trailer hitch.
To reduce the possibility of addi-
tional damage if your vehicle is
struck from the rear, where practical,
remove the hitch and/or receiver
when not in use.
After the hitch is removed, seal the
bolt holes to prevent exhaust fumes,
water or dust from entering the pas-
senger compartment.
Regularly check that all hitch mount-
ing bolts are securely mounted.
Tire pressuresWhen towing a trailer, inflate the vehicle tires
to the recommended cold tire pressure indi-
cated on the Tire and Loading Information
label.
Trailer tire condition, size, load rating and
proper inflation pressure should be in accor-
dance with the trailer and tire manufacturers’
specifications.Safety chainAlways use a suitable chain between your ve-hicle and the trailer. The safety chain should be
crossed and should be attached to the hitch, not
to the vehicle bumper or axle. Be sure to leave
enough slack in the chain to permit turning
corners.
Trailer lightsTrailer lights should comply with federal and/or
local regulations. When wiring the vehicle for
towing, connect the stop and tail light pickup
into the vehicle electrical circuit at a point be-
tween the sensor and stop light or light switch.Trailer brakesIf your trailer is equipped with a braking system,
make sure it conforms to federal and/or local
regulations and that it is properly installed.
WARNING
Never connect a trailer brake system
directly to the vehicle brake system.Pre-towing tipsBe certain your vehicle maintains a level
position when a loaded and/or unloaded
trailer is hitched. Do not drive the vehicle if it
has an unusual nose-up or nose-down con-dition; check for improper tongue load, over-
load, worn suspension or other possible
causes of these conditions.
Always secure items in the trailer to prevent
load shifts while driving.
Be certain your rear view mirrors conform to
all federal, state and/or local regulations. If
not, install any mirrors required for towing
before driving the vehicle.
Trailer towing tipsIn order to gain skill and an understanding of the
vehicle’s behavior, you should practice turning,
stopping and backing up in an area which is free
from traffic. Steering stability, and braking per-
formance will be somewhat different than under
normal driving conditions.
Always secure items in the trailer to prevent
load shift while driving.
Avoid abrupt starts, acceleration or stops.
Avoid sharp turns or lane changes.
Always drive your vehicle at a moderate
speed.
Always block the wheels on both vehicle and
trailer when parking. Parking on a slope is not
recommended; however, if you must do so,
and if your vehicle is equipped with automatic
9-18
Technical and consumer information
04.5.17/Z33-D/V5.0
