If you are driving on a steep downgrade, you should

Explanation

The continuous application of brakes to control speed on downgrades will cause the brakes to fade (lose their effectiveness). Instead, to control your speed on downgrades, release the accelerator (gas) pedal and shift into a lower gear (even with an automatic transmission). When the throttle is closed, a partial vacuum is created in the engine's intake and cylinders that generates a braking effect to slow down the vehicle. This is known as engine braking. The lower the gear, the greater the engine braking effect. Apply the brakes only when engine braking is insufficient or you want to stop.