Driving with a Trailer

Towing a trailer requires some experience. Before driving on open roads, get to know your trailer. Become familiar with the handling and braking characteristics with the additional weight of the trailer. Always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now much longer and is not nearly as responsive as the vehicle alone.

Before starting, check the hitch and trailer platform, safety chains, electrical connector(s), lights, tires, and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer, then manually activate the trailer brake controller to make sure the brakes operate. This also allows you to check the electrical connection at the same time.

During the trip, check periodically that the cargo is securely fastened and that the trailer lights and brakes are still working.

Following Distance

Stay behind the vehicle ahead at a distance at least twice as great as when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can help you avoid situations requiring sudden braking and sharp turns.

Passing

When towing a trailer, you will need a greater distance to pass. Also, because of the increased length of the vehicle, you will need to get well past the other vehicle before you can return to your lane.

Backing Up

Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, simply move your hand to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Always reverse slowly and, if possible, have someone guide you.

Making Turns

When turning with a trailer, make wider turns than usual. Do this so that your trailer does not strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees, or other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance.

Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer

When towing a trailer, your vehicle must be equipped with a different turn signal flasher and additional wiring. The green arrows on the instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. When connected correctly, the trailer lights will also flash to warn other drivers that you are about to turn, change lanes, or stop.

When towing a trailer, the green arrows on the instrument panel will flash during turns even if the trailer lamp bulbs have burned out. As a result, you may think that drivers behind you can see your signals when in fact they cannot. It is important to check periodically to make sure the trailer lamps are still working. You should also check the lights every time you disconnect and then reconnect the wiring.

Do not connect the trailer lighting system directly to your vehicle's lighting system. Use only an approved trailer wiring harness.

An authorized Kia dealer can help you install the wiring harness.

WARNING

Failure to use an approved trailer wiring harness may result in damage to the vehicle's electrical system and/or injury.