2012 Chevrolet Equinox Owner's Manual - Page 220

9-4 Driving and Operating If the engine ever stops while the vehicle is being driven, brake normally but do not pump the brakes. Doing so could make the pedal harder to push down. If the engine stops, there will be some power brake assist but it will be used when the brake is applied. Once the power assist is used up, it can take longer to stop and the brake pedal will be harder to push. If the steering wheel is turned in either direction several times until it stops, or it is held until it is stopped for an extended time, power steering assist may be reduced. The normal power steering assist should return shortly after a few normal steering movements. The electric power steering system does not require regular maintenance. If you suspect steering system problems, such as abnormally high steering effort for a prolonged period of time, contact your dealer for service repairs. Control of a Vehicle Braking, steering, and accelerating are important factors in helping to control a vehicle while driving. Braking Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. Deciding to push the brake pedal is perception time. Actually doing it is reaction time. Average driver reaction time is about three‐fourths of a second. In that time, a vehicle moving at 100 km/h (60 mph) travels 20 m (66 ft), which could be a lot of distance in an emergency. Helpful braking tips to keep in mind include: . Steering Electric Power Steering (2.4L L4 Engine) If the engine stalls while driving, the power steering assist system will continue to operate until you are able to stop the vehicle. If power steering assist is lost due to a system malfunction, the vehicle can be steered, but may require increased effort. Hydraulic Power Steering (3.0L V6 Engine) If power steering assist is lost due to a system malfunction, the vehicle can be steered, but may require increased effort. Keep enough distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Avoid needless heavy braking. Keep pace with traffic. . .