What do service brake and engine brake mean?

[MacAurora]

Service brake and parking brake mean the following: The parking brake refers to the handbrake. Emergency braking is mainly distinguished from anticipatory braking, which means immediately taking braking measures when an emergency is detected to stop the vehicle in the shortest possible time. Engine braking refers to using the engine's drag force to implement braking. For example, during long downhill descents, prolonged use of the foot brake can cause the brake pads to overheat and fail. In such cases, you can shift to a lower gear and coast at idle speed, using the engine's drag force to control the vehicle's speed. The meaning of the brake is as follows: The brake is the device used to stop the vehicle. Brakes are divided into service brakes (foot brake) and parking brakes (handbrake). During driving, the service brake (foot brake) is generally used to slow down or stop the vehicle while moving forward. The brake is not only used to keep the car stationary. The parking brake is used only when the service brake fails. Once the vehicle comes to a complete stop, the parking brake (handbrake) should be engaged to prevent the vehicle from rolling forward or backward. After parking, in addition to using the parking brake, it is advisable to shift into first gear when on an uphill slope to prevent rolling backward, and into reverse gear when on a downhill slope to prevent rolling forward.

[ThomasMarie]

The service brake is the system we usually use by stepping on the brake pedal, which relies on the friction between brake pads and discs to slow down or stop the car. I use it every time in traffic jams to maintain steady control. Engine braking, on the other hand, utilizes the engine's own resistance to decelerate. For example, when going down a long slope, shifting to a lower gear increases engine RPM but reduces vehicle speed without wearing out the brake pads. I particularly love using this technique when driving in mountainous areas—it prevents brake overheating and failure while saving some fuel costs. Actually, this method is easier to operate in manual transmission cars; just downshift and you're done. Automatic transmissions also have simulation functions for this. Remember, engine braking isn't a cure-all—overusing it can put excessive load on the engine and potentially damage components, so I only apply it on slopes or speed bumps, prioritizing safety. In short, combining both methods makes for smoother and more stable driving.

[VonNolan]

The service brake is the standard braking method for vehicles. I've been driving for over a decade and use it every day to stop at red lights. Engine braking, on the other hand, relies on gear adjustment to let the engine slow down the vehicle. I often use it on long steep slopes, such as mountain roads or highway descents, to avoid the risk of brake fade. Its greatest advantage is protecting the braking system and extending its lifespan, while also reducing the frequency of refueling to save costs. However, beginners should be careful not to misuse it, as low gear with high RPM might damage the engine, especially on wet or snowy roads where skidding is more likely. I recommend practicing more and flexibly switching between the two methods depending on road conditions. Additionally, when towing or driving a loaded truck, engine braking can be a lifesaver, allowing for smoother control of the weight. Driving safety should always come first.

[ArielLee]

The service brake is simply pressing the brake pedal to control speed and stop the vehicle, which I rely on during every traffic jam on my commute. Engine braking, in simple terms, means downshifting or easing off the accelerator to let the engine create resistance and slow down the car. It's quite useful in urban areas for speed bumps or downhill sections, as it reduces brake wear and saves a bit of fuel. As a manual transmission driver, I'm accustomed to using this technique, especially during smooth transitions on gentle slopes to avoid sudden braking that might startle drivers behind me. Actually, automatic transmissions can also achieve a similar effect by manually downshifting. Just remember not to use engine braking too frequently, as it may increase engine stress. Combining both methods in daily driving results in smoother operation.