Engine brake going downhill

[BoogieEngineer]

I'm almost sure this isn't exactly the right sub-forum for this questions, but couldn't find a more appropriate one. So please move the topic as you see fit.

 

I just started leasing a Ford Edge Sport 2.7L EcoBoost. My question is how do I go downhill using engine braking? When I switch the gear lever to the S position, I can't downshift past gear 3 for example from a speed of 40mph or so. Do I apply the brake to slow down more then downshift further to say gear 2 and stay there? Will the engine brake kicks in or will the gear automatically go up as I gain speed going downhill, even in the S position? I suppose I can test it out tomorrow on the way to work but just wanted to see your experience with this. Thanks!

[akirby]

It will automatically apply a tiny bit of engine braking for small hills if you tap the brake. Once you're in S and using the paddles it won't allow you to shift to a gear that's too low for your speed. Use the brakes to slow down to the desired speed and downshift to the lowest gear possible to maintain that speed. Depending on the grade you might need to assist with the brakes periodically - that's ok as long as you aren't riding the brakes all the time. Use them for 10 seconds or so then get off them for a minute or so and they should be fine.

[BoogieEngineer]

It will automatically apply a tiny bit of engine braking for small hills if you tap the brake. Once you're in S and using the paddles it won't allow you to shift to a gear that's too low for your speed. Use the brakes to slow down to the desired speed and downshift to the lowest gear possible to maintain that speed. Depending on the grade you might need to assist with the brakes periodically - that's ok as long as you aren't riding the brakes all the time. Use them for 10 seconds or so then get off them for a minute or so and they should be fine.

Thanks! Sounds great that's what I thought how it works.

Edited May 6, 2016 by BoogieEngineer