Don’t Rest Your Hand On The Gearstick – Here’s Why

Resting a hand on the gearstick knob is a matter of debate. Some people say its fine and others are completely against the same. The question is hotly trending in the automotive market. It is because a number of people have this habit. One should put both the hands on the steering wheel while driving. It is an important safety measure. You can turn the vehicle immediately if something happens. But one might not have enough time to react if one hand is on the gearshift knob. You should get rid of this routine as soon as possible. So is it truly bad to rest your hand on the gearstick?

Let us find the answer to that question here.

Why Avoid To Rest Your Hand On the Gearstick? Top Reason

Manual transmission vehicles have gearshift knob for changing gears. Most people put their hand on the knob for resting. It generally happens during the long rides or crowded roads. It is easier to change gears when driving in crowded areas. You may find it relaxing to rest your hand on the gearstick knob. But it is not good for the vehicle. You are damaging the entire transmission system in one way or another. It decreases the life of the knob and system as well.

There is a link between knob and fork below the gear knob setup. The fork is present in the transmission system. The connection of control rod with fork helps you alter gears.  The fork shifts when the driver changes gears. The control rod and fork have many teeth to connect. The connection makes the process smoother.

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• Is it Good or Bad to Leave Manual Car in Gear at Traffic Lights?
• How Shifting Gears Help in fuel Economy?

Do You Rest Your Hand On The Gear Stick? Here Is How You Damage Your Car

A large force comes to play when you sit your hand on the gearstick. The force can break or damage the gearbox components if the procedure continues. It can happen in a day or take some time. The reason behind it is plastic or metal shafts. Plastic fork damages or breaks early. You can add some years by placing a metal fork inside the gearshift system.

The manufacturers use sturdy material to construct shift forks. These shift forks easily deal with normal forces you apply in changing gears. But a large amount of force comes into play when you rest your hand on the gearstick. The force makes a great impact on the transmission system. The same can produce wear and tear on the gearshift knob. According to the expert driving tips, one should place hands back on the steering wheel after changing gear.

The Final Thoughts

There you have it! These reasons make it essential to avoid to rest your hand on the gearstick. Following the instruction will add some years to your car’s life. It is an important safety measure as well. So, make sure to put hands on the steering wheel and stay focus while driving.