Motorists are only just learning they have been 'braking wrong' all this time

Braking is an essential part of driving and knowing when to brake and how to brake correctly is a key skill to ensure drivers, passengers and pedestrians are kept safe

Driving is a crucial skill that many anticipate mastering, with visions of their first lesson leading to the freedom of owning a car. Learner drivers face the choice between automatic or manual vehicles, with manuals presenting an extra challenge for novices due to the need to juggle clutch control and gear shifts.

Regardless of the type of transmission, all learners must master the art of braking. This skill is vital for stopping safely at red lights, pedestrian crossings, and when approaching turns or junctions. It appears that numerous drivers are only now realising they've been braking incorrectly for years.

A TikTok video demonstrating the correct sequence, brake pedal before clutch, has racked up one million views.

The accompanying caption cautions: "Driving is risky, don't drive dangerously!!!" The debate on whether to clutch or brake first has also reached Reddit.

One learner driver shared their confusion: "My instructor tells me to put my clutch down first and then brake."

"However from the videos I've watched online (YouTube and TikTok) it says to brake first and put the clutch down? So which is it?"

The learner added context to their query, noting: "Btw (by the way) I've only been driving in 1st and 2nd gear since I've only had 4 lessons."

A Redditor advised: "Brake first, then clutch. Although if you're only in 1st and 2nd gear right now, it doesn't particularly matter at this point."

They explained the rationale behind the method: "The reason brake first is best practice is because it keeps the engine and the wheels connected (simplistic explanation of it), this gives you the added power of engine braking while slowing down."

They also noted that for beginners: "At the speeds you're doing now? The difference is minimal. It's at higher speeds where this makes a real difference."

Many users on the Reddit thread were surprised to learn that pressing the clutch first isn't the correct approach.

One user expressed their astonishment: "This is groundbreaking for me. I have always been doing clutch all the way down and immediately brake after."

Another chimed in with a safety tip: "Brake first, to illuminate your brake lights."

A third, who identified themselves as an approved driving instructor, clarified: "Brakes first. When you're in first gear though you can get away with both at the same time."

They further advised: "But when you're braking to slow down for corners, or from higher speeds, it definitely is brakes first."

The consensus for stopping or slowing down a manual car is to apply the brake before the clutch, which aids in maintaining control and prevents the engine from stalling.

However, at very low speeds (below 10 mph), you might press the clutch first to avoid stalling.