Does Stalling on a Slope Count as Failing the Test?
3 Answers
Stalling on the slope during Subject 2 (Parking and Slope Driving) does not result in an automatic failure, but improper subsequent operations will lead to immediate disqualification. Solution: If the car stalls during the slope start in Subject 2, do not panic. First, shift the car into neutral, then restart the engine. However, if you attempt to restart the engine while still in gear, the system will directly judge it as a failure. It is important to note that the slope start requires the engine to be started within 30 seconds, so the examinee's actions must be quick, precise, and steady. Generally, stalling during a slope start will deduct 20 points. Preventing Stalling: Before starting the car, ensure the handbrake is fully released to avoid resistance, which can cause stalling when accelerating, especially during slope starts. Additionally, do not lift the clutch too high. If the clutch is lifted too high and the foot brake is not released in time, the engine and wheel speeds will become inconsistent, also leading to stalling.
A few days ago, while training students, stalling during a hill start was all too common. The driving test rules clearly state that stalling once during a hill start deducts 10 points, which by itself doesn’t mean an automatic fail. For example, if you didn’t lose points in other sections, scoring 90 out of 100 would still be a pass. However, the key lies in the follow-up actions: if you remain stationary for more than 30 seconds after stalling, it’s an immediate fail; if you panic and attempt to start the engine while still in gear, the examiner will fail you outright. I often remind students to focus on finding the clutch’s biting point during practice—keep the right foot steady on the brake, slowly lift the left foot off the clutch until the car vibrates, then release the brake. If you stall during the test, calmly shift to neutral, restart the engine, and begin again—there’s usually enough time. Practicing the coordination between the accelerator and clutch more often and developing the habit of using the handbrake on slopes can significantly reduce mistakes.
Last month, I encountered a stall on the slope during my Subject 2 driving test, and my legs were shaking at the time. After stalling, I quickly pressed the clutch, shifted to neutral, restarted the engine, and completed the takeoff—the whole process took less than 20 seconds. The final score sheet showed a 10-point deduction for the slope start, but I passed all other items with a score of 90, which is the passing mark. The instructor said that stalling itself doesn’t result in a fail, but the panic-induced mistakes afterward are what’s scary. One trainee directly tried to start the engine while pressing the clutch after stalling and was judged as starting with the gear engaged, resulting in an immediate fail. During practice, it’s important to simulate stall handling: return to neutral, restart the engine, press the clutch and shift to first gear, release the handbrake, and find the semi-engagement point again. Developing muscle memory is key so you won’t fear unexpected situations during the test.
