2012 Chevrolet Equinox Owner's Manual - Page 222

9-6 Driving and Operating . Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable care suited to existing conditions, and by not overdriving those conditions. But skids are always possible. If the vehicle starts to slide, follow these suggestions: . Try to avoid sudden steering, acceleration, or braking, including reducing vehicle speed by shifting to a lower gear. Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide. { WARNING When driving off-road, bouncing and quick changes in direction can easily throw you out of position. This could cause you to lose control and crash. You and your passengers should always wear safety belts. Ease your foot off the accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want the vehicle to go. The vehicle may straighten out. Be ready for a second skid if it occurs. Slow down and adjust your driving according to weather conditions. Stopping distance can be longer and vehicle control can be affected when traction is reduced by water, snow, ice, gravel, or other material on the road. Learn to recognize warning clues - such as enough water, ice, or packed snow on the road to make a mirrored surface - and slow down when you have any doubt. Remember: Antilock brakes help avoid only the braking skid. Off-Road Driving All-wheel-drive vehicles can be used for off-road driving. Vehicles without all-wheel drive and vehicles not equipped with All Terrain (AT) or On-Off Road (OOR) tires must not be driven off-road except on a level, solid surface. To contact the tire manufacturer for more information about the original equipment tires, see the Limited Warranty and Owner Assistance Information manual. Controlling the vehicle is the key to successful off-road driving. One of the best ways to control the vehicle is to control the speed. . Before Driving Off-Road Have all necessary maintenance and service work completed. Fuel the vehicle, fill fluid levels, and check inflation pressure in all tires, including the spare, if equipped. Read all the information about all-wheel-drive vehicles in this manual. . . .