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Engine braking is a technique that involves using the engine's compression to help slow down a vehicle, particularly when driving downhill. When a driver downshifts to a lower gear, the engine creates resistance against the vehicle's movement, which can effectively slow it down without relying solely on the brake system.

When descending a downgrade, the use of the present brakes in conjunction with engine braking is beneficial because it helps manage the vehicle's speed more efficiently. The combination of both braking methods reduces the reliance on brake components, which can help prevent overheating and wear. Therefore, the statement that the use of brakes on a downgrade adds to the braking effects of the engine accurately captures the advantages of using engine braking in conjunction with traditional braking.

In contrast, the other statements focus on aspects that are less beneficial or potentially misleading about engine braking. They do not align with the proper understanding and effective usage of this technique in commercial driving.