What gear should you be in when starting down a hill?

When starting down a hill, it is crucial to be in a lower gear than needed. This practice serves several important purposes. First, using a lower gear increases engine braking, which helps control the speed of the vehicle as you descend. This is particularly important for heavy vehicles, such as trucks, where relying solely on the brakes can lead to overheating and reduced braking effectiveness.

Additionally, being in a lower gear provides better control over the vehicle on steep declines, reducing the risk of losing traction or gaining excessive speed. When gravity pulls the vehicle downhill, the engine's resistance in a lower gear helps maintain a safe and manageable speed, enhancing overall safety.

Other options, such as being in a higher gear, your current gear, or neutral, do not provide the necessary control and safety required when navigating downhill. A higher gear would elevate the risk of rolling too fast, while being in neutral negates any engine braking effect. Therefore, selecting a lower gear is the safest and most effective choice when descending a hill.