What should you do when driving down a steep grade in a vehicle with a standard transmission?

When driving down a steep grade in a vehicle with a standard transmission, using a low gear is recommended to help control the vehicle's speed. This practice allows the engine to engage and assist in braking, preventing the vehicle from gaining excessive speed. By downshifting to a lower gear, you increase engine braking, which is vital for maintaining control, especially on steep descents. This method reduces reliance on the brake system, minimizing the risk of brake overheating and failure.

In contrast, shifting to neutral could lead to a loss of control because the engine no longer assists with speed regulation, making it much harder to respond effectively to any obstacles or adjustments needed in speed. Speeding up to gain control is dangerous as it increases the momentum of the vehicle, making it harder to slow down and increasing the risk of losing control. Using the brakes constantly can lead to brake fade, where the brake system becomes less effective due to overheating, which can compromise safety on a long descent. Each of these alternatives lacks the control and stability that a low gear provides when navigating steep inclines.