Can You Use First Gear for a U-Turn in Subject Three?

[AxelRose]

Subject Three allows the use of first gear for a U-turn, which is one of the test items in Subject Three. It requires the examinee to control the speed, correctly use the gears, and choose an appropriate location for the U-turn. In the Subject Three test, there are no specific requirements for the gear selection. Generally, you can choose to use first or second gear for the U-turn. First gear is the safest option, but you can also use second gear for the U-turn if safety is ensured. The specific operation method for a U-turn in Subject Three is as follows: 1. When the voice prompt announces "Please make a U-turn ahead," the examinee should turn on the left turn signal, observe the surroundings, safely yield to oncoming vehicles, and must use a gear below second gear for the U-turn, reducing the vehicle speed to below 20 kilometers per hour. 2. Pay attention to yielding to vehicles coming from both directions, and do not affect the normal driving of other vehicles. Before making the U-turn, you can stop and wait for the right moment to complete the U-turn in one go, avoiding improper operation or stopping midway. If there is a crosswalk during the U-turn, the vehicle must pass the crosswalk before making the U-turn. Do not make the U-turn on the crosswalk, and do not stop and wait on the crosswalk.

[DiOwen]

When I was taking the driving test for Subject 3, I always used first gear for U-turns. It allows the car to slow down significantly, making it easier to steer steadily, especially in narrow intersections or situations with small turning radii, helping to avoid stalling or hitting the curb. During practice, my instructor often emphasized that first gear is safer because it only moves at a few kilometers per hour, giving me enough time to observe surrounding traffic and stop in time if a car suddenly approaches. Of course, during the test, you need to follow the correct sequence—like signaling first, slowing down and shifting gears before making the U-turn—since the examiner focuses on this level of control. I think as long as it's not a sharp turn, first gear is quite reliable, though it does consume more fuel. With enough practice, it becomes second nature.

[ErinDella]

I'm currently learning to drive and taking the Subject 3 test. For the U-turn section, I always choose first gear to operate. This way, the car starts slower, the steering wheel doesn't turn too sharply, allowing me to gradually adjust and align with the lane without worrying about making mistakes in a panic. The instructor always emphasizes not to use higher gears because higher speed increases risks, like failing the test if hitting an obstacle. I've tried using second gear before, but felt much less in control. During practice, I repeatedly drilled this maneuver. After mastering it in low-traffic areas, I felt more confident for the actual test. The key is maintaining steady speed and smooth movements to avoid point deductions.

[MacPaige]

Using first gear for U-turns is perfectly feasible, primarily because lower gears provide stronger torque, enabling smoother starts and reducing the risk of stalling. The test emphasizes safe operation, and first gear helps slow the vehicle to a controllable speed, making steering lighter. Remember to check road conditions, downshift to first gear before turning, and avoid sharp turns at high speeds. This method is fundamental and applicable to most scenarios.

[VanOscar]

Choosing first gear during a U-turn is correct as it minimizes the risk of accidents. At low speeds, visibility and control are better, preventing excessive acceleration that could lead to skidding or rear-ending the vehicle ahead. During the test, pay special attention to coming to a complete stop before starting again and maintaining a steady speed during the turn. Using a higher gear by mistake can easily lead to errors and point deductions, so practice more to make it more natural.