How Many Points Are Deducted for Gear and Speed Mismatch?
3 Answers
In the Subject 3 driving test, a mismatch between vehicle speed and gear will result in a deduction of ten points. Here are the relevant details: 1. Gear shifting in Subject 3 test: Each gear has a specific speed range. For example, use 2nd gear for speeds between 10 to 30 km/h, 3rd gear for 20 to 40 km/h, and 4th gear for 30 to 50 km/h, subject to local test center requirements. 2. Gradual gear shifting: During the road test, skipping gears is strictly prohibited. For instance, when accelerating to 20 km/h, you can shift from 1st to 2nd gear, but not directly from 1st to 3rd gear. If you shift into the wrong gear, don’t panic—immediately press the clutch, return to neutral, and then shift again. Gear shifting should be done swiftly and decisively.
I'm an experienced driver who's been through many driving test scenarios. Mismatching gears and speeds is a major taboo for manual transmission vehicles. During the test, you'll often lose 10 points for each occurrence. If you make multiple mistakes or cause engine stalling or shaking, the examiner may directly fail you. In daily driving, if you're in a high gear at low speed, the engine will be overloaded and make strange noises; being in a low gear at high speed causes the RPM to skyrocket, wasting fuel and damaging the car. My advice is to shift to second gear promptly after starting, and quickly move to third gear when exceeding 30 km/h. With enough practice, it'll become muscle memory. The key is to feel the changes in engine sound and vibration—don't stare at the dashboard, as that's too distracting. I've seen beginners lose points because of this in test centers, but they passed smoothly after more simulation practice. Remember to fully depress the clutch and maintain steady rhythm—it's crucial.
As someone who frequently accompanies practice sessions, I remind everyone that the exam rules clearly state a 10-point deduction for gear-speed mismatch. Don't underestimate these 10 points - accumulating two such errors puts you in danger since the passing score is 80 out of 100. Examiners will notice if you frequently make mistakes, like using high gear at low speeds during climbs, causing the car to shudder, which easily draws attention. In actual driving, such mismatches increase fuel consumption and reduce power efficiency. The correct approach is to shift to third gear at 20-30 km/h and fourth gear at 40-50 km/h, adjusting according to road conditions. Run more simulated routes before the exam to familiarize yourself with the car's performance and reduce surprises. Safety first, and the pass rate will naturally improve.
