Can You Downshift Directly from 4th Gear to 2nd Gear in Subject Three?
3 Answers
In the Subject Three examination, you cannot skip gears when shifting up or down. Gear changes must be done step by step. Therefore, you cannot downshift directly from 4th gear to 2nd gear; you must first downshift from 4th to 3rd gear, and then from 3rd to 2nd gear. Below is the relevant introduction: When the speed is relatively low (below 30 km/h), it is recommended to press the brake first and then press the clutch to prevent the engine from stalling when braking at low speeds. When the speed is relatively high (above 30 km/h), it is best to press the brake first to reduce the speed (to 20-30 km/h), and then press the clutch simultaneously to stop the car.
When I was taking the driving test for Subject 3, I specifically asked my instructor about downshifting. He said you must downshift step by step and never jump directly from 4th gear to 2nd gear. The exam system monitors gear shifts, and skipping gears will result in an immediate 100-point deduction! While you might occasionally do this in real driving, during the test you have to be rigid about it. Before each downshift, you must first brake to reduce speed. Wait until the speed drops below 30 km/h before shifting to 3rd gear, then continue slowing down to 20 km/h before shifting to 2nd gear. I’ve seen students get impatient and skip gears, only to end up with a jerky stall and a failed test. Remember, the core of Subject 3 is safety and standardization—don’t cut corners. Taking it one gear at a time is the safest approach.
A few days ago, I accompanied a friend practicing for the Driving Test Level 3, and the instructor specifically emphasized that downshifting should be done step by step. Shifting directly from 4th gear to 2nd gear? Technically possible but very risky! Because the engine speed suddenly increases, the car will lurch forward abruptly, easily causing jerking or even stalling. If the car stalls once during the test, it's an immediate fail. It's best to first ease off the accelerator and lightly press the brake, watch the speedometer drop to around 30 mph before shifting to 3rd gear, then continue slowing down to 20 mph before shifting to 2nd gear. Developing this habit during regular practice will prevent panic during the actual test.
