5-5
Dri
ving y
o
ur v
ehicle
5
Before entering the vehicle
• Be sure all windows, outside mir-
ror(s), and outside lights are clean
and unobstructed.
• Remove frost, snow, or ice.
• Visually check the tires for uneven
wear and damage.
• Check under the vehicle for any
sign of leaks.
• Be sure there are no obstacles
behind you if you intend to back up.
Before starting
• Make sure the hood, the tailgate,
and the doors are securely closed
and locked.
• Adjust the position of the seat and
steering wheel.
• Adjust the inside and outside
rearview mirrors.
• Verify all the lights work.
• Fasten your seat belt. Check that
all passengers have fastened their
seat belt.
• Check the gauges and indicators in
the instrument panel and the mes-
sages on the instrument display
when the ignition switch is in the
ON position.
• Check that any items you are car-
rying are stored properly or fas-
tened down securely.
BEFORE DRIVING
To reduce the risk of SERIOUS
INJURY or DEATH, take the fol-
lowing precautions:
•
ALWAYS wear your seat belt.
All passengers must be prop-
erly belted whenever the vehi-
cle is moving. For more infor-
mation, refer to "Seat Belts" in
chapter 2.
•
Always drive defensively.
Assume other drivers or
pedestrians may be careless
and make mistakes.
•
Stay focused on the task of
driving. Driver distraction can
cause accidents.
•
Leave plenty of space
between you and the vehicle
in front of you.
WARNING