What are the methods to prevent rolling back?
3 Answers
Methods to prevent rolling back are as follows: 1. Use your left foot to press the brake pedal and your right foot to press the accelerator. Increase the engine speed to above 3000 RPM while keeping the left foot on the brake. This method basically prevents rolling back, but since the foot brake applies braking force to all four wheels simultaneously, locking the drive wheels while pressing the accelerator may theoretically damage the transmission gears. 2. Engage the handbrake, release the foot brake, and press the accelerator to a certain RPM before releasing the handbrake to start moving. This method is similar to the principle of starting on a slope with a manual transmission car. Since the handbrake locks the rear wheels, it should not damage the transmission. 3. Hovering: Before approaching the toll booth, completely release the accelerator without pressing the brake. When the vehicle's forward momentum completely disappears, gently press the accelerator. At this point, the gravitational pull and the engine's power are in balance, allowing the vehicle to remain stationary on the slope without using the brake or handbrake. After paying the toll, simply press the accelerator to move forward without needing to use the brake. This method requires very precise control of the accelerator.
Preventing rollback is something I've dealt with for decades of driving, and I have my own set of habits. The key is to firmly engage the handbrake immediately after stopping the car—whether it's a manual or automatic transmission, this step cannot be skipped. When starting on a slope with a manual transmission, don't rush to release the clutch—first lightly press the accelerator to give the engine some power, then slowly release the clutch and brake, only fully releasing them when you feel the car start to move. Tire condition is crucial; I regularly check tire pressure and tread wear. Old tires have poor grip and are more prone to slipping on wet or slippery roads. Another tip: find an empty slope to practice starting and get familiar with your car's response. Loose handbrake cables can also cause problems, so I often remind friends to have them checked during maintenance. Developing these good habits basically eliminates the risk of rollback.
To prevent rolling, I believe both technology and habits need to be combined. For example, many modern new cars are equipped with hill start assist, which automatically helps you brake for 2-3 seconds, allowing the driver to focus on the throttle; before driving, check the vehicle settings and learn how to activate this function. If not available, basic operations must be solid: when parking, ensure the automatic transmission is in P gear, and for manual transmission, use first gear or reverse gear to lock the wheels with the engine. When starting a manual transmission, don’t release the clutch too quickly—keep the foot brake pressed, lightly tap the throttle while slowly lifting the clutch, and release the brake only after the car starts moving. Also, check electronic systems, such as whether the parking brake is responsive; if the vehicle is parked on a slope, try to point the tires towards the curb or add a wheel chock. Small details in safe driving become natural after a few tries.
