Vehicle Equipment Failures & Fuel Saving Techniques

Vehicle Equipment Failures

Most equipment failures can be avoided with good maintenance. An unmaintained vehicle can become unsafe to drive. Check your vehicle owner's manual for maintenance information. There may be times when equipment fails anyway, creating an emergency that calls for fast action.

Blowouts

If a front tire blows, steering will be difficult and there may be a strong pull to the side. A rear blowout causes the back of the vehicle to weave or sway.

Brakes Fail

If your brakes stop working:

• Pump the brakes; this may build up enough pressure to get them working again.
• Shift to a lower gear so the engine can help slow you down.
• Slowly apply the parking brake.
• Use your horn or lights to warn others that you are out of control.
• Once you have slowed, ease onto the shoulder.

Headlights Go Out, Power Steering Fails

If your headlights stop working: Turn the headlight switch off and on. Try other lights, such as high beams, driving lights, or hazard lights, to give you enough light to guide you off the road. Slow down and ease onto the shoulder.

If your power steering fails: Grip the steering wheel firmly, since steering will be difficult. Slow down and ease onto the shoulder.

Accelerator Sticks

If your accelerator sticks:

• Search for an escape path.
• Shift the vehicle to neutral, using an open palm to avoid shifting into another gear.
• Steer smoothly while braking.
• Pull off the road when it is safe to do so.

Fuel Saving Techniques

You can improve gas mileage or save fuel with these techniques:

• Drive steadily and avoid exceeding posted speed limits.
• Avoid rapid starts and sudden stops.
• Avoid unnecessary idling.
• Combine errands into a single trip.
• Properly maintain your vehicle.