My driving instructor says I’m constantly ‘coasting’, but I don’t know what they mean. Book Theory Test Today explains coasting and why you need to cut it out of your driving habits.
Book Theory Test Today says: “If you’re instructor is telling you that you’re coasting too much, they don’t mean coasting through life! They mean you’re coasting the car and if you don’t cut it out while you’re learning to drive, come test day it could result in test disappointment.â€
What is coasting?
Coasting is the act of moving a vehicle, and advancing without applying power (i.e. pressing on the accelerator). Coasting when driving is keeping the clutch depressed and rolling without using the engine to move.
The majority of drivers coast when going down a hill, but the truth is many don’t realise that they’re doing it. When the clutch is depressed the engine is disengaged, effectively making the vehicle ‘free-wheel’. Braking while coasting causes wear and tear on the brakes and having the clutch depressed gives you less control of your vehicle.
However, keeping the engine engaged reduces the wear and tear on the brakes and gives you better control of your vehicle. That’s why instructors will try to teach you to cut out coasting as part of driving.
Coasting while driving
Driving experts say that there are five common types of coasting, including:
- Keeping the clutch depressed while rolling down a hill
- Keeping the clutch depressed when making a right or left turn from a main road into a minor road
- Using the clutch too soon before stopping
- Excessive clutch depression after changing gear
- Depressing the clutch or leaving the gear in neutral to conserve fuel
How to stop yourself from coasting
Being aware that you’re coasting is a great start. Coasting when making right or left turns will take practice to overcome. Book Theory Test Today says: “A good driving instructor will help you to overcome the coasting habit, so pay attention to what your instructor is saying and apply their advice.â€
Using an example of a left turn, here’s how to stop yourself from coasting. When you identify your left turn, hover your foot over the clutch, but don’t apply it. Instead, gently apply pressure to the foot brake.
Continue to apply the foot brake until you reach a speed of between 5-10mph. You should be in second gear and slow enough to make the required left turn.
It’s advised that around 10 metres from the turn that’s when you depress the clutch and select 2nd gear. Then slowly release the clutch, but remain over it in case you need to depress it because of what’s around the corner.
Book Theory Test Today says: “Remember, excessive coasting can result in driving test failure, so stamping it out while you’re learning is the best course of action.â€
Book Theory Test Today offers an intermediary service assisting clients with booking a UK theory test, or practical test, at test centres across the nation. The service also supplies resources to help you prepare for your theory test – Ready to take your theory test? Book your theory test online today…
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