by 
Romiex69x
ANSWERS: 5
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Well, in normal traffic I used clutch + brake for 20 years and my cars ran like champs, so it would be hard for me to believe it makes a difference. However, in hilly or mountainous regions, you should save your brakes and downshift.
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When I have a stick shift I put it in neutral and use the brakes. It's cheaper to get new brakes than it is to get a new clutch.
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My dad taught me to drive, and he always taught me to downshift and only brake at the end. However when I had a few lessons with a driving instructor, I was told this is incorrect. One reason she stated is that it means cars behind you cannot tell if you are slowing down - at least if you begin to brake they can see your brake lights.
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contrary to popular belief the most efficienmt way to stop in to shift to neutral or depress the clutch, the donwshifting may seem to slow the car to some degree, but the brakes also have to slow the engine, depressing the clutch takes the friction away from the engine, if you don't believe me try it in a parking lot and a tape measure, you will stop shorter in neutral
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From a maintenance (brakes are cheaper), and safety standpoint (brake lights), it is better to brake.
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