Why is starting the engine in gear penalized by 100 points?

[McPresley]

Starting the engine in gear can cause certain damage to the engine, which is why the examination rules stipulate a 100-point penalty for this action. The precautions for starting a car are as follows: 1. After starting the car, let it warm up for 1-3 minutes. In colder winter temperatures, allow the car to warm up for 3-5 minutes, ideally until the cold idle speed transitions to normal idle speed before driving. For turbocharged vehicles, the warm-up time should be 1-2 minutes longer than for naturally aspirated vehicles. 2. If the inserted key cannot be turned, avoid forcing it. Instead, try turning the steering wheel while turning the key to resolve the issue easily. 3. Each startup should not exceed ten seconds. It's important to note that during a cold start, the throttle should be pressed gently and gradually. Avoid immediately pressing the throttle hard to rapidly increase the engine speed, as a sudden rise in crankshaft speed during a cold start may prevent timely oil delivery to the bearing journals, potentially causing bearing damage. 4. After the engine starts, closely monitor changes in the oil pressure, water temperature, and charging indicators or warning lights. Once the gauges show normal values or the warning lights turn off, you can shift into gear and start driving.

[OHazel]

I made this exact mistake when taking my driving test, and it almost led to a major accident. That day, I was so nervous starting the car that I forgot to shift into neutral. As soon as I turned the key, the car lurched forward violently—luckily, there was an empty parking space ahead. The examiner immediately deducted 100 points, failing me on the spot. Later, my instructor scolded me, emphasizing that starting the car in gear is one of the most dangerous bad habits. You never know which direction the car might shoot off, and if you're on a slope or in a crowded area, hitting something or injuring someone could happen in an instant. The strict test rules exist to ingrain safety instincts: always check that the gear is in neutral and the handbrake is engaged before starting the engine. This isn't just a trick to pass the test—it's a lifesaving habit for everyday driving. Now, when I teach friends to drive, this is the very first lesson I emphasize.

[VanEli]

I learned the hard lesson of starting the engine in gear not long after I began learning to drive, and the memory still sends chills down my spine. During the test, I was full of confidence, but in the heat of the moment, I forgot to shift to neutral before starting the engine. The car jerked forward slightly, and the examiner immediately deducted 100 points, failing me on the spot. My instructor later explained that when the gear is in first or reverse, the engine's power is directly transmitted to the wheels upon ignition, causing the car to lurch forward or backward a few meters. This can easily lead to collisions with walls or pedestrians. Beginners, especially when flustered, are prone to making this mistake. The strict penalty is meant to remind us that safe driving starts with paying attention to small details. Since then, I’ve forced myself to mentally recite three checks before starting the engine: gear, foot brake, and handbrake. This habit helped me pass the test smoothly and has made my everyday driving much safer.

[StFaith]

From my understanding of automotive principles, deducting 100 points for starting the engine in gear is absolutely justified. When starting a manual transmission vehicle, if the gear is not in neutral, the engine's power will be directly transmitted to the wheels upon ignition, potentially causing the car to jerk forward slightly. This increases the risk of collisions, especially in tight spaces like garages or when starting on slopes. The driving test treats this operation as the most severe mistake to enforce the safe habit of starting in neutral, thereby reducing accident frequency. Simply put, car design ensures safe ignition in neutral, whereas power output is uncontrollable when in gear. Remembering this point can help you avoid major pitfalls during the test.

[LeDamian]

From a safety perspective, deducting 100 points for starting the engine in gear is a core protective measure in the examination system. Statistics show that many accidents during the starting phase are caused by this mistake, such as the vehicle lurching into the street or hitting obstacles. The examiner directly fails the candidate with full point deduction to instill rigorous procedures: always confirm the gear is in neutral before ignition. Starting in gear can cause unpredictable vehicle movement due to engine startup impact, especially under the stress of an exam where beginners are more likely to neglect checks. Developing this habit significantly reduces safety risks during startup. I recommend frequent practice to build muscle memory, ensuring peace of mind during actual driving.

[VonEleanor]

My neighbor Xiao Zhang failed his driving test twice, losing all 100 points for starting the engine in gear. He later complained to me, and I realized the importance. Starting on a slope without shifting to neutral could cause the car to roll back and hit vehicles or pedestrians behind, posing serious safety risks. The test rules simulate extreme situations, deducting high points to force correction of bad habits. Simple actions like checking the gear before starting can prevent many potential accidents. Now I remind my son to pay attention when learning to drive. Developing this instinct not only makes passing the test easier but also protects himself and others in daily driving.