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Many car gear shifters feature a protruding button that motorists often ignore, but a driving expert has explained why you won\u2019t want to overlook this switch.<\/p>\n
YouTube auto influencer Bubba Blue published a video explaining that this side gear selector control is your vehicle\u2019s Hill Descent Control (HDC) feature.<\/p>\n
He explained in the clip that HDC ensures your car doesn\u2019t go into overdrive by eliminating your sixth gear while traveling down inclines, resulting in a smoother and steadier speed.<\/p>\n
Overdrive describes a situation where the vehicle\u2019s transmission slips into its highest gear, and it\u2019s best for cruising on level surfaces or going down a gentle slope.<\/p>\n
Bubba Blue added that cars going down steep hills with overdrive will cause you to continuously ride your brakes, accelerating their wear.<\/p>\n
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In contrast, HDC features engine compression that automatically does some of this braking.<\/p>\n
However, Bubba Blue noted that the primary drawback of using HDC is that it cuts into your gas mileage because your engine uses more fuel to function.<\/p>\n
The internet auto influencer told viewers: \u201cWhile you\u2019re driving around town if you keep this option on, it will feel like your car\u2019s a little quicker because your RPMs are just already up a little higher, so as soon as you floor it \u2014 it just drops it and goes.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Don’t miss… <\/strong> We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info<\/p>\n \u201cIf you\u2019re at the drag strip or something, don\u2019t use this mode because it\u2019s not going to make you any faster. Your car is already going as hard as it can, to go as quick as you go, so it\u2019s like it\u2019s going to make your time any kind of quicker.\u201d<\/p>\n It\u2019s vital to note that some vehicles have HDC systems operating independently of the gear shifter, typically through a button or switch on a driver\u2019s dashboard or center console.<\/p>\n HDC technology was created by Bosch and Land Rover in the early 1990s \u2014 according to Auto Assets.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
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