1996 Oldsmobile Aurora Owner's Manual - Page 178

Use your anti-lock braking system when you need to. With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same time. In many emergencies, steering c m help you more than even the very best braking. Steerin If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take muchmore effort. Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to the same laws of physics when driving on curves. The traction of the tires againstthe road surface makes it possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn the front wheels. If there's no traction, inertia willkeep the vehicle going in the same direction. If you'veever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you'll understand this. The traction you can getin 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're in acurve, speed is the one factor you can control. Suppose you're steering through a sharp curve. Then you suddenly accelerate. Both control systems steering and -acceleration -- have to do their work where the tires meet the road. Unless your traction control systemon, is adding the sudden acceleration can demand too much of those places.You can lose control. What should youdo if this ever happens? Ease up on the accelerator pedal, steerthe vehicle the way you wantit to go, and slow down. Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should adjust your speed.Of course, the posted speeds are based on good weather androad conditions. Under less favorable conditions you'll want to goslower. :agnasteer Your vehicle is equipped with GM Magnasteer , a steering system that continuously adjusts the effort you feel when steering at allvehicle speeds. It provides ease when parking yet a firm, solid feel at highway speeds. TM Steering Tars Dr ng on Curl It's important to take curves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the "driver lost control" accidents mentioned on the news happen on curves. Here's why: A