DRIVING
Learn about preparation for driving, as well as other features.
Before Driving
Check the following items before you begin driving.
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Exterior Checks
• Make sure there are no obstructions on the windows, door mirrors,
exterior lights, or other parts of the vehicle.
• Remove any frost, snow, or ice.
• Make sure the hood is securely closed.
• Make sure the trunk is closed and locked.
• Heat from the engine and exhaust can ignite flammable materials left
under the hood, causing a fire. If you’ve parked your vehicle for an
extended period, inspect and remove any debris that may have collected,
such as dried grass and leaves that have fallen or have been carried in
for use as a nest by a small animal. Also check under the hood for
leftover flammable materials after you or someone else has performed
maintenance on your vehicle.
• Make sure the tires are in good condition.
• Make sure there are no people or objects behind or around the vehicle.
If the doors are frozen shut, use warm water around the door edges to
melt any ice. Do not try to force them open, as this can damage the
rubber trim around the doors. When done, wipe dry to avoid further
freezing.
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Interior Checks
• Store or secure all items on board properly.
• Do not pile items higher than the seat height.
• Do not place anything in the front seat footwells. Make sure to secure the
floor mats.
• If you have any animals on board, do not let them move freely in the
vehicle.
• Securely close and lock all doors and the trunk.
• Adjust your seating position, mirrors, and steering wheel properly.
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• Make sure items placed on the floor behind the front seats cannot roll
under the seats.
• Everyone in the vehicle must fasten their seat belt.
• Make sure that the indicators in the instrument panel come on when you
start the vehicle, and go off soon after.
In addition:
• During the first 600 miles (1,000 km) of operation, avoid sudden
acceleration or full throttle operation so as to not damage the engine or
powertrain.
• Avoid hard braking for the first 200 miles (300 km). You should also follow
this when the brake pads are replaced.
Maximum Load Limit
Carrying too much cargo or improperly storing it can affect your vehicle’s
handling, stability, stopping distance, and tires, and make it unsafe. See the Tire
and Loading Information label on the driver’s doorjamb.
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Maximum Load For Your Vehicle
The maximum load for your vehicle type is:
• 850 lbs (385 kg)
This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, and
accessories, and the tongue load if you are towing a trailer. Below are the
steps for determining the correct load limit:
1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo
should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s placard.
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