Loading the vehicle
Loading the vehicle changes the mass distribution and therefore the handling of the
vehicle when driving. After loading the vehicle, extra care should be taken to become
familiar with the feel of the vehicle while driving. Refer to Loading the vehicle in
chapter 9. Refer to Exterior checks in chapter 7 for information on tyre pressure when
the vehicle is loaded.
Tyre grip
When driving on wet or slushy roads, it is possible for a wedge of water to build up
between the tyre and road surface. This phenomenon, known as aquaplaning, may
cause partial or complete loss of grip, which will affect the steering and braking of the
vehicle. To reduce the possibility of aquaplaning:
• Reduce speeds during rainstorms.
• Replace tyres when tread wear indicators are visible.
• Regularly check that tyres are properly inated.
Brakes
Power assisted brakes, which are tted to your vehicle, utilise vacuum from the engine
when it is running. Never let the vehicle run down steep inclines without the engine
running. Never coast with the engine switched off.
A decrease in driving, cornering and braking traction occurs when water, snow, ice,
gravel or other materials are on the road surface. Driving practices and vehicle speed
should be adjusted to suit the road conditions.
Driving through water may affect performance. Applying the brakes lightly will indicate
whether they have been affected. To dry them quickly, lightly apply the brakes while
maintaining a slow forward speed with an assured clear distance ahead until brake
performance returns to normal.
Brake pedal travel should not be obstructed by ill-tting oor mats or any other material
under the pedal which causes interference with normal pedal movement.
Your seat should be positioned so that you can push the brake pedal satisfactorily
under all braking conditions.
Power steering
The steering system tted to your vehicle is power assisted. It has been designed to
reduce steering effort. Care should be taken not to hold a prolonged turning force on
the steering wheel when the steering is at left or right lock when stationary (e.g. during
parking manoeuvres) as this creates high operating temperatures and pressures within
the system.
If the power assistance for the steering is not working, due to the engine stalling, etc,
the vehicle can still be steered. However, due to the much greater effort required to
steer, it is recommended that you have the problem xed promptly.
WARNING
Do not hold the steering wheel at the full lock position for any more than 5 seconds,
as this will over heat the power steering uid.
DRIVING PRECAUTIONS cont.
Chapter 4
DRIVING
4-4
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