TOWING A TRAILER
WARNING: Towing trailersbeyond the maximum recommendedgross trailer weight exceeds the limitof your vehicle and could result inengine damage, transmission damage,structural damage, loss of vehiclecontrol, vehicle rollover and personalinjury.
WARNING: Do not exceed theGVWR or the GAWR specified on thecertification label.
Note: See Recommended TowingWeights (page 310).
Your vehicle may have electrical items,such as fuses or relays, related totowing. See Fuses (page 342).
Your vehicle's load capacity designationis by weight, not by volume, so youcannot necessarily use all availablespace when loading a vehicle or trailer.
Towing a trailer places an extra load onyour vehicle's engine, transmission, axle,brakes, tires and suspension. Inspectthese components periodically during,and after, any towing operation.
Load Placement
To help minimize how trailer movementaffects your vehicle when driving:
•Load the heaviest items closest tothe trailer floor.
•Load the heaviest items centeredbetween the left and right side trailertires.
•Load the heaviest items above thetrailer axles or just slightly forwardtoward the trailer tongue. Do notallow the final trailer tongue weightto go above or below 10-15% of theloaded trailer weight.
•Select a ball mount with the correctrise or drop and load capacity. Whenboth the loaded vehicle and trailerare connected, the trailer frameshould be level, or slightly angleddown toward your vehicle, whenviewed from the side.
When driving with a trailer or payload, aslight takeoff vibration or shudder maybe present due to the increased payloadweight. Additional information regardingproper trailer loading and setting yourvehicle up for towing is located inanother chapter of this manual. SeeLoad Limit (page 293).
You can also find information in the RV& Trailer Towing Guide available at yourauthorized dealer, or online.
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The gain setting sets the trailer brakecontroller for the specific towing condition.You should change the setting as towingconditions change. Changes to towingconditions include trailer load, vehicle load,road conditions and weather.
The gain should be set to provide themaximum trailer braking assistance whilemaking sure the trailer wheels do not lockwhen using the brakes. Locked trailer wheelsmay lead to trailer instability.
1.Make sure the trailer brakes are in goodworking condition, functioning normallyand properly adjusted. See your trailerdealer if necessary.
2. Hook up the trailer and make theelectrical connections according to thetrailer manufacturer's instructions.
3.When you plug in a trailer with electric orelectric-over-hydraulic brakes, a messageconfirming connection appears in theinformation display.
4.Use the gain adjustment (+ and -) buttonsto increase or decrease the gain settingto the desired starting point. A gainsetting of 6.0 is a good starting point forheavier loads.
5. In a traffic-free environment, tow thetrailer on a dry, level surface at a speedof 20–25 mph (32–40 km/h) andsqueeze the manual control levercompletely.
6.If the trailer wheels lock up, indicated bysquealing tires, reduce the gain setting.If the trailer wheels turn freely, increasethe gain setting. Repeat Steps 5 and 6until the gain setting is at a point justbelow trailer wheel lock-up. If towing aheavier trailer, trailer wheel lock-up maynot be attainable even with the maximumgain setting of 10.
Explanation of Information Display WarningMessages
Note:An authorized dealer can diagnosethe trailer brake controller to determineexactly which trailer fault has occurred.However, your warranty does not cover thisdiagnosis if the fault is with the trailer.
A message indicating a trailer brake modulefault may display in response to faults sensedby the trailer brake controller, accompaniedby a single tone. If this message appears,contact an authorized dealer as soon aspossible for diagnosis and repair. Thecontroller may still function, but performancemay be degraded.
A message indicating a trailer wiring faultmay display when there is a short circuit onthe electric brake output wire. If this messagedisplays, accompanied by a single tone, withno trailer connected, the problem is with yourvehicle wiring between the trailer brakecontroller and the 7-pin connector at thebumper. If the message only displays with atrailer connected, the problem is with thetrailer wiring. Consult your trailer dealer forassistance. This can be a short to ground(such as a chaffed wire), short to voltage(such as a pulled pin on trailer emergencybreakaway battery) or the trailer brakes maybe drawing too much current.
