When new drivers have a problem with starting on hills, it is usually because they are worried about rolling back. If the car rolls back, even a little bit, they ‘panic’ and start tap-dancing with the pedals!

But the truth is, if you can move off OK on a level road you already have all the skill you need to move off on a hill.

Using this method, you will only adjust your feet on the pedals when the car is safely secured with the handbrake is firmly pulled on.

But first.....

How to stop on a steep hill

In a car with gears it's best practice to slow the car down with the brakes before depressing the clutch when you're stopping at the side of the road. That way you reduce the risk of the car speeding up when the clutch goes down.

When stopping on a steep hill the process is different.

Putting the clutch down first and allowing gravity to slow the car down as you roll slowly up the hill and just using the brakes to bring the car to a final, complete stop is better than braking first and risk stopping suddenly.

Once you've stopped, if your car doesn't have hill start assist (if it does, ask your instructor how to use it) make sure the handbrake is firmly applied *before* you take your foot away from the brake!

Moving off

Start by preparing the car. Select first gear and press the gas pedal (accelerator) so the engine makes a bit more noise than it does for a flat road start. Next bring the clutch up to the biting point (the point where the engine start to connect with the wheels). If you notice the windscreen wipers moving up slightly that's the rear wheel starting to turn - you can't roll back now as long as you keep your feet still!

Make your normal safety checks including a final blind spot check when you see an opportunity to move off.  Release the handbrake very gently and if you feel the car move back keep your feet still and pull the handbrake back on again.

Re-adjust your feet while the car is secure, double check that the road is still clear, and then try again. Repeat this until you have full control.

With practice you will soon find that you get the right ‘feel’ for the clutch every time and that you won’t roll backwards 🙂