Starting. Something as simple as starting a car can’t go wrong, can it? It’s just a matter of turning the key. In modern vehicles, it’s even just the press of a single button. There’s no room for error in this trivial task. And it isn’t. Although it certainly doesn’t look like it at first glance, people make mistakes when starting. So let’s take a look at what mistakes are most common when starting cars.

Before we start the car.

But first, let’s review the very basics we were taught in driving school. A lot of drivers forget them during their routine, yet they are so important. If you’re not the only one using the car, you’ll need toadjust the seat properly and comfortably before you start. And then all the mirrors. If necessary, the steering wheel can also be adjusted.

Is this your first time in this car? Then take the time to get to know the car before you start. Is it a car with a manual or automatic transmission? What does the gear lever look like and how does the car shift into reverse? Finally, check the handbrake. Whenever your car is parked, it should be pulled in to prevent the car from starting on its own.

How to start a car with a manual gearbox

Insert the key into the ignition and turn the key or press the ignition button to start the engine. Once the engine starts, release the key. Check the dashboard. Are the warning lights illuminated? Make sure none are illuminated except for the handbrake. Then depress the clutch all the way to the floor and shift into first gear. You should always take off after a few seconds with the engine running to spread the oil wherever it’s needed.

How to start a car with an automatic transmission

The initial procedure is exactly the same as for starting a car with a manual gearbox. So you need to turn the key or press the button to start. However, you then have to press the brake pedal and switch to D or drive. Now you can drive off without worrying. Again, however, you must wait a few seconds to avoid damaging the engine by getting oil into all its parts. In winter it is advisable to wait a little longer than in summer. And what else should be avoided? It is certainly advisable to start up smoothly. Stepping on the accelerator can be dangerous not only in terms of an accident. In addition, too much throttle can disturb the correct fuel/air mixture.

Do you have the right key

At first glance, this sounds ridiculous. Who would mistake their car keys, right? But in families where there are multiple cars, plus the keys are similar, it can happen really easily. Same in companies with large fleets of cars. Changing keys can damage the ignition. Golden modern cars, where classic keys no longer work, right?

Frequent starting is detrimental

There is talk that very frequent starting, for example in traffic jams, can be detrimental to a car. However, scientists say that frequent starting should not damage the engine or the starter. On the contrary, it can be more beneficial to you than letting your car idle in a traffic jam. It certainly has a positive effect on fuel economy. However, it is true that the starter can start to wear out if you use it more than ten times a day for a long period of time. So the question is how often you are stationary.