Towing a Trailer

If you plan to tow a trailer, you should first consult the Vehicle Licensing Authority of your country to determine their legal requirements.

Because laws change towing requirements, trailers, vehicles and other types of vehicles or devices may differ. We recommend that you consult an authorized Kia dealer.

WARNING - Towing a trailer

If you use improper equipment and/or drive incorrectly, you may lose control when towing a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well - or may not work at all. You and your passengers could be seriously or fatally injured. Tow a trailer only after you have completed all steps described in this section.

WARNING! Weight Limitations

Before towing, make sure that the total trailer weight, GCW (Gross Combined Weight), GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight), GAW (Gross Axle Weight) and trailer tongue load are all within the specified limits.

WARNING

When towing a trailer, be sure to turn off the ISG function.

✽ NOTICE - For Europe

• The technically permissible maximum rear axle load may be exceeded by no more than 15 %, and the technically permissible maximum vehicle weight may be exceeded by no more than 10 % or 100 kg (220.4 lb), whichever is lower. In this case, do not exceed a speed of 100 km/h for M1 category vehicles or 80 km/h for N1 category vehicles.
• When towing a trailer, the additional load on the hitch may cause the rear tire load capacity to be exceeded by no more than 15%. In this case, do not exceed a speed of 100 km/h, and the rear tire pressure must be at least 20 kPa (0.2 bar) higher than the pressure recommended for normal use (i.e., without a trailer).

CAUTION

Improper trailer towing may cause damage to the vehicle and costly repairs not covered by your warranty. To tow a trailer correctly, follow the instructions in this section.

Your vehicle is capable of towing a trailer. To determine the towing capacity of your vehicle, you must read the information in the "Trailer Weight" section later in this chapter.

Remember that towing a trailer is different from simply driving the vehicle. A trailer affects handling, drivetrain durability and fuel economy. Successful and safe towing requires the proper equipment, and it must be used correctly.

This section contains many time-tested important tips and safety rules. Many of them are important for your safety and the safety of your passengers. Please read this section carefully before towing a trailer.

Load-bearing components such as the engine, transmission, axles, wheel bearings and tires are forced to work harder against the added weight. The engine must operate at relatively higher speeds and under greater loads. This additional load generates extra heat. A trailer also adds considerable wind resistance, increasing the pulling requirements.

✽ NOTICE - Trailer Hitch Mounting Location

• The hitch mounting holes are located on both sides of the underbody, behind the rear wheels.
• Before installing the trailer hitch, remove the lower cover of the rear bumper.