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Towing
Before Towing a Trailer
Practice turning, stopping and backing up toget the feel of your vehicle-trailercombination before starting on a trip. Whenturning, make wider turns so the trailerwheels clear curbs and other obstacles.
When Towing a Trailer
•Do not drive faster than 70 mph(113 km/h) during the first 500 mi(800 km).
•Do not make full-throttle starts.
•Check your hitch, electrical connectionsand trailer wheel lug nuts thoroughly afteryou have traveled 50 mi (80 km).
•When stopped in congested or heavytraffic during hot weather, place thetransmission in park (P) to aid engine andtransmission cooling and to help A/Cperformance.
•Turn off the speed control when carryingheavy loads or in hilly terrain. The speedcontrol may turn off automatically whenyou are towing on long, steep grades.
•Shift to a lower gear when driving downa long or steep hill. Do not apply thebrakes continuously, as they mayoverheat and become less effective.
•If your transmission has a Grade Assistor Tow/Haul feature, use this featurewhen towing. This provides enginebraking and helps eliminate excessivetransmission shifting for optimum fueleconomy and transmission cooling.
•If your vehicle has AdvanceTrac withRSC, this system may turn on duringtypical cornering maneuvers with aheavily loaded trailer. This is normal.Turning the corner at a slower speedwhile towing may reduce this tendency.
•If your vehicle has Adaptive suspension,you can select NORMAL or SPORT drivecontrol modes for better experiencewhen towing a trailer. See InformationDisplays (page 119).
•If you are towing a trailer frequently inhot weather, hilly conditions, at the grosscombined weight rating (or anycombination of these factors), considerrefilling your rear axle with synthetic gearlubricant (if the axle is not already filledwith it). See Capacities andSpecifications (page 422).
•Allow more distance for stopping with atrailer attached. Anticipate stops andbrake gradually.
•Avoid parking on a grade. However, ifyou must park on a grade:
1. Turn the steering wheel to point yourvehicle tires away from traffic flow.
2. Set your vehicle parking brake.
3. Place the transmission in park (P).
4.Place wheel chocks in the front and backof the trailer wheels.
Note:Chocks are not included with yourvehicle.
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Towing
Your vehicle may be equipped with atemporary or conventional spare tire. Atemporary spare tire is different in size(diameter or width), tread-type (All-Seasonor All-Terrain) or is from a differentmanufacturer than the road tires on yourvehicle. Consult information on the tire labelor Safety Compliance label for limitationswhen using.
Launching or Retrieving a Boat orPersonal Watercraft (PWC)
Note:Disconnect the wiring to the trailerbefore backing the trailer into the water.
Note:Reconnect the wiring to the trailerafter removing the trailer from the water.
When backing down a ramp during boatlaunching or retrieval:
•Do not allow the static water level to riseabove the bottom edge of the rearbumper.
•Do not allow waves to break higher than6 in (15 cm) above the bottom edge ofthe rear bumper.
Exceeding these limits may allow water toenter vehicle components:
•Causing internal damage to thecomponents.
•Affecting driveability, emissions, andreliability.
Replace the rear axle lubricant anytime therear axle has been submerged in water.Water may have contaminated the rear axlelubricant, which is not normally checked orchanged unless a leak is suspected or otheraxle repair is required.
TOWING THE VEHICLE ON FOUR
WHEELS
WARNING: If your vehicle has asteering wheel lock make sure the ignitionis in the accessory or on position whenbeing towed.
Recreational Towing
Note:Put your climate control system inrecirculated air mode to prevent exhaustfumes from entering your vehicle. SeeClimate Control (page 151).
Follow these guidelines if you have a needfor recreational towing, such as towing yourvehicle behind a motorhome. Theseguidelines are designed to prevent damageto your transmission.
Two-wheel Drive Vehicles
You cannot tow a two-wheel drive vehiclewith any wheels on the ground as vehicle ortransmission damage may occur. You musttow your vehicle with all four wheels off theground, for example when using acar-hauling trailer.
