Driving tips / Trailer towing 8-25
. Never exceed 45 mph ( 72 km / h ) when towing a trailer in hilly country on hot days .
. When towing a trailer , steering , stability , stopping distance and braking performance will be different when compared to normal operation . For safety ’ s sake , you should employ extra caution when towing a trailer and you should never drive at excessive speeds . You should also keep the following tips in mind :
. The braking power of the parking brake may not be sufficient when stronger braking power is needed ( e . g ., when parking on a steep slope while towing a trailer ).
If your vehicle is equipped with SI-DRIVE , and when towing a trailer on an uphill slope , do not drive in the Intelligent ( I ) mode . It is recommend that you drive in the Sport ( S ) mode . However , it is possible to tow a trailer in any mode of the SI-DRIVE on a downhill slope .
! Before starting out on a trip
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. Check the towing regulations for trailer or caravan vehicles that vary by state / region . Failure to comply with the procedures set forth will not only compromise your safety , but will also negate your insurance coverage and / or may violate the state road and traffic acts and regulations .
. Check that the vehicle and vehicle-tohitch mounting are in good condition . If any problems are apparent , do not tow the trailer .
. Check that the vehicle rests horizontally with the trailer attached . If the vehicle is tipped sharply up at the front and down at the rear , check the total trailer weight , GVW , GAWs and tongue load again , then confirm that the load and its distribution are acceptable .
. Check that the tire rating and pressures are correct .
. Check that the vehicle and trailer are connected properly . Confirm that : – The trailer tongue is connected properly to the hitch ball . – The trailer lights connector is connected properly and trailer ’ s brake lights illuminate when the vehicle ’ s brake pedal is pressed , and that the trailer ’ s turn signal lights flash when the vehicle ’ s turn signal lever is operated . – The safety chains are connected properly . – All cargo in the trailer is secured safely in position . – The outside mirrors provide a good rearward field of view without a significant blind spot . . Sufficient time should be taken to learn the “ feel ” of the vehicle / trailer combination before starting out on a trip . In an area free of traffic , practice turning , stopping and backing up .
! Driving with a trailer
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. You should allow for considerably more stopping distance when towing a trailer . Avoid sudden braking because it may result in skidding or jackknifing and loss of control .
. Avoid abrupt starts and sudden accelerations . If your vehicle has a manual transmission , always start out in first gear and release the clutch at moderate engine revolution .
. Avoid uneven steering , sharp turns and rapid lane changes .
. Slow down before turning . Make a larger than normal turning radius because the trailer wheels will be closer than the vehicle wheels to the inside of the turn . In a tight turn , the trailer could hit your vehicle .
. Crosswinds will adversely affect the handling of your vehicle and trailer , causing sway . Crosswinds can be due to weather conditions or the passing of large
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