jälkijarrutukseen

Jälkijarrutus is a Finnish term describing braking that supplements the vehicle’s primary service brakes, typically used to slow down or control speed with less wear on the main braking system. The concept covers both engine braking and additional braking devices that act after the driver has started decelerating, and it is commonly discussed in the context of road transport, heavy vehicles, and downhill driving.

In practice, jälkijarrutus can involve several techniques. For passenger cars, engine braking—often achieved by lifting the accelerator or shifting to a lower gear—helps slow the vehicle without using the brake pedal. In heavy vehicles such as trucks and buses, additional devices like retarder systems or exhaust brakes may be employed to provide sustained deceleration without overheating the service brakes. Modern vehicles may integrate these functions with electronic stability and brake control systems to maintain traction and steerability.

The use of jälkijarrutus offers several benefits, including reduced wear and overheating of service brakes, improved deceleration control on long descents, and enhanced overall vehicle stability. However, it also requires awareness of conditions and limitations. The effectiveness of engine braking or retarders depends on engine speed, transmission gear, and vehicle weight, and improper use can lead to reduced braking performance in emergencies or on slippery surfaces.

Regulatory and training considerations accompany jälkijarrutus in Finnish driving practice. Drivers are typically trained to combine appropriate gear selection, speed management, and brake use, ensuring that auxiliary braking supports but does not replace the primary braking system when immediate stopping is required.