What is the speed in first gear at idle?
3 Answers
First gear idle speed is 2-5 km/h. The engine speed, gear, and vehicle speed should match. Each engine has its own maximum output speed. When the engine speed reaches the maximum speed that a certain gear of the transmission can withstand, the vehicle speed will also reach the limit speed of that gear. The following are precautions for driving: Check the vehicle before departure: Before setting off every day, conduct a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle, including whether there is any oil or water leakage; measure tire pressure to ensure it is appropriate; check the engine oil condition; and ensure the spare tire is intact, etc. Be cautious when wading: If encountering waterlogged roads, be aware of the water depth and road conditions underwater to determine whether it exceeds the vehicle's passing capability. When the water depth exceeds half the height of the car tires, it is not advisable to risk wading.
When it comes to first-gear idle speed, I've driven quite a few manual transmission cars myself, and it feels incredibly slow, roughly around 1 to 3 kilometers per hour, like a snail crawling. This mainly depends on the engine's idle RPM, typically around 800, but it varies significantly between different cars. My small car creeps forward slowly on flat ground without pressing the accelerator, but on a slope, it might stop or roll backward, requiring quick brake application. There are quite a few influencing factors, such as the car model and weight—heavier SUVs may lack sufficient power at idle and barely move, while lighter hatchbacks tend to glide more easily. Just drive safely and don’t rely on it to keep moving; it’s best to use the handbrake when parking to prevent unintended rolling. Overall, it’s a low-speed trick, but understanding it well can improve driving smoothness.
With decades of driving experience, I can tell that the idle speed in first gear is typically 1-2 kilometers per hour. This slow pace is manageable on flat ground, feeling like a slight creep. In practice, it depends on the car's condition: new cars have steadier idle speeds, moving gently and smoothly, while older cars might idle slightly higher, making them a bit faster. Safety is the key concern—I remember once parking on a slope where the car slowly rolled backward at idle, nearly causing an accident. Therefore, I advise beginners not to rely on this speed for driving. Regularly check the engine's idle settings and avoid setting them too high. In different conditions, such as rainy or slippery roads, the car might feel more sluggish. Simply put, it's a basic function, but combining it with proper brake operation is better.
