Chevrolet Sonic Owner's Manual: Loss of Control
Skidding
There are three types of skids that correspond to the vehicle's three control systems:
- Braking Skid — wheels are not rolling.
- Steering or Cornering Skid — too much speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip and lose cornering force.
- Acceleration Skid — too much throttle causes the driving wheels to spin.
Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable care suited to existing conditions, and by not overdriving those conditions. But skids are always possible.
If the vehicle starts to slide, follow these suggestions:
- Ease your foot off the accelerator pedal and steer the way you want the vehicle to go. The vehicle may straighten out. Be ready for a second skid if it occurs.
- Slow down and adjust your driving according to weather conditions. Stopping distance can be longer and vehicle control can be affected when traction is reduced by water, snow, ice, gravel, or other material on the road. Learn to recognize warning clues — such as enough water, ice, or packed snow on the road to make a mirrored surface — and slow down when you have any doubt.
- Try to avoid sudden steering, acceleration, or braking, including reducing vehicle speed by shifting to a lower gear. Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide.
Remember: Antilock brakes help avoid only the braking skid.
Off-Road Recovery
The vehicle's right wheels can drop off the edge of a road onto the shoulder
while driving. Follow these tips:
1. Ease off the accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer the ...
Driving on Wet Roads
Rain and wet roads can reduce vehicle traction and affect your ability to stop
and accelerate. Always drive slower in these types of driving conditions and avoid
driving through large puddles and ...
Other materials:
Brake Assist
This vehicle has a brake assist feature designed to assist the driver in stopping
or decreasing vehicle speed in emergency driving conditions. This feature automatically
uses the stability system hydraulic brake control module to supplement the power
brake system under conditions where the dri ...
Wheels and Trim—Aluminum or Chrome
Use a soft, clean cloth with mild soap and water to clean the wheels. After rinsing
thoroughly with clean water, dry with a soft, clean towel. A wax may then be applied.
Caution
Chrome wheels and other chrome trim may be damaged if the vehicle is not washed
after driving on roads that have bee ...
Front Side Door Window Weatherstrip Replacement
Front Side Door Window Weatherstrip Replacement
Callout
Component Name
Preliminary Procedures
Remove front side door trim panel. Refer to Front Side Door Trim
Replacement.
Remove the outside rearview mirror. Refer to Outs ...
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