How to Shift from 1st to 2nd Gear in a Standard Transmission Car

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posted on 18 years ago — updated on 1 second ago

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This guide will explain how to shift from first to second gear in a car with a standard transmission. You'll need to know how to shift into first gear before reading further.

Steps

Listen for the change in your car's engine sounds that let you know it's "working harder." Higher pitched whirring is one sign. (Notice the RPM reading at that point, and you'll begin to develop a sense of when you need to shift gears in this car. Most cars need to be shifted whenever they hit 3000-3500 RPMs).

Lift your right foot off the pedals altogether--do not press the accelerator or brake pedal.

Press the clutch pedal down quickly all the way to the floor or until you feel it dis-engage.

Smoothly pull the shift lever straight back from 1st to 2nd gear.

Release the clutch smoothly and then continue pressing lightly on the accelerator. Do not be harsh with either pedal - the ride will be jerky and you could put too much strain on the drive train.