What does it mean to start without releasing the parking brake?

[VonAlex]

Starting without releasing the parking brake means that the vehicle begins to move without disengaging the handbrake. Introduction to the parking brake: It usually refers to the manual brake installed in motor vehicles, commonly known as the handbrake, which is used to stabilize the vehicle after it has come to a stop, preventing accidents caused by rolling on inclined surfaces. The handbrake is typically located within easy reach of the driver's right hand for convenient operation. Penalty points for starting without releasing the parking brake: If the driver starts without releasing the parking brake but reacts within 3 seconds and disengages the handbrake, 10 points will be deducted. If the driver fails to react within 3 seconds, 100 points will be deducted directly.

[VanCassidy]

I was driving and remembered one time when I started the car without releasing the handbrake. The car felt like it was being dragged, the engine noise became louder, and fuel consumption shot up. Over time, the brake discs and friction pads would overheat and deform, emitting a burnt smell. In severe cases, you could even see smoke coming from the rear wheels, causing significant damage to the braking system. This is especially problematic for automatic transmission cars, as it puts extra strain on the gearbox, and for manual transmissions, it can lead to premature clutch failure. I’ve noticed that beginners often make this mistake, so now I’ve developed a habit of checking the dashboard warning lights before starting the engine to remind myself to release the handbrake. Driving is all about forming good habits—avoiding these small oversights can save a lot on repair costs and extend the car’s lifespan. A simple but effective tip is to place a sticky note on the steering wheel that says ‘Release the handbrake first.’ It’s a small step that goes a long way in ensuring peace of mind and safety.

[StIsabela]

If you start driving without releasing the handbrake, the car won't move smoothly at all. The acceleration will be as slow as a snail crawling, and no matter how hard you press the gas pedal, it won't help. This behavior carries significant risks—the locked rear wheels can easily lead to loss of control, especially during turns or on slippery roads, increasing the likelihood of accidents. It may also damage the suspension system, adding to repair costs. I once experienced uneven tire wear and had to spend hundreds of dollars on new tires—what a waste! Nowadays, many new cars come with warning systems that flash a light to remind you to release the handbrake, which is really convenient. Remember, safety comes first. Develop a habit of checking in order before driving: release the handbrake, press the brake, shift gears, and then start—just like checking to turn off the faucet after brushing your teeth to avoid careless mistakes. Paying attention to this every day reduces trouble and protects both yourself and your family.

[MacHaley]

Starting the car without releasing the handbrake makes it behave like it's drunk—the engine revs wildly but lacks power, resulting in poor fuel efficiency and added stress. While it may not cause immediate issues, prolonged use can wear down and overheat the brakes, producing a foul odor and potentially warping the rear tires, increasing risks on the highway. I once had to replace warped brake discs during repairs, costing me hundreds—a hard lesson learned. New drivers often forget, but don’t panic; the dashboard usually has a red warning light or alert sound to help. A good habit is to release the handbrake before shifting into gear, gradually building muscle memory until it becomes as natural as riding a bike. Installing a phone mount in the car can also help—check the handbrake position while listening to navigation, saving both money and effort.