Q&A for How to Drive a Car in Reverse Gear

Your car's manual should have specific instructions telling you where to locate these commands, but they are often located on or next to the steering wheel.

You should turn your wheel to the left. This will pull you out of backing to the right.

Yes. It is normal for your car to idle when in any gear.

You should always be looking in the direction the vehicle is moving in, but make regular checks in other directions to ensure you see any obstacles or other drivers coming your way.

First, reverse very slowly and carefully, as you don't want to hit something. Use your car's cameras or mirrors if they're helpful, or ask someone to help guide you out. If all else fails, just go very slowly. Other cars should see you and stop.

There is a platform to the right of the driver's seat; carefully pull the gear shift up and down to change the gear.

No. Let go of the accelerator while you press down your clutch, then change your gear.

Take your foot off the gas, because the more pressure your foot puts on the gas the faster you will go. You can also keep your foot over the break, or what you would call shadow the break with your foot.

Put your foot on the brake and set the car in reverse, then turn the steering wheel all the way to the right. Then take your foot off the brake and back up. Be sure to look back and at sideview mirrors.

If you're reversing towards your right side, then the front of your car will be pointing towards the left.

Reverse is just another gear, and all controls (like the clutch) operate the same as they would in a forward gear. Stop, put the car in reverse, let out the clutch/brake/apply gas while watching behind you in the direction you're traveling.

Only go as far back as you need to go. Never go farther than is sufficient or necessary.

There is usually a lever on the steering column to control the wipers and a separate one to control the lights. It's best to look at your car's manual to figure out where your levers are located.

You should release the clutch slowly. Once the biting point is reached, the car will vibrate and begin to move. Hold the car at the biting point for a few seconds or else the car will stall.

When you first get your car, check where the steering wheel is when you are going straight. After awhile, you will about know where it should be.