Can you shift directly from 4th to 2nd gear?

[DiNolan]

Yes, but skip-shift downshifting causes significantly more wear to internal components compared to sequential gear changes. Here's relevant information about skip-shift downshifting: Principles of downshifting: The general rule for transmission operation is: upshifts should be performed sequentially, while downshifts can skip gears. Shift from higher to lower gears based on current speed to maintain appropriate torque. Two scenarios for skip-shift downshifting: 1) Natural downshift when speed decreases sufficiently, 2) Forced downshift (also called emergency downshift). Normally, you should first use brakes to reduce speed to match the lower gear before downshifting, otherwise it may cause significant damage to the transmission.

[McGabriella]

This is an interesting question. As someone who has driven for many years and encountered similar situations, it is indeed possible to downshift directly from 4th to 2nd gear in a manual transmission car. This technique can be quite useful when descending a slope at low speed or needing sudden acceleration for overtaking. However, caution is required. If the vehicle speed is too high or the RPM is mismatched, a direct downshift may cause clutch slippage, transmission jerking, or even engine damage, especially in older vehicles. In practice, I recommend practicing rev-matching techniques, such as lightly tapping the throttle to raise the RPM before downshifting, ensuring a smooth transition. Doing it occasionally is fine, but making it a habit may accelerate component wear. Safety comes first when driving. If you're not proficient, it's better to downshift sequentially, such as shifting to 3rd gear first before moving to 2nd gear, as this is more stable and protects the vehicle better.

[MadelynFitz]

Shifting directly from 4th to 2nd gear is feasible when manual shifting, but beginners are prone to errors. It's acceptable to attempt at low speeds, but performing this operation at high speeds with a significant RPM difference can easily cause vehicle jerking or even loss of control, especially on rainy or icy roads where the risk is higher. I made similar mistakes when I first learned to drive, resulting in severe car shaking, and later realized rev-matching should be used to cushion the transition. Overall, this maneuver isn't necessary in daily driving - progressive downshifting is safer. Treat your car like a friend; proper care ensures longevity. Developing good habits reduces maintenance costs, like checking for wear during transmission fluid changes.

[RowanMarie]

It's common to skip gears in a manual transmission for convenience, and I often do this, especially in urban traffic when quick response is needed. Going directly from 4th to 2nd gear is feasible, but the key is to match the RPM properly to avoid overworking the clutch. With a bit of practice, it becomes easy, and this method is quite efficient when overtaking. Remember, don’t overuse it during the car's break-in period, and ensure regular maintenance of the engine and transmission system to prevent malfunctions.