What are the steps for a beginner to get started with an automatic transmission in C2 Subject 2?
3 Answers
Check if the door light is off. Adjust the seat to a position where your left foot can comfortably reach the pedals, then lock the seat in place. Align the horizon line to the center of the rearview mirror. After fastening the seatbelt, test if you can fully depress the clutch. Release the handbrake → Depress the clutch → Shift into gear → Slowly release the clutch → Gently press the accelerator.
As a novice who just passed the C2 license test, I find the steps to get in the car quite simple. First, take a deep breath to calm down, sit in the driver's seat, and don't panic. Step one is adjusting the seat—make sure your feet can comfortably reach the brake and accelerator pedals, with your legs neither too bent nor too straight. Step two is adjusting the mirrors, mainly the side mirrors, ensuring you can see behind and to the sides clearly. Step three is fastening the seatbelt—it's mandatory during the test, so don't forget to secure it properly. Step four is starting the vehicle: press the brake pedal, then press the start button or turn the key to ignite the engine. Next, check if the gear is in P (Park)—if it's not, the car won't move or might roll. Step five is releasing the handbrake—most modern cars have an electronic parking brake, so just press the button gently. Once everything is set, check the dashboard for warning lights; if none are lit, shift to D (Drive) and get ready to go. Before getting in, it's good practice to quickly scan your surroundings for safety—examiners notice these small details, so don't rush too much.
A friend of mine is a driving instructor, and he emphasizes the key points when getting in the car: don’t slack off on adjusting your position—make sure the seat and mirrors are properly set for good visibility and to avoid losing points on the test. Always fasten your seatbelt tightly, and when starting the car, firmly press the brake before pressing the button or turning the key. Double-check that the gear is in P (Park) to avoid shifting incorrectly. Releasing the handbrake is simple—just press the electronic button. I stress not to rush through the process; take it step by step. Beginners often forget to fasten their seatbelt or fail to press the brake before starting, leading to an immediate fail. Also, it’s helpful to take a deep breath before getting in to stay calm—this makes passing the test easier. Once you practice these small details enough, they’ll become second nature.
