Lesson 1:
The Basics
Objective:
At the end of this lesson, you should be able to start from a stop, and accelerate to highway
speed using manual shifts. Don't be afraid to make a mistake. The computer will correct you,
so you won't break the car.
Lets Get Started!
Once you get in the car and start the engine, shift the car into drive, then switch into manual mode.
Make sure the radio is off, as you'll need to be able to hear the sound of the engine. As your skills
improve, you won't even need to look at the tachometer. You'll be able to judge the engine speed
just by listening to it. Since you are not moving, the transmission will be in first gear.
As you ease on the gas and the car starts to move, keep an eye on the tachometer. When the engine
gets to "3" or, 3000 revolutions per minute (RPM), shift up into second gear. For this lesson, we will
use 3000 RPM for the shift point. However, each car is different, so check your owner's manual.
You are now in second gear. Continue to accelerate, and when you get to 3000 RPM, shift up again.
Continue to accelerate, and each time you get to 3000 RPM, shift up. When you get to your cruising speed,
ease off the gas and maintain the current gear.
Congratulations, you've successfully accelerated using manual shifts!
You're ready to move on.