Which gear to start with?

[StLorenzo]

1st gear start. Generally, cars have five forward gears and one reverse gear, which are 1st gear, 2nd gear, 3rd gear, 4th gear, and 5th gear. Starting is usually done in 1st gear. Unlike automatic transmissions, manual transmissions require stepping on the clutch when shifting gears. 1. Walk around the car once before getting in, check the tire pressure, and look under the car for small animals. Check the surroundings of the vehicle. 2. After getting in the car, fasten the seat belt, adjust the seat, and adjust the left and right mirrors and rearview mirror. 3. Make sure the gear is in the neutral position, the handbrake is engaged, and press the clutch and brake with both feet. (If the clutch and brake are not pressed and the gear is not in neutral, the car will either lurch forward or stall immediately when starting the engine.)

[BryceDella]

When I first started driving, I often struggled with which gear to use for starting. Through practice, I found that using first gear is the safest choice—it provides sufficient thrust to accelerate smoothly from a standstill without stalling or rolling backward. I remember once trying to start in second gear on a slope, and the engine shook violently, nearly stalling. Fortunately, I quickly shifted back to first gear and moved safely. Common mistakes beginners make include unfamiliarity with clutch control, leading to jerky starts, or accidentally using higher gears on highways, increasing fuel consumption. I recommend always checking that the gear is in first position before driving and operating the clutch smoothly to avoid issues. With enough practice, it becomes second nature, making starts not only quicker but also safer.

[CarlosFitz]

After decades of driving, I've concluded that starting in first gear is essential for safety. First gear reduces engine strain, prevents accidental sliding on slopes or slippery roads, and allows quick response in emergencies. If you've tried starting in higher gears, you'll soon realize it's inefficient—it wears the clutch faster and compromises safety. At every traffic light, I shift to first gear, gradually releasing the throttle to ensure stability before accelerating and shifting up. This habit has helped me avoid many accidents, especially in crowded streets. Paying attention to this during routine maintenance can also extend your car's lifespan, as frequent hard starts damage the engine.

[GideonRose]

From the perspective of vehicle operation, the engine requires high power support during startup. The design of the first gear allows the car to move easily without stalling. If second gear or higher gears are used, insufficient RPM can easily lead to lack of power or shaking. Simply put, it's like starting a bicycle with a small gear first, then gradually shifting up. After every red light, I always prioritize engaging first gear to ensure smooth clutch engagement for safe movement. Remembering this can reduce unnecessary risks.