Driving and Operation

Braking

~1min read

Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. Perception time is the time needed to decide to press the brake pedal. Reaction time is the time needed to actually do so.

The average driver reaction time is about three-quarters of a second. During this time, a vehicle traveling at 100 km/h covers 20 m (66 ft), which can be a considerable distance in an emergency situation.

Helpful braking tips to remember include:

  • Keep a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead of you.
  • Avoid unnecessary hard braking.
  • Keep pace with the traffic flow.

If the engine ever stops while the vehicle is moving, brake normally, but do not pump the brakes. Pumping can make the brake pedal harder to press. If the engine stops, there will be some brake boost, but it will be used up when braking. Once the boost assist is used up, it may take longer to stop and the brake pedal will be harder to press.

Test yourself

A quick GMC Terrain quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.