1998 Pontiac Firebird Owner's Manual - Page 188

Hydroplaning Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they actually ride on the water. can This can happenif the roadis wet enough and you're going fastenough. When your vehicle hydroplaning, is it has little orno contact with the road. Hydroplaning doesn't happen often. it can if your But tires do not have much tread or if the pressure or in one more is low. It can happen if a lot water is standing on of the road.If you can see reflectionsfrom trees, telephone poles or other vehicles, and raindrops "dimple" the water's surface, there could hydroplaning. be Hydroplaning usually happens at higher speeds. There just isn't a hard and fast rule about hydroplaning. The best advice is slow down when is raining. to it Driving Through Deep Standing Water I NOTICE: If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, watercan come in through your engine's air intake and badly damage your engine. Never drive through water that is slightly lower than the underbody your vehicle.If you of can't avoid deep puddles standing water, drive or through them very slowly. Some Other Rainy Weather Tips Besides slowing down, allow some extra following distance. And be especially careful when you pass another vehicle. Allow yourself more clear room ahead, andbe prepared to have your view restricted by road spray. Have good tires with proper tread depth. the (See "Tires" in Index.) 4-19