Oldsmobile 2001 Alero User Manual download pdf (Page 178)

4-11

Steering

Power Steering

If you lose power steering assist because the engine

stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but

it will take much more effort.

Variable Effort Steering (If Equipped)

This steering system provides lighter steering effort for

parking and at low vehicle speeds. Steering effort will

increase at higher speeds for improved road feel.

Steering Tips

Driving on Curves

It’s important to take curves at a reasonable speed.

A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned

on the news happen on curves. Here’s why:

Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to

the same laws of physics when driving on curves. The

traction of the tires against the road surface makes it

possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn

the front wheels. If there’s no traction, inertia will keep

the vehicle going in the same direction. If you’ve ever

tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you’ll understand this.

The traction you can get in a curve depends on the

condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle

at which the curve is banked, and your speed. While

you’re in a curve, speed is the one factor you

can control.

Suppose you’re steering through a sharp curve.

Then you suddenly accelerate. Both control

systems

-- steering and acceleration -- have to do their

work where the tires meet the road. Adding the sudden

acceleration can demand too much of those places. You

can lose control. Refer to “Enhanced Traction System”

in the Index.

What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on

the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want

it to go, and slow down.

Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should

adjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds are

based on good weather and road conditions. Under

less favorable conditions you’ll want to go slower.

If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a

curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front

wheels are straight ahead.

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Oldsmobile 2001 Alero User Manual Page 178

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