What gear is recommended when driving down a steep hill?

When driving down a steep hill, using low gear is recommended because it helps control the vehicle's speed by using engine braking. This method allows the engine to resist the vehicle's forward momentum, helping to prevent the brakes from overheating and ensuring that the driver maintains better control of the vehicle. Low gear increases the engine's RPM, creating more resistance to the downhill speed and allowing for a safer descent.

In this situation, high gear is not appropriate, as it would disengage some of the engine's braking effect, potentially leading to excessive speed. Neutral gear can compromise control because it disconnects the engine from the wheels, eliminating any engine braking effect. Choosing overdrive gear is also not advisable when going downhill, as it is primarily designed for fuel efficiency at higher speeds on flat terrains and would not provide the necessary control on a steep decline. Thus, low gear is the best choice for safety and control when descending steep hills.