Maintenance When Trailer Towing

Your vehicle will need service more often when you’re pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more on this. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transmission fluid (don’t overfill), engine oil, axle lubricant, belt(s), cooling system and brake system. Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you find them quickly. If you’re trailering, it’s a good idea to review these sections before you start your trip.

Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts are tight.

    See also:

    Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps, and Back-Up Lamps
    A. Back-Up Lamp B. Turn Signal Lamp To replace one of these lamps: 1. Open the trunk. See Trunk. 2. Remove the fasteners and pull back the trunk trim. 3. Remove the four plastic wing nuts h ...

    Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer
    The arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other drivers you’re about to turn, cha ...

    When to Check Power Steering Fluid
    It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. H ...