How to Operate a Column-Shift Vehicle?
2 Answers
Press down the brake pedal, then pull the gear lever towards you while pushing it towards the desired gear position. The PRND is located on the steering column. P.R.N.D, shift in sequence. To shift gears, first press the brake pedal firmly, then lift the gear lever. After parking the vehicle, shift into this gear. Note to engage the handbrake as well. The R gear is the reverse gear; when reversing, observe the rear road conditions to ensure safety.
I remember learning to drive a manual transmission was quite novel, operating the gear shift required coordination between hands and feet. The steps were: press the clutch pedal all the way down, shift into first gear to prepare for starting; then slowly release the clutch while gently pressing the accelerator, the engine engages and the car moves. After starting, accelerate to about 20 km/h, press the clutch and shift into second gear, similarly release the clutch and give it some gas. Increase speed to shift into higher gears. The key is not to rush, releasing the clutch too quickly will stall the engine, you need to find the engagement point. When starting on a slope, use the handbrake to assist in avoiding rolling back, with more practice it will become smooth. Driving a manual transmission gives a greater sense of involvement, is more fuel-efficient, and allows flexible control.
