Driving On Slippery Surfaces; Acceleration; Traction; Driving Through Water - Dodge Caliber Owner's Manual

DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES

Acceleration

Rapid acceleration on snow covered, wet, or
other slippery surfaces may cause the front
wheels to pull erratically to the right or left. This
phenomenon occurs when there is a difference
in the surface traction under the front (driving)
wheels.
WARNING!
Rapid acceleration on slippery surfaces is
dangerous. Unequal traction can cause sud-
den pulling of the front wheels. You could lose
control of the vehicle and possibly have an
accident. Accelerate slowly and carefully
whenever there is likely to be poor traction
(ice, snow, wet, mud, loose sand, etc.).
PAGE POSITION: 147

Traction

When driving on wet or slushy roads, it is
possible for a wedge of water to build up
between the tire and road surface. This is
hydroplaning and may cause partial or com-
plete loss of vehicle control and stopping abil-
ity. To reduce this possibility, the following pre-
cautions should be observed:
1. Slow down during rainstorms or when roads
are slushy.
2. Slow down if the road has standing water or
puddles.
3. Replace the tires when tread wear indicators
first become visible.
4. Keep the tires properly inflated.
5. Maintain enough distance between your ve-
hicle and the vehicle in front of you to avoid a
collision in a sudden stop.
JOB: @ibm2/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_202748-en-cal-10PM491-126-ENG-AA/DIV_og

DRIVING THROUGH WATER

Driving through water more than a few inches/
centimeters deep will require extra caution to
ensure safety and prevent damage to your
vehicle.

Flowing/Rising Water

WARNING!
Do not drive on or across a road or path where
water is flowing and/or rising (as in storm
run-off). Flowing water can wear away the
road or path's surface and cause your vehicle
to sink into deeper water. Furthermore, flow-
ing and/or rising water can carry your vehicle
away swiftly. Failure to follow this warning
may result in injuries that are serious or fatal
to you, your passengers, and others around
you.
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