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Of course, backing up should be done only at very slow speeds. For large trailers that obstruct your
rearward vision, have someone outside the vehicle act as a “spotter” to guide you along.
WARNING- Do not use or rely upon the Back-up Collision Intervention system (BCI) when towing
a trailer. The BCI system cannot function properly when objects are obstructing the radar sensor
beams.
PARK SMART
A tow vehicle and trailer can be an unwieldy combination in a small area, so always try to park
where you will have a relatively easy time maneuvering. Once parked, always block the wheels on
both the tow vehicle and the trailer.
Parking on a slope is not recommended. If, however, you must park on a slope and your vehicle is
equipped with an automatic transmission, there are some precautions you should take:
Turn the wheels of the tow vehicle towards the side of the road away from the center of the road,
and apply the parking brake and only then move the gear lever into PARK.
Next, block/chock the wheels once the tow vehicle and trailer are in position and are being held
by the vehicle’s brake.
CAUTION-If you move the lever into PARK before blocking the wheels and applying the parking
brake, it may be difficult to later shift out of PARK. Transmission damage may also occur.
PASS CAREFULLY
As mentioned in the introduction to this section, because of the added weight of the trailer,
acceleration capability is reduced and you will require a longer distance to pass another vehicle. Be
certain you have sufficient time and space to pass safely.
WARNING- Never attempt to pass on hills or when going around curves. Doing so could cause a
loss of vehicle control and result in accident, property damage or personal injury. Because the
trailer does not follow the exact path as the tow vehicle on turns, safely passing and cornering
while towing takes considerably more distance and turning space than normal. Be certain you
have sufficient time and space to pass safely, remember, the length of the trailer must also pass
the other vehicle before you can safely change lanes.
HILLS – UPGRADES
If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission, it is designed to select automatically
the correct gear for the best towing comfort and performance as the incline increases. To maintain
speed or avoid up and down shifts, manually shift to a lower gear as needed.
The added weight of a trailer places an increased load on the engine and cooling system, so
monitor your coolant temperature gauge and automatic transmission fluid temperature gauge (if
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economy and transmission/engine driving characteristics. See your vehicle owner’s manual for
additional information about Tow Mode.
IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
A moderate increase in engine operating temperature is normal when towing a trailer. If, however,
the coolant temperature gauge reading is abnormally high, or if you are experiencing a significant
loss of power, or if you hear unusual engine noises,* the engine may be overheating and you
should immediately take the following steps:
1. Pull your vehicle safely over to the side of the road, out of traffic. Apply the parking brake
and move the gearshift lever to NEUTRAL (manual) or PARK (automatic). DO NOT STOP THE
ENGINE.
2. Turn off the air conditioning and, after opening all the windows, turn the heater on to
maximum hot and the fan to its highest speed, and exit the vehicle. The heater core in your
vehicle is just like a miniature engine radiator and will provide an extra cooling surface to
help reduce engine temperature.
*
See your vehicle owner’s manual for additional indications that your vehicle may be overheating.
3.
If the temperature does not drop or continues to increase, stop the engine immediately.
4. Being cautious of traffic, step out of the vehicle and, from a safe distance, look for steam
underneath the engine. If you see steam or leaking coolant, stand clear to avoid being
burned and shut off your engine immediately and allow it to cool. If there is no steam, open
the hood.
WARNING -Never remove the radiator cap when the radiator is hot. If the cap is removed under
these conditions, pressurized hot water/coolant may spurt out, possibly causing serious injury.
5. As soon as the engine has cooled to its normal operating temperature, visually inspect the
drive belts for damage or looseness. A loose belt reduces water pump efficiency.
WARNING- Be careful to keep your hands, hair, jewelry, and clothing clear of the running drive
belt and other moving parts when inspecting the engine and radiator. Also check to see if the
cooling fan is running, and inspect the water pump, radiator, and radiator hoses for leaks. Keep in
mind, too, that if your vehicle is equipped with an electric fan motor, it may start without warning
any time the coolant temperature is high. If you find leaking coolant, a loose or missing drive belt,
or an inoperable fan, turn off the engine immediately.
