Driving Characteristics and Towing Tips

The driver can lose control when pulling a trailer if the correct equipment isWARNING

The driver can lose control when pulling a trailer if the correct equipment is not used or the vehicle is not driven properly. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well—or even at all. The driver and passengers could be seriously injured. The vehicle may also be damaged; the resulting repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Pull a trailer only if all the steps in this section have been followed. Ask your dealer for advice and information about towing a trailer with the vehicle.

The vehicle can tow a trailer if it is equipped with the proper trailer towing equipment. To identify the trailering capacity of the vehicle, see Trailer Towing . Trailering changes handling, acceleration, braking, durability, and fuel economy. With the added weight, the engine, transmission, wheel assemblies, and tires are forced to work harder and under greater loads. The trailer also adds wind resistance, increasing the pulling requirements. For safe trailering, correctly use the proper trailering equipment.

The following information has important trailering tips and rules for your safety and that of your passengers. Read this section carefully before pulling a trailer.

See also:

Weight of the Trailer
How heavy can a trailer safely be? It should never weigh more than 454 kg (1,000 lbs). But even that can be too heavy. It depends on how the rig is used. For example, speed, altitude, road grades, ...

Driving with a Trailer
CAUTION: If you have a rear-most window open and you pull a trailer with your vehicle, carbon monoxide (CO) could come into your vehicle. You cannot see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousn ...

Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position
WARNING: A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the frontal airbags if they inflate. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. It ...