3
STARTING AND DRIVING185
TOWING TRAILERS
IMPORTANT NOTES
For towing caravans or trailers the car must be fitted with
a certified tow hook and an adequate electric system. In-
stallation should be carried out by specialised personnel
who will issue the required papers for travelling on roads.
Install any specific and/or additional rear view mirrors as
specified by the Highway Code.
Remember that when towing a trailer, steep hills are
harder to climb, braking spaces increase and overtaking
takes longer depending on the overall weight.
Engage a low gear when driving downhill, rather than
constantly using the brake.
The weight the trailer exerts on the car tow hook reduces
the car’s loading capacity by the same amount. To make
sure the maximum towable weight is not exceeded (given
in the car registration document) account should be
taken of the fully laden trailer, including accessories and
luggage.
Do not exceed the speed limits specific to each country
you are driving in, in the case of vehicles towing trailers.
In any case, the top speed must not exceed 100 km/h.
The ABS system with which the vehicle may
be equipped does not control the braking
system of the trailer. Take special care when
travelling on slippery surfaces.
Under no circumstances should the car brak-
ing system be modified to control the trailer
brake. The trailer braking system must be
fully independent of the car’s hydraulic system.
