Is Engine Braking the Same as Releasing the Throttle?

[Judith]

Engine braking means releasing the throttle. Engine braking utilizes the engine's drag effect to slow down the vehicle. The lower the gear, the more noticeable the drag and the stronger the braking effect. Principle of Engine Braking: Engine braking refers to lifting the throttle pedal without depressing the clutch, using the compression resistance generated by the engine's compression stroke, internal friction, and intake/exhaust resistance to create a braking effect on the driving wheels. Principle of Anticipatory Braking: Anticipatory braking is used for already identified situations or anticipated complex scenarios. It involves planned and purposeful release of the accelerator pedal in advance at the situation point, utilizing the natural resistance during driving to coast and decelerate. Additionally, the brake pedal is intermittently and gently pressed to further reduce speed or bring the vehicle to a stop. Usage of Emergency Braking: Emergency braking is employed when encountering suddenly emerging hazards. The driver quickly releases the accelerator pedal, immediately and forcefully depresses the brake pedal, and simultaneously pulls the handbrake lever to bring the vehicle to an immediate halt.

[RachelMarie]

As a veteran driver with years of experience driving manual transmission cars, I'd like to point out that releasing the throttle is indeed a key component of engine braking, but it's not as simple as just letting off the gas. Engine braking refers to using the engine to assist in slowing down the vehicle. When you release the accelerator pedal, the engine RPM drops, which in turn reduces the car's speed - this effect is most pronounced in lower gears. I frequently use this technique on downhill sections, especially on steep mountain roads. By releasing the throttle and downshifting (for example, from 3rd gear to 2nd gear), I can maintain stable speed control while reducing reliance on the brakes, thereby protecting the brake pads from excessive wear. However, this doesn't completely replace braking since throttle release alone provides limited deceleration - you still need to use the brakes in emergency situations. Automatic transmission vehicles exhibit similar behavior with mild deceleration upon throttle release, but manual transmissions offer more precise control. In daily driving, I always release the throttle early when approaching intersections or curves, which not only ensures safety but also improves fuel efficiency. Overall, engine braking is a good driving habit that contributes to vehicle longevity.

[LeilaAnn]

I love playing with driving techniques in my daily driving, just like what the coach taught - lifting the throttle is the first step of engine braking. When you lift your foot, the engine stops supplying fuel, the RPM drops, and the car naturally slows down. The effect is especially strong after downshifting in a manual transmission. I always use this technique before traffic lights in the city: first lift the throttle to decelerate gradually, then lightly press the brake to stop. This saves fuel and extends brake life. Automatic transmission cars can also feel some deceleration when lifting the throttle, but it's not as satisfying as with a manual. I often use this technique downhill to avoid brake overheating - like last year on the big slope at the ski resort, I descended steadily by downshifting and lifting the throttle. Engine braking isn't magic, it can't completely stop the car, so you need to combine it with observing road conditions. In normal driving, use it as a preventive deceleration method to reduce accidents caused by sudden braking. It's simple to learn and environmentally friendly.

[VanRosalie]

As a car enthusiast, the engine braking caused by lifting off the throttle is quite intuitive: when you lift off the throttle, the engine's air intake decreases, and the piston movement creates resistance to help slow down. In a manual transmission, downshifting enhances this effect. I often use it while driving on highways or before curves: lifting off the throttle allows the car to slow down gradually, reducing wear on the braking system, saving money and hassle. Automatic transmissions also have a similar function, but it triggers mild braking by lifting off the throttle. The advantage is that it can prevent loss of control on downhill slopes, such as on rainy days when the road is slippery—using engine braking is smoother than sudden braking. Overall, it's an auxiliary deceleration method.