When driving downhill, what gear should you be in compared to the gear used to climb?

When driving downhill, it is important to use a lower gear than the one used when climbing the hill. This practice is essential for several reasons. A lower gear provides greater engine braking, which helps to control the vehicle's speed without over-relying on the brakes. By being in a lower gear, the engine's resistance acts as an additional braking force, allowing the driver to maintain control and reduce the risk of overheating the brakes, which can occur from excessive use during a long descent.

Using a lower gear also helps to prevent the vehicle from gaining too much speed while going downhill, ensuring that the driver can navigate potentially hazardous sections of the road safely. This technique is especially important in larger vehicles, like those requiring a Class 3 license, where the weight and momentum can make controlling speed more difficult without proper gearing. Hence, selecting a lower gear is a crucial aspect of safe downhill driving.