When to Use Low Gear

It’s helpful to start with a quick rundown of what is low gear in a car and when to use low gear. Let’s say you slip into low gear during your next journey around Moundsville. That means vehicle speed is now low relative to engine speed. When you drive in low gear, your brakes don’t have as much to do to keep you at low speed, which is one reason low is good when you’re fighting gravity on ascents and descents.

Here’s how that works with different transmissions:

• Automatic: Your system will shift automatically, but you can still prepare by gently taking your foot off the gas pedal before a hill, which will help the vehicle shift into a lower gear.
• Manual: You can simply downshift manually into a low gear when you’re about to tackle a hill.

Attempting a steep hill or long downgrade in high gear can place too much strain on your brakes. This can lead to your brakes overheating, which can in turn lead to brake failure. Shifting to low saves your brakes from absorbing too much force.

When else should low gear be used? As a general rule of thumb, you’ll want to use low gears for:

• Steep Ascents
• Slippery Roads

The team here at Straub Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is all about helping you make the most of your vehicle while protecting all its vital parts. To find out more or seek out further servicing tips and tricks, don’t hesitate to get in touch today.