Driving with a Trailer

Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience.

Get to know the rig before setting out for the open road. Get acquainted with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now longer and not as responsive as the vehicle is by itself.

Before starting, check all trailer hitch parts and attachments, safety chains, electrical connectors, lamps, tires and mirror adjustments. If the trailer has electric brakes, start the vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working. This checks the electrical connection at the same time.

During the trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working.

    See also:

    Outside Convex Mirror
    CAUTION: A convex mirror can make things (like other vehicles) look farther away than they really are. If you cut too sharply into the right or left lane, you could hit a vehicle. Check your ...

    Power Steering Fluid
    See Engine Compartment Overview for information on the location of the power steering fluid reservoir. ...

    Outside Heated Mirrors
    For vehicles with heated mirrors: (Rear Window Defogger): Press to heat the mirrors. See “Rear Window Defogger” under Climate Control System or Dual Automatic Climate Control System for ...