The Braking System
Brake System Design
The hydraulic system that operates
the brakes has two separate circuits.
Each circuit works diagonally across
the car (the left-front brake is
connected with the right-rear brake,
etc.). If one circuit should develop a
problem, you will still have braking
at two wheels.
If this happens, you will immediately
notice that the brake pedal goes
down much farther and you need to
press on it much harder. A much
longer distance will be needed to
stop the car.
Slow the car by downshifting to a
lower gear and removing your foot
from the accelerator pedal. Pull to
the side of the road as soon as it is
safe. Because of the longer stopping
distance needed, brake system
failure is very hazardous. You should
have your car towed, but if you must
drive the car in this condition, be
extremely cautious. Have your car
repaired as soon as possible.
Anti-lock Brakes
The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
is optional on the U.S. DX model.
ABS helps to prevent the wheels
from locking up and skidding during
hard braking, allowing you to retain
steering control.
When the front tires skid, you lose
steering control; the car continues
straight ahead even though you turn
the steering wheel. The ABS helps to
prevent lock-up and retain steering
control by pumping the brakes
rapidly; much faster than a person
can do it.
You should never pump the
brake pedal,
this defeats the
purpose of the ABS. Let the ABS
work for you by always keeping firm,
steady pressure on the brake pedal
as you steer away from the hazard.
This is sometimes referred to as
"stomp and steer." CONTINUED
Driving
Front
Main Menu
Table of Contents
▲
▼
