How to Use the Starter Motor to Get a Stalled Stickshift Car off the Road

Suppose you are out on the expressway in heavy traffic and your engine stops without warning. Suppose the traffic is moving too slowly for you to coast to the shoulder of the road before you stop. You are stuck. There are people honking at you from all directions. If you drive a stickshift, then your are still not out of luck. Your starter motor can get you off the road.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Put the car in first gear.
2. Let out the clutch and leave your foot off it.
3. Signal in the direction you wish to move the car.
4. Wait for a clearing in the traffic.
5. Release the brake and crank the starter with the ignition key. Remember to leave the clutch out and steer in the direction you wish to go. The engine will make ugly noises, but the starter will slowly pull the car.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that this only works with a manual transmission car.
• Only do this if it is the only option, and go no further than necessary. By doing this you could burn out the starter, but that is a small price to pay if it gets you out of a dangerous situation.