Winter driving
192
Operation
These tires meet specific snow traction
performance requirements of the Rubber
Manufacturers Association (RMA) and the
Rubber Association of Canada (RAC) and
have been designed specifically for use in
snow conditions. Use of winter tires is the
only way to achieve the maximum effec-
tiveness of ABS, BAS, ASR and ESP
®
in
winter operation.
For safe handling, make sure that all winter
tires mounted are of the same make and
have the same tread design.
Always observe the speed rating of the
winter tires installed on your vehicle. If the
maximum speed for which your tires are
rated is below the speed rating of your ve-
hicle, you must place a notice to this effect
where it will be seen by the driver. Such no-
tices are available at your tire dealer or any
authorized Sprinter Dealer.
E Reactivate the tire pressure monitor.
While studded tires improve performance
on ice, skid and traction capability on wet
or dry surfaces may be poorer than that of
non-studded tires. Some states prohibit
studded tires; therefore, local laws should
be checked before using these tire types.
i When they have been removed, store
wheels and tires in a cool, dry, and if possible
dark place. Protect the tires from oil, grease, and
gasoline/diesel.
Drive with particular care on icy roads.
Avoid sudden acceleration, steering move-
ments and braking.
If it seems likely that the vehicle is about to
enter a skid or cannot be stopped at a low
speed:
O move the selector lever to position N.
O try to maintain control of the vehicle
using light corrective steering.
Road salt may adversely affect braking ef-
ficiency. It may therefore be necessary to
apply the brakes more forcefully in order to
achieve the same braking force as normal.
Apply the brakes regularly when making
longer journeys on gritted or salted roads.
This will have the effect of restoring the
brakes to their normal level of perfor-
mance.
When stopping the vehicle after traveling
on roads that have been salted, check that
the brakes are fully functional before pro-
ceeding further.
G Warning
Winter tires with a tread depth under
1/6 in (4 mm) must be replaced. They are no
longer suitable for winter operation.
G Warning
If you use your spare tire when winter tires
are fitted on the other wheels, be aware that
the difference in tire characteristics may im-
pair turning stability and overall driving stabil-
ity may be reduced.
Adapt your driving style accordingly.
Have the spare tire replaced with a winter tire
at the nearest authorized Sprinter Dealer.
Driving in winter
G Warning
Downshifting to brake could cause the drive
wheels to lose grip on a slippery surface due
to the increased difference in speed between
the engine and the drive wheels at this time.
Do not downshift for additional engine brak-
ing on a slippery surface. Use the service
brake in accordance with road conditions.
Only downshift to a lower gear when traveling
at a low engine speed.
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