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:

    What to Use
    To determine what kind of fluid to use, see Recommended Fluids and Lubricants. Always use the proper fluid. Notice: Use of the incorrect fluid may damage the vehicle and the damages may not be c ...

    Maintenance when Trailer Towing
    The vehicle needs service more often when pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transmission fluid, engine ...

    Cruise Control
    : Press to turn the cruise control system on and off. An indicator light will turn on or off in the instrument cluster. : Press to disengage cruise control without erasing the set speed from ...