Does Fully Depressing the Clutch in Subject Two Count as an Intermediate Stop?
2 Answers
Fully depressing the clutch in Subject Two counts as an intermediate stop. Below are detailed explanations regarding Subject Two: 1. Introduction: An intermediate stop, as the name suggests, refers to the vehicle's speed dropping directly to 0 during the test. Additionally, turning the steering wheel too sharply increases wheel resistance, which can also lead to a brief stop. The detection system in the test vehicle is highly sensitive and will immediately record any stop. 2. Avoiding Intermediate Stops: During the test, when passing over uneven ground or the seams between cement blocks in the test area, slightly increase the vehicle speed. When turning the steering wheel sharply, slightly release the clutch to prevent an intermediate stop. When straightening the wheel, gently press the clutch to control the vehicle speed.
My driving instructor specifically emphasized that pressing the clutch all the way down in Subject 2 doesn't count as stopping midway. The system judges stopping mainly based on whether the wheels come to a complete halt. If you just depress the clutch fully but keep it in first gear, the car will creep forward slowly, and the speed monitor will still count it—it definitely won't be flagged as a stop. However, don't rely too much on this trick. If you hold the clutch down too long during hill starts or reversing into a parking space, the car might suddenly stall, and that would genuinely count as stopping and cost you points. It took me three attempts to realize the key is to treat the clutch like an accelerator—tap it gently and maintain a semi-engaged state, keeping the car moving at a snail's pace steadily. The exam rules clearly state that 'clutch control doesn't count as a braking operation,' so practice with confidence.
