How should you handle a grade when driving downhill?

When driving downhill, using a lower gear is essential for maintaining control and avoiding excessive speed. Lower gears increase the engine's braking power, which helps slow down the vehicle naturally without relying solely on the brakes. This method reduces the risk of brake overheating, which can occur with prolonged braking. It also provides better traction and steering control, especially on steep descents.

Choosing a higher gear, on the other hand, can cause the vehicle to accelerate uncontrollably down the hill, as the engine does not provide enough resistance to slow the vehicle. Keeping a foot on the brake continuously leads to brake wear and can result in brake failure. Simply accelerating in an attempt to maintain control can make it difficult to manage the vehicle's speed while decreasing the ability to react to obstacles or changes in the road. Thus, using a lower gear is the most effective and safe method for handling a grade while driving downhill.