Will the car stall when starting in second gear?
2 Answers
Starting in second gear is prone to stalling, and it is generally recommended to start in first gear. Here are some precautions for driving: Gear shifting: Automatic transmission vehicles have protection and interlock mechanisms for gear shifting. Switching from D (Drive) to R (Reverse) or P (Park) unintentionally can be dangerous, but switching between D and N (Neutral) can be done freely, even while driving. Avoid coasting in neutral: Coasting in neutral with an automatic transmission does not save fuel. Prolonged coasting in neutral can lead to insufficient oil pressure in the hydraulic lines of the automatic transmission, increasing friction, reducing lubrication effectiveness, and potentially damaging the internal friction plates of the transmission.
When I first started learning to drive, I thought starting in second gear would save some trouble, but I ended up stalling frequently right after starting. Stalling happens because the engine RPM is too low, and the torque is insufficient to move the car's weight. Especially on flat roads or slight inclines, accelerating from a standstill requires a lot of force. Second gear has a higher gear ratio, making the engine work harder. If the throttle isn't applied properly, the RPM drops, leading to a stall. Once, I stalled at an intersection, and the car behind almost hit me—it scared me so much that I never tried it again. My instructor taught me that starting must be done in first gear because the lower gear amplifies the engine's power, making the start smoother. Now, I always shift to first gear properly, ensuring the clutch is released slowly while adding a bit of throttle to avoid mistakes. I advise beginners not to attempt starting in second gear—saving a little time isn't worth compromising safety.
