Chevrolet Spark Owners 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:
Ease off the accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer
...
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:
Tire Pressure Light
For vehicles with the Tire Pressure
Monitor System (TPMS), this light comes on briefly when the engine is started. It
provides information about tire pressures and the TPMS.
When the Light Is On Steady
This indicates that one or more of the tires are significantly underinflated.
Stop as soon ...
Wheel Replacement
Replace any wheel that is bent, cracked, or badly rusted or corroded. If wheel
nuts keep coming loose, the wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel nuts should be replaced.
If the wheel leaks air, replace it.
Some aluminum wheels can be repaired. See your dealer if any of these conditions
exist.
Your de ...
Charging System Light
This light will come on briefly
when the ignition is turned on, and the engine is not running, as a check to show
it is working.
It should go out when the engine is started. If it stays on, or comes on while
driving, there may be a problem with the electrical charging system. Have it checked ...
