What is the minimum speed in fourth gear?
3 Answers
For a manual transmission car, the speed range in 4th gear is between 45-56 km/h. Below are specific details about gear speeds: 1. Gears: Start in 1st gear, shift to 2nd gear after driving a few meters, shift to 3rd gear when the speed reaches above 20 mph but below 35 mph, shift to 4th gear when the speed reaches above 35 mph but below 45 mph, and shift to 5th gear when the speed exceeds 45 mph. 2. Precautions: When shifting gears, the clutch and throttle must be coordinated properly. Press the clutch pedal fully, then release the throttle pedal, and quickly shift to the corresponding gear. Release your hand immediately after shifting; do not keep it on the gear lever for too long, as this can easily damage the gear lever.
This issue actually varies from person to person and from car to car. I've been driving manual transmission vehicles for over a decade, and I generally maintain a minimum speed of around 30 to 50 km/h in fourth gear. If the speed drops below this range, the engine RPM will become too low, making it prone to stalling, especially noticeable when climbing hills or carrying heavy loads. I remember one time on a mountain road when I tried to drop below 25 km/h in fourth gear—the car shook violently and nearly stalled. Fortunately, I downshifted in time to stabilize it. Different car models vary significantly; for example, small-displacement economy cars might start shaking at 35 km/h, while larger-displacement SUVs might handle speeds as low as 40 km/h. For beginners, I recommend practicing at stable speeds of 30-40 km/h first, getting used to the shifting feel before attempting more challenging limits—safety comes first. In short, understanding your vehicle's habits is crucial, and checking the engine condition before each start can help prevent accidents.
As a mechanic with hands-on experience, I've dealt with numerous vehicle issues caused by high-speed low-gear or low-speed high-gear driving. The minimum speed for 4th gear typically ranges between 30 to 40 km/h, depending on engine torque and load. When speed falls below this range, common problems include spark plug carbon buildup or fuel delivery system lag leading to stalling. I once repaired an old sedan where the customer drove at 25 km/h in 4th gear in urban areas, resulting in frequent stalls - inspection revealed a dirty throttle body. Vehicle weight, tire pressure, and road gradient all affect the threshold; for example, climbing steep slopes requires maintaining at least 40 km/h. I advise drivers to perform regular maintenance, understand their vehicle's characteristics, and avoid prolonged high-gear low-speed driving to prevent component wear and excessive fuel consumption.
