Summary
- Driving down a steep hill can result in an unpleasant smell of brakes being cooked, indicating danger
- Electric vehicles solve this problem with regenerative braking, but even they require the driver to do the right thing
- Both EVs and ICE vehicles can slow down using regenerative or engine braking on steep hills
- When regen or engine braking isn’t enough, drivers should pump the brakes in surges to avoid overheating them
- Pumping the brakes can prevent glazing or heating up of brake pads and preserve the ability to stop in time
Article
Driving down steep hills can lead to the unpleasant smell of brakes being cooked, which is not only bothersome but also a sign of danger. Some people may not know how to avoid this smell, and bad advice can put them at risk. While electric vehicles (EVs) can solve this issue with regenerative braking, there are still situations where drivers need to take the right actions to prevent overheating brakes.
Both EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles have methods to slow down while going down a hill. In EVs, strong regenerative braking is effective, but not all EVs do this correctly. ICE vehicles can use compression braking, which converts kinetic energy into heat that is dissipated harmlessly. There are no downsides to using compression braking, as modern fuel-injected vehicles cut off fuel during deceleration.
In some situations, regen or engine braking may not be enough to control the speed going down a hill, especially when towing. Even in these cases, it’s important to be smart about brake use to avoid glazing the surface of brake pads or heating up brake fluid. Pumping the brakes by applying firm pressure and then releasing them to cool off the system can help maintain control over speed and prevent overheating the brakes.
Educating people on how to avoid overheating brakes is essential for both ICE vehicle owners and EV owners. While regenerative braking and compression braking are effective methods for slowing down, there are still situations where proper technique is necessary. By following these tips and being mindful of brake use, drivers can reduce the risk of destroying their brakes and stay safe while driving down steep hills.
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