What is engine braking?
1 Answers
Engine braking refers to the throttle pedal, located at the far right under the driver's foot, which is a trapezoidal pedal with a curved shape. Engine braking refers to the process of decelerating by releasing the throttle without depressing the clutch or shifting out of gear, utilizing the compression resistance, internal friction, and intake/exhaust resistance generated during the engine's compression stroke to brake the driving wheels. This allows the force of the rotating wheels to drive the engine. The braking effect is also related to the gear position—the lower the gear, the more pronounced the engine braking effect. Engine braking is an emergency braking method, typically used during long downhill descents or on icy/snowy road conditions. Generally, engine braking can cause significant damage to the vehicle, so it should be avoided under normal circumstances. Primary braking should rely on service brakes and parking brakes instead.