On a long downhill stretch, relying purely on the brakes can cause them to overheat, reducing their effectiveness right when you need them most — a phenomenon sometimes called brake fade. Selecting a lower gear allows the engine's natural resistance to help slow the vehicle, reducing how much work the brakes alone have to do. This technique, known as engine braking, is particularly useful on long mountain passes or steep hills where sustained braking would otherwise be needed. It doesn't replace the brakes entirely, but it works alongside them, letting you use light, controlled braking on top of the engine's resistance rather than heavy continuous braking that risks overheating.
Source: K53 Defensive Driving Manual
Frequently Asked Questions
What is brake fade?
It's a reduction in braking effectiveness caused by the brakes overheating from prolonged or repeated hard use, most commonly on long downhill descents.
How does engine braking help on a downhill?
Selecting a lower gear increases engine resistance, which helps slow the car naturally, reducing how much the brakes alone need to do.
Does engine braking mean I don't need to use my brakes at all?
No — it works alongside light, controlled braking, reducing the load on the brakes rather than eliminating the need for them entirely.
Is engine braking only useful on steep mountain passes?
It's most noticeable there, but the same principle applies on any sustained downhill where continuous heavy braking would otherwise be needed.