Hill Descent - Am I Mad or Stupid??

Hi Guys!

Kind of embarrased to ask this question as it shows I must be a complete newbie!!!

I have just got a 2006 Range Rover Sport SE. Lovely car!

I thought I'd try the Hill Descent mode down one of the country lanes. Seems to brake automatically and keep a slow but constant roll. Seems to be doing exactly what it should!

However, it does make quite a 'grindy' sound when it automatically applies it's brakes. Now, to me the sound is EXACTLY what I'd expect to hear from a 'normal' car if you start driving with the handbrake or start rolling backwards when you have the handbrake on but not quite enough - that kind of grindy noise.

So, I'm guessing here but hill descent mode brakes by effectively using the handbrake with these cars - is this correct?

If so doesn't this wear the handbrake out as it would in a 'normal' car - and quite quickly too!

I'll probably never use this mode in real life - but just a bit concerned by the slight grinding noise and want to ensure this is normal and nothing is wrong.

Apologies for such a newbie question!!!

Help please!

Thank you

Lion Heart

i thought it was an extension to the abs system where it applies braking based on wheel speed?

hi,
I dont have a rangie but my discovery sometimes makes this noise, I believe it is the abs modulator.
when going down a steep hill with hill descent on it doesn't put a constant braking force as we would but puts the brakes on and off very quickly, I think this is what makes the noise. mine does it when the wheels spin and traction control cuts in as it cuts power and applies brakes then releases brakes and power on very quickly to each wheel as they spin. sounds weird but normal.

The HDC on the Range Rover Sport (and Discovery 3) does make a particularly nasty grinding noise, and is nothing to worry about. It does not apply the handbrake. It is a highly sophisticated system, not a cheap botch. It will not affect handbrake shoe life (constant use in very muddy conditions might) but will increase brake pad wear.
As regards Andy's point, TC itself does not reduce the power, although in some circumstances the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) might, the two systems are closely linked. That is why there is provision to turn it off, it can hinder you on long slippery hills.