What are Engine Braking and Service Braking?
2 Answers
Engine braking involves flexibly using the parking brake to minimize the use of foot braking. Below are the functions and principles of engine braking: Functions of Engine Braking: Engine braking refers to lifting the throttle pedal without depressing the clutch, utilizing the compression resistance generated by the engine's compression stroke, internal friction, and intake/exhaust resistance to create a braking effect on the drive wheels. Principles of Engine Braking: Engine braking means keeping the vehicle in gear without applying the throttle, so the engine does not provide traction. Instead, the rotation of the wheels drives the transmission system, and the idling engine generates a counteracting resistance on the vehicle. Higher gears result in less engine resistance, while lower gears produce more. This differs from clutch braking, brake braking, and parking braking.
Engine braking utilizes the engine's resistance to slow down the vehicle. For example, when you downshift and the engine RPM increases, the car naturally decelerates. I often use this technique when driving a manual transmission car downhill to prevent brake pads from overheating and failing. Service braking, on the other hand, refers to the daily use of the brake pedal, which directly stops the car via brake discs and calipers. Combining both methods makes the vehicle more controllable, especially on slippery roads or long descents. Engine braking provides smooth deceleration, reducing the risk of skidding. I insist on practicing more to improve driving skills and ensure safety in emergencies, avoiding over-reliance on service braking to prevent system overload. This combination makes daily driving more stable and saves on maintenance costs, extending brake pad lifespan by at least one or two years. I've tested it on mountain roads with noticeable results—speed management becomes easier, and it also reduces fuel consumption. Developing this habit offers multiple benefits.
