Move off
Before you start the engine make sure you have done your safety checks (handbrake and neutral). Once this is done you will turn the key one turn/click, this sets the ignition to auxiliary position (radio only) the second turn/click is ignition on. You will see the warning lights come on in the instrument cluster. The car is going through its safety checks, most will go out apart from the handbrake on light. The third turn/click will start your engine. Your key will return to the ignition on position. (some manufacturers will only allow car to start with the clutch or brake pedal depressed.
Time now to set the car for your first move off.
We need to engage first gear. To do this fully depress the clutch and move the gearstick to the first gear position, try not to get into the habit of looking down at the gearstick. Its tricky at first but you will get used to the different gear positions. Next is setting the biting point. We need a gentle pressure to set the gas (a nice even hum) and the slowly lift the clutch to the biting point (you will hear the engine note change and the bonnet will lift a little),
That’s it, your car ready to move off.
You need to ensure it is safe before moving off. Take effective all-round observations. Starting from the left, check over your left shoulder (blind spot) then the left door mirror, move to the interior mirror, the right door mirror and finish with over your right shoulder (blind spot). These checks ensure it is safe to move off, and make sure you are aware of anyone and anything that could be affected by your actions. Look out for other road users who may benefit from you giving a signal. If it is clear, then you don’t need to signal.
When you are sure it is safe to move off, release the handbrake and begin to ease gently off the clutch. The more you release the clutch, the quicker the car will go. Maintain gentle pressure on the gas in order to prevent the engine from stalling.
Move off – Automatic
When you get into a car with an automatic gearbox, it should have been left in ‘park’ or ‘P’.
Put your right foot on the left-hand pedal (the brake) and push down, Once this is done you will turn the key one turn/click, this sets the ignition to auxiliary position (radio only) the second turn/click is ignition on. You will see the warning lights come on in the instrument cluster. The car is going through its safety checks, most will go out apart from the handbrake on light. The third turn/click will start your engine. Your key will return to the ignition on position. move the shifter to ‘D’ (if you want to drive forward) or ‘R’ (if you wish to reverse).
Lifting your foot off the brake will cause most automatic vehicles to ‘creep’ forwards - this helps with parking or in low-speed traffic.
It might need a bit more gas if you’re on a hill or want to move off quicker.
Once moving, the gearbox will select the correct gear for the situation and do all the hard work for you.
Road Position
Once you are on the move, steer a little to the right, away from the kerb. This will move you towards the driving line (approximately one metre from the kerb)
Pulling up – MSM
Before pulling up on the left you must find a safe, convenient and legal place to park. Don’t park to close to a junction (ten metres), on or near to a bend, blocking a driveway. These are just a few examples.
Mirrors:
Before pulling up on the left, check your interior and left door mirrors. You’re going to be slowing down, so you need to consider the possibility of affecting someone behind you. As you are also going to be moving towards the left, it is important to know if there is any possibility that someone (such as a cyclist) may be about to creep up your left side.
Signal:
If necessary, give a left signal in plenty of time. You should be aware of who you are communicating with and exactly what signals you are sending. A side road on the left could cause a left signal to be misleading. Braking is also a signal as your brake lights will come on as soon as the brake pedal is pressed.
Manoeuvre:
Pulling up requires the car to be moved closer to the kerb. Your speed needs to be reduced and finally the car should come to a stop near to the kerb. It is important not to hit or scrape the kerb as this could damage your tyres or wheels. In order to prevent the engine from stalling, the clutch must be pressed to the floor and held there until neutral has been selected and the handbrake applied.
Steering
Steering when pulling up is similar to steering when moving off. Start by steering a little to the left, towards the kerb. As you get close, steer away from the kerb. This will cause the car to straighten up. Finally, as the car aligns with the kerb, straighten the wheel.
Slowing down and stopping
Whether or not you need to use the brake to slow down and stop depends on a variety of factors, including your speed, gear and whether you are on an incline. If you are moving slowly in first gear, simply releasing the gas will cause the car to slow down to a very slow speed. When you press the clutch down shortly before stopping, this may be sufficient to cause the car to roll to a stop without ever touching the brake pedal. Even so, once you have stopped you should press the brake regardless, just in case. If you are traveling downhill, pressing the clutch pedal may cause the car to pick up speed. Gentle pressure on the brake ensure sure you stay in control.
Once you have completely stopped, secure the car by applying the handbrake. Select neutral and cancel your left signal if necessary.
Slowing down and stopping - Auto
How much you need to use the brake to slow down and stop depends on a variety of factors, including your speed and whether you are on an incline. If you are moving slowly simply releasing the gas will cause the car to slow down to ‘creep’. Use gentle progressive pressure on the brake to bring your car to a smooth stop.
Once the car is stopped in a safe place, apply the hand brake, put the gear stick into or ‘P’ or park position and switch the signal off if needed. Keep your foot on your brake pedal until you have secured your car.
Remember, gentle pressure on the brake to ensure you stay in control.