Trailer Towing Maintenance

Your vehicle will require maintenance more often when you tow a trailer regularly. Important items requiring special attention include engine oil, automatic transmission fluid, axle lubricant, and engine coolant. Brake condition is another important item to check frequently. Each item is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you find them quickly. If you tow a trailer, it is a good idea to review these chapters before starting your trip.

Also be sure to maintain your trailer and hitch. Follow the maintenance schedule provided with your trailer and inspect it periodically. It is advisable to perform a check at the start of each driving day. Most importantly, all hitch nuts and bolts must be tightened.

CAUTION

• Due to the higher load during trailer operation, overheating may occur on hot days or when driving uphill. If the coolant temperature gauge indicates overheating, turn off the air conditioner and stop the vehicle in a safe place to cool the engine.
• When towing, check the transmission fluid more often.
• If your vehicle is not equipped with air conditioning, you should install a condenser fan to improve engine performance when towing a trailer.