How to Identify Gears on a Manual Transmission Dashboard?
2 Answers
Used for normal starting or climbing very steep slopes, with relatively slow speed. When the speed is around 10 km/h, it is first gear. An intermediate gear for acceleration after starting or for low-speed driving, with moderate speed. When the speed is around 20 km/h, it is second gear. When the speed is between 20-40 km/h, it is third gear, commonly used for city driving. When the car speed is between 40-60 km/h, it is fourth gear. When the car speed exceeds 60 km/h, it is fifth gear, which is rarely used due to high speed.
When I first learned to drive, I was also confused about how to read the gear position on a manual transmission dashboard. But in fact, most manual transmission cars don’t have a direct numerical gear display—the dashboard won’t tell you which gear you’re in. To check the gear, you need to look down at the position of the gear shift lever, which has a diagram. For example, the middle position is neutral, pushing up to the right is fifth gear, and pushing down to the left is first gear. Beginners are advised to stop in a safe place first and familiarize themselves with each position, such as first gear usually being at the bottom left and fifth gear at the top right. After practicing for a while, you’ll start guessing the gear based on speed and engine sound without constantly looking. Remember, the dashboard mainly displays the speedometer and tachometer, which can help you indirectly judge whether the gear is appropriate—for example, if the engine RPM is too high, it might indicate that you’re lugging the engine. Just keep driving, and you’ll get used to it. Don’t rush, take it slow, and safety first.
