2003 GMC Sonoma Owner's Manual - Page 222

Driving Downhill When off-roading takes you downhill, you'll want to consider a number of things: e How steep is the downhill? .Will I be able to maintain vehicle control? What's the surface like? Smooth? Rough? Slippery? Hard-packed dirt? Gravel? Are there hidden surface obstacles? Ruts? Logs? Boulders? What's at the bottom of the hill? Is there a hidden creek bank or even a river bottom with large rocks? e cause your brakes to overheat and fade. This could cause loss of control and a serious accident. Apply the brakes lightly when descending a hill and use a low gear to keep vehicle speed under control. If you decide you can go down a hill safely, then try to keep your vehicle headed straight down, and use a low gear. This way, engine drag can help your brakes and they won't have to do all the work. Descend slowly, keeping your vehicle under control at all times. 4-21