COVID-19 Updates: Taking steps to return to normal.
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COVID-19 Updates: Taking steps to return to normal.
It is important to keep your vehicle working properly. If your vehicle breaks down while you are driving, it can be dangerous as well as inconvenient.
If your vehicle is having mechanical problems that require you to stop, remember the following for your safety:
If a motorist stops to offer help, you could ask them to call for assistance.
Most vehicles come with a brake system that will protect you against a total failure of your brakes. A warning light on your instrument panel will light if there is a problem. It should light before your brakes stop working. When you see the brake warning light come on, and you have checked that the park brake has been released, move to the side of the road as soon as it is safe.
If you have a vehicle with power brakes, the power system could fail. This may occur if your engine stops while you are still moving. If the vehicle does not slow with normal pressure on the brake, push the brake pedal harder and apply steady pressure.
If your brakes fail, and your wheels are not turned, carefully use your park brake to slow your vehicle. You may be able to shift to a lower gear to bring your vehicle to a safe and controlled stop. Check your vehicle's owner's manual for more information.
Park your vehicle in a safe location. Do not drive until the brakes have been checked and repaired properly.
If your power steering fails, you can still steer the vehicle. You will have to use extra effort to turn the steering wheel.
If a tire has an air leak you may feel, through the steering wheel, the vehicle begin to pull and a vibration as you hold the steering wheel. If this air leak is not corrected soon, the tire will become flat. When a front tire is flat, the vehicle will pull strongly to the side that has the flat tire. A flat rear tire may make your vehicle weave. You may find it hard to steer.
If a tire goes flat while you are driving, the following tips will help:
If both headlights fail, do the following:
Note: Replace a headlight or headlight bulb as soon as it burns out. Driving with only one headlight increases the risk of being without both headlights.