Towing a trailer

WARNINGS

To tow a caravan or other type of trailer, the vehicle must be fitted with an approved towing hitch and a suitable electrical system.

The towing hitch must be fitted by a qualified specialist.

If necessary, fit special external rear-view mirrors and/or additional mirrors, in accordance with road traffic regulations.

Note that a towed trailer reduces the ability to climb gradients and increases braking distance and overtaking time, depending on the total gross mass of the vehicle with trailer.

When driving downhill, select a lower gear instead of continuously using the brake.

The trailer nose weight pressing on the vehicle's towing hitch reduces the vehicle's payload by the same amount. To make sure the maximum permissible mass (given in the vehicle registration document) is not exceeded, include the weight of the trailer when fully loaded, together with its equipment and personal luggage.

Observe the speed limits for vehicles towing a trailer in each country. However, the maximum speed must not exceed 100 km/h.

Any electric brake or other device (e.g. electric winch, etc.) must be powered directly from the battery by a cable with a cross-section of at least 2.5 mm².

Apart from electrical connections, only the power supply cable for the electric brake and the interior lighting cable of the trailer, with a power rating of no more than 15 W, may be connected to the vehicle's electrical system. For electrical connections, use a suitable fuse box with a cable from the battery with a cross-section of at least 2.5 mm².

Use a suitable stabiliser on the trailer hitch.

WARNING Using additional loads other than exterior lighting (electric brake, electric winch, etc.) is only possible with the engine running.

WARNING For fitting the towing hitch, contact an authorised Fiat service centre.

CAUTION

115) The ABS system fitted to the vehicle does not control the trailer's braking system. Therefore, take particular care on slippery road surfaces.

116) Never modify the vehicle's braking system to control the trailer brakes. The trailer braking system must be completely independent of the vehicle's hydraulic system.