How can a driver maintain control while driving downhill?

To maintain control while driving downhill, utilizing engine braking is crucial. This technique involves downshifting to a lower gear, which allows the engine to provide resistance against the vehicle's forward motion. This not only helps to control speed but also reduces the reliance on the foot brake, which can overheat and become less effective if excessively used.

When driving downhill, it's important to manage the vehicle's speed carefully to avoid loss of control. Engine braking effectively uses the vehicle's engine to slow down, which is particularly advantageous on steep declines, helping to maintain a steady and safe speed. This method can help prevent brake fade, where the brakes lose effectiveness due to overheating from constant use.

In contrast, merely relying on the foot brake intermittently could lead to brake overheating and eventual failure. Increasing speed to navigate a slope is dangerous and counterproductive, as it can hinder control. Shifting into a higher gear is also ineffective for slowing down; in fact, it can allow the vehicle to gain momentum, increasing the risk of losing control while descending. Thus, using engine braking and avoiding overuse of brakes is the safest and most effective way to maintain control on downhill slopes.