Which gear should you use when starting from a complete stop in a manual vehicle?

Using first gear when starting from a complete stop in a manual vehicle is essential because it provides the necessary torque needed to initiate movement. First gear is designed to give the vehicle a strong start, allowing it to overcome inertia and smoothly accelerate from a standstill.

When in first gear, the engine's power is effectively transferred to the wheels, which is crucial for getting the vehicle moving without stalling. Additionally, first gear allows for better control at low speeds, making it the safest option for starting in various driving conditions, such as on inclines or in busy traffic situations.

While second gear can be used for a roll-start or in specific situations where there's already some momentum, it lacks the torque needed to reliably start from a complete stop, especially for heavier vehicles. Neutral and reverse gears do not facilitate forward motion in a standard scenario for starting; neutral disconnects the engine from the wheels, and reverse is intended for moving backward. Thus, first gear is unequivocally the correct choice for starting from a complete stop in manual transmission vehicles.