2001 Oldsmobile Intrigue Owner's Manual - Page 165

Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assistbecause the engine stops or thesystem is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort. 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're in a curve, 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. Adding the sudden acceleration can demand too much of those places. You can lose control. What should you do if this everhappens? Ease up on the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it to go, and slow down. Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should adjust your speed. Of course, theposted speeds are based on good weather and road conditions. Under less favorable conditionsyou'll want to go slower. Magnetic Speed Sensitive Steering This steeringsystem provides lighter steering effort for parking and when driving at speeds below 20 mph (32 km/h). Steering effort will increase at higher speeds forimproved road feel. Steering Tips Driving on Curves It's important to take curves a reasonable speed. at A lot of the "driver lost control" accidentsmentioned If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front wheels are straight ahead. Try to adjust your speed so you can "drive" through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to accelerate until you are outof the curve,and then accelerate gently into the straightaway. on the news happen on curves. Here's why: 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 forthe vehicle to change its path when you turn the front wheels. If there's no traction, inertia will keep the vehicle going in the same direction.If you've ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you'll understandthis.