Is Engine Braking the Same as Foot Braking?

[Rocha]

Engine braking is not the same as foot braking. The following is a detailed introduction about engine braking: 1. "Engine braking" is a driving term that refers to using the resistance generated by the engine during operation to effectively control the vehicle speed. This can be achieved through two methods: "downshifting" and "releasing the throttle." 2. Throttle Release Method: This is used on highways or national roads when the driving speed is relatively high. If you notice that the road conditions ahead require slowing down or avoiding, you can release the throttle without shifting to neutral, maintaining the transmission connection between the engine and the wheels. The decrease in engine speed will also reduce the wheel speed, achieving the effect of engine braking. 3. Downshifting Method: This involves shifting the vehicle into a lower gear when descending steep or continuous slopes to control the speed. 4. Prolonged use of the foot brake during downhill driving can cause the temperature of the brake pads and discs to rise sharply. The higher the temperature, the worse the braking effect becomes, and there is even a risk of brake failure.

[StKingston]

No no no, engine braking is not the same as the foot brake! The foot brake is when you press that pedal, and the brake pads and discs create friction to slow down the car. Engine braking, on the other hand, uses the internal resistance of the engine to decelerate the vehicle. Specifically, when you release the accelerator, the engine compresses air, generating a counterforce that helps control speed. It's particularly useful when driving downhill on mountain roads, preventing the brake pads from overheating and failing due to constant foot braking—it's quite safe. However, it can't completely replace the foot brake, as the foot brake remains the primary braking system in emergencies. Personally, during long drives, I often rely on engine braking to save effort, reduce brake wear, and even save a bit of fuel. In short, the two are complementary partners—just don’t confuse them!

[MacRobert]

Honestly, engine braking isn't really the same as using the foot brake. The foot brake is what you press down to stop, but engine braking? It relies on the engine's own power to help you slow down, like when you ease off the gas or downshift—it happens naturally. This trick is super handy on downhill roads, preventing the foot brake from overheating and saving my brake pads. I remember one time on a mountain road during a road trip; if I hadn't used engine braking, the brakes might not have held up. But it's not as powerful as the foot brake—it can only slow you down gradually. I'd suggest using it less in the city and trying it out on highways or mountain roads to experience different driving thrills.

[OEmilio]

Engine braking and foot braking are quite different. Foot braking directly engages the brake system, while engine braking utilizes the compression resistance of the engine to control speed. In daily driving, engine braking enhances safety, such as when descending slippery slopes—it provides stable deceleration and reduces the risk of wheel lock-up, making it more reliable than relying solely on foot braking. I always pay attention to this to avoid sudden braking and skidding. However, it cannot completely replace foot braking; emergency stops must be performed with the foot brake. It's simple to operate: just downshift in a manual transmission, or release the throttle in an automatic transmission for it to take effect. Developing this habit protects both your car and your safety.