Anecdotally, every car I've been in where the driver talks about engine braking is rode hard and put up wet. Humans seem pretty bad at downshifting/engine braking outside of vehicles designed for that purpose like big rigs. Cars have much fewer gears so it's harder to align the downshift.

Of course there's little use in having this conversation since we all think ourselves above average drivers. I've had acquaintances reply "I don't even need a clutch I can shift so smooth!" (Do not attempt.)

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tonymet 2 days ago | parent [-]

automatic transmissions engine brake as well. most drivers don't use it, a shame. I can smell the ozone on long descents. if they downshifted their automatic, hardly any braking would be needed would be needed.

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bevr1337 2 days ago | parent [-]

Mine engine brakes, but it's true that it wouldn't be smart enough to engine brake going downhill. This is my first automatic after a couple decades of manual. It would be really nice improvement for automatics.

There are _moments_ where I would like to exercise more control, like the long downhill example or maybe staying in a low gear in bad weather.

But, I'm still unconvinced that engine braking on a manual transmission in a consumer sedan for every stoplight is helpful. Cars weigh a lot, simply let off the gas a few seconds earlier.

	▲	tonymet 2 days ago \| parent [-]
		yeah i agree stoplight clutch braking is unnecessary wear.