I've had my truck for just about a month and 1100 miles. Not sure this is a 'problem', but something I'm trying to understand.

When turning into my complex from a certain direction, there's a sharp (>90 degree) turn that immediately goes down a steep hill for about 25 yds. My usual MO would be to stop at the top to let oncoming traffic go, hit the gas as I turn left, then coast down the hill. I noticed what seems to be the engine braking to slow me going down the hill, though it doesn't happen every time, and I haven't thought to check what gear the truck was in at the time.

Today, I was coasting down a straight, long-ish hill at around 35mph and also felt something similar, though when I glanced down I was in 5th gear.

I do have Hill Descent Control, but have actually never even tried it, so I don't think that's what was, as it shouldn't be on. Each time was in Normal mode (not Sport or Tow). I also didn't have any Cruise Control active, which I believe will limit your downhill coasting speed (right?).

Anyone notice this? Is the truck supposed to do this?

 

Yes, the engine will down shift to assist with braking even in Normal mode when going down a hill and the brakes applied. It will be much more pronounced in Sport mode, however.

And yes, the transmission will downshift when going down a moderate hill with the cruise control on to attempt to maintain your set speed. It's not guaranteed that it will be able to, but I do some pretty big mountain passes and it always keeps me in check.

 

Hmmm... Didn't think i was on the brake when it happened, but I may have been lightly resting my foot on it. There's a speed bump at the bottom of the hill coming into my complex that I would always skip right over by tapping my brake just before rolling over it, so it may be habit and I may not even realize I'm doing it.

I'll experiment a bit more and see if it's actually me on the brake that's triggering this. Thanks for the tip!