2003 Oldsmobile Alero Owner's Manual - Page 192

Hydroplaning doesn't happen often. But it can if your tires do not have much tread or if the pressure in one or more is low. It can happen if a lot of water is standing on the road. If you can see reflections from trees, telephone poles or other vehicles, and raindrops "dimple" the water's surface, there could be hydroplaning. Hydroplaning usually happens at higher speeds. There just isn't a hard and fast rule about hydroplaning. The best advice is to slow down when it is raining. Driving Through FlowingWater Driving Through Deep Standing Water Notice: If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, water can come in through your engine's air intake and badly damage your engine. Never drive through water thatis slightly lower than the underbody of your vehicle. If you can't avoid deep puddles or standing water, drive through them very slowly. atercreatesstrong Fla ng orrushi forces. If you try to drive through flowing water, as you might at a low water crossing, your vehicle can be carriedaway. As little as six inches of flowing water can carry away a smaller vehicle. If this happens, you and other vehicle occupants could drown. Don't ignore police warning signs, and otherwise be very cautious about trying to drive through flowing water. - Some Other Rainy Weather Tips e Besides slowing down, allow some extra following distance. And be especially careful when you pass another vehicle. Allow yourself more clear room ahead, and be prepared to have your view restricted by road spray. Have good tires with proper tread depth. See Tires on page 5-53. 4-19