. The test isn’t meant to make things difficult but to teach us the basics of driving. Safety always comes first, so everyone must remember this sequence and not skip steps.

[LeZoey]

I just passed the driving test (Subject 3) recently and am very clear about the procedures: you must walk around the vehicle for inspection before getting in. This includes checking the tire conditions and body damage, and confirming there are no obstacles before starting the engine. The test requires this procedure; if you directly start the engine without walking around the vehicle, the examiner will deduct points or fail you, which is a common mistake. Developing good habits is crucial for driving, such as preventing running over hidden objects. During my practice, I skipped this step once and was criticized. The test is designed to ensure you've mastered the safety procedures. New drivers must not omit this step—just follow the rules to pass smoothly.

[ReeseLynn]

In daily driving, I'm used to walking around the car to check the surroundings before getting in. This is also mandatory in the Subject 3 driving test and the sequence cannot be reversed. The test procedure requires first inspecting tires and vehicle body for safety, then entering the car and starting the engine only after confirmation. If you start the engine first and then discover issues, it becomes difficult to handle during the test and may result in point deductions for neglecting basic preparation. Like when I occasionally skipped inspection and nearly had problems due to stones in the tires. The test simulates real situations to train safety awareness - the walk-around is an essential process. Beginners shouldn't be lazy; following procedures not only helps pass the test but also builds practical skills for future driving.

[EdenLynn]

I always pay attention to driving details. The process for the Subject 3 driving test strictly requires walking around the vehicle to check tire pressure and for any foreign objects underneath before getting in, fastening the seatbelt, and starting the engine. Starting the engine directly during the test would be marked as neglecting safety procedures, resulting in severe point deductions. Developing this habit can prevent accidents, such as running over small animals or missing vehicle damage. The instructor repeatedly emphasized that this is a mandatory step and cutting corners is not allowed. I strictly followed this during my test and passed on the first attempt. Now, even when driving my own car, I adhere to this practice—safety first is the golden rule. New drivers should memorize the procedure and avoid reckless actions to prevent mistakes.