New York DMV Permit Written TestSafe Driving PracticesMedium
When driving on a downhill grade, which of the following is the most effective technique to control your speed and prevent your brakes from overheating?
- APlace the transmission in neutral and coast down the hill.
- BShift to a lower gear and use the engine's braking power.
- CApply the parking brake periodically to slow the vehicle.
- DContinuously press the brake pedal lightly to maintain a consistent slow speed.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Shift to a lower gear and use the engine's braking power.
Shifting to a lower gear utilizes engine braking, which helps control your speed on a downhill grade without solely relying on the friction brakes. This prevents the brakes from overheating and experiencing 'brake fade'.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Coasting in neutral removes engine braking, causing the vehicle to accelerate and putting excessive strain on the friction brakes.
- C. The parking brake is not designed for dynamic speed control and can lock up the rear wheels, leading to loss of control.
- D. Continuous light braking can still cause brakes to overheat and fade over long downhill stretches.
Engine Braking on Downgrades
Using a lower gear to allow the engine to help slow the vehicle on a downhill slope, reducing reliance on friction brakes and preventing overheating.
- Prevents brake fade.
- Saves wear on brake components.
- Provides better control on steep descents.
Memory trick: Downhill, downshift, don't burn your brakes.