Have you been driving before and you saw the warning of no engine brake? You will be dumbfounded by what does no engine brake mean. If you’re one of the drivers wondering what this means, then you’re not alone.
In this article, I will go into detail about everything you need to know about engine brakes, what the engine brake sign means, why engine brakes are not permitted in some areas, etc. Without much ado, let’s kick start.
What Does No Engine Brake Mean?
When you see the sign, “No engine brake.” It means there is no engine brake in the car. This sign could be seen when a driver slows down from speed and matches the brake pedal. This wears the brake pads.
Alternatively, you can utilize the engine braking than downshifting or you can switch to neutral by changing your gear to a lower number.
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What Does a No Engine Brake Sign Mean?
The “no engine brake sign” means a sign prohibiting engine brakes. When this occurs, truckers can only utilize the loud braking system that makes a lot of noise when applied.
In this method of braking, the truck engines get involved in stopping the vehicle. And their involvement releases a loud noise that disturbs others who are in the area.
In various states, there are driving rules stipulated. Most of these laws are not common as you may not even know they exist or you may know little about them.
However, some states put up a noticeable sign for truckers to abide by the no-engine brake laws. You can see these signs while driving on the road as they’re placed on the rod sides. By this, a trucker is not permitted to use his engine brake so as not to cause noise pollution.
What Is Engine Brake?
As a driver, when you hear the word, ‘braking’. What comes into our mind is to stop our car through friction forces. But this is quite different when it comes to engine brake.
Engine braking means using the engine forces to slow down your vehicle than outrightly matching the brake pedal. You can slow down the vehicle by removing your foot from the truck accelerator pedal. Note, no engine brake most applies to articulated vehicles.
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As a consistent trucker, you might have done this before but are unaware of what is called. Since many truckers drive in diesel engines, they’re also fitted with brakes or compression release systems.
This method of braking functions when we open the exhaust valves and the force required to slow down or stop the truck is formed within the engine. Thereby allowing for stability and good control of your truck.
Why Do Some Roads Say No Engine Brake?
Why do some states apply the no-engine brake because of the noise generated by engine brakes? Especially truckers. This is done to reduce noise pollution in a certain area or maybe in a city.
What Does an Engine Brake Do?
When we use the engine brake method, the engine won’t get enough airflow. When the engine lacks enough airflow, it causes aerodynamic effects; this effect is seen on the truck’s independent rotating wheels and they will move at normal speed then.
Therefore, immediately after you pull your foot off the accelerator pedal, the valve which controls the throttle body will be shut down automatically.
Is Engine Braking Good for Your Car?
Unlike what has been said about this. But the no-engine brake is important for the stability of your car. Though, when first trying out no engine brakes, you might find it difficult. But with time, you get more driving skills and knowledge you can utilize and reduce noise pollution depending on the place you’re in.
With no engine brake, your car’s brake pad lifespan will last longer. Since you will now use your brake when necessary.
Benefits of Engine Braking
There is a good number of reasons why you should learn to drive your car with an engine brake. Even as you might have been equipped with negative views of no engine brake. There are many good reasons you should start applying them if you haven’t been doing so.
1. It Reduces Wear on Your Brakes
Utilizing an engine brake reduces the wear of your brake pads since you won’t use the brake pedal. Also, your truck will be stable in control when you use the engine brake.
With the engine brake, your truck will slow down gently and you can use the brake pedal on emergency occasions or depending on the prevailing situation. With the use of an engine brake, your car brakes will receive less heat, wear, and won’t fade early.
2. It is Safer
Engine brakes increase your control of the vehicle and safety, especially when driving up a hill or you’re driving down a hill.
For instance, if you’re driving down a hill and there’s a traffic jam ahead, by using the engine brake, you will have better control of the truck. Also, if you go with applying the brake pedal, you will notice the burning of your brake pads and the loud noise.
Also, by slowing down with an engine brake, the vehicles behind you will have smooth control of their car. And won’t need to step on their brake pedal.
Engine brake also helps to prohibit accident on roads. Note that when you match your brake pedal, your brake light shines and warns others behind you to slow down. They too will apply their brake and so on. If any has a bad brake, it may cause a collision or an outright accident.
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Also, engine brakes help you take control of emergencies or unexpected occurrences on the road. Therefore, the lower gear you’re using gives you the chance to speed up or slow down when any need arises during driving.
3. It is Better for the Engine
You must have been told by other drivers that engine brakes affect your car’s engine performance negatively. Or may even damage your car’s engine. Well, that’s just myths and doesn’t apply in natural terms.
Your vehicle can run for a long distance of rpm (revolution per minute) without breaking down or suffering any defect. When you use the engine brake to slow down your vehicle, it’s normal to experience car jerking. This won’t cause any damage to your car’s engine.
The engine is built to respond in such a manner and on such occasions. Therefore, the engine brake has no negative effect on your car engine.