When making a turn should you downshift first and then brake or brake and then downshift?

Question

Just trying to see which would be more efficient and better for the car.

Answer 1

Brake and downshift before the turn.
Accelerate out of the turn.

Answer 2

A lot of it would depend on the vehicle and your individual driving style. The main idea is to be in the gear you want to be in BEFORE entering the turn. An average vehicle should be in 2nd when you turn a corner from one street to another. If you are in the corner while braking or downshifting, you put the weight of the vehicle onto the front outside tire. If you are accelerating lightly (like you should be), then the weight is more evenly distributed onto the other vehicles. Braking and/or downshifting during a turn can sometimes cause the back end to break loose, or cause you to skid out of control. These possibilities are enhanced by wet, icy, muddy, or graveled roads, so use extra care and go slower in these cases. I am glad to see that the reason for your inquiry is efficiency and care for the vehicle. Happy motoring, and watch out for idiot drivers!

Answer 3

Brakes to slow, gears to go. Brake down to the right speed for the turn and then select the correct gear to suit that speed before entering the turn; if pushed for time, you can downshift towards the end of the braking.

Downshifting first put unnecessary strain on the transmission - brakes are cheaper than clutches!

Answer 4

I was always taught that you should enter the turn at the lowest speed, and accelerate through the turn. This would seem to indicate that if necessary, you should both brake and downshift prior to entering the turn.

Answer 5

I understand the issue, but resolve it easily by buying an automatic transmission on your next car. Then, simply brake and don't do any shifting. That takes away concentration from your cell phone conversation.

Answer 6

its up to you realy but if you downshift first it will slow you down quicker.