Answers to all the FAQs: What is an Engine Brake?

The trends of hiking, going up hills, flowers and sea of fog watching have become very popular lately due to the nice weather and beautiful nature in winter. 

Going up to such high and steep areas through curvy roads and hills might be challenging and worrisome for new drivers with less experience. This is when ‘Engine Brake’ comes in handy! 

What is ‘Engine Brake’ ?

Engine Brake is basically the process of slowing the car down by releasing the accelerator pedal rather than using the footbrake. A reduction in engine power starts to create braking force, which helps slow down a vehicle by lowering the engine speed, or RPM without making drivers lose control over the vehicle. This method is used by many drivers under various circumstances especially driving downhill in order to control the increased speed during acceleration. However, ‘Engine Brake’ system works differently according to the size and type of the car gear.

Engine Brake in manual transmission and automatic transmission

When driving, the position of the gear should be at either 1 or 2 for a manual transmission car depending on the slope of the path and in D mode for an automatic transmission car. However, in the present, many of the automatic transmission cars are also equipped with manual mode that drivers can manually adjust the gear ratio according to the situation such as driving downhill, driving at a high speed, and more.

Always check your gear system

Gear system is one of the vital parts of the engine. As it is a part that is always in motion, it is advisable to have it checked and maintained regularly. Be sure to change gear oil at every specified interval and choose lubricant that meets the standard specification as specified by the manufacturer in order to prevent the gear from erosion and prolong the powerful service life.

This basic knowledge about how the engine works will allow us to maximize the efficiency of the vehicle and be prepared for all coming situations while driving, for safety of your every journey!