Glossary / General

down shifting

23 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

When you need more power or want to slow down, you shift into a lower gear. The engine spins faster and gives the car more push.

Technical Definition

Down shifting is moving to a lower gear in a manual transmission, which increases engine speed and torque for acceleration or braking.

Hear It Discussed

"...the deal was so one of the most taxing parts of the journey on the car...I decided fifth gear, no downshifting, just chill out..."
The Importance of Great Insurance (Jason Crashed his Rover SD1) — The Carmudgeon Show Episode Ep. 197 The Carmudgeon Show 06:49

"It's slow to recognize the fact that you're trying to go on the highway. You're at 50 miles an hour. You need to pass somebody."
Regrettable Rides, Texas Trains, and the new Palisade In Wheel Time Podcast: Your Go-To Automotive Talk Show 13:02

"...I suspect that it is downshifting. Huh. Well, the way you can corroborate this is in fact to downshift it."
#2615: 'Relaxed Fit' Comes for Cars The Best of Car Talk 07:47