Revision question · Braking systems

What does changing to a lower gear on a long downhill gradient help to avoid?

Revision material from the imported DVSA bank includes source-checked Lanekind learning corrections. These corrections are not newly issued official examination questions, and practice does not reproduce a live test paper.

Answer options

Brake fade

Clutch slip

Excessive engine revs

Tyre wear

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Brake fadeThis was the right answer

Engaging a lower gear and using engine braking will help you to control your speed as you're going downhill. This reduces the demands on the brakes, and helps to prevent them from overheating. This will reduce the likelihood of brake fade.

Reviewed reading for this question

Save the service brakes on a long descentReviewed guidance summary · These test brake fade’s heat cause, downhill risk, suitable gearing, retarder purpose and reduced friction-lining wear; air loss and worn linings are different faults.

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