What to Do If a Beginner Driver Keeps Stalling When Starting the Car?
2 Answers
Solutions for beginners who keep stalling when starting the car: First, practice lifting the clutch pedal until you feel the engagement point, which is when the car is about to move (also known as the half-clutch state). At this point, stop lifting and hold it steady, then slowly release the clutch. This will allow the car to start smoothly. Practice coordinating the clutch and throttle: when lifting the clutch to the half-clutch state, hold it steady, and while slowly releasing the clutch, gently press the throttle to achieve a smooth start. If stopping on an uphill slope, ensure your right foot does not release the throttle, maintaining sufficient climbing power until reaching the chosen parking spot. When performing the parking maneuver, coordinate both feet effectively: as the right foot releases the throttle, the left foot should quickly and accurately depress the clutch. Just before the car comes to a complete stop, apply the brakes to halt the vehicle, then engage the handbrake and release the foot brake.
When I first started driving, I also kept stalling the car as soon as I started moving, which was really frustrating. Later, a friend taught me to slowly find the clutch's biting point—that feeling when the front of the car slightly lifts. When practicing, find a safe open area. First, press the accelerator without engaging the gear to familiarize yourself with the engine sound. Then, slowly lift the clutch with your left foot. When you feel the car about to move, pause, add a bit of throttle with your right foot to stabilize it, and never rush to lift the clutch all at once. I got the hang of it after a few days of practice, and now I hardly ever stall. The key is repetition. Beginners can spend ten minutes daily practicing a few laps in a parking lot to build the habit. If you encounter a hill start, remember to use the handbrake for assistance. In short, practice more and don’t be afraid of embarrassment.
