UK Driving Theory Practice Exam

What are two disadvantages of coasting?

1. Better fuel efficiency and less control

2. Increased speed and better steering control

3. Less steering and less braking control

4. Higher risk of skidding and slower acceleration

The correct answer is: Less steering and less braking control

Coasting involves driving with the engine disengaged, allowing the vehicle to glide without using the engine power. This practice can lead to several disadvantages, and focusing on the correct answer helps highlight why these specific issues are problematic. When coasting, the driver has diminished control over both steering and braking. Steering control is affected because the engine provides feedback to the driver, helping to stabilize the vehicle during turns. Without engine power, the vehicle may not respond as expected, potentially making cornering or navigating curves more challenging. Similarly, braking control is compromised; when the engine is not engaged, the vehicle can take longer to respond when the brakes are applied, which might lead to a delay in stopping and increase the risk of an accident. In contrast, the other options imply scenarios that are either beneficial or misrepresent the consequences of coasting. For instance, better fuel efficiency suggests a positive outcome, while increased speed can lead to losing control and greater difficulty in maneuvering. Identifying these aspects clarifies why the decreased control while coasting poses risks that drivers should avoid.