Braking, steering, and accelerating are important factors in helping to control
a vehicle while driving. Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. Deciding to push the
brake pedal is perception time. Actually doing it is reaction time. Average driver reaction time is about three-fourths of a second. In that time, a vehicle moving at 100 km/h (60 mph) travels 20m (66 ft), which
could be a lot of distance in an emergency. Helpful braking tips to keep in mind include: If the engine ever stops while the vehicle is being driven, brake normally but
do not pump the brakes. Doing so could make the pedal harder to push down. If the
engine stops, there will be some power brake assist but it will be used when the
brake is applied. Once the power assist is used up, it can take longer to stop and the brake pedal
will be harder to push. Hydraulic Power Steering Your vehicle has hydraulic power steering. It may require maintenance. See Power
Steering Fluid . If power steering assist is lost due to a system malfunction, the vehicle can
be steered, but may require increased effort. Variable Effort Steering Some vehicles have a steering system that varies the amount of effort required
to steer the vehicle in relation to the speed of the vehicle. The amount of steering effort required is less at slower speeds to make the vehicle
more maneuverable and easier to park. At faster speeds, the steering effort increases to provide a sport-like feel
to the steering. This provides maximum control and stability. If the vehicle seems harder to steer than normal when parking or driving slowly,
there may be a problem with the system. You will still have power steering, but
steering will be stiffer than normal at slow speeds. See your dealer for service. Curve Tips Steering in EmergenciesControl of a Vehicle
Braking
Steering