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:
Blizzard Conditions
Being stuck in snow can be a serious situation. Stay with the vehicle unless
there is help nearby.
If possible, use Roadside Assistance. See Roadside Assistance Program on page
13-5.
To get help and keep everyone in the vehicle safe:
Turn on the hazard warning flashers.
Tie a red cloth t ...
Additional Factors Affecting System Operation
Safety belts help keep the passenger in position on the seat during vehicle maneuvers
and braking, which helps the passenger sensing system maintain the passenger airbag
status. See “Safety Belts” and “Child Restraints” in the Index for additional information
about the importance of proper res ...
Service Vehicle Soon Light
For vehicles with this light, it
comes on if a condition exists that may require the vehicle to be taken in for service.
If the light comes on, take the vehicle to your dealer for service as soon as
possible.
Owner Manual Indicator
This symbol is shown when you need
to see the owner manual ...
