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:

    Engine Exhaust
    CAUTION: Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you cannot see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: • Your ...

    StabiliTrak® System
    The StabliTrak system assists with directional control of the vehicle in difficult driving conditions. The system turns on automatically every time the vehicle is started. • To turn off bot ...

    License Plate Lamp
    To replace one of these bulbs: 1. Remove the license plate. 2. Reach up through the opening above the license plate to access the two license plate lamps. 3. Turn the socket counterclockwise to r ...