Is it correct to stay in third gear in a 30mph limit?

My wife recently paid to attend a speed awareness course (after getting caught by a speed camera) and the main 'instruction' from the lecturer was to always stay in third gear when in a 30mph zone and not to use fourth or fifth gear. I've never heard this before, as 30mph in third gear is 2500 rpm, which doesn't appear relaxing, calm or very fuel-efficient. Is the instructor correct?

Asked on 24 March 2012 by JG, via email

Answered by Honest John

Obviously it depends on the car because the gearing in third varies from car to car. But, as a generalisation, with a five or six speed manual transmission the IAM also recommends third in a 30mph limit. It makes you more conscious of your speed, and also gives you the power to accelerate out of danger if necessary.

Tags: speed limits driving techniques

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