Driving in the Rain

Rain and wet roads can make driving hazardous, especially if you are not prepared for slippery road surfaces. Here are some things to consider when driving in the rain:

• Heavy rain will reduce visibility and increase the distance needed to stop your vehicle, so slow down.
• Keep the windshield wiper equipment in good condition. Replace the windshield wiper blades when streaks appear on the windshield or when areas are missing.
• If your tires are not in good condition, a sudden stop on wet asphalt may cause skidding and possibly an accident. Make sure your tires are in good condition.
• Turn on the headlights so that others can see you more easily.
• Driving too fast through large puddles may affect brake performance. If you must drive through puddles, drive through them slowly.
• If you think your brakes may be wet, lightly apply them while driving until normal braking is restored.

Driving in Flooded Areas. Off-Road Driving. Highway Driving

Driving in Flooded Areas

Avoid driving through flooded areas unless you are sure the water level is not higher than the bottom of the wheel hub. Drive slowly through any water. Allow adequate braking distance, as this may affect braking performance.

After driving through water, dry the brakes by lightly 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. Familiarize yourself with the off-road conditions you intend to drive in before you start driving.

Highway Driving

Tires

Adjust tire pressure to the specification. Low tire pressure will cause overheating and possible tire failure.

Avoid using worn or damaged tires, which may result in reduced traction or tire failure.

Never exceed the maximum tire pressure indicated on the tire.

WARNING - Tire Tread

Always check the tire tread before driving the vehicle. Worn tires may lead to loss of vehicle control. Replace worn tires as soon as possible. For more information and tread limitations, refer to Tires and Wheels in section 8.

WARNING - Underinflated or Overinflated Tires

Always check that tires are properly inflated before driving. Underinflated or overinflated tires may cause degraded handling, loss of vehicle control, and sudden tire failure, resulting in accidents, injury, or even death.

Fuel, Engine Coolant, and Engine Oil

Driving at high speeds consumes more fuel than city driving. Be sure to check both the engine coolant and the engine oil.

Drive Belt

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