Chevrolet Sonic Owner's Manual: Hill and Mountain Roads
Driving on steep hills or through mountains is different than driving on flat or rolling terrain. Tips for driving in these conditions include:
- Keep the vehicle serviced and in good shape.
- Check all fluid levels and brakes, tires, cooling system, and transmission.
- Shift to a lower gear when going down steep or long hills.
Warning
Using the brakes to slow the vehicle on a long downhill slope can cause brake overheating, can reduce brake performance, and could result in a loss of braking. Shift the transmission to a lower gear to let the engine assist the brakes on a steep downhill slope.
Warning
Coasting downhill in N (Neutral) or with the ignition off is dangerous. This can cause overheating of the brakes and loss of steering. Always have the engine running and the vehicle in gear.
- Stay in your own lane. Do not swing wide or cut across the center of the road. Drive at speeds that let you stay in your own lane.
- Be alert on top of hills; something could be in your lane (stalled car, accident).
- Pay attention to special road signs (falling rocks area, winding roads, long grades, passing or no-passing zones) and take appropriate action.
Highway Hypnosis
Always be alert and pay attention to your surroundings while driving. If you
become tired or sleepy, find a safe place to park the vehicle and rest.
Other driving tips include:
Keep the vehicle ...
Winter Driving
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Other materials:
Driving for Better Fuel Economy
Driving habits can affect fuel mileage. Here are some driving tips to get the
best fuel economy possible.
Avoid fast starts and accelerate smoothly.
Brake gradually and avoid abrupt stops.
Avoid idling the engine for long periods of time.
When road and weather conditions are appropriate, ...
Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding (Manual)
Warning: Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Warning.
Caution: Refer to Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components
Caution.
Caution: Only use products that comply with GM specifications and
check manufacturer information respectively. We recommend the use of GM genuine
...
Strut and Shock Absorber Inspection (Shock Absorber)
Note: The shock absorber assembly DOES NOT have to be removed from
the vehicle to perform the following inspection procedure.
Note: A light film of oil on the top portion of the lower shock absorber
tube is normal. DO NOT replace the shock absorber for this condition.
Condition ...
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