What are the techniques for starting and stopping on a slope in Subject 2 of the driving test?
4 Answers
Subject 2 slope starting and stopping techniques are as follows: 1. Handbrake method: This method can be used for the driving test. If used during the test, you can appropriately increase the throttle force, and if necessary, use a strong throttle with the handbrake for a forceful start. 2. Semi-clutch method: This is currently the most commonly used method for slope starts. When practicing this method, after stopping on the slope, lift the clutch until the car body shakes, then release the brake without pressing the throttle, relying solely on the clutch to keep the car suspended on the slope. Fine adjustments can be made to move the car forward or backward using only the clutch. The key to this practice is gentle and delicate footwork. This method is not suitable for underpowered vehicles but works well for vehicles with sufficient low-speed power. 3. Dual-foot method: This method requires the right foot to operate both the throttle and brake simultaneously. It is slightly more technically demanding and is used for steeper slopes or when the handbrake fails. The practice requirement is to be able to keep the car suspended without using the handbrake, relying on the coordination of throttle, clutch, and foot brake. Many experienced drivers or mountain drivers are skilled in this method, and some underpowered vehicles require it. 4. Direct start method: This method is suitable for less strict situations, such as when there are no cars behind and the slope is not steep. It is not suitable for tests. Simply release the brake, quickly press the throttle, and lift the clutch to complete the start. This method is used by many experienced drivers. It requires the least technical skill but the highest technical proficiency. The driver must have excellent coordination between throttle and clutch to start smoothly and quickly (once mastered, this method becomes a faster version of method 2, with no rolling back and a smooth, quick start).
When performing a hill start and stopping at a designated point, I usually first find a position marker, such as aligning the rearview mirror or the front of the car with a reference line on the slope. When stopping, it's important to be steady—press the brake and clutch all the way down to ensure the car stops accurately. Then, the key is starting: slowly release the clutch with your left foot to feel the semi-engagement point, and when the car body shakes, gently apply the throttle while slowly lifting the brake with your right foot to prevent the car from rolling back. Remember to use the handbrake for added safety, especially on steep slopes. I always pay special attention to this rhythm during practice because mistiming can easily lead to stalling or rolling, which really tests your patience. This skill is also useful for parking on slopes in the city, and mastering it beforehand makes passing the test much easier. The key is to simulate the test environment frequently, operate calmly, and avoid panicking to prevent mistakes.
When practicing the hill start and fixed-point parking, I always remind myself of the key points: finding the right position is crucial. Use reference points like the hood covering the yellow line or marks on the engine cover to ensure the parking position is correct. After parking steadily, the most challenging part is starting. Slowly lift the left clutch pedal to the semi-engagement point until you feel the car vibrate and the engine sound changes. Then, gently press the accelerator with your right foot and slowly release the foot brake. If you can't control it and the car rolls back, use the handbrake for assistance. I often make mistakes during practice, and rolling back a bit is common, but practice makes perfect. The coach always emphasizes the need for delicate clutch control, and it's okay to press the accelerator a bit more on steeper slopes. This skill is also quite practical for slopes in residential parking garages. After passing the test and driving on the road, confidence increases significantly. Don't be afraid of making mistakes; just try a few more times.
When performing a hill start and fixed-point parking, I need to remember the basic steps: Accurate stopping is the first step. Observe the marked lines or poles at the test site, align the front of the car, and then press the brake to stop. Next, when starting, coordinate the clutch and brake. Slowly release the clutch with your left foot until it reaches the semi-engaged state. When the car body shakes, release the brake with your right foot and gently press the accelerator. Use the handbrake appropriately to prevent rolling back. Don’t overlook safety—ensure the vehicle is stable before moving. The entire process requires precise coordination. During regular practice, focus on the coordination between the accelerator and clutch, as well as memorizing reference points.
