There are many methods people use when driving. Some are common, whereas others are known mostly to more diehard car enthusiasts. Unfortunately, some of these practices could potentially cause damage to the vehicle. One such driving practice is engine braking. Sadly, even some people with the best new cars use engine braking. 

What is engine braking?

Many people may be unaware of what engine braking is. According to Universal Technical Institute, this practice is when drivers slow down without using the brake pedal. Instead, they take their foot off the accelerator and then downshift in order to lower their speed. This is especially common for people who have a manual transmission in their cars. Sadly, it is decently common among people who don’t know better. 

It is important to remember that our cars have different parts for a reason. Engine braking is horrible for your vehicle, especially for the transmission and powertrain. What seems like a harmless practice to some can cause much more strain than it’s worth. Additionally, this practice means the engine doesn’t get enough lubrication or fuel. Engine braking is particularly bad for cars going at high speeds. 

Naturally, this can lead to a much shorter lifespan for your engine. As everyone knows, this is one of the most expensive fixes for a vehicle. 

Can cars with automatic transmissions engine brake?

Engine braking isn’t all that common for people who have cars with automatic transmissions. However, the practice is still possible. This is especially the case for cars with either numbered gears on the box or those that offer shift-it-yourself. It works the same way as it does on a vehicle with a manual transmission. In a nutshell, drivers are simply downshifting to lower their speeds. 

Of course, engine braking with an automatic transmission is just as bad as doing it with a manual. It can easily cause premature wear and tear and it’s a practice that’s best left avoided. However, there are reasons why some people do it. In particular, people do it going downhill when they need to slow down in order to not overheat the brakes. However, some drivers do it just because they think it’s okay. 

Despite the reasoning, people need to be aware of the damage they’re causing by engine braking. In most ways, this practice isn’t worth its long-term costs. This is especially the case for anyone who wants to keep their vehicle for a long period of time.