Which gear to use for starting on a slope with a manual transmission?

[VonMason]

When starting on a slope with a manual transmission, use the 1st gear. The steps for starting a manual transmission car are: 1. Press the clutch; 2. Push the gear lever inward with your right hand, then push it up into 1st gear; 3. Turn on the left turn signal; 4. Honk the horn; 5. Release the handbrake; 6. Steady the throttle; 7. Lift the clutch pedal. A manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox, requires manually moving the gear lever to change the gear meshing device inside the transmission, altering the gear ratio to achieve the purpose of shifting gears. The working principle of a manual transmission involves using the shift fork to change the transmission ratio or gear ratio of the meshing gears, thereby altering the driving torque to suit different operating conditions.

[StBriella]

As a veteran driver with over a decade of manual transmission experience, I can confidently say hill starts are absolutely a crucial skill. Normally, first gear is the safest choice because it provides maximum torque, making it easier to handle steep slopes without stalling. When driving in mountainous areas myself, if the slope exceeds 10 degrees, I always insist on starting in first gear: first depress the clutch, engage first gear, gently press the accelerator to around 1500 RPM, slowly release the clutch to the friction point and hold it there, then release the handbrake. Once I tried using second gear on a slightly steeper slope, and the car started rolling backward, nearly hitting the vehicle behind me—a lesson I won't forget. I recommend beginners practice their pedal feel on small slopes first; don't cut corners for convenience. Additionally, pay attention to coordinating the accelerator and clutch—never rush, safety is far more important than speed. Regularly check your braking system to ensure smooth starts.

[LucasLynn]

From the perspective of a driving school instructor, I often remind students to always use first gear for hill starts. First gear provides maximum traction, is simple to operate, and less prone to errors, especially on steeper slopes. The method is straightforward: sit firmly, engage the handbrake, press the clutch and shift into first gear, gently apply throttle to maintain engine speed above 1200 RPM, then slowly release the clutch to the biting point until you feel slight vibration in the car body before releasing the handbrake to start. For very slight inclines, like small slopes, you can occasionally try second gear, but first gear remains the safest default choice. The key to avoiding frequent stalling is finding that biting point - practice a few times to master it. Always check the rearview mirror to ensure safe distance from vehicles behind. Once comfortable, you can experiment with different terrains to adapt your technique.

[EmilyRose]

When I first learned to drive a manual transmission, I always messed up hill starts until I realized I had to use first gear. The instructor kept saying first gear has strong torque and provides stable starts, but I stubbornly tried second gear instead, resulting in several stalls and rollbacks that infuriated the drivers behind me. Now that I'm used to it, no matter how steep the slope is, I always start in first gear: press the clutch, shift into first, and gradually coordinate with the throttle. Find an empty space to practice more, and you'll quickly get the hang of it. Remember, don't panic.