Trailer Towing

If the vehicle has a diesel engine, see the Duramax diesel supplement for more information.

If the vehicle is a hybrid, see the hybrid supplement for more information.

Do not tow a trailer during break-in.

See New Vehicle Break-In on page 9‑26 for more information.

WARNING
The driver can lose control when pulling a trailer if the correct equipment is not used or the vehicle is not driven properly. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well or even at all. The driver and passengers could be seriously injured. The vehicle may also be damaged; the resulting repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Pull a trailer only if all the steps in this section have been followed. Ask your dealer for advice and information about towing a trailer with the vehicle.

Notice: Pulling a trailer improperly can damage the vehicle and result in costly repairs not covered by the vehicle warranty. To pull a trailer correctly, follow the advice in this section and see your dealer for important information about towing a trailer with the vehicle.

To identify the trailering capacity of the vehicle, read the information in “Weight of the Trailer” later in this section.

Trailering is different than just driving the vehicle by itself.

Trailering means changes in handling, acceleration, braking, durability, and fuel economy.

Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be used properly.

The following information has many time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules. Many of these are important for your safety and that of your passengers. So please read this section carefully before pulling a trailer.

See also:

Collision Alert
When your vehicle approaches another vehicle too rapidly, the red FCA display will flash and sound several beeps. When this occurs, the brake system prepares for driver braking to occur more rap ...

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
This section is only for people of adult size. There are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and infants. If a child will be rid ...

Engine Oil Messages
CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON This message displays when the engine oil needs to be changed. When you change the engine oil, be sure to reset the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message. See Engine Oil Life System ...