How Many Points Are Deducted for Starting in Second Gear?
2 Answers
Starting in second gear deducts 100 points. Normally, vehicles start in first gear because it provides the highest torque, which is essentially the greatest power, making it ideal for moving a stationary car. However, in certain special road conditions such as icy, snowy, or muddy slippery surfaces, starting in second gear may be used to prevent excessive torque that could cause the wheels to spin and sink deeper. The hazards of starting in second gear include: The most significant damage is to the clutch plate: second gear does not provide the highest torque, but starting requires substantial torque to avoid stalling. To prevent stalling, drivers often press the accelerator harder while the clutch is partially engaged, increasing engine speed. This semi-engaged state causes severe wear on the clutch plate, and the additional throttle accelerates abnormal wear, significantly reducing the clutch plate's lifespan. Fuel wastage: Since the throttle is increased while the clutch is semi-engaged, much of the fuel only results in engine idling without contributing to forward motion. While the fuel consumption from one or two starts may seem negligible, frequent starts add up, leading to a noticeable increase in fuel consumption per 100 kilometers. Risk of stalling and carbon buildup: If the throttle is not sufficiently pressed during startup, it may result in insufficient power, leading to stalling. Each stall requires an additional ignition process, and if the car barely starts without stalling, the lack of power can cause incomplete combustion, leading to carbon deposits, engine knocking, abnormal piston and cylinder wear, and unusual engine noises.
When driving, if you're accustomed to starting in second gear, this is not considered a standard practice. According to the "Road Traffic Safety Law," drivers are required to ensure a smooth vehicle start, and the correct method is generally to use first gear. If caught by traffic police or discovered during a test starting in second gear, you'll typically be penalized around 2 points, as this is regarded as improper driving behavior. Don't think these points are insignificant—your driver's license only has 12 points for the entire year. Points are easy to accumulate and can complicate your next annual review. More importantly, there are safety risks, such as stalling and rolling back on slopes, which could lead to rear-end collisions, or accelerated clutch wear, resulting in higher maintenance costs over time. I recommend practicing the habit of starting in first gear during daily driving—it complies with regulations and protects both your vehicle and your safety, naturally avoiding point deductions.
