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
If you do not shift down, the brakes could get so hot that they would not work
well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You
could crash. Shift down to let the engine assist the brakes on a steep downhill
slope.
WARNING
Coasting downhill in N (Neutral) or with the ignition off is dangerous. The
brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down and they could get so hot
that they would not work well.
You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill.
You could crash. Always have the engine running and the vehicle in gear when
going downhill.
- 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.
See also:
Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode
If an overheated engine condition exists and the ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED message
is displayed, an overheat protection mode which alternates firing groups of cylinders
helps prevent engine damage. ...
Fuel System Messages
FUEL LEVEL LOW
This message displays when the
vehicle is low on fuel. Refill the fuel
tank as soon as possible. A chime
may sound when this message
displays. See Filling the Tank.
TIGHTEN GA ...
Lamps
Properly working headlamps,
taillamps, and brake lamps are
important to see and be seen on
the road.
- Signs that the headlamps need
attention include dimming, failure
to light, cracking, o ...






