Pulling a Trailer

Here are some important points:

  • There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure the rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you will be driving.
  • Consider using a sway control. See “Hitches” later in this section.
  • Do not tow a trailer at all during the first 800 km (500 miles) the new vehicle is driven. The engine, axle or other parts could be damaged.
  • Then, during the first 800 km (500 miles) that a trailer is towed, do not drive over 80 km/h (50 mph) and do not make starts at full throttle. This helps the engine and other parts of the vehicle wear in at the heavier loads.
  • Vehicles can tow in D (Drive). Shift the transmission to a lower gear if the transmission shifts too often under heavy loads and/ or hilly conditions.
  • If the vehicle has the Side Blind Zone Alert (SBZA) system and it doesn't seem to be working properly while pulling a trailer, turn the system off. See Side Blind Zone Alert (SBZA)   for more information.

Important considerations that have to do with weight:

  • The weight of the trailer
  • The weight of the trailer tongue
  • The weight on the vehicle's tires
  • And the weight of the trailering combination
    See also:

    Brakes
    Brakes stop the vehicle and are crucial to safe driving. - Signs of brake wear may include chirping, grinding, or squealing noises, or difficulty stopping. - Trained dealer technicians have ...

    Leaving After Parking on a Hill
    1. Apply and hold the brake pedal. 2. Start the engine. 3. Shift into a gear. 4. Release the parking brake. 5. Let up on the brake pedal. 6. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks. ...

    Safety Belts
    Refer to the following sections for important information on how to use safety belts properly. Safety Belts  . How to Wear Safety Belts Properly  . Lap-Shoulder Belt  . Lo ...