Why Do You Need to Pull the Handbrake for 3 Seconds When Starting on a Slope?
1 Answers
Starting on a slope requires pulling the handbrake for 3 seconds because, on steeper slopes or with heavier vehicles, the car may roll backward if the brake is not engaged. If you use your foot to brake, you won't have a foot free to press the accelerator, and releasing the clutch without sufficient power will cause the engine to stall. In such cases, pulling the handbrake is necessary for safety and simplicity of operation. Starting on a slope refers to the process of starting a car on an inclined surface, which is a fundamental skill every new driver must master. The technique involves releasing the clutch while keeping the handbrake engaged, waiting for the engine to vibrate before releasing the handbrake, and then gently pressing the accelerator to allow the car to start smoothly. This method prevents the car from rolling backward. While this procedure may seem cumbersome to experienced drivers, it is particularly suitable for beginners. Correct Method for Starting on a Slope with an Automatic Transmission: When parking, press the brake and engage the handbrake. Upon starting the vehicle, release the brake, press the accelerator, and then disengage the handbrake. This method effectively prevents the car from rolling backward due to brake interruption. Alternatively, use one foot for the brake and the other for the accelerator. When starting on a slope, press the accelerator first, and once the car shows a tendency to move forward or the engine RPM reaches a certain level, release the brake.