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Again, newer transmissions, including GMC and Chevy, have automatic grade downshifting. It's activated by braking on an incline. No excessive wear occurs.
One would assume (and based on my experience with our Escalade, Tahoe, and Silverado, I think it's true) that the computer won't be very aggressive about it.
In other words, it's not going to pull first on a steep grade at 40mph.
Not to speak for Bill, but he said he prefers not to use the transmission to slow the car down; since the automatic grade braking only happens when you are already on the actual brakes, it's really only going to help moderate the speed, not actually slow the vehicle... at least I don't think I've ever seen it actually scrub speed with the grade braking.
Whether it's cheaper to service the transmission or the brakes is an exercise I'll leave to the reader to argue with his Dad about :-)
Again, newer transmissions, including GMC and Chevy, have automatic grade downshifting. It's activated by braking on an incline. No excessive wear occurs.
The problem with my Tahoe is it is 14 years old and doesn't have that new fangled stuff that automates what I do with my foot and hand. As for fixing the brakes or the transmission I will opt for the brakes. I can pay to have a shop do the pads/rotors and still not pay half of what dropping the transmission let alone fix it would cost.
she's protecting your engine from you 
