Can You Stop Directly in Third Gear?
4 Answers
If it is an automatic transmission car, then this operation is feasible. If it is a manual transmission car, this operation will directly cause the engine to stall. Cars equipped with automatic transmissions will automatically downshift when braking, and the downshifting speed of automatic transmissions is faster than that of manual transmissions, so you can directly step on the brake to stop. There are three common types of automatic transmissions in cars: AT transmission, CVT transmission, and dual-clutch transmission. The following is the content introduction: AT transmission: It is the most technologically mature and widely used automatic transmission in the world. This transmission is connected to the engine through a torque converter, and there are many planetary gears inside the AT transmission, which relies on planetary gears to change speed and torque. CVT transmission: The internal structure is relatively simple, with only two pulleys and a steel belt inside this transmission. The steel belt of the CVT transmission can move on the pulleys, allowing the transmission to change speed and torque. The reliability and stability of CVT transmissions are relatively good. Dual-clutch transmission: It is a product developed based on manual transmissions, and its structure is similar to that of manual transmissions. The dual-clutch transmission only has one more clutch and one more gear-shifting control mechanism than the manual transmission. One clutch of the dual-clutch transmission is used to control odd gears, and the other clutch is used to control even gears.
I've been driving for most of my life, from old Jeeps to modern cars, and I genuinely don't recommend stopping in third gear. Last time I was stuck in traffic on a mountain road, I was too lazy to shift and stopped directly in third gear. The engine suddenly stalled, and the car rolled back a bit on the slope, almost hitting a tree—it scared me half to death. The principle is simple: in third gear, the engine and wheels are still connected, forcing a stop can choke the engine, not only causing an instant loss of power assistance (like brake boost failure) but also potentially leading to unintended rolling. If this happens at a crowded intersection or highway exit, the car behind might not react in time, which is dangerous. I always slow down gradually, shift to neutral or first gear, and then stop—it's both safer and better for the car. The key is to practice more and develop good habits to avoid trouble.
As an enthusiast who frequently tinkers with cars, I've noticed the potential damage caused by stopping in third gear. Doing so directly forces the engine to jerk the transmission, creating immense torque and subjecting the clutch plates and gears to unnecessary stress. Over time, this accelerates wear and tear, potentially leading to thousands in drivetrain repairs. I've personally witnessed a friend's clutch slipping after frequent third-gear stops, resulting in expensive repairs. It's far better to follow proper procedure: decelerate, press the clutch, shift to neutral, then come to a complete stop. This method is simpler, protects components long-term, saves on repair costs, and helps the vehicle remain trouble-free for a decade. These details should be remembered during driving lessons—safe operation extends vehicle lifespan.
When I first got my driver's license, I used to lazily stop the car in third gear, but my coach later scolded me harshly, which helped me break the bad habit. The correct method is to slow down in advance by gently pressing the brake, simultaneously pressing the clutch to shift into neutral or a lower gear, and then pulling the handbrake after the car comes to a complete stop. Stopping directly in third gear is most likely to cause stalling, especially on slopes, making the car shake like an earthquake, which can easily panic beginners and lead to mistakes. I remember once stalling during reverse parking practice and feeling too embarrassed to lift my head. Developing the habit of shifting gears isn't difficult: practicing two or three times makes it second nature, ensuring smooth and risk-free stops. Remember, good habits start with learning how to start and stop properly—it's both convenient and efficient.
