Start and stop on a hill

Hill Start is a basic driving technique that many find challenging. The correct technique prevents the car from rolling backward and provides a smooth, controlled start.

Manual Transmission Technique

The key is to find the friction point where the clutch plates start to grip. The car will vibrate slightly, and the engine speed drops a bit.

Automatic Transmission Technique

Cars with automatic transmission have creep power which makes hill starts easier:

• Keep the foot brake pressed until you are ready
• Release the brake and gently apply the gas
• The car usually holds itself without rolling, but be aware on steep hills

Stop on a Hill

When stopping uphill:

• Brake gradually and stop controlled
• Engage the handbrake immediately to avoid rolling back
• In traffic, keep a good distance to the car in front in case it rolls slightly

Downhill

Downhill the challenge is the opposite:

• Use a low gear for engine braking in addition to the foot brake
• Avoid holding the brake constantly over long stretches, as this can cause overheating
• Adjust the speed before the hill starts, not during
• Remember that stopping distance increases going downhill

Common Mistakes

• Too little gas at start causes too low RPM, and the car stalls
• Too abrupt clutch release makes the car jerk or stall
• Forgetting the handbrake when stopping can make the car roll backward
• Holding the brake with the clutch uphill unnecessarily wears out the clutch

Always maintain a good seating position so you have full control over all pedals.

Further Reading

• Brakes and braking system
• Steering wheel and seating position
• Distance and positioning
• Stopping distance calculation