2006 Honda Ridgeline Owner's Manual - Page 220

Off-Highway Driving Guidelines Crossing a Stream Before driving through water, stop, get out if necessary, and make sure that: The water is not deep enough to cover your wheel hubs, axles, or exhaust pipe. You could stall and not be able to restart your engine. The water can also damage important vehicle components. The banks are sloped so you can drive out. The water is not flowing too fast. Deep rushing water can sweep you downstream. Even very shallow rushing water can wash the ground from under your tires and cause you to lose traction and possibly roll over. The banks and surface under the water provide good traction. The water may hide hazards such as rocks, holes, or mud. If you decide it is safe to drive through water, choose a suitable speed, and proceed without shifting, changing speeds, stopping, or shutting off the engine. Do not try to cross water at high speeds, as this may cause severe damage to the cooling system or result in loss of control. After driving through water, test your brakes. If they got wet, gently ''pump'' them while driving slowly until they operate normally. If the water is deeper than the wheel hubs, some additional service may be required. This service is not covered by your warranties. CONTINUED If You Get Stuck If you get stuck, and cannot get unstuck with the VTM-4 system, engage the VTM-4 Lock (see page 198 ), and carefully try to go in the direction (forward or reverse) that you think will get you unstuck. Do not spin the tires at high speeds. It will not help you get out and may cause damage to the transmission or VTM-4 system. Driving If you are still unable to free yourself, your vehicle is equipped with front and rear tow hooks designed for this purpose (see page 287 ). 221