Challenges and tips when driving on steep gradient

Uphill

Be aware of the following when driving uphill.

You’ll accelerate slower than usual
If you feel the engine is having a hard time climbing, ensure you are in the appropriate gear, and turn the air conditioning unit off to gain a little more power
Expect the vehicle to want to roll back when you move away from being stationary on an uphill slope. To prevent rollback, especially if the road is very steep and you’re using a manual transmission, you may have to use your handbrake as you balance out the clutch and the accelerator, then release the handbrake when you feel that the vehicle has got enough power to accelerate forward without rolling back.
On sharp turns uphill, heavy rear-wheel drive vehicles can experience wheelspin on the inside wheel as the weight shifts to the outside.

Be aware of the following when driving downhill.

You’ll be able to accelerate more quickly
It takes longer to brake to a stop
Gravity can overcome any engine braking, and if you drive an automatic, the vehicle is likely to accelerate (unless you have put it in low gear)
There will be less engine braking when you release the accelerator
Your front wheels will take on more stress as you step on the brake, especially when braking and turning together.
Beware of brake fade which is especially dangerous on long hills. This is where your brakes overheat. To avoid this, change down a gear or two and let the engine shoulder some of the braking duties.

On corners, get your speed right and brake early when you’re driving downhill.