2094-1. Before driving
4
Driving
HILUX_OM_OM0K513E_(EE)
Your vehicle will handle differently when towing a trailer. In order to 
avoid accident death or serious injury, keep the following in mind 
when towing:
 QChecking connections between trailer and lights 
Stop the vehicle and check the operation of the connection between 
the trailer and lights after driving for a brief period as well as before 
starting off.
 QPracticing driving with a coupled trailer 
 O Get the feel for turning, stopping and reversing with the trailer 
coupled by practicing in an area with no or light traffic. 
 O When reversing with a coupled trailer, hold the section of the 
steering wheel nearest to you and rotate clockwise to turn the 
trailer left or counterclockwise to turn it right. Always rotate a little 
at a time to prevent steering error. Have someone guide you 
when reversing to lessen the risk of accident.
 QIncreasing vehicle-to-vehicle distance 
At a speed of 10 km/h (6 mph), the distance to the vehicle running 
ahead of you should be equivalent to or greater than the combined 
length of your vehicle and trailer. Avoid sudden braking that may 
cause skidding. Otherwise, the vehicle may spin out of control. This 
is especially true when driving on wet or slippery road surfaces.
 QSudden acceleration/steering input/cornering 
Executing sharp turns when towing may result in the trailer colliding 
with your vehicle. Decelerate well in advance when approaching 
turns and take them slowly and carefully to avoid sudden braking.
 QImportant points regarding turning 
The wheels of the trailer will travel closer to the inside of the curve 
than the wheels of the vehicle. To make allowance for this, take the 
turns wider than you would normally do.
Guidance