SteeringPower SteeringIf you lose power steering assist because the enginestops or the system is not functioning, you can steer butit will take much more effort.Steering TipsIt is important to take curves at a reasonable speed.A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned onthe news happen on curves. Here is why:Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject tothe same laws of physics when driving on curves.The traction of the tires against the road surface makesit possible for the vehicle to change its path when youturn the front wheels. If there is no traction, inertia willkeep the vehicle going in the same direction. If you haveever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you willunderstand this.The traction you can get in a curve depends on thecondition of the tires and the road surface, the angle atwhich the curve is banked, and your speed. While youare in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control.Suppose you are steering through a sharp curve.Then you suddenly accelerate. Both controlsystems — steering and acceleration — have to do theirwork where the tires meet the road. Adding the suddenacceleration can demand too much of those places. Youcan lose control. See StabiliTrak® System on page 4-6.What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up onthe accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way youwant it to go, and slow down.Speed limit signs near curves warn that you shouldadjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds arebased on good weather and road conditions. Under lessfavorable conditions you will want to go slower.If you need to reduce your speed as you approach acurve, do it before you enter the curve, while the frontwheels are straight ahead.Try to adjust your speed so you can drive through thecurve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait toaccelerate until you are out of the curve, and thenaccelerate gently into the straightaway.Adding non-dealer/non-retailer accessories can affectyour vehicle’s performance. See Accessories andModifications on page 5-3.4-9
