Should I shift to first gear in advance when making a right turn on an uphill section?
3 Answers
When making a right turn on an uphill section, it is essential to slow down and shift to first gear. Shifting to first gear is primarily for safety and also prepares for accelerating again after the turn. When starting the car on an uphill section: As long as the handbrake is firmly engaged, slowly release the clutch to the engagement point, then immediately hold the clutch steady and release the handbrake. This will prevent the car from rolling backward. When driving on a steep slope: You must select an appropriate gear based on the slope conditions to ensure the engine maintains sufficient power. Downshift quickly and avoid forcing the gear to prevent stalling. If you miss the shifting opportunity, you can skip gears to downshift. If you encounter difficulty shifting or the engine stalls, immediately use both the service brake and parking brake to stop the vehicle, then restart. When approaching the top of the slope: Be cautious of oncoming vehicles or pedestrians when nearing the top of the slope, as this area can create a blind spot for normal visibility and increase the risk of traffic accidents.
As an instructor who frequently drives in mountainous areas, I deeply understand the challenges of turning on uphill sections, especially right turns which require precise control. When going uphill, more engine power is needed to counteract gravity, while turning requires deceleration to prevent skidding; if you wait until the turning point to shift gears, it can easily lead to stalling or engine shutdown, which is particularly dangerous on steep slopes. I recommend starting to decelerate several dozen meters in advance, and when the speed drops to about 15-20 km/h, smoothly shift into first gear—this low gear provides maximum torque, helping the car climb and turn steadily without needing to stomp on the accelerator. Practicing this habit is crucial; for example, I've taught students in urban congested areas who frequently stalled when they forgot to shift gears, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions. Of course, on gentler slopes, second gear might suffice, but for right turns on steep slopes, safety comes first—always develop the awareness to shift gears early. This not only protects the engine but also allows you to focus on observing traffic and pedestrians at intersections.
I remember the first time I drove a manual transmission car up a steep slope, I almost stalled at a right turn, and my heart was racing. Since then, I've learned to shift into first gear in advance. The engine is already struggling on an uphill slope, and slowing down for a turn can cause a sudden drop in speed; if you're not prepared, the car might stop mid-turn or even cause an accident. Now, whenever I encounter a similar situation, I start adjusting about 100 meters before the turn: first, lightly apply the brakes to slow down, and when the speed is around 20 km/h, shift into first gear to maintain power. This avoids the panic of shifting gears and allows me to focus on steering through the turn. With more practice on mountain roads, you'll get the hang of it; although beginners may feel nervous, this can greatly boost confidence and safety.
