Should You Press the Accelerator When Downshifting in Driving Test Subject 3?
2 Answers
You definitely need to press the accelerator after downshifting in Subject 3. Here are the precautions for the Subject 3 road test: 1. Fingerprint: If the candidate's fingerprint verification fails, please exit the vehicle to re-collect the fingerprint before queuing again for the test. 2. Score: If the candidate's score falls below the passing score during the test, the system will automatically prompt the candidate to pull over. After completing the pull-over action, the system will prompt for the next test. 3. Distance: After the candidate completes all required test items and drives a distance of more than 3 kilometers as required, the system will automatically prompt to pull over. Upon hearing the pull-over voice prompt, the candidate should choose a clear curb (or solid road edge line) on the test route and complete the pull-over action after confirming safety. After pulling over, the system will broadcast the test results via voice.
When I was taking the driving test for Subject 3, the instructor repeatedly emphasized the need to press the accelerator while downshifting. In a manual transmission car, if you downshift from 4th to 3rd gear without matching the engine speed to the decreased vehicle speed, the car will jerk or even stall. During practice, I tried downshifting without pressing the accelerator, and the car jerked violently, almost stalling, which resulted in a penalty during the mock test. Pressing the accelerator increases the engine speed, making the gear shift much smoother. This is especially crucial when turning or climbing hills, as it reduces risks. I’ve also developed this habit in my daily driving, making my driving smoother and safer. The Subject 3 test rules require standard operations, and failing to press the accelerator can lead to penalties and affect passing. So, I always lightly press the accelerator in sync with the action to develop a sense of rhythm.