Which gear should be used for a U-turn in the Subject 3 driving test?
3 Answers
In the Subject 3 driving test, there is no specific requirement for the gear to be used. Generally, you can choose to make a U-turn in first or second gear. First gear is the most dangerous, but you can also opt for second gear if safety is ensured. Below is a detailed introduction to the Subject 3 test: 1. Overview: Subject 3, which includes the road driving skills test and the safe and civilized driving knowledge test, is part of the motor vehicle driver's license assessment. It is the abbreviation for the road driving skills and safe and civilized driving knowledge test in the motor vehicle driver's examination. The content of the road driving skills test varies for different types of vehicles. 2. Test Content: The road driving skills test for Subject 3 generally includes: preparation before starting, simulated lighting test, starting, driving straight, shifting gears, changing lanes, pulling over, going straight through intersections, turning left at intersections, turning right at intersections, passing pedestrian crossings, passing school zones, passing bus stops, and meeting other vehicles.
I recently passed the Subject 3 driving test, and during the exam, the instructor repeatedly emphasized that you must use first gear when making a U-turn. At first, I thought the slow speed was inconvenient, but after practicing, I found first gear to be very stable, with the car completely under control. I remember the first time I tried a U-turn in second gear—the steering couldn't keep up with the speed, and the wheels crossed the line, resulting in points deducted. Later, switching to first gear made the car turn smoothly, with enough time to check the mirrors and blind spots. On narrow roads during the test, some examiners might ask you to reverse and adjust, but starting in first gear eliminates any worry about stalling. Don't forget to signal left before turning, slow down early, and shift gears—these details all affect your score. Safety and smoothness are the golden rules of the test.
After years of instructing students at the driving school, I highly recommend using first gear for the U-turn section in Subject 3. Beginners often struggle with coordinating the throttle and clutch, and second gear's higher speed can easily lead to loss of steering control. Last month, a student stubbornly attempted a U-turn in second gear, resulting in the wheels mounting the curb. Although first gear is slower, it allows you to calmly observe oncoming traffic from both sides and provides ample time to gradually straighten the steering wheel after turning it fully. The exam evaluation places great emphasis on safety, and maintaining low-speed turns can actually earn you extra points. Remember to slow down and shift gears at least 20 meters in advance, and never attempt to shift gears mid-turn. When encountering slopes on the road, using the clutch in a semi-engaged state can help better control the vehicle's speed.
