Do You Need to Brake When Shifting from 4th to 3rd Gear?
2 Answers
Do You Need to Brake When Shifting from 4th to 3rd Gear? When upshifting, you must accelerate by pressing the throttle, and when downshifting, you must release the throttle and brake to slow down. However, in specific operations, whether to brake depends on the actual situation. Flat Road: When driving on a flat road and there is no need to reduce speed quickly. If you want to shift from 4th to 3rd gear, you can release the throttle pedal and let the vehicle slow down naturally. When the speed reaches the suitable range for 3rd gear, you can then shift into 3rd gear. Obstacles Ahead: When driving on a flat road and encountering obstacles ahead or the vehicle in front slows down. To shift from 4th to 3rd gear, you must brake to reduce speed so that the vehicle speed reaches the range suitable for 3rd gear, and then shift into 3rd gear. As for whether to brake sharply or gently, it depends on the actual situation. Generally, it is best not to brake sharply to prevent rear-end collisions.
I've been driving manual transmission cars for 30 years, and I often downshift from fourth to third gear without using the brakes. The key is to press the clutch pedal and gently pull the gear lever into the third gear position. Glance at the tachometer to avoid downshifting at too high a speed, otherwise the car will jerk. If it's a downhill slope, downshifting can also use engine braking to slow down, saving the brake pads from wearing out too quickly. But safety comes first—if there's any situation ahead, be ready to brake and slow down at any time. After driving in the city for so long, it becomes a habit, and the operation is the same whether it's a new or old car. Don’t rush the downshift; make sure the speed matches the gear. Generally, in urban driving, keep it between 40 to 60 kilometers per hour when shifting. Regular maintenance of the transmission fluid is also important to ensure smooth and quiet gear changes.
