Top 5 Mistakes New Drivers Make – And How to Avoid Them
Introduction
Many students fail their G2 road test not because they can’t drive, but because they succumb to nerves or overlook small, repetitive habits. Understanding these common pitfalls—and how the examiner marks them—is the secret to passing on your first try. At Prime Steering, we’ve identified the five most frequent errors seen at the Mississauga DriveTest centre.
Mistake # 1: The "Invisible" Blind Spot Check
This is the #1 reason for failure. Even if you look with your eyes, the examiner needs to see your head move.
- The Mistake: Only using mirrors when changing lanes or turning.
- The Fix: Exaggerate your head movement. Every time you turn or change lanes, your chin should move toward your shoulder to show you are checking the blind spot.
Mistake # 2: Rolling Stops
Mississauga is full of “All-Way” stop signs & Also the side road stop signs.
- The Mistake: Slowing down to 2–3 km/h but never reaching a 0 km/h complete stop.
- The Fix: You must feel the "back-settle" of the car. Count "one-two-three" once the car has completely stopped before you move again.
Mistake # 3: Poor Observation at Intersections
Examiners look for “Scanning.”
- The Mistake: Looking only straight ahead while driving through a green light.
- The Fix: As you approach any intersection, look Left-Right-Left. You must show the examiner you are checking for red-light runners or pedestrians, even if you have the right of way.
Mistake # 4: Lane Position & Signaling
- The Mistake: Changing lanes inside an intersection or forgetting to signal early enough.
- The Fix: Always complete your lane change before or after an intersection—never inside it. Signal at least 30 meters before you intend to turn.
Mistake # 5: Speed Management in Transition Zones
- The Mistake: Maintaining 50 km/h when entering a 40 km/h school or residential zone.
- The Fix: Be hyper-aware of speed limit signs. It is better to be 2–3 km/h under the limit than even 1 km/h over.
The "Prime Tip"
📍 Pro Tip: On the G2 test, you are allowed up to 12 minor mistakes (like a wide turn or a slightly crooked park). However, a single Critical Error—such as the examiner having to use the brake or you committing a traffic violation—is an automatic fail. Stay calm, stay observant, and keep the car moving smoothly.
