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:
Notes for 4MATIC vehicles
Vehicles with 4MATIC must not be
towed
with either the front or the rear axle raised,
as doing so will damage the transmission.
If the vehicle has transmission damage or
damage to the front ...
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