In this section, you will find safety tips and information on limits to the type of towing you can reasonably do with your vehicle. Before towing a trailer, carefully review this information to tow your load as efficiently and safely as possible.
To maintain the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage, follow the requirements and recommendations in this manual concerning vehicles used for trailer towing.
COMMON TOWING DEFINITIONS
The following trailer towing related definitions will assist you in understanding the following information:
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The GVWR is the total allowable weight of your vehicle. This includes driver, passengers, cargo and tongue weight. The total load must be limited so that you do not exceed the GVWR page 191.
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)
The GCWR is the total permissible weight of your vehicle and trailer when weighed in combination.
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The GAWR is the maximum capacity of the front and rear axles. Distribute the load over the front and rear axles evenly. Make sure that you do not exceed either front or rear GAWR
WARNING
It is important that you do not exceed the maximum front or rear GAWR. A dangerous driving condition can result if either rating is exceeded.
Tongue Weight (TW)
The TW is the downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer. You must consider this as part of the load on your vehicle.
Frontal Area
The frontal area is the maximum height multiplied by the maximum width of the front of a trailer.
Trailer Sway Control (TSC) – If Equipped
The TSC is a telescoping link that can be installed between the hitch receiver and the trailer tongue. It typically provides adjustable friction associated with the telescoping motion to dampen any unwanted trailer swaying motions while traveling.
Weight-Carrying Hitch
A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer tongue weight, just as if it were luggage located at a hitch ball or some other connecting point of the vehicle. These kinds of hitches are commonly used to tow small and medium-sized trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A Weight-Distributing Hitch works by applying leverage through spring (load) bars. They are typically used for heavier loads to distribute trailer tongue weight to the tow vehicle’s front axle and the trailer axle(s). When used in accordance with the manufacturer’s directions, it provides for a more level ride, offering more consistent steering and brake control thereby enhancing towing safety. The addition of a friction/hydraulic sway control also dampens sway caused by traffic and crosswinds and contributes positively to the tow vehicle and trailer stability. Trailer sway control and a Weight-Distributing (load equalizing) hitch are recommended for heavier Tongue Weights (TW) and may be required depending on vehicle and trailer configuration/loading to comply with Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) requirements.
WARNING
The following chart provides the industry standard for the maximum trailer weight a given trailer hitch class can tow and should be used to assist you in selecting the correct trailer hitch for your intended towing condition.
Trailer Hitch Classification Definitions | |
Class | Max. Trailer Hitch Industry Standards |
Class I – Light Duty | 2,000 lb (907 kg) |
Class II – Medium Duty | 3,500 lb (1,587 kg) |
Class III – Heavy Duty | 6,000 lb (2,721 kg) |
Class IV – Extra Heavy Duty | 10,000 lb (4,535 kg) |
Refer to the “Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)” chart for the Maximum Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) towable for your given drivetrain. | |
All trailer hitches should be professionally installed on your vehicle. |
Engine/Transmission | Model | GCWR | Frontal Area | Maximum GTW | Maximum Trailer TW (See Note) |
2.0L | Two–Door | 8,016 lb (3,636 kg) | 20 ft2 (1.86 m2) | 2,000 lb (907 kg) | 200 lb (91 kg) |
Four–Door | 8,117 lb (3,682 kg) | 30 ft2 (2.79 m2) | 3,500 lb (1,587 kg) | 350 lb (158 kg) | |
3.6L | Two–Door | 8,016 lb (3,636 kg) | 20 ft2 (1.86 m2) | 2,000 lb (907 kg) | 200 lb (91 kg) |
Four–Door | 8,117 lb (3,682 kg) | 30 ft2 (2.79 m2) | 3,500 lb (1,587 kg) | 350 lb (158 kg) | |
3.0L Diesel | Four–Door | 8,427 lb (3,822 kg) | 30 ft2 (2.79 m2) | 3,500 lb (1,587 kg) | 350 lb (158 kg) |
Refer to local laws for maximum trailer towing speeds. |
NOTE
The trailer tongue weight must be considered as part of the combined weight of occupants and cargo (i.e., the GVWR), and the GVWR should never exceed the weight referenced on the Tire and Loading Information placard.
TRAILER AND TONGUE WEIGHT
Never exceed the maximum tongue weight stamped on your bumper or trailer hitch.
NOTE:
Remember that everything put into or on the trailer adds to the load on your vehicle. Also, additional factory-installed options or dealer-installed options must be considered as part of the total load on your vehicle. Refer to the “Tire And Loading Information” placard for the maximum combined weight of occupants and cargo for your vehicle.
To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle drivetrain components, the following guidelines are recommended:
WARNING
Improper towing can lead to a collision. Follow these guidelines to make your trailer towing as safe as possible:
WARNING
CAUTION
WARNING
CAUTION
If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lb (453 kg) loaded, it should have its own brakes and they should be of adequate capacity. Failure to do this could lead to accelerated brake lining wear, higher brake pedal effort, and longer stopping distances.
NOTE
NOTE
Four-Pin Connector
Seven-Pin Connector
TOWING TIPS
Automatic Transmission — If Equipped
Select the DRIVE range when towing. The transmission controls include a driving strategy to avoid frequent shifting when towing. However, if frequent shifting does occur while in DRIVE, you can use the AutoStick shift control to manually select a lower gear.
NOTE
Using a lower gear while operating the vehicle under heavy loading conditions, will improve performance and extend transmission life by reducing excessive shifting and heat build-up. This action will also provide better engine braking.
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