FIAT SPIDER 2000 - Manual (Page 19)

DRIVING THE CAR
Never maintain nor exceed the
maximum allowed speeds and do
not drive with tachometer pointer
steadily on the yellow sector.
Do not travel steadily for long
intervals at top speed in any gear.
All red indicator lights should be
out while driving.
Do not coast downhill with the
clutch pedal depressed, the transmis-
sion in neutral or the engine off, as the
marginal saving in fuel consumption
which may be derived from such
practice does not compensate for the
resulting loss in brake lining life and
driving safety which is provided by the
braking effect of the engine.
Remember that upon switching off
the engine, the brake servo is
deactivated and, therefore, braking
requires more effort.
Do not allow the engine to lug,
particularly when driving up steep
hills, but shift down in good time to
benefit from maximum engine pulling
power.
Do not ride the clutch, otherwise
slippage and damage will result.
Ensure that both the foot and
hand brakes are efficient at all times.
After a car wash apply the foot-brake
a few times so as to restore full
brake effectiveness.
Always apply the foot brake pro-
gressively. Remember that wheel lock-
ing, especially with an unladen car,
will result in dangerous skidding. In
case of emergency the hand brake may
be used to stop the car.
On wet or slippery roads hard
braking will increase the likelihood of
wheel locking and consequent inevi-
table loss of handling control. Instead,
use the engine braking effect by
engaging a gear lower than would
normally be required. Braking, if abso-
lutely unavoidable, should be gentle
and progressive and, in any case,
simultaneous with engine braking.
On icy roads drive slowly, turn
the steering wheel very gently, avoid
using the brakes, change gear smoothly
and do not drive with the clutch
pedal depressed. If the car starts
skidding release the accelerator pedal,
do not brake, but steer smoothly in
the direction of skid; as the car re-
gains its course straighten the wheels
and accelerate gently.
Always use tire chains or snow
tires before starting a journey on ice
or snow covered roads and remember
that while snow chains can be fitted
to the driving wheels only, studded
tires should be fitted to all wheels.
When driving in mist or fog during
daylight switch on the parking and
tail lights: do not use the high beams.
17