How to Start a Manual Transmission Car

Step 1: Get in the car and adjust the seat.

Make sure you’re sitting comfortably and that you can reach the pedals and steering wheel easily.

Step 2: Put the car in neutral.

This is typically done by moving the gear shift to the middle position.

Step 3: Depress the clutch pedal.

This pedal is usually located on the left side of the footwell.

Step 4: Start the engine.

Turn the key in the ignition to the “start” position.

Step 5: Slowly release the clutch pedal.

As you release the pedal, you should feel the car start to move forward.

Step 6: Shift into first gear.

Move the gear shift to the left and up into the first gear position.

Step 7: Give the car some gas.

Press down on the accelerator pedal to increase the engine speed.

Step 8: Release the clutch pedal completely.

The car should now be moving forward smoothly.

Tips for Driving a Manual Transmission Car

• Practice in a safe area before driving on the road.
• Don’t be afraid to stall the car. It happens to everyone at first.
• If you stall the car, simply put it back in neutral, depress the clutch pedal, and start the engine again.
• Be patient and don’t give up. Learning to drive a manual transmission car takes time and practice.