What is the purpose of an engine retarder?

An engine retarder serves the primary purpose of providing additional braking power by utilizing the engine's compression to help slow down the vehicle. When engaged, the retarder alters the engine's function, effectively using the engine's inertia and compression to create resistance against the vehicle's motion. This helps reduce reliance on traditional brakes, thus prolonging their life and improving overall vehicle control during deceleration, especially on downhill slopes or during heavy loads.

The retarder performs this task without the need for an external braking system, allowing for a more gradual and controlled descent or slowdown. This is particularly valuable in commercial vehicles, where managing heavy loads safely is critical.

Other functions such as increasing engine RPM, enhancing fuel injection, or cooling the engine quickly do not align with the operational role of a retarder, which is fundamentally about augmented braking rather than altering engine performance or efficiency.