How to Bypass Gears in a Manual Transmission

Many people buy a manual transmission vehicle for the gas mileage. The car increases speed as you move to a different gear. Try bypassing gears if you want to up the number of miles you save. Here are some ways you can bypass gears in a manual transmission.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Save gas by starting the car in third gear if you are on a hill. You can start a manual transmission vehicle by rolling it down a hill with the clutch depressed by your left foot. Once you are up to speed, shift straight into third gear.

2. Save transmission deterioration by skipping gears. Go from first to third gear when you get up to speed. Start from your driveway or parking spot in first gear. Shift directly into third gear as you head down the street. You won't even see the need for second gear.

3. Enter the freeway ramp in third gear since you are going slower than interstate traffic. Pass over fourth and go straight to fifth gear when you get up to highway speed. By doing this you save gas and bypass unnecessary gears.

4. Enjoy the independence! Skipping gears in a manual transmission car or truck is fine as long as you do it at the right speeds. You have to be going the correct speed for the gear you choose.

Tips & Warnings

• Most sports cars use manual transmissions.
• You cannot skip gears in a sequential, manual automobile.
• If you depress the clutch while your car is in reverse, it causes the car to roll if the rear of the car is pointed downhill.