Pedals and main controls

By the end of this topic you can

• You can name each pedal and say which foot operates it.
• You can apply and release the parking brake smoothly.
• You can find and use the indicators, lights, wipers and horn without looking down.
• You can start the engine safely, whether it uses a key, button or card.
• You can explain how the controls work together to move off and stop.

What you need to know and understand

• In a manual car, from left to right the pedals are clutch, brake and accelerator. Remember ABC from right to left.
• The right foot works the accelerator and brake. The left foot works only the clutch.
• An automatic has no clutch pedal, just the brake and accelerator, both used with the right foot.
• The parking brake may be a lever or an electronic switch. It holds the car when stopped.
• Signals should be given clearly and in good time, and cancelled after use.
• You must not use the horn while stationary on the road, or in a built-up area between 11.30pm and 7am, unless another road user poses a danger.

The three pedals

• Accelerator (gas): controls engine power and speed. Press gently. It is sensitive, so think of squeezing it rather than stamping.
• Footbrake: slows and stops the car and switches on the brake lights. Press progressively, firmer as needed, then ease off as you stop.
• Clutch: connects and disconnects the engine from the wheels. Press it fully down to change gear or to stop without stalling. The point where it starts to connect is called the biting point.

Hand controls and switches

• Steering wheel: hold it with both hands where possible.
• Gear lever: selects gears. The pattern is usually printed on top of the knob.
• Parking brake: lever or button. With a lever, press the button in while you apply or release it to avoid wear.
• Indicator stalk: usually on the left or right of the steering column. Up for right, down for left.
• Light switch: often on a stalk or a dial on the dashboard, for sidelights, dipped beam and main beam.
• Wiper stalk: front and rear wipers and washers.
• Horn: usually in the centre of the wheel. Use it only to warn others that you are there.
• Hazard warning switch: a red triangle button.

How the controls work together

Driving is about coordination. To move off in a manual car, your left foot finds the biting point with the clutch while your right foot adds a little gas, your hand releases the parking brake and your eyes check all around. To stop, your right foot brakes and, just before the car stops, your left foot pushes the clutch down.

It feels like a lot at first. With practice the movements become automatic, which is exactly the goal set out in the DVSA syllabus, so you can focus on what is happening around you.

Common mistakes

• Using the left foot for the brake in a manual car. The left foot is for the clutch only.
• Resting a foot on the clutch while driving along. This wears it out and can reduce control.
• Looking down to find a switch. Practise finding controls by touch while parked.
• Leaving an indicator on after a turn. Check the dashboard arrow has gone off.
• Using the horn in frustration. It is only for warning others you are there.

Test yourself: Pedals and main controls

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• First Driving Lesson
• Learning to Drive an Automatic Car