Brake Control
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'Brake control' is the term used to describe controlling the speed of the car using the brake pedal.
This isn't just slowing the car down or stopping, there are times you will actually need to keep the car moving at the desired speed by using the brake pedal - notably on a slope or hill.
Using brake control during slow manoeuvres on a hill means keeping the clutch pedal pressed right down and releasing the brake pedal slightly to speed the car up, or pressing it slightly to slow the car down. Brake pedal movements are usually very small and it takes practice, which you will do on later lessons, to keep the movement of the car smooth.
To practice, find a straight, quiet, gentle slope and park on the left.
Select first gear.
Keep the clutch right down and press firmly on the brake pedal.
Ask your supervisor to do observations so you can concentrate on the pedals.
Now release the handbrake and very, very slowly release the brake pedal until the car starts to creep forward (you may hear a slight creaking sound from the wheels, that's ok).
Keep the car very slow by pressing or raising the brake pedal as required. The object is to try to keep a constant slow speed by using very small adjustments. Practice so that when you do more complicated manoeuvres, you are already comfortable with your feet.
