Coupling up a trailer
Observe the maximum permissible trailer dimensions (width and length).
Most U.S. states and all Canadian provinces require by law:
- safety chains between the towing vehicle and the trailer. The chains should be crosswound under the trailer drawbar. They must be fastened to the vehicle's trailer coupling, not to the bumper or the axle. Allow for enough play in the chains to facilitate turning tight corners.
- a separate brake system for certain types of trailer.
- a safety switch for braked trailers. Check the specific legal requirements
applicable to your state.
If the trailer detaches from the towing vehicle, the safety switch applies the trailer's brakes.
Do not connect the trailer's brake system (if featured) to the hydraulic brake system of the towing vehicle, as the latter is equipped with an anti-lock brake system. Doing so will result in a loss of function of the brake systems of both the vehicle and the trailer.
The vehicle's wiring harness features a connection to the brake indicator lamp.
- Make sure that the automatic transmission is set to position P.
- Apply the vehicle's parking brake.
- Close all doors and the tailgate.
- Couple up the trailer.
- Establish all electrical connections.
See also:
Safety guidelines for seat belts, Emergency Tensioning Devices (ETDs) and
air bags
WARNING
• Damaged seat belts or seat belts that have
been subjected to stress in an accident
must be replaced. Their anchoring points
must also be checked. Only use seat belts
installed or ...
Rear seat head restraints
WARNING
For safety reasons, always drive with the rear head restraints in the upright
position when the rear seats are occupied.
Keep the area around head restraints clear of articles (e.g. c ...
Important safety notes
WARNING
For safety reasons, switch off the windshield
wipers and remove the key from the ignition
lock before changing the wiper blades
(vehicles with KEYLESS-GO: make sure that
the on-bo ...