What are the safety precautions for driving in mountainous areas?

[Brynlee]

Precautions for driving in mountainous areas include thoroughly inspecting the vehicle before driving, selecting the appropriate gear when going uphill, and controlling speed when going downhill while avoiding coasting in neutral. Inspect the vehicle before driving: Before driving on mountainous roads, it is essential to make adequate preparations and conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle. Pay special attention to whether the steering and brakes are responsive and reliable; check if the coolant and engine oil are sufficient and if there are any leaks; ensure the horn and windshield wipers are functioning properly; and verify that the tire pressure is normal. Any identified issues must be carefully addressed to eliminate potential hazards and ensure a safe journey. Select the appropriate gear when going uphill: Driving uphill requires significant torque, so it is important to choose the appropriate gear based on the gradient before ascending. If the slope is not steep but long, an automatic transmission vehicle can use third gear (for a four-speed transmission), while a manual transmission vehicle can use fourth gear (for a five-speed transmission). If fourth gear results in insufficient engine power but third gear provides more than enough, opt for third gear with slightly reduced throttle to maintain stable engine speed and sufficient power. Avoid "lugging" the engine or using low gear with high throttle, as this can accelerate component wear and increase fuel consumption. Control speed when going downhill and avoid coasting in neutral: Due to the effect of inertia, downhill driving is more challenging to control than uphill driving. Therefore, it is crucial to stay focused and drive cautiously, maintaining a moderate speed. Make full use of engine braking and apply the brakes appropriately to control speed. If the slope is steep and long, use a lower gear to manage speed and minimize brake usage to prevent overheating of the wheel brakes, which could lead to brake failure. When encountering a downhill section followed by an uphill stretch, accelerate before reaching the bottom of the slope to gain momentum for the ascent. Coasting in neutral is strictly prohibited when going downhill, and sudden braking should be avoided whenever possible.