Learning objectives
- Coordinate handbrake, clutch and accelerator on an incline
- Prevent rollback when starting uphill
- Stop and restart safely on a gradient in traffic
Why hills are different
Gravity works against you, so you need more acceleration and a more precise clutch release than on level ground. The handbrake holds the vehicle while you set the controls.
The uphill start
Handbrake on, first gear, set slightly more acceleration than usual, raise the clutch to the biting point and feel the front of the car lift. Release the handbrake smoothly and continue raising the clutch as the vehicle pulls away.
Downhill starts
Select the appropriate gear, cover the brake and release the handbrake. Use engine braking on long descents instead of riding the footbrake.
Hill stops in traffic
In slow uphill traffic, use the handbrake rather than balancing on the clutch. Holding the clutch at the biting point for long periods wears it out and makes control harder.
Use this with a lesson
Reading a module is preparation. Book a lesson to practise the checklist in the car.