Chevrolet Spark Owners 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.
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.
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 ...
Winter Driving
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Other materials:
Managing the Vehicle Damage Repair Process
In the event that the vehicle requires damage repairs, GM recommends that you
take an active role in its repair. If you have a pre-determined repair facility
of choice, take the vehicle there, or have it towed there.
Specify to the facility that any required replacement collision parts be origi ...
Engine Oil Change
When the %CHANGE DIC message displays,
have the engine oil and filter changed within the next 1 000 km/600 mi. If driven
under the best conditions, the engine oil life system may not indicate the need
for vehicle service for up to a year.
The engine oil and filter must be changed at least on ...
Airbag System Check
The airbag system does not need regularly scheduled maintenance or replacement.
Make sure the airbag readiness light is working. See Airbag Readiness Light on page
5-11.
Caution
If an airbag covering is damaged, opened, or broken, the airbag
may not work properly. Do not open or break the ai ...
