Is it okay to go downhill in first gear?
3 Answers
It is okay to go downhill in first gear. The precautions when going downhill are: 1. Reduce the speed before going downhill to allow the vehicle to enter the downhill section at a slow speed; 2. Shift into an appropriate gear before going downhill, and it is strictly forbidden to shift gears after entering the downhill section; 3. Coasting in neutral is strictly prohibited on downhill sections, and the engine's braking effect should be used to reduce the coasting speed; 4. Test the braking performance before going downhill, and any faults should be fixed before descending; 5. Do not turn the steering wheel sharply on downhill sections; 6. Maintain a distance of more than 50 meters from the vehicle in front; 7. If there is an uphill section after the downhill, release the brake pedal in time when approaching the bottom of the slope and shift into a higher gear.
I've been driving trucks for twenty years, and my favorite technique is using first gear on steep downhill slopes. For example, when encountering long descents on mountain highways, shifting into first gear allows the engine to hold back the vehicle and slow it down, preventing the brake pads from overheating too quickly and avoiding dangerous situations like brake failure. However, the RPM will skyrocket, and the buzzing sound can be unbearable, so don't keep it in gear for too long—it's best to shift into neutral for a break every couple hundred meters. If the slope is extremely steep or the truck is carrying cargo, you should apply the brakes a few times in advance to assist. My older brother once relied solely on first gear going downhill on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway, and the transmission nearly gave out. Experience has taught me to adjust flexibly based on the situation.
My driving instructor repeatedly taught me about using first gear when going downhill: you can try it on small slopes like those at the driving school, which helps beginners practice control. Once, I drove my own car alone for an outing and encountered a downhill road. I shifted into first gear, and the steering wheel shook violently, but thankfully the speed was really slow. However, I noticed a problem—the RPM kept surging to five or six thousand. A friend said it was too damaging to the engine and suggested using the brakes instead for stability. Later, when I switched to an automatic transmission car, I used the hill descent control mode as a replacement, which was much more comfortable. In the end, this trick can be used in emergencies, but it's not reliable for long-term use.
