What should you do when traveling uphill in a vehicle with a manual transmission?

When traveling uphill in a vehicle with a manual transmission, shifting to a lower gear is the most effective strategy to increase pulling power. Lower gears provide more torque, which is crucial for overcoming the resistance of the incline. In a lower gear, the engine can operate at higher RPMs, allowing it to deliver the power needed to maintain speed and prevent stalling while climbing. This is particularly important on steep grades, where extra power is required to keep the vehicle moving forward without losing momentum.

On the other hand, shifting to a higher gear would reduce torque, making it more difficult for the vehicle to climb the hill. Increasing acceleration can also lead to straining the engine, as it may not provide sufficient power to overcome the slope effectively. Decreasing acceleration might lead to the vehicle rolling backward or stalling, especially if it cannot maintain enough momentum. Therefore, selecting a lower gear is the appropriate action to take for optimal performance and safety when ascending hills.