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How to turn around at the terminus

At a terminus the train does not spin: you change cabs. Leave the desk, walk through the cars to the other end and enter again. Then you leave in the opposite direction.

6 min read

What the turnaround is

At an end of line, service continues the other way. In MetroSim the consist stays at the platform: there is no turntable. The driver leaves one cab, walks through the train and takes the cab at the other nose.

It is the same ritual you see with AI trains: they step off, turn and leave. You do it on foot inside the train.

Step by step

Make a clean stop at the terminus with the train stationary. Then change cabs before you take power again.

  • 1. Stop at the terminus platform. Open doors if needed (O / P) and close when ready (T).
  • 2. With the train stopped, press E to leave the desk. You stay in the cab car; the train remains held.
  • 3. Walk through the cars (W A S D) to the other end. On the 500 series that is only two cars; on 2000/3000 there is a longer walk.
  • 4. At the opposite end you get F · Enter cab. Press F (or the button). You take the desk for the opposite direction.
  • 5. Check signals, ATP and doors. When you have a clear road, leave — you are going back.

The time warning (when AI is on)

If automatic train service (AI) is on, leaving the cab at a terminus may show an on-screen countdown. It is usually about 90 seconds to reach the other cab.

The message is clear: you have X seconds to turn around. If you enter the other cab in time, you stay in control. If time runs out, the AI takes the train and your player run ends.

  • With AI off there is no clock pressure: the train waits for you to come back.
  • If you see “The AI has taken control of the train…”, it is no longer yours — find another or wait for the next one.
  • Do not linger in the saloon: on a 3000 the walk is long and 90 s feel tight.

Practical tips

The turnaround is part of service — not a glitch. Combine it with the RDT if it holds you at the terminus (H on the panel) and with door dwell.

  • Before you press E, make sure you are at a real terminus (the turnaround prompt only appears there).
  • On the 500 series the change is quick: two cars. On 2000/3000 leave more margin.
  • If you alight as a passenger and miss the train, the AI may still take it — better turn around inside.
  • When you enter the other cab, check the starter signal and ATP before opening the controller.