Can the Engine Stall in Subject Three of the Driving Test?
4 Answers
Stalling the engine once during Subject Three of the driving test results in a 10-point deduction, while stalling twice leads to failure. The following are details to pay attention to in the new traffic regulations for Subject Three: 1. Regarding vehicle preparation: Before getting into the car, walk around the vehicle to inspect its exterior and safety conditions. Observe the traffic behind before opening the door. 2. Regarding simulated night driving: Turn on the headlights before starting. When passing through sharp turns, slopes, arched bridges, crosswalks, or intersections without traffic lights, alternately use high and low beams to signal. Do not use high beams when turning at intersections. Do not use high beams when driving on well-lit roads with street lamps.
Stalling during the driving test (Subject 3) is actually quite common – I see it frequently when teaching new drivers. While stalling itself won't automatically fail you, it typically deducts around 10 points (passing score is 30/100). Common causes include improper clutch control during hill starts or over-revving the engine. If it happens, stay calm: engage the handbrake, restart the engine, and ensure safety before proceeding. Prevention comes through practicing throttle-clutch coordination – just 10 minutes of simulated test scenarios on flat ground can significantly reduce errors. Opting for automatic transmission reduces stalling risks, though manual proficiency has more daily utility. Note that testing rules vary by region, so visiting the test route beforehand to familiarize yourself with the vehicle's characteristics is advisable. Ultimately, stalling is a manageable mistake – maintaining composure is key.
During my driving test for Subject 3, I stalled the car twice. I was so nervous that my palms were sweating, but the examiner said it was okay—each stall deducts 5 points the first time and 10 points the second time. As long as you don’t exceed three stalls, you can still pass. Stalling is allowed during the test, but make sure it doesn’t compromise the safety of other vehicles. For example, stalling at a traffic light and then panicking while restarting could easily lead to danger. I recommend practicing clutch control more during regular driving—find an open area to repeatedly practice starting and stopping, or ask a friend to accompany you to build confidence. During the test, stay relaxed. If you stall, take a deep breath, shift gears again, and restart. Don’t worry too much about minor point deductions; the key is to perform well on other parts of the test, such as signaling properly during lane changes. Stalling isn’t a major mistake—just remember the principle of safety first and never take reckless risks.
Stalling is allowed during the Subject 3 driving test, but it's a point deduction offense, typically costing 10 points per occurrence. As an examiner, I've observed many test-takers lose points due to stalling, often caused by unfamiliarity with clutch operation or unstable throttle control. It's advisable to conduct ample simulation practice before the test to ensure familiarity with the vehicle's biting point. In case of stalling, address it promptly without delay.
