Understand the challenge
When a car is stopped on an incline, gravity pulls it downhill. In a manual car, releasing the brake before the clutch and engine provide enough forward force can cause rollback or a stall. Automatic cars may also roll, depending on the transmission and whether a hill-hold feature is fitted. Never assume every car behaves the same way.
Manual-car hill starts
On a suitable training slope under supervision, hold the car securely using the service brake or parking brake, as taught for that vehicle. Prepare the correct gear and clutch position. Apply enough accelerator to support a smooth start, establish the biting point and release the holding brake in a controlled way as the car begins to pull forward. Avoid prolonged clutch slipping, which generates heat and wear.
Automatic-car hill starts
Keep the vehicle secure with the brake until the path ahead is clear. Some cars have hill-start assist that briefly maintains brake pressure; it is not a substitute for paying attention. Move from brake to accelerator carefully according to the manufacturer's instructions and the training method used. When waiting for an extended period, follow the manual's recommendations for stopping and parking.
Make the surroundings part of your plan
Leave sufficient room behind the vehicle in front when queuing uphill. Consider pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles approaching from behind or crossing your path. If your vehicle rolls unexpectedly, use the brake and regain control. Do not try to save a failed hill start by accelerating aggressively. A safe reset is preferable to a rushed attempt.
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