Tire Chains
{CAUTION:
Do not use tire chains. There is not enough
clearance. Tire chains used on a vehicle
without the proper amount of clearance can
cause damage to the brakes, suspension,
or other vehicle parts. The area damaged
by the tire chains could cause you to lose
control of your vehicle and you or others
may be injured in a crash. Use another type
of traction device only if its manufacturer
recommends it for use on your vehicle and
tire size combination and road conditions.
Follow that manufacturer’s instructions.
To help avoid damage to your vehicle, drive
slowly, re-adjust or remove the device if it
is contacting your vehicle, and do not spin
your wheels. If you do find traction devices
that will fit, install them on the rear tires.
If a Tire Goes Flat
It is unusual for a tire to blowout while you are driving,
especially if you maintain your tires properly. See
Tires on page 5-59. If air goes out of a tire, It is much
more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should ever
have a blowout, here are a few tips about what to expect
and what to do:
If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that
pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the
accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly.
Steer to maintain lane position, and then gently brake to
a stop well out of the traffic lane.
A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a
skid and may require the same correction you would
use in a skid. In any rear blowout, remove your foot from
the accelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control
by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may
be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer.
Gently brake to a stop, well off the road if possible.
5-83