When getting off the car, should you release the clutch first or pull the handbrake first?
3 Answers
After pulling over and coming to a complete stop, the first things to do are shifting to neutral, engaging the handbrake, and then releasing the clutch. Here are the relevant explanations: 1. Parking brake: Commonly known as the handbrake, its function is to provide resistance to prevent the car from rolling when parked. The parking brake, whether it's the handbrake or the parking gear in automatic transmissions, locks the drive shaft or rear wheels. The force of the parking brake is much weaker than that of the service brake, just enough to prevent the car from rolling on a slope. 2. Clutch function: For manual transmission vehicles, the clutch is a crucial component of the powertrain, responsible for disconnecting and connecting the power to the engine.
From my years of driving experience, the correct sequence for parking and exiting the vehicle is definitely to engage the handbrake first before releasing the clutch. If you release the clutch without engaging the handbrake, the engine's power is still being transmitted to the wheels, which may cause the car to move slightly, especially on slopes or uneven surfaces, making it prone to rolling. I remember once in a mountainous parking lot, I forgot to engage the handbrake and only released the clutch, causing the car to slowly slide toward a roadside ditch. Fortunately, I noticed it in time and avoided an accident. This is not only dangerous but also increases unnecessary wear, such as additional consumption of the clutch disc. In daily driving, I always teach novice friends to develop the habit: when parking, press the brake to stop completely, immediately engage the handbrake and shift to neutral (for manual transmissions), then release the clutch and turn off the engine. Such simple actions can ensure safety and extend the vehicle's lifespan. In short, safety comes first—never skip steps for convenience.
As a new driver who just got my license, I deeply understand this issue. The instructor repeatedly emphasized pulling the handbrake first before releasing the clutch when parking. If done in reverse, the car would jerk or lurch forward, which can be quite startling. During a driving school practice session, I was in a hurry to get out and released the clutch before pulling the handbrake, causing the wheels to slightly roll and nearly knock over a traffic cone. The instructor explained that this sequence prevents sudden vehicle movement, especially important on wet and slippery roads during rainy days. Now, I've developed muscle memory—when the car comes to a complete stop, I instinctively pull the handbrake tight and ensure the wheels are locked before releasing the clutch. This habit prevents accidents, such as when waiting at a red light or temporarily exiting the vehicle. Additionally, it makes the driving process smoother, and with a bit more practice, new drivers can master it through repetition.
