7 Driver Hacks/Tips Every Newbie Should Know

The other day, my brother just got his driver’s license, so as a celebration, he offered to drive me to the mamak nearby. Let’s just say it wasn’t the smoothest ride—I had 3 mini heart attacks on the way there. On the way back, I gave him some tips and, to my surprise, he instantly improved. We’ve all been there. Everyone’s first drive is always a bit scary, so don’t feel bad if you’re struggling with it. To make things easier for you newbies, I’ve cooked up some helpful tips to make you drive like a pro.

1. Seatbelts: Don’t Be Cool, Be Safe

I know this isn’t a hack nor tip, but you’d be surprised how many people drive without buckling their seatbelt—yes, I’m looking at you, mom. And please, not only are you risking your life to look slightly cooler, when JPJ gives you a summon, it can be an embarrassing story to tell your family and friends. So don’t be cringe—strap in, stay safe, and avoid drama.

2. Just Signal Lah

Need I say more? If I had 1 ringgit for every driver that didn’t signal on my way back from work, I’d probably have RM10. Not a lot, but you get the idea. Just flick the indicator before you turn, not during the turn, not after the turn, but before. It makes life easier for you and everyone else, saving you a few honks here and there. Don’t be that kind of driver, just signal lah.

3. Smooth Inputs, Smooth Operator

If you want to be a smooth operator, this is probably the most important tip. For the pedals, being smooth with them—especially the brake—makes a world of difference. Speed bumps are a good practice tool for this; just gently ease on and off. The first few times may strain your right foot, but it’s worth it.

Not only the pedals, but steering smoothly also helps rotate the car more predictably and effectively too. Smooth steering is not slow steering. You want control—not to be in a dramatic slow-motion video. Keep your hands steady and gradually turn in—no need to overdo it. The smoother your inputs, the smoother your ride. Very mindful, very demure.

4. Use Mirrors, Please

We get it—you’re a good-looking driver, but mirrors aren’t just for checking your hair or putting on makeup. Whether you’re changing lanes, merging, or even parking, those side and rearview mirrors are your best friend. Trust me, it saves you from some awkward situations when suddenly someone’s right behind you, or you nearly clipped a car because you didn’t check your blind spot. So, don’t be lazy—take a quick glance every now and then.

5. Slow Down and Take Your Time

I know you want to be the next Takumi Fujiwara or Michael Schumacher, but you’re driving your mom’s Myvi, bro—you’re not him. When you’re behind the wheel, things come at you much faster than you think, so take it easy, especially if you’re still getting the hang of it. Try practicing on the highway starting from the slow lane, then work your way towards the two faster lanes. Stay out of the fast lane if you're planning to drive slower and let people pass you by merging onto the middle lane. If you have anxiety about driving on the highway, just drive around your neighborhood first until you feel confident enough.

6. Distance Judgment: Will I Bang Other Cars or Not?

Whether it’s about turning from a T-junction or highway driving, this is probably the hardest tip to implement for most beginner drivers, mostly because it’s more about experience than skill.

For T-junction turns, beginners should wait until the cars on the main road are far enough away before making your move. Don’t rush—just because there’s a gap doesn’t mean you should take it. If the drivers behind honk at you, don’t panic and just ignore them because it’s better to be safe than sorry. Plus, if you have a “P” sticker behind your car, they’ll understand.

For highway driving, the general rule is to give 3 seconds of space behind the car in front of you in case they emergency brake. Don’t tailgate like you’re trying to make a new friend out of someone’s bumper.

7. Parking: The Beginner’s Nightmare

You’re doing fine on the road, cruising along, but then you see that empty parking spot and suddenly, you can hear boss fight music, and an HP bar appears. But not to worry—just take a chill pill and park slowly; the cars behind have to wait for you anyway.

A tip for reverse parking is that, depending on where the parking spot is, turn to the opposite direction first before you start reversing. So if the spot is on the left, turn right slightly first to align the rear of the car with the spot, then slowly reverse into it.

For parallel parking, assuming it’s the left spot, turn left a few times, then reverse into the spot slowly. Once your right rear wheel touches the parking line, start to turn right as you straighten the car in the spot. You may need to adjust it slightly, but voila, you did it!

Conclusion: You Got This—Now Go Flex Your Driving Skills!

Alright, you’ve got the tips, the tricks, and hopefully a little less fear of parking. Now, all you gotta do is gain that confidence and drive. Just remember: practice makes perfect, so don’t stress if you don’t nail it on the first try—Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is your driving game. And if you ever feel like no one believes in your driving skills, we at Motorist Malaysia are cheering you on every step of the way.

But if you want to be an even smarter driver, go download the Motorist Malaysia App. Whether you need sweet used car deals, the latest road updates, or co-driver alerts—Motorist Malaysia has your back. People who download the app usually have aura, so why not try it for yourself today?

Read More: Aquaplaning: what it is and how to stay safe on wet roads in Malaysia

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