What Does It Mean to Use Engine Braking?
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Using engine braking refers to lifting the throttle pedal without depressing the clutch, utilizing the compression resistance, internal friction, and intake/exhaust resistance generated by the engine's compression stroke to create a braking effect on the drive wheels. Below is a related introduction to engine braking: Principle of Engine Braking: Engine braking, which means keeping the gear engaged without applying throttle, results in the engine providing no traction to the vehicle. Instead, the rotation of the wheels drives the transmission system, and the idling engine generates a counteracting resistance force on the vehicle. The higher the gear, the less effect the engine has on the vehicle, and vice versa. This differs from clutch braking, brake pedal braking, parking braking, etc. Advantages of Engine Braking: Due to the differential's function, the braking torque can be evenly distributed between the left and right wheels, reducing the likelihood of skidding or fishtailing. It effectively decreases the frequency of using foot brakes, avoiding prolonged brake use that could lead to overheating of the brake friction pads, resulting in reduced braking efficiency or even failure. The vehicle speed is always limited within a certain range, facilitating timely deceleration or stopping, ensuring driving safety.