Georgia Class E Drivers License Practice Test

Shifting to low gear is the recommended action to prevent brake fade on long hills because it allows the engine to assist in slowing down the vehicle through engine braking. When you shift to a lower gear, the engine revs higher, which increases the amount of engine braking force, reducing the reliance on the brake system alone. This way, the brakes don’t overheat from continuous use, which can lead to brake fade—a condition where the brakes lose their effectiveness due to overheating. Using cruise control or driving at high speed can increase the risk of brake fade, as these practices encourage higher speeds and heavier reliance on braking. Applying brakes consistently, while better than continuous hard braking, doesn’t utilize the benefits of engine braking that low gear provides, which is more effective in managing downhill speeds.