1998 Cadillac Catera Owner's Manual - Page 189

Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops orthe system is not functioning, you steer but can it will take much more effort. Experienced driveror beginner, eachof 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 path whenyou turn its 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 wet ice, you'll understand this. on 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 todo 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 "Traction Control System" in the Index. What should you if this ever happens?Ease up on the do accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle way you want it the to go, and slow down. Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should adjust your speed. course, the posted speeds are Of based on good weather and road conditions. Under less favorable conditions you'll want go slower. to Speed Sensitive Steering(SSS) This system varies the amount steering effortin of relation to your vehicle speed. Steering is easier at a lower speed for maneuvering and parking ease. As your vehicle speed increases, the steering effort increases. also At highway speeds, the amount of steering effort is increased to provide manual-like steering for maximum control and stability. your vehicle seems harder to steer If than normal when parking or driving slow, something may be wrong withthe speed sensitive steering system. You will still have power steering, however, steering will be stiffer than normal at low speeds. 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: 4-10