Should I learn left foot braking?

How do you train your left foot to brake in a car with an auto transmission?

Asked on 19 January 2022 by Michael John McDonald

Answered by Dan Powell
Unless you are new to driving or are getting into motorsport, I would not recommend taking up left foot braking.

Training your left foot to use the brake on public roads is a very bad idea, in my opinion. You'll find it very difficult to correctly judge how much force is required to use the brake pedal and this means you may brake harder and faster than you intend, creating a potential accident scenario for the driver travelling behind you.

That said, if you have your heart set on using your left peg to apply the brakes, I'd recommend speaking to a driving instructor who will provide some advanced lessons on this technique.

I would question what benefit left foot braking would have in everyday driving situations. When you are not braking, your left foot will be on the footrest, which means it will probably be quicker and easier to simply transfer your right foot to the brake.
Similar questions
I have just ordered a 435i M-Sport and now have a few days in which to decide whether or not I should go for the 8-speed autobox. I have always been a 'stick' man but think I should move into the brave...
Unfortunately, I recently had my first serious car accident and am in need of some advice and information. The car involved was a 1995 Volvo 460 Automatic, which we have had regularly serviced and garaged....
I am a fit and active 75-year-old and learned to drive in London in a Ford Popular when I was 17. I have always driven manual cars. Being barely five foot tall I have enjoyed the adjustable seat and steering...
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer