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Steep gradient
The sign warns of a steep downhill gradient in the direction of travel.
When you see the sign
Reduce your speed before the downhill section and select a gear that provides good engine braking. Keep extra distance from the vehicle in front and use the brakes in a controlled manner so they do not overheat.
Rules
- Sign 104.2 warns of a steep downhill section in the direction of travel.
- You must adjust your speed so that you remain in control of the car throughout the entire downhill section, regardless of the posted speed limit.
- You must select a gear that allows engine braking to help keep your speed down.
- The steepness of the hill is indicated by supplementary sign 813 Gradient; a 10 percent descent means approximately 10 metres of height difference per 100 metres of horizontal distance.
Tips
- Select a lower gear before the downhill section begins, because it may be harder to reduce your speed after the car has accelerated.
- Use engine braking and brake firmly for shorter periods when necessary, rather than keeping light pressure on the brake pedal all the way down.
- Increase the distance from the vehicle in front, especially on wet, icy or snow-covered roads.
- Watch for warnings of bends, junctions or other hazards that may be on or beyond the downhill section.
Common misconceptions
- Some people confuse sign 104.2 with sign 104.1, which warns of a steep uphill section rather than a steep downhill section.
- The percentage on the supplementary sign is often interpreted as the number of degrees, but it indicates the height difference as a percentage.
- Some people think the sign sets a lower speed limit, but it is a warning sign; the driver must choose a safe speed themselves.
Test yourself
Easy
What does this sign warn about?
- AA road that becomes narrower on both sides
- BA steep downhill gradient in the direction of travel
- CA steep uphill gradient in the direction of travel
- DSeveral dangerous bends in succession
Medium
You are approaching the hill by car. How should you drive?
- APut the car in neutral and let it roll down the hill
- BMaintain the signposted speed limit and use only the brakes downhill
- CIncrease your speed before the hill and change to a higher gear
- DAdjust your speed and select a gear that provides good engine braking
Hard
The sign shows 10 %. What does this number indicate?
- AIt indicates that the hill slopes down 10 degrees from the horizontal plane
- BIt indicates that the speed limit is reduced by 10 percent on the hill
- CIt indicates approximately 10 metres of ascent per 100 metres of horizontal distance
- DIt indicates approximately 10 metres of descent per 100 metres of horizontal distance
Theory test tip
Look carefully at which way the slope descends. With sign 104.2, the road slopes downhill in the direction of travel, while 104.1 indicates an uphill section; a common test trap is to mix these up.
Did you know
In Norway, the sign is often used before long and steep descents in mountainous areas. The supplementary sign showing the percentage may vary depending on how steep the hill is.
Frequently asked questions
Does the sign mean that I have to brake immediately?
You must adjust your speed before the steep downhill section. How much you need to reduce your speed depends, among other things, on the gradient, road conditions, visibility and the car.
What does 10 percent on the supplementary sign mean?
It means approximately 10 metres of height difference per 100 metres of horizontal distance. It does not mean that the hill has an angle of 10 degrees.
Should I put the car in neutral when driving downhill?
No. You would lose engine braking and have less control over your speed, meaning the wheel brakes would have to do more of the work.
Does sign 104.2 require me to use a specific gear?
No, the sign does not specify a particular gear. However, you must choose a gear and a speed that allow you to remain fully in control and avoid unnecessary strain on the brakes.
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