2004 Buick Century Owner's Manual - Page 176

Steering Tips Driving on Curves It is important to take curves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the "driver lost control" accidents mentioned on the news happen on curves. Here is why: To turn the system off, move the gear shift lever to FIRST (1) or SECOND (2) gear. See "Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out" under If You Are Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow on page 4-30. When the system is turned off, the TRAC OFF warning light will come on and stay on. If the ETS is limiting wheel spin when the system is turned off, the TRAC OFF light will come on - but the ETS will not turn off right away. It will continue to operate until there is no longer a need to limit wheel spin. Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to the same laws of physics when driving on curves. The traction of the tires against the road surface makes it possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn the front wheels. If there is no traction, inertia will keep the vehicle going in the same direction. If you have ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you will understand this. The traction you can get in a curve depends on the condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is banked, and your speed. While you are in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control. Suppose you are steering through a sharp curve. Then you suddenly apply the brakes. Both control systems - steering and braking - have to do their work where the tires meet the road. Unless you have four-wheel anti-lock brakes, adding the hard braking can demand too much of those places. You can lose control. Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort. 4-10