Driving with a Trailer

Towing a trailer requires experience.

Get familiar with handling and braking with the added trailer weight. The vehicle is now longer and not as responsive as the vehicle is by itself.

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.

During the trip, check regularly to be sure that the load is secure, and the lamps and trailer brakes are working properly.

    See also:

    Side Blind Zone Alert (SBZA)
    The vehicle may have a Side Blind Zone Alert (SBZA) system. Read this entire section before using the system. WARNING! SBZA does not detect vehicles rapidly approaching outside of the side ...

    Ashtrays
    For vehicles with a removable ashtray, the ashtray can be placed into the front console cupholders. To open the ashtray, lift the lid of the ashtray. After using, close the lid. To empty the ashtr ...

    Owner Checks and Services
    At Each Fuel Stop • Check the engine oil level. See Engine Oil. Once a Month • Check the tire inflation pressures. See Tire Pressure. • Inspect the tires for wear. See Tire Inspection. ...