Should I Use First or Second Gear When Making a U-Turn?

[Haven]

There are no specific requirements for gear selection when making a U-turn. Generally, you can choose between first or second gear. First gear is the safest option, but if safety permits, you can also use second gear. Situations where U-turns are allowed: When there is a U-turn signal or sign; when there is no U-turn prohibition sign but left turns are allowed (no "No U-turn" sign is posted); U-turns are permitted at dashed lines; U-turns are allowed in yellow grid areas; U-turns can be made on the side of the median with dashed lines. Situations where U-turns are prohibited: When there is a "No U-turn" or "No Left Turn" sign; U-turns are prohibited at crosswalks; U-turns are not allowed when there is no left-turn lane; U-turns are prohibited in the second left-turn lane; U-turns are not allowed at solid yellow lines; U-turns are strictly forbidden on highways. Precautions for making a U-turn: When making a U-turn, you should activate the left turn signal in advance, the maximum speed should not exceed 30 km/h, and you must not interfere with other vehicles or pedestrians traveling normally.

[LiamMarie]

I think beginners are better off using first gear for U-turns, because when the speed drops to walking pace, first gear offers strong control and sufficient engine power, making it less likely to stall. I made this mistake often when I was learning to drive: if you use second gear, the car might shake or lose power during the turn, especially when going uphill or in traffic. U-turns require precise steering, and first gear at low speed ensures smooth acceleration out of the turn. If the car is old, first gear provides better protection and reduces transmission wear. Remember, safety comes first—don’t take risks at intersections. Slow down properly before making your move. Develop good habits, and once you’re familiar with your car’s characteristics, you can try second gear but keep the speed moderate.

[Parra]

Having driven manual transmission for over a decade, I've learned that gear selection for U-turns depends on road conditions and speed. On flat, wide roads, I usually use second gear since around 20km/h is sufficient for a U-turn while saving fuel and reducing gear-shifting hassle. But in narrow streets or steep slopes, first gear is essential – it provides enough power to prevent stalling or losing control. The key is to avoid letting engine RPM drop too low, as lugging the engine at low revs causes damage and noise. Adapt to road conditions: slow down early, shift before turning, and avoid gear changes mid-turn. With practice, you'll develop a feel for your car. You'll find second gear works in many situations, but beginners should stick with first gear for safety.

[DelAlan]

Safety first! When making a U-turn, I insist on using first gear, which provides optimal control to prevent excessive speed causing tailspin or insufficient braking. Especially in rainy or snowy conditions, low speed makes it easier to adjust direction and avoid skidding. At speeds as low as 5-10 km/h, the torque in first gear supports smooth turning; using second gear can cause issues like stalling due to insufficient RPM or power interruption. Consider the vehicle condition: heavier SUVs are more stable in first gear, while smaller cars on flat roads might occasionally use second gear. The key is not to get distracted by shifting—focus on steering. This small detail in daily driving can affect accident risks.