Stalling in 2nd gear when I slow way down...

Debthree

I'm learning to drive. Forgive me if this question is really stupid. lol!

Let's say I'm in 2nd gear and I want to slow way down but not stop (e.g. a sharp left turn is coming up). Now when I do it the car stalls. I'm guessing it's because I'm essentially going too slow for 2nd gear. But I've been told not to go to 1st gear as this is only for taking off. So how do I achieve slowing way down in 2nd gear without stalling?

Thanks.

clanpiper

You choose whichever gear is suitable to the speed of your vehicle. That includes first gear if necessary. Yes, first gear is predominantly used for pulling away but that is not its sole function. When you do put the car into first gear remember not to 'jump' off the clutch. Let the clutch up gently.

[Edit] On another note - When you are learning to drive there is NO such thing as a stupid question. Yours is a very valid question and good point. I guarantee there are others who have the same or a similar question.

leahyl

Op, I have a yaris and whenever I slow down in 2nd gear it nearly cuts out on me too - I usually just depress the clutch if I'm going to be moving off again without stopping and release it then as the traffic moves on - but this would only be for a very short time (like a few seconds) - sometimes I have to stop and go into first gear.

MascotDec85

Debthree wrote: »

I'm learning to drive. Forgive me if this question is really stupid. lol!

Let's say I'm in 2nd gear and I want to slow way down but not stop (e.g. a sharp left turn is coming up). Now when I do it the car stalls. I'm guessing it's because I'm essentially going too slow for 2nd gear. But I've been told not to go to 1st gear as this is only for taking off. So how do I achieve slowing way down in 2nd gear without stalling?

Thanks.

From what you've described it sounds as though you are braking too hard or for far too long which is resulting in the car going too slow to handle being in 2nd gear. If a turn is tight enough there's absolutely no issue with going down to first gear so long as you come off the clutch (make sure you ease off the brake as you release the clutch here).

For standard turns you should be aiming to turn around 20-25 km/h. If the turn is tight then you should reduce your speed to a level that helps you maintain your position around the corner. If that means using first then so be it.

Debthree

Thank you very much guys! I really appreciate the tips and support. Sorry for taking so long to reply. I've been practicing like mad and I'm getting better at this driving lark every day. Delighted with myself. Thanks again.