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Towing
BREAKING-IN
You need to break in new tires forapproximately 300 mi (480 km). During thistime, your vehicle may exhibit some unusualdriving characteristics.
Avoid driving too fast during the first 1,000 mi(1,600 km). Vary your speed frequently andchange up through the gears early. Do notlabor the engine.
Do not tow during the first 1,000 mi(1,600 km).
REDUCED ENGINE PERFORMANCE
WARNING: If you continue to driveyour vehicle when the engine isoverheating, the engine could stop withoutwarning. Failure to follow this instructioncould result in the loss of control of yourvehicle.
If the engine coolant temperature gaugeneedle moves to the upper limit position, theengine is overheating. See Gauges (page112).
You must only drive your vehicle for a shortdistance if the engine overheats. Thedistance you can travel depends on ambienttemperature, vehicle load and terrain. Theengine continues to operate with limitedpower for a short period of time.
If the engine temperature continues to rise,the fuel supply to the engine reduces. Theair conditioning switches off and the enginecooling fan operates continually.
1. Gradually reduce your speed and stopyour vehicle as soon as it is safe to doso.
2. Immediately switch the engine off toprevent severe engine damage.
3. Wait for the engine to cool down.
4. Check the coolant level. See EngineCoolant Check (page 366).
5. Have your vehicle checked as soon aspossible.
ECONOMICAL DRIVING
Fuel economy is affected by several thingssuch as how you drive, the conditions youdrive under and how you maintain yourvehicle.
There are some things to keep in mind thatmay improve your fuel economy:
•Accelerate and slow down in a smooth,moderate fashion.
•Drive at steady speeds.
•Anticipate stops; slowing down mayeliminate the need to stop.
•Combine errands and minimizestop-and-go driving (When runningerrands, go to the furthest destinationfirst and then work your way back home).
•Close the windows for high-speeddriving.
•Drive at reasonable speeds.
•Keep the tires properly inflated and useonly the recommended size.
•Use the recommended engine oil.
•Perform all regularly scheduledmaintenance.
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Driving Hints
Cooling system
•Protect against freezing temperatures.
•When removing your vehicle fromstorage, check coolant fluid level.Confirm that there are no cooling systemleaks and that fluid is at therecommended level.
Battery
•Check and recharge as necessary. Keepconnections clean.
•If storing your vehicle for more than 30days without recharging the battery, werecommend that you disconnect thebattery cables to maintain battery chargefor quick starting.
Note:It is necessary to reset memoryfeatures if battery cables are disconnected.
Brakes
•Make sure the brakes and parking brakerelease fully.
Tires
•Maintain recommended air pressure.
Miscellaneous
•Make sure all linkages, cables, levers andpins under your vehicle are covered withgrease to prevent rust.
•Move vehicles at least 25 ft (7.5 m) every15 days to lubricate working parts andprevent corrosion.
Removing Vehicle From Storage
When your vehicle is ready to come out ofstorage, do the following:
•Wash your vehicle to remove any dirt orgrease film build-up on window surfaces.
•Check windshield wipers for anydeterioration.
•Check under the hood for any foreignmaterial that may have collected duringstorage such as mice or squirrel nests.
•Check the exhaust for any foreignmaterial that may have collected duringstorage.
•Check tire pressures and set tire inflationper the Tire Label.
•Check brake pedal operation. Drive yourvehicle 15 ft (4.5 m) back and forth toremove rust build-up.
•Check fluid levels (including coolant, oiland gas) to make sure there are no leaks,and fluids are at recommended levels.
•If you remove the battery, clean thebattery cable ends and check fordamage.
Contact an authorized dealer if you have anyconcerns or issues.
BODY STYLING KITS
The distance between the underside of yourvehicle and the ground is less than that ofother models. Drive with extreme care toavoid damage to your vehicle.
