2004 Cadillac SRX Owner's Manual - Page 272

Approaching a Hill When you approach a hill, you need to decide if it is one of those hills that is just too steep to climb, descend or cross. Steepness can be hard to judge. On a very small hill, for example, there may be a smooth, constant incline with only a small change in elevation where you can easily see all the way to the top. On a large hill, the incline may get steeper as you near the top, but you may not see this because the crest of the hill is hidden by bushes, grass or shrubs. Here are some other things to consider as you approach a hill. • What is beyond the hill? Is there a cliff, an embankment, a drop-off, a fence? Get out and walk the hill if you do not know. It is the smart way to find out. • Is the hill simply too rough? Steep hills often have ruts, gullies, troughs and exposed rocks because they are more susceptible to the effects of erosion. Driving Uphill Once you decide you can safely drive up the hill, you need to take some special steps. • Use a low gear and get a firm grip on the steering wheel. • Is there a constant incline, or does the hill get sharply steeper in places? • Get a smooth start up the hill and try to maintain your speed. Do not use more power than you need, because you do not want your wheels to start spinning or sliding. • Is there good traction on the hillside, or will the surface cause tire slipping? • Is there a straight path up or down the hill so you will not have to make turning maneuvers? • Try to drive straight up the hill if at all possible. If the path twists and turns, you might want to find another route. • Are there obstructions on the hill that can block your path (boulders, trees, logs or ruts)? 4-22