Driving Safely with a Trailer

Detail
Operating speed when towing a trailer must not exceed 62 mph (100 km/h).

Parking
In addition to the normal precautions, place wheel chocks at each of the trailer’s tires.

Remember to unhitch the trailer before changing a flat tire. Ask the trailer sales or rental agency where and how to store the trailer’s spare tire.

Things You Need To Know Before Towing a Trailer

  • Have the trailer properly serviced and keep it in good condition.
  • Make sure that all the weights and load in the vehicle and trailer are within limits.
  • Securely attach the hitch, safety chains, and other necessary parts to the trailer.
  • Securely store all the items in and on the trailer so that they do not shift while driving.
  • Check if the lights and brakes on the trailer are working properly.
  • Check the pressures of the trailer tires, including the spare.
  • Turn off the Auto Idle Stop system using the Auto Idle Stop OFF button. The trailer weight can affect your vehicle's brake effectiveness if Auto Idle Stop is activated on a hill while towing a trailer.
  • Select TOW mode for optimized transmission operation when towing a trailer.
Models with Parking Sensor System
Models with Low Speed Braking Control
  • Turn off the Low Speed Braking Control system. It may activate if it detects the towed object as an obstacle.

Towing Speeds and Gears

  • Drive slower than normal.
  • Obey posted speed limits for vehicles with trailers.
  • Use the D position when towing a trailer on level roads.
Detail
When towing a fixed-sided trailer (e.g., camper), do not exceed 55 mph (88 km/h).
At higher speeds, the trailer may sway or affect vehicle handling.

Turning and Braking

  • Turn more slowly and with a wider turning arc than normal.
  • Allow more time and distance for braking.
  • Do not brake or turn suddenly.

Driving in Hilly Terrain

  • If the Engine temperature near limit. Avoid heavy acceleration and high speed. message appears on the driver information interface, turn off the climate control system and reduce speed.
    If the Engine temperature too hot. Do not drive. Allow engine to cool. message appears on the driver information interface, pull to the side of the road safely to cool down the engine.
  • Change the gear position to S position if the transmission shifts frequently.
Detail
If the automatic transmission fluid temperature exceeds the specified limit, the transmission will also automatically up shift, even in the sequential shift mode.

Retrieving a Boat

When retrieving a boat from the water, the sequential shift mode S is recommended to utilize the transmissions lower gears.

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