How to Shift from 2nd to 3rd Gear?
2 Answers
Press the accelerator to increase the vehicle speed until the RPM reaches 1500 to 2000, ensuring the speed matches the gear. After the speed increases, release the accelerator and depress the clutch pedal fully to avoid friction during gear shifting, which could lead to power loss. With the clutch depressed, push the gear lever forward to disengage from 2nd gear and return to neutral, then push forward again to engage 3rd gear. Quickly lift the clutch pedal to the semi-engaged state, and gently release it once the clutch is fully engaged.
When I was learning manual transmission, I always felt a bit flustered shifting from 2nd to 3rd gear, worrying about stalling or jerking. My experience is: first ensure the speed is around 30-40km/h (RPM about 2500), then press the clutch pedal completely, let the car coast slightly, and gently push the gear lever—don't force it, it will naturally pass through neutral and drop into 3rd gear. Then slowly release the clutch while lightly pressing the accelerator with your right foot to speed up, ensuring the movements are synchronized and smooth. If you shift at too high RPM, the car will lurch; too low and it's prone to stalling. I recommend practicing several laps in an empty parking lot to get familiar with the clutch point. Shifting isn't just about operation, but also about feeling the engine sound and vehicle feedback, making driving smoother and more confident.
