Braking in emergencies, Braking in emergencies -8 – Pontiac 2006 Torrent User Manual

Page 200

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The anti-lock system can change the brake pressure
faster than any driver could. The computer is
programmed to make the most of available tire and
road conditions. This can help you steer around
the obstacle while braking hard.

As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates
on wheel speed and controls braking pressure
accordingly.

Remember: Anti-lock does not change the time you
need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always
decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to
the vehicle in front of you, you will not have time to apply
your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops.
Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even
though you have anti-lock brakes.

Using Anti-Lock

Do not pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal
down firmly and let anti-lock work for you. You may feel
a slight brake pedal pulsation or notice some noise,
but this is normal.

Braking in Emergencies

At some time, nearly every driver gets into a situation
that requires hard braking.

If you have anti-lock brakes, you can steer and
brake at the same time. However, if you do not have
anti-lock brakes, your first reaction — to hit the
brake pedal hard and hold it down — may be the wrong
thing to do. Your wheels can stop rolling. Once they
do, the vehicle cannot respond to your steering.

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