MT Hill Start Guide
The most nerve-wracking part of driving an MT car is the "Hill Start".
We explain the steps to not roll back and how to listen for the "sound" to prevent stalling.
▲ Don't panic, follow the steps and you can do it!
4 Steps for Hill Start
The basic rule is "Stop the car with the handbrake, release it when ready".
1 Prep: Secure the Car
Press the foot brake and clutch, and shift to Low (1st gear).
Next, pull the Handbrake (Parking Brake) firmly.
*Confirm the car doesn't roll back when you release the foot brake.
Next, pull the Handbrake (Parking Brake) firmly.
*Confirm the car doesn't roll back when you release the foot brake.
2 Accelerator: Build Power
Press the accelerator stronger than on flat ground.
Keep the RPM around 2,000 - 3,000 RPM.
Prepare enough power to climb the slope.
Keep the RPM around 2,000 - 3,000 RPM.
Prepare enough power to climb the slope.
3 Clutch: Wait for the Sign
Keep the accelerator steady, and lift the clutch slowly.
This is crucial!
When the engine sound changes from "Vroom (High)" to "Vooom (Lower)" and the car starts to shake, stop your left foot completely there (Keep Half-Clutch).
This is crucial!
When the engine sound changes from "Vroom (High)" to "Vooom (Lower)" and the car starts to shake, stop your left foot completely there (Keep Half-Clutch).
4 Go: Release Brake
Keep your feet (Accelerator & Clutch) fixed!
Calmly release the handbrake.
Once the car starts moving, proceed a little, then slowly release the clutch fully.
Calmly release the handbrake.
Once the car starts moving, proceed a little, then slowly release the clutch fully.
Common Failures & Solutions
❌ If you Stall (Engine stops)
- Cause: Releasing the clutch too fast, or weak accelerator.
- Solution: Don't miss the sound change (lowering pitch)! Focus on stopping your left foot when the sound changes.
❌ If you Roll Back
- Cause: Releasing the handbrake before reaching half-clutch (before power is transmitted).
- Solution: Release the brake ONLY after confirming "Sound lowers & Car shakes"!
"Stop with handbrake, strong gas,
Stop clutch at sound/vibration change!"
Master this feeling and you will succeed.
Training for Success!