What is the minimum speed in fifth gear?
2 Answers
The car maintenance manual indicates that for optimal fuel economy, the minimum speed in fifth gear is 40 km/h, with the corresponding speed range for fifth gear being 40-55 km/h. First gear is used for starting, with speeds typically between 0-15 km/h; second gear corresponds to speeds of 15-25 km/h; third gear is for speeds of 25-35 km/h, commonly used in urban driving; and fourth gear is for speeds of 35-40 km/h. Generally, the ideal shift point for most cars is when the engine reaches 2000 rpm, preferably not exceeding 2500 rpm. For high-displacement, high-power engines, the maximum efficiency range may be slightly delayed, so shifting around 3000 rpm can be considered. Different vehicles exhibit varying behaviors in terms of engine and transmission performance, and drivers can often determine the right shift point by listening to the engine sound. A dull engine sound usually indicates it's time to upshift. Driving in a gear that's too high increases engine stress and fuel consumption, negatively impacting both the engine and transmission. Conversely, if the engine speed drops below 1500 rpm, it's time to downshift. Upshift timing: When the engine has ample power, it emits a dull humming sound. After upshifting, if there's no power deficiency or drivetrain vibration, and the vehicle accelerates smoothly and naturally, the upshift timing is accurate. Downshift timing: When the vehicle's speed and engine rpm continuously decrease, and you feel the car losing power with engine compartment vibrations, it's time to downshift one gear. Downshifting too early will cause noticeable jerking, wasting engine power and increasing fuel consumption while also affecting the engine and transmission lifespan. Downshifting too late will result in insufficient power even after the shift, leading to continued jerking. Misjudging the shift timing can cause such irreversible consequences, negatively impacting the driving experience. Manual transmission shifting: Generally, to engage first gear, move the shifter left and then forward; for second gear, move left and then down; for third gear, return to neutral and then push straight up; for fourth gear, return to neutral and then push straight down; for fifth gear, push right and then up (specific instructions may vary based on your vehicle's gear layout). Manual transmission shifting tips: While shifting, coordinate the clutch and throttle properly. Press the clutch pedal fully, then release the throttle pedal, and quickly shift to the desired gear. Release the shifter immediately after shifting—avoid keeping your hand on the gear lever (commonly known as the gear stick) for too long, as this can damage the transmission. For manual transmission cars, always remember the principle: "Accelerate before upshifting, decelerate before downshifting." Before upshifting, press the throttle to increase speed; before downshifting, ease off the throttle to reduce speed. Always depress the clutch pedal fully before shifting, and operate the gear lever gently, swiftly, smoothly, and accurately.
I used to drive manual transmission cars quite a lot. The minimum speed for fifth gear is generally around 15 to 25 km/h. If it's too low, the car will lug. Once, when I shifted to fifth gear at 20 km/h, the engine shook violently, feeling as uncomfortable as dancing at a disco. Driving like this for a long time is particularly harmful to the engine, not only accelerating wear on the gears and chains but also inexplicably increasing fuel consumption—more loss than gain. For smooth and fuel-efficient driving, it's best to use fifth gear within the 40-60 km/h range, especially when starting from a red light in the city—don't rush to shift to higher gears; safety is more important than anything. Remember to check if the tachometer is above 1500 RPM before each gear shift; too low RPM can easily cause malfunctions. In short, maintaining the right balance can extend the life of your beloved car.