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Vehicle Care
GENERAL INFORMATION
Use only approved wheel and tire sizes,using other sizes could damage your vehicle.If you change the diameter of the tires fromthat fitted at the factory, the speedometermay not display the correct speed. If youintend to change the size of the wheels fromthat fitted by the manufacturer, you cancheck the suitability with an authorizeddealer.
Additional information related to thefunctionality and maintenance of your tirescan be found later in this chapter. See TireCare (page 394).
You can find the recommended tire inflationpressures can on the Tire Label, which is onthe B-pillar or the edge of the driver door.You can also find this information on theSafety Compliance Certification Label, affixedto either the door hinge pillar, door-latchpost, or the door edge that meets the doorlatch post; next to the driver seating position.
We strongly recommend maintaining thesetire pressures at all times. Failure to followthe tire pressure recommendations cancause uneven treadwear patterns, reducedfuel economy, and adversely affect the wayyour vehicle handles.
Note:Check and set the tire pressure at theambient temperature in which you areintending to drive your vehicle and when thetires are cold.
Note:Check your tire pressures at least onceper month.
If your vehicle has a spare tire, set thepressure to the highest value given for yourvehicle and tire size combination.
Notice to utility vehicle and truckowners
WARNING: Utility vehicles have asignificantly higher rollover rate than othertypes of vehicles.
WARNING: Vehicles with a highercenter of gravity (utility and four-wheeldrive vehicles) handle differently thanvehicles with a lower center of gravity(passenger cars). Avoid sharp turns,excessive speed and abrupt steering inthese vehicles. Failure to drive cautiouslyincreases the risk of losing control of yourvehicle, vehicle rollover, personal injuryand death.
WARNING: In a rollover crash, anunbelted person is significantly more likelyto die than a person wearing a seatbelt.
WARNING: Do not becomeoverconfident in the ability of four-wheeldrive vehicles. Although a four-wheel drivevehicle may accelerate better than atwo-wheel drive vehicle in low tractionsituations, it won't stop any faster thantwo-wheel drive vehicles. Always drive ata safe speed.
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Wheels and Tires
Utility vehicles and trucks handle differentlythan passenger cars in the various drivingconditions that are encountered on streets,highways and off-road. Utility vehicles andtrucks are not designed for cornering atspeeds as high as passenger cars any morethan low-slung sports cars are designed toperform satisfactorily under off-roadconditions.
Study your owner's manual and anysupplements for specific information aboutequipment features, instructions for safedriving and additional precautions to reducethe risk of an accident or serious injury.
Four-wheel drive system (If Equipped)
WARNING: Do not becomeoverconfident in the ability of four-wheeldrive vehicles. Although a four-wheel drivevehicle may accelerate better than atwo-wheel drive vehicle in low tractionsituations, it won't stop any faster thantwo-wheel drive vehicles. Always drive ata safe speed.
A vehicle equipped with four-wheel drive,when selected, has the ability to use all fourwheels to power itself. This increases tractionwhich may enable you to safely drive overterrain and road conditions that aconventional two-wheel drive vehicle cannot.
Power is supplied to all four wheels througha transfer case or power transfer unit.Four-wheel drive vehicles allow you to selectdifferent modes as necessary. Forinformation on transfer case operation andshifting procedures, See Four-Wheel Drive(page 216). For information on transfer casemaintenance, See Maintenance (page 361).You should become thoroughly familiar withthis information before you operate yourvehicle.
On some four-wheel drive vehicles, the initialshift from two-wheel to four-wheel drivewhen the vehicle is moving can cause amomentary clunk and ratcheting sound.These sounds are normal and are not causefor concern.
In four-wheel drive vehicles, the size of thespare tire relative to the remaining tires canhave an effect on the 4x4 system. If there isa significant difference between the size ofa spare and the remaining tires, four-wheeldrive functionality may be limited. See UsingFour-Wheel Drive (page 216).
How your vehicle differs from othervehicles
Sport utility vehicles and trucks can differfrom some other vehicles in a few noticeableways. Your vehicle may be:
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Wheels and Tires