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:

    Weight of the Trailer Tongue
    The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total gross weight of the vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, ...

    PARKING ASSIST OFF
    After the vehicle has been started, this message displays to remind the driver that the URPA system has been turned off. This message also displays when there is a temporary condition causin ...

    Transmission Messages
    DIFFERENTIAL HOT, REDUCE SPEED (CTS-V ONLY) This message displays and a chime sounds if the differential fluid temperature exceeds 150°C (300°F). Driving aggressively or at high speeds can ...