How And When To Change Gears

By Super

Updated: Wednesday, March 25, 2015, 15:20 [IST]

All, or at least most of us obtained our driving license after successfully learning how to drive and passing the driving test. However, the extent to which our driving skills are honed usually leaves a lot to be desired, especially in our country. Many correct practices like proper highway driving or defensive techniques are not taught at the driving school; we are expected to learn these on our own.

This article will focus on the right methods of changing gears in a manual transmission car, so you can improve your driving style. Do keep in mind that the points covered are in relation to an average car with a manual gearbox, like say a Maruti Suzuki Swift.

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Patrmach

1. Low gears for acceleration, higher gears for speed and economy

In a car, low gears like first, second and third are used for taking off from standstill and quick acceleration, while the higher gears like fourth and fifth allow the car to attain a higher top speed. Smart usage of gears can also make a huge impact on fuel economy - upshifting early to higher gears reduces the amount of fuel consumed by the engine.

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BerndB

2. Know your gears

First - Should always be used when moving from a stationary position, maneouvres and very slow moving traffic.

Second - Should be used for better economy in slightly faster traffic and for sharp left and right turns.

Third - Can be used in moving traffic in the city, or for quick overtaking when travelling in fourth gear. Best engaged at around 30-35 km/h.

Fourth - Can again be used for faster moving traffic in the city for better economy if your car is comfortable with the lower revs. It can also be engaged from fifth gear on the highway for overtaking. Fourth is best used at around 40-50 km/h.

Fifth - Used on open roads and dual carriageways for speed and improved economy. Best engaged at over 65 km/h.

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M J M

3. Change gears before the slope or turn, not during or after.

If you are approaching a relatively steep slope, you car may need more power to climb it. In this situation, always shift to a lower gear before the slope and then ascend it, to avoid having to change a gear, often two, while climbing. Also, drop down to a lower gear or downshift before taking a turn, as this sends more torque to the driven wheels, giving you more control and the ability to accelerate as soon as the maneouvre is completed.

4. Change gears smoothly

Smooth gear changes are vital for better economy and comfort of the passengers in the vehicle. There is nothing worse than being a car where every gear change is accompanied by rocking heads. Avoid ‘snatching' gears, or changing gears too quickly as this takes a toll on fuel economy and can also damage the gearbox in the long run. To prevent this, change gears slowly, giving the shift an ever-so-brief pause when crossing the neutral gear zone between gears. Another way to ensure smooth shifts is by shifting in straight lines and 90-degree angles.

5. Listen to the engine

Shifting to the sound of the engine is a simple art but is by far the most rewarding way to change gears. In case you are not confident doing this, you can judge your changes through the tachometer. Don't let the car get into the redline area, as this will hurt the engine. If there's no tacho in your car, listen to the engine carefully. If you're accelerating and the engine starts sounding extremely rough and shrill, you're overdoing it. If the car begins to make a low, rumbling noise and vibrates, then you're in too high a gear and will need to shift down to a lower gear.

Fender ender

We hope these tips throw some light on proper gear changing and help make you a better driver. If you have any tips to add, do write in. Happy shifting!

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Ralf Bijker