technique of using automatic car engine brakes correctly on derivatives
Techniques of driving an automatic car on a downhill road
Driving automatic cars on downhill roads requires special techniques to stay safe and maintain the durability of vehicle components. One way that can be used is to use the engine brake. This technique helps the car slow down without relying too much on the brakes, thus preventing damage to the braking system.
The engine brake works by utilizing engine speed to provide a slowdown effect. Thus, the load on the brake system will be reduced. However, the use of engine brakes on automatic cars should not be done carelessly. There are several important things that need to be considered so that this technique can be applied effectively.
Choosing the right teeth
According to Muchlis, the owner of the Auto Service garage workshop that focuses on Toyota and Mitsubishi cars, the driver needs to move the transmission lever to a lower gear such as position 3, 2, or L. The lower the gear position, the slower the effect of the engine will be stronger.
For automatic cars that use CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) transmission, the driver can shift the lever to S or M mode, then point to a minus sign (-) to lower the gear ratio and get the engine brake effect. This is very useful when facing a fairly steep downhill road.
engine speed and speed
Muchlis also emphasized the importance of paying attention to the vehicle speed and engine speed when doing the engine brake. For example, the position of L should ideally be used when the speed is below 20 km/h, position 2 for about 30 km/h, and position 3 when the speed is approaching 60 km/h. Meanwhile, the recommended rpm (machine rotation) is between 3,000 to 4,000 rpm.
By considering these conditions, the driver can avoid damage to the engine due to too high or too low rotation.
Gradually dropping teeth
Hermas Efendi Prabowo, owner of the Worner Matic Specialist Workshop, emphasized that the reduction in transmission gear must be carried out in stages. He suggested that the driver first reduce the speed with the brakes, then lower the lever from D to 3, then 2, not directly to position L.
“The decrease in gear must be gradual and should not be done at high speed. Therefore, step on the brakes first to lower the car, then move the lever to a lower gear,” said Hermas.
Benefits of Using Engine Brake
By applying the engine brake technique appropriately, the driver of the automatic car can control the vehicle better when going down the road and maintaining the durability of the brake components. This technique not only helps reduce the load on the braking system, but also improves driving safety, especially on roads that have a significant slope.
Understanding how to operate the engine brake properly is very important for every automatic car driver. With the right technique, the driver can feel more comfortable and calm when facing downhill roads. In addition, the use of an engine brake also helps reduce the risk of accidents due to overheating on the brakes.
In practice, drivers need to continue to learn and hone their skills in driving automatic cars. With sufficient training and knowledge, the driver can optimize the use of the engine brake and maintain vehicle performance in the long term.
