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:
Exterior Lamp Controls
The exterior lamp control is on the turn signal lever on the left side of the
steering column.
There are four positions:
(Headlamps): Turns on the headlamps
together with the parking lamps and instrument panel lights.
(Parking Lamps): Turns on the parking
lamps including all lamps, exce ...
Engine Oil Pressure Light
Caution
Lack of proper engine oil maintenance can damage the engine. Driving
with the engine oil low can also damage the engine. The repairs would not be covered
by the vehicle warranty.
Check the oil level as soon as possible. Add oil if required, but if the oil
level is within the operatin ...
Brake System
Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks,
chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface condition.
Inspect drum brake linings/shoes for wear or cracks. Inspect other brake parts,
including drums, wheel cylinders, calipers, parkin ...
