Skip to content
CDifficulty 3/5

A lorry has an operational electric retarder and descends a steep gradient with suitable grip. Under manufacturer instructions, how should it be combined with the service brake?

Correct answer

Use the retarder and supplement it with the service brake when needed.

Use the retarder to help maintain suitable speed and the service brake when needed. This reduces friction-brake demand and heat without replacing their vehicle-stopping function. Select suitable speed and gear before descending and observe system limitations, especially grip and operating conditions. Not all lorries have an electric retarder.

Practice more C licence questions

A self-check with exam-style questions on Mechanics and maintenance. Free, no signup.

All options

  • Keep the service brake continuously applied and disregard the retarder.

  • Rely solely on the retarder even if it cannot maintain safe speed.

  • Use the retarder and supplement it with the service brake when needed.

Editorial status: editorially approved. This status does not certify legal review. Report a correction

Share this question

Keep studying

Related questions