Which gear is best for making a U-turn in Subject 3?

[MacKaylee]

In the Subject 3 driving test, there is no specific requirement for which gear to use when making a U-turn. Generally, you can choose either first or second gear. Using first gear is riskier than second gear, so for safety, it's advisable to use second gear. Detailed steps for making a U-turn in Subject 3: 1. Upon hearing the instruction "Please make a U-turn ahead," the candidate should activate the left turn signal for at least three seconds, carefully observe the surroundings, and safely yield to oncoming traffic. The U-turn must be performed in second gear or lower, with the vehicle speed reduced to below 20 km/h. If necessary, first gear with half-clutch can be used. The sequence of operations is: signal, look, brake, downshift, and U-turn. 2. Pay attention to yielding to vehicles from both directions and avoid disrupting normal traffic flow. You may stop and wait before making the U-turn to ensure it can be completed in one smooth motion without stopping midway due to improper operation. When turning the steering wheel, maintain a steady and moderate technique to avoid turning too early, too late, or with excessive or insufficient angles. 3. Upon hearing the instruction "U-turn completed," the test for this section is considered finished. 4. If there is a crosswalk during the U-turn, the vehicle must pass the crosswalk before turning. Do not make the U-turn or stop on the crosswalk.

[JocelynLee]

When I was learning to drive, the instructor always emphasized using a low gear for U-turns to ensure safety. During the driving test (Subject 3), first gear was my go-to choice because as a beginner, I operated slowly, reducing the risk of stalling or losing control. The specific steps were: observe the road conditions in advance, slow down to below 10 km/h, shift into first gear before turning the steering wheel, and pay attention to the rearview mirrors and blind spots throughout the process. The examiner valued smoothness and fluidity the most. If the speed was slightly higher, second gear might be an option, but it carried higher risks—any mistake would result in immediate point deductions. With more practice, you’ll learn that staying relaxed and using the turn signals properly—these small details can help you pass on the first try. In short, first gear is simple and reliable, making it more suitable for beginners to build confidence.

[NoraAnn]

From a safe driving perspective, I recommend using second gear when making U-turns during the driving test (Subject 3). It's slightly faster than first gear but still within controllable limits, unlike higher gears which are more prone to skidding or stalling—especially common in urban traffic. My years of driving experience have taught me that the core of low-speed maneuvers is minimizing accident risks. Second gear provides enough flexible power to quickly straighten and accelerate after turning. During the test, examiners focus on your responsiveness, such as checking for rear vehicles and signaling—skills that appear more polished when paired with second gear. Remember to practice simulating various scenarios during training to familiarize yourself with the car's power characteristics, avoiding panic at complex intersections. This approach significantly contributes to long-term safe driving.

[StNorah]

Technically speaking, lower gears are better because the engine has ample power. I've tested different car models, and first or second gear is most suitable for U-turns. First gear is slower and more beginner-friendly, while second gear is slightly faster but tests coordination. The basic principle is: using a higher gear at low speeds reduces control and can easily stall the engine, affecting the test. Key operational points are to slow down early and shift gears smoothly.