Vehicle Controls and Basic Handling
You must be able to operate every control smoothly and without looking, so your eyes stay on the road.
Core controls
- Steering: hold the wheel at about nine and three o'clock, with both hands. Use push-pull steering rather than crossing your arms.
- Pedals: in an automatic, the right foot works the accelerator and brake; the left foot stays idle. In a manual, the left foot works the clutch only. Never rest your foot on the brake or clutch.
- Gears: a manual needs the clutch pressed fully to change gear; select a lower gear before a steep descent to use engine braking.
- Indicators, lights and horn: signal before every change of direction or lane, in good time. Use the horn to warn, not to complain.
Moving off, stopping and parking
Before moving off: check mirrors, signal if needed, check the blind spot, then move smoothly. When stopping, check mirrors, signal, slow gradually and secure the vehicle - handbrake on, in gear or park.
Steering, braking and skids
Brake progressively, not suddenly. If the vehicle skids, ease off the accelerator, steer gently where you want to go, and avoid harsh braking. On gravel, keep steering inputs smooth and leave extra braking distance.
Trap to watch: questions about which foot operates which pedal, and about using a low gear on a descent rather than riding the brakes. Another common trap is signalling after you begin to move - signal first.
Rule of thumb: mirror, signal, blind spot, manoeuvre - in that order, every time.