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2022 Land Rover DEFENDER TOWING
TOWING SAFETY
Make sure the following warnings and cautions have been read and fully understood before towing a trailer. Failure to follow the guidance could result in vehicle damage, serious injury, or death.
WARNING
- Do not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), maximum rear axle weight, or nose weight. Exceeding any of these limits adversely affects the vehicle’s stability and braking. Increased braking distances and loss of vehicle control may be experienced. See WEIGHTS.
- Only fit approved towing accessories. Vehicle stability may be compromised if non-approved detachable towing accessories are fitted.
- Only fit approved removable towing accessories. Non-approved removable towing accessories may obscure the rear lights and license plate.
- Never use the vehicle’s towing eyes or lashing points to tow a trailer.
CAUTION
Do not use weight distribution hitches as vehicle damage may occur.
Do not use weight distribution hitches as vehicle damage may occur.
TOWING WEIGHTS
WARNING
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY.
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY.
| Maximum permissible towing weights | Variant | lb (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum tow mass of an unbraked trailer. | All vehicles. | 1 653 750 |
| Maximum tow mass. | 2.0L gasoline. | 7 716 (3 500) |
| 3.0L gasoline. | 8 201 (3 720) | |
| Tongue weight (Certified). | All vehicles. | 330 (150) |
| Maximum tongue weight (Design).¹ | All vehicles. | 771 (350) |
| Tow ball mounted accessories. | All vehicles. | 147 (66.8) |
NOTES
- For every pound above 331 lbs (150 kg) added to the trailer tongue weight, the same weight must be removed from the vehicle’s payload. Make sure that the GVW, the GTW, and the maximum rear axle weight limits are not exceeded when applying the trailer tongue weight. If required, reduce the weight of the vehicle’s payload. Make sure to never exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), the Gross Train Weight (GTW), or the front and rear axle weights. See WEIGHTS.
- Include the trailer’s tongue weight when calculating the GVW and the rear axle weight.
- When calculating the vehicle’s rear axle weight, the vehicle’s payload weights must also be considered. Include the combined weights of all the rear passengers, the loadspace, roof rail, accessory equipment, and the trailer tongue weight. The combined weights must never exceed the GVW or the maximum weights for the front and rear axles.
- Make sure to observe and comply with the legal requirements for the area in which the vehicle is traveling.For further information, contact a retailer/authorized repairer and quote the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). See LABEL LOCATIONS.
TOW HITCH
WARNING
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY. The fitting of a tow hitch is required for towing with the tow hitch receiver. The following tow hitch dimensions must be adhered to:
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY. The fitting of a tow hitch is required for towing with the tow hitch receiver. The following tow hitch dimensions must be adhered to:
- The maximum recommended length is 6.9 in (175 mm).
- The maximum recommended ball height is:
Coil suspension: -0.6 in (-15 mm).
Air suspension: 1.3 in (35 mm).
WARNING
Never leave the tow hitch loose in the vehicle. In the event of an accident, or during heavy braking, the tow hitch can become a projectile potentially causing serious injury or death. If in any doubt about the fitment of a tow hitch, consult a retailer/authorized repairer.
Never leave the tow hitch loose in the vehicle. In the event of an accident, or during heavy braking, the tow hitch can become a projectile potentially causing serious injury or death. If in any doubt about the fitment of a tow hitch, consult a retailer/authorized repairer.
TOWING A TRAILER
WARNING
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY. Before towing a trailer, make sure both the vehicle and the trailer are being used in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, and any applicable legislation. See TOWING WEIGHTS and WEIGHTS. Engage low range in order to achieve a smoother pull away from standstill when towing a trailer weighing more than 4 409 lb (2 000 kg). Change to the high range once the vehicle is moving. See SELECTING HIGH AND LOW RANGE.
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY. Before towing a trailer, make sure both the vehicle and the trailer are being used in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, and any applicable legislation. See TOWING WEIGHTS and WEIGHTS. Engage low range in order to achieve a smoother pull away from standstill when towing a trailer weighing more than 4 409 lb (2 000 kg). Change to the high range once the vehicle is moving. See SELECTING HIGH AND LOW RANGE.
CAUTION
To avoid overheating the transmission, it is not advisable to tow heavy loads at speeds of less than 20 mph (32 km/h) in the high range. In these circumstances, select the low range.
To avoid overheating the transmission, it is not advisable to tow heavy loads at speeds of less than 20 mph (32 km/h) in the high range. In these circumstances, select the low range.
NOTES
A reduction in the performance of the Air Conditioning (A/C) system is normal under high load towing conditions. The touchscreen can display a rear-view image to assist when reversing the vehicle with a trailer attached. See TOW ASSIST and ADVANCED TOW ASSIST.
A reduction in the performance of the Air Conditioning (A/C) system is normal under high load towing conditions. The touchscreen can display a rear-view image to assist when reversing the vehicle with a trailer attached. See TOW ASSIST and ADVANCED TOW ASSIST.
HITCH ASSIST
WARNING
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY.
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY.
Hitch assist displays a rear camera image on the touchscreen, to aid in the process of connecting a trailer. Hitch assist overlays an approximation of the tow ball’s position and the intended steering direction.
WARNING
The driver is responsible for calculating correct distances and maneuvering the vehicle to a trailer’s tow hitch. Failure to maneuver the vehicle accurately may result in damage to the vehicle and trailer.
The driver is responsible for calculating correct distances and maneuvering the vehicle to a trailer’s tow hitch. Failure to maneuver the vehicle accurately may result in damage to the vehicle and trailer.
NOTES
The accuracy of the hitch assist is affected by the height of the trailer’s tow hitch compared to the vehicle’s tow ball. The maximum height difference should be no more than 1.2 in (3 cm).
The accuracy of the hitch assist is affected by the height of the trailer’s tow hitch compared to the vehicle’s tow ball. The maximum height difference should be no more than 1.2 in (3 cm).
To activate hitch assist:
- Select Reverse (R). The touchscreen automatically displays a rear-view camera image.
- Select TOWING.
- Reverse the vehicle towards the trailer.
- Maneuver the vehicle until it is in the required position.
TRAILER ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
WARNING
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY. The information in the following table should be used to confirm if a trailer or lighting board is compatible with the vehicle. The vehicle is unable to detect a trailer or lighting board that does not meet the specifications given.
| Function | Minimum load | Maximum load |
|---|---|---|
| Milliamps | Amps | |
| Brake lights. | 100 | 10 |
| Turn signals. | 50 | 5 |
| All side marker lights combined. | n/a | 10 |
| Reverse lights. | n/a | 5 |
| Fog light. | n/a | 5 |
| Permanent battery feed. | n/a | 15 |
| Ignition feed. | n/a | 15 |
NOTES
Only use equipment that requires a 12-volt supply from the vehicle.
Only use equipment that requires a 12-volt supply from the vehicle.
NOTES
Only attach appropriate electrical connectors, which are in good condition, to the trailer socket. Using inappropriate or sub-standard towing equipment may adversely affect the accuracy and performance of the vehicle’s towing features. The trailer turn signal lamp flashes alongside the relevant turn signal lamp in the instrument panel when:
Only attach appropriate electrical connectors, which are in good condition, to the trailer socket. Using inappropriate or sub-standard towing equipment may adversely affect the accuracy and performance of the vehicle’s towing features. The trailer turn signal lamp flashes alongside the relevant turn signal lamp in the instrument panel when:
- An electrical connection is present between the vehicle and the trailer.
- The vehicle’s turn signals are used.
If the trailer turn signal lamp does not flash, check the trailer’s electrical connection. Take appropriate action to make sure the trailer’s turn signals are functioning correctly. An electric trailer brake module connector is located near the driver’s position. The information in the following table should be used to confirm if an electric trailer brake module is compatible with the vehicle. If in doubt, contact a retailer/authorized repairer.
| Function | Maximum load |
|---|---|
| Permanent battery feed. | 30 A |
| Brake signal. | 100 mA |
| Electric brake connection to tow bar electrical socket. | 30 A |
TRAILER STABILITY ASSIST (TSA)
WARNING
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY. Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) automatically detects when sway is developing on a correctly attached trailer. When active, TSA gradