Driving with a Trailer

Towing a trailer requires experience.

Get familiar with handling and braking with the added trailer weight. The vehicle is now longer and not as responsive as the vehicle is by itself.

Check all trailer hitch parts and attachments, safety chains, electrical connectors, lamps, tires, and mirror adjustments. If the trailer has electric brakes, start the vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working.

During the trip, check regularly to be sure that the load is secure, and the lamps and trailer brakes are working properly.

    See also:

    Before Driving Off-Road
    Have all necessary maintenance and service work completed. Fuel the vehicle, fill fluid levels, and check inflation pressure in all tires, including the spare, if equipped. Read all the info ...

    Replacing LATCH System Parts After a Crash
    WARNING! A crash can damage the LATCH system in the vehicle. A damaged LATCH system may not properly secure the child restraint, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To hel ...

    Lamps On Reminder
    For vehicles with the lamps on reminder light, it comes on when the lights are in use. ...