2010 Dodge Nitro Owner Manual - Page 322

STARTING AND OPERATING 321 NOTE: During severe braking conditions, a pulsing • Do not drive too fast for road conditions, especially sensation may occur and a clicking noise will be heard. when roads are wet or slushy. A wedge of water can This is normal, indicating that the ABS is functioning. build up between the tire tread and the road. This hydroplaning action can cause loss of traction, braking • Do not "ride" the brakes by resting your foot on the ability, and control. pedal. This could overheat the brakes and result in unpredictable braking action, longer stopping dis- • After going through deep water or a car wash, brakes may become wet, resulting in decreased performance tances, or brake damage. and unpredictable braking action. Dry the brakes by • When descending mountains or hills, repeated brakgentle, intermittent pedal action while driving at very ing can cause brake fade with loss of braking control. slow speeds. Avoid repeated heavy braking by downshifting the transmission or locking out overdrive whenever pos- ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL SYSTEM sible. Your vehicle is equipped with an advanced electronic • Engines may idle at higher speeds during warm-up, brake control system that includes an Anti-Lock Brake which could cause rear wheels to spin and result in System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist loss of vehicle control. Be especially careful while System (BAS), Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM) and Elecdriving on slippery roads, in close-quarter maneuver- tronic Stability Program (ESP). All five systems work together to enhance vehicle stability and control in various ing, parking, or stopping. driving conditions and are commonly referred to as ESP. 5