Black plate (7,1)
Chevrolet Equinox Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
6081479) - 2014 - crc2 - 10/23/13
Driving and Operating
9-7
Loading the Vehicle for
Off-Road Driving
{
Warning
.
Unsecured cargo on the load
floor can be tossed about
when driving over rough
terrain. You or your
passengers can be struck by
flying objects. Secure the
cargo properly.
.
Keep cargo in the cargo area
as far forward and as low as
possible. The heaviest things
should be on the floor,
forward of the rear axle.
.
Heavy loads on the roof raise
the vehicle's center of gravity,
making it more likely to roll
over. You can be seriously or
fatally injured if the vehicle
rolls over. Put heavy loads
inside the cargo area, not on
the roof.
For more information about loading
the vehicle, see
Vehicle Load Limits
on page 9-14
.
Environmental Concerns
.
Always use established trails,
roads, and areas that have been
set aside for public off-road
recreational driving and obey all
posted regulations.
.
Do not damage shrubs, flowers,
trees, or grasses or disturb
wildlife.
.
Do not park over things that
burn. See
Parking over Things
That Burn on page 9-25
.
Driving on Hills
Driving safely on hills requires good
judgment and an understanding of
what the vehicle can and cannot do.
{
Warning
Many hills are simply too steep
for any vehicle. Driving up hills
can cause the vehicle to stall.
Driving down hills can cause loss
of control. Driving across hills can
cause a rollover. You could be
injured or killed. Do not drive on
steep hills.
Before driving on a hill, assess the
steepness, traction, and
obstructions. If the terrain ahead
cannot be seen, get out of the
vehicle and walk the hill before
driving further.
When driving on hills:
.
Use a low gear and keep a firm
grip on the steering wheel.
.
Maintain a slow speed.
.
When possible, drive straight up
or down the hill.
.
Slow down when approaching
the top of the hill.
