What are the deduction criteria and detailed analysis for gear shifting in Subject 3 of the driving test?
2 Answers
1. The gear shifting operations in Subject 3 run through the entire examination process and can generally be divided into three types: a. Upshifting during starting and driving. b. Downshifting when stopping or when speed is decreasing. c. The process of shifting up to 4th gear as required during the test. 2. The deduction items related to gear shifting in Subject 3 include: a. Wrong gear selection during starting or driving: Failure to correct promptly results in a 10-point deduction. b. Prolonged mismatch between gear and speed: Causing the engine speed to be too high or too low results in a 100-point deduction. c. Looking down at the gear lever while driving: Failing to engage the gear twice in a row results in a 100-point deduction. d. Gear collision during shifting: Results in a 10-point deduction. e. Failure to smoothly shift up or down as instructed: Results in a 100-point deduction. f. Mismatch between vehicle speed and gear: Results in a 10-point deduction.
Recently, I've been accompanying many students during their driving test for Subject 3, and there are numerous points where marks are deducted for gear shifting. If the gear isn't shifted up in time, like still being in first gear when the speed reaches 30 km/h, the examiner will deduct 10 points immediately—I've seen students make this mistake. Downshifting is even more critical; if the engine speed is too high or too low, causing the car to jerk or stall, it results in a 20-point deduction or even failure. Beginners often make this mistake due to nervousness, releasing the clutch too quickly. Analyzing the reasons, most issues stem from unfamiliarity with matching speed and gear. For example, using second gear at 20 km/h is the safest; otherwise, nervousness can lead to confusion. During practice, I teach them to find a flat road in the training area to practice shifting up and down slowly, releasing the clutch step by step while watching the tachometer, ensuring smooth and continuous movements without pauses—this can avoid 90% of the deductions. Safety comes first; these small mistakes, if not corrected, pose significant risks on the road. In short, simulating test scenarios frequently will make them familiar and problem-free.
