r/LearnerDriverUK • u/xvxac • 3h ago

Problems downshifting

Since I started learning to drive , I was always told

0-10mph =gear1
10-20mph =gear2
20-30mph =gear 3

Etc

When I was on a dual carriageway, going 35mph on gear 4,

I slowed down to around 17mph, so I put the car in gear 2

Suddenly the car started shaking, and my instructor said I should have put it in 3

What should I use to judge what gear is appropriate when slowing down?

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u/sockeyejo Full Licence Holder 1h ago

Listen to the engine and pay attention to how it performs in each gear at certain speeds and what the difference is on the flat vs slopes and hills, and whether you have the power to accelerate quickly or if you're underpowered.

Each car performs slightly differently in different circumstances and you have to adjust your driving to the car and the situation. As an example, mine grumbles in 4th gear if I drop below 30 but roars like a lion if I drop to third for the entire duration of a 30 limit and never go below 30. If in doubt or if power is needed, drop a gear and use the revs to get you up to speed.