How to Adjust the Seat for Subject 2 Driving Test?
3 Answers
You should lean your hips as far back as possible, ideally pressing against the gap between the seat cushion and the backrest. This will help you sit more stably without wobbling. Adjust the seat height according to your stature. The correct seat height should be set so that the driver's view is neither blocked by the steering wheel nor obstructed from clearly seeing all important instruments and the surroundings of the vehicle. Additional relevant information is as follows: 1. Front and rear distance of the seat: Judge by the position of your hands and feet. 2. Hands: They should rest naturally on the steering wheel, with the wrists positioned right above the wheel. 3. Feet: The front part of both feet should rest on the clutch and brake pedals, with the knees slightly bent. When fully pressed down, the back of the legs should not be completely straight. Sitting too far away may result in slower reaction times due to fully extended legs.
I've taught many students preparing for the Subject 2 driving test, and improper seat adjustment often leads to failure, especially during the reverse parking segment. First, sit firmly, then adjust the front and rear distance to ensure your right foot can comfortably press the clutch, brake, and accelerator all the way down, with the knees slightly bent and not tense. Adjust the height so there's a fist's distance between the top of your head and the car roof, providing a high enough view to clearly see the rear wheel positions in the mirrors. Set the backrest angle more upright, with shoulders firmly against the seatback to avoid swaying and accidentally touching the steering wheel while driving. Stick to this position during practice to build muscle memory and prevent exam-day fluster. A seat too low obstructs visibility, while too high makes pedal operation strenuous. Spending half a minute adjusting it properly each time enhances overall control and avoids unnecessary point deductions.
When I was taking the driving test for Subject 2, I adjusted the seat incorrectly twice and almost failed. Later, I learned the proper way. First, adjust the front and back distance so that your feet can comfortably press the clutch, and your legs aren't stiff. For height, measure with a fist's distance between your head and the car roof—don't squeeze under the roof or sit too high to miss the lines. Keep the backrest straight and firm against your shoulders, with your hands naturally holding the steering wheel at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions. If the seat is misaligned, reversing into the parking space can go off course, and the rearview mirrors won't be accurate. I practiced adjusting it every day, and now I do the same when driving—it ensures safety and saves trouble.
