Driving in Flooded Areas and Off-Road, Highway Driving

Driving in Flooded Areas

Avoid driving through flooded areas unless you are sure the water is not higher than the bottom of the wheel hub. Drive slowly through any water. Allow an adequate stopping distance because braking effectiveness may be affected.

After driving through water, dry the brakes by gently applying them several times while driving slowly.

Off-Road Driving

Drive carefully off-road, because your vehicle may be damaged by rocks or tree roots. Become familiar with the off-road conditions where you plan to drive before you start driving.

Highway Driving

Tires

Adjust tire pressure to the specification. Low tire pressure will cause overheating and may result in tire failure.

Avoid using worn or damaged tires, which may reduce traction or cause tire failure.

Never exceed the maximum tire pressure shown on the tire sidewall.

WARNING - Underinflated/Overinflated Tires

Always check that the tires are properly inflated before driving. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires may cause poor handling, loss of vehicle control, and sudden tire failure, leading to accidents, injury, or even death. For the correct tire pressure, refer to Tires and Wheels in Chapter 8.

WARNING - Tire Tread

Always check the tread of the tires before driving the vehicle. Worn tires may lead to loss of vehicle control. Worn tires should be replaced as soon as possible. For additional information and tread limits, refer to Tires and Wheels in Chapter 7.

Fuel, Engine Coolant, and Engine Oil

Traveling at high speed consumes more fuel than city driving. Be sure to check the engine coolant and engine oil.

Drive Belt

A loose or damaged drive belt may cause the engine to overheat.