First (manual transmission),
then turn the engine off. See
that any passengers carefully
get out and clear of the vehicle,
then go get help.
Before driving down a hill, as
with driving up a hill, you need to
evaluate whether you can make it
safely to the bottom and away
from the slope. Ask:
Is the hill too steep to maintain
speed and steering control?
Is the surface too rough or too
slippery?
Can you drive straight down
without turning?
Is there a safe exit when you
reach the bottom of the hill?
If you decide you can safely
descend a hill:
Shift into a low gear. This lets
engine compression (or engine
braking) help control speed and
keep your brakes from
overheating.
Hold the steering wheel firmly
and drive straight down the
hill.
Gently apply the brakes to help
control speed, but do not "ride"
the brakes. If you smell hot
brakes or feel brake fade, shift
to a lower gear or stop and let
the brakes cool down.
Try not to brake hard. If you do
apply the brakes hard, do not
pump the brake pedal. Pumping
does not allow the anti-lock
brake system to work as
Driving Down a Hill
Off-Road Driving Information
