What should a driver do if the brakes begin to feel less responsive (fading) partway down a long grade?
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Correct!
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Correct answer to question 140 (Air Brakes): Downshift further if possible and use an escape ramp if one is available, rather than continuing to press harder on the same brakes
Why
Fading brakes are already losing effectiveness from heat, so downshifting further to use engine braking, and heading for an escape ramp if available, is safer than continuing to rely on brakes that are failing.
Updated: November 2026