Chevrolet 2007 Colorado, Owner'S Manual

Page: 268 / 500

Q:
Suppose, after stalling, I try to back down
the hill and decide I just cannot do it.
What should I do?
A:
Set the parking brake, put the automatic
transmission in PARK (P), or the manual
transmission in FIRST (1), and turn off
the engine. Leave the vehicle and go get
some help. Exit on the uphill side and
stay clear of the path the vehicle would take if
it rolled downhill.
Driving Downhill
When off-roading takes you downhill, you will want
to consider a number of things:
•
How steep is the downhill? Will I be able to
maintain vehicle control?
•
What is the surface like? Smooth? Rough?
Slippery? Hard-packed dirt? Gravel?
•
Are there hidden surface obstacles? Ruts?
Logs? Boulders?
•
What is at the bottom of the hill? Is there a
hidden creek bank or even a river bottom
with large rocks?
If you decide you can go down a hill safely, then
try to keep your vehicle headed straight down, and
use a low gear. This way, engine drag can help
the brakes and they will not have to do all
the work. Descend slowly, keeping your vehicle
under control at all times.
{
CAUTION:
Heavy braking when going down a hill can
cause your brakes to overheat and fade.
This could cause loss of control and a
serious accident. Apply the brakes lightly
when descending a hill and use a low
gear to keep vehicle speed under control.
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