How To Change Car Gears in correct method?
Gears allow a car to be driven with the minimum strain on the engine. Modern cars usually have five forward and one reverse gear, although some cars now have a sixth forward which gives greater fuel economy when driving at higher speeds over longer distances.
To change gear in a car:
- Release the accelerator pedal and at the same time press the clutch pedal down.
- Remove your left hand from the steering wheel, cup it around the gear knob and move the lever gently but positively from one position to another.
- Return your left hand to the steering wheel.
- Release the clutch pedal slowly and simultaneously apply power by pressing down on the accelerator pedal.
Whilst changing gear you must always keep your eyes on the road. The sound of the engine can tell you when you need to change gear. As you accelerate the engine will come to sound whiny and take on a higher pitch. This is because the engine is reaching its limits for the gear you are in. When you hear this you should change up.
Remember:
- The low gears provide lots of acceleration but run out of steam before the vehicle is moving very quickly.
- The high gears provide the speed but not the acceleration.
For a smooth ride you should avoid “snatching” (changing gear with too much force). To make the gear change smoother, let the gearshift pause for a second as it crosses the neutral zone.
