2012 Chevrolet Equinox Owner's Manual - Page 224

9-8 Driving and Operating . Driving on Hills Driving safely on hills requires good judgment and an understanding of what the vehicle can and cannot do. When possible, drive straight up or down the hill. Slow down when approaching the top of the hill. Use headlamps even during the day to make the vehicle more visible. . . . { WARNING Many hills are simply too steep for any vehicle. Driving up hills can cause the vehicle to stall. Driving down hills can cause loss of control. Driving across hills can cause a rollover. You could be injured or killed. Do not drive on steep hills. Before driving on a hill, assess the steepness, traction, and obstructions. If the terrain ahead cannot be seen, get out of the vehicle and walk the hill before driving further. When driving on hills: . When driving down a hill, keep the vehicle headed straight down. Use a low gear because the engine will work with the brakes to slow the vehicle and help keep the vehicle under control. { WARNING Driving to the top of a hill at high speed can cause an accident. There could be a drop-off, embankment, cliff, or even another vehicle. You could be seriously injured or killed. As you near the top of a hill, slow down and stay alert. . { WARNING Heavy braking when going down a hill can cause your brakes to overheat and fade. This could cause loss of control and you or others could be injured or killed. Apply the brakes lightly when descending a hill and use a low gear to keep vehicle speed under control. If the vehicle stalls on a hill: 1. Apply the brakes to stop the vehicle, and then apply the parking brake. 2. Shift into P (Park) and then restart the engine. Use a low gear and keep a firm grip on the steering wheel. Maintain a slow speed. Never go downhill forward or backward with the transmission in N (Neutral). The brakes could overheat and you could lose control. .