When driving, should you shift gears first or pull the handbrake first?
2 Answers
When driving, you should shift gears before pulling the handbrake. The steps for starting a manual transmission vehicle are: 1. Press the clutch, followed by the brake; 2. Use your right hand to shift into first gear; 3. Release the brake; 4. Gradually release the clutch while gently pressing the accelerator. The parking brake, commonly known as the handbrake, provides resistance to prevent the vehicle from rolling when parked. The parking brake, whether it's a handbrake or the parking gear in an automatic transmission, locks the drive shaft or rear wheels. The parking brake exerts much less force compared to the service brake, just enough to prevent the vehicle from rolling on slopes. There are different types of parking brakes, including mechanical systems operated by hand or foot, and electronically controlled parking systems used in high-end vehicles, commonly referred to as electronic handbrakes.
Every time I start driving, I remember this sequence: depress the clutch, ignite the engine, shift into first gear or reverse, and finally release the handbrake. This way, the car won't suddenly move or roll downhill, protecting the transmission system and ensuring safety. I remember once starting on a steep slope, I hastily released the handbrake before shifting gears, and the car almost rolled backward into the vehicle behind, causing a near accident—a lesson I learned deeply. Developing good habits is especially important on slippery roads or snowy days. Additionally, regularly checking the wear of brake pads is essential to prevent handbrake jams that could increase risks. The startup process may seem simple, but sticking to the details can save repair costs and avoid accidents.
