SteeringPower SteeringIf you lose power steering assist because theengine stops or the system is not functioning, youcan steer but it will take much more effort.Steering TipsIt is important to take curves at a reasonablespeed.A lot of the “driver lost control” accidentsmentioned on the news happen on curves.Here is why:Experienced driver or beginner, each of us issubject to the same laws of physics when drivingon curves. The traction of the tires against theroad surface makes it possible for the vehicle tochange its path when you turn the front wheels. Ifthere is no traction, inertia will keep the vehiclegoing in the same direction. If you have evertried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you willunderstand this.The traction you can get in a curve depends onthe condition of the tires and the road surface, theangle at which the curve is banked, and yourspeed. While you are in a curve, speed is theone factor you can control.Suppose you are steering through a sharp curve.Then you suddenly accelerate. Both controlsystems — steering and acceleration — have todo their work where the tires meet the road.Adding the sudden acceleration can demand toomuch of those places. You can lose control.See StabiliTrak® System on page 283.What should you do if this ever happens? Ease upon the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle theway you want it to go, and slow down.Speed limit signs near curves warn that youshould adjust your speed. Of course, the postedspeeds are based on good weather and roadconditions. Under less favorable conditions you willwant to go slower.If you need to reduce your speed as you approacha curve, do it before you enter the curve, whilethe front wheels are straight ahead.285
