Braking
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-quarters 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:
- Keep enough distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
- Avoid needless heavy braking.
- Keep pace with traffic.
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.
See also:
Vehicle Symbol Chart
Here are some additional symbols
that may be found on the vehicle
and what they mean. For more
information on the symbol, refer to
the Index.
: Airbag Readiness Light
: Air Conditioning
...
Service Parts Identification Label
This label, on the inside of the rear side cargo management cover, has the
following information:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
- Model designation.
- Paint information.
- Production o ...
Driving for Better Fuel Economy
Driving habits can affect fuel mileage. Here are some driving tips to get the
best fuel economy possible.
Avoid fast starts and accelerate smoothly.
Brake gradually and avoid abrupt stops.
A ...