What could be a consequence of forced downshifting?

Forced downshifting involves changing to a lower gear without matching the engine speed to the speed of the wheels, which can lead to several undesirable consequences. One significant risk is vehicle instability and loss of traction. When the gear is downshifted without proper rev-matching, the sudden increase in engine RPM can cause the wheels to lose grip on the road, especially if they are already under stress due to braking or acceleration. This can lead to skidding or loss of control, particularly in slick conditions or during cornering.

While there may be a perception that downshifting can enhance performance (like improved acceleration) or fuel efficiency, if not done properly, it can have the opposite effect, compromising the vehicle's stability and safety. Proper downshifting requires skillful coordination to avoid these negative outcomes, primarily maintaining traction and vehicle control.