When driving a manual transmission car, should you shift gears first or release the handbrake first?
3 Answers
When driving a manual transmission car, you should shift gears first and then release the handbrake. The correct starting procedure for a manual transmission is: 1. Press the clutch pedal completely with your left foot; 2. Shift the gear lever into first gear; 3. Turn on the left turn signal and honk to alert vehicles and pedestrians in front and behind; 4. Release the handbrake and gently lift the clutch with your left foot; 5. Lightly press the accelerator with the ball of your right foot to start moving. The gears of a manual transmission are: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and reverse. The working principle of a manual transmission is: by manually moving the gear lever, the meshing position of the gears inside the transmission is changed, altering the gear ratio to achieve speed variation. For downhill driving with a manual transmission: 1. Generally, use 2nd gear for moderate slopes; 2. Use 3rd gear for slopes greater than 30 degrees; 3. Use 4th or 5th gear when going up or down elevated roads. A manual transmission is a manual gearbox, and its working principle is: by changing the gear ratio of the meshing gears through the shift fork, the driving torque is altered to suit different operating conditions.
When starting a manual transmission car, the sequence generally depends on road conditions. On flat ground, I first press the clutch and shift into first gear, then gently apply the throttle. Once the engine sound is audible, I release the handbrake, allowing the car to start smoothly without rolling backward. During driving practice, the instructor always emphasized that this sequence ensures a smoother start because the coordination between clutch control and throttle is crucial. Beginners often mix up the order, such as releasing the handbrake before shifting, which can cause the car to jerk or stall—I made that mistake myself at first. After a few tries, it becomes second nature. Manual transmissions are actually quite fun, but starting requires extra focus. On slopes, the approach changes: first, hold the clutch at the biting point, then release the handbrake and immediately apply throttle to start, avoiding any dangerous situations.
Having driven for decades, this is how I start with a manual transmission every time: on flat roads, I engage the gear, slowly release the clutch while adding a bit of throttle, and then release the handbrake. On a slope, I first engage the gear, then release the clutch until the car slightly trembles, immediately let go of the handbrake, and step on the gas to surge forward. This technique ensures a smooth start and protects the clutch plate from wearing out too quickly. Driving feels like the engine is in perfect sync with my foot, and the car is like an old friend. Veteran drivers all know this trick—mastering the clutch is key. Occasionally, I see beginners fumbling and always want to remind them not to mess up the sequence. Driving a manual is fun, fuel-efficient, and enjoyable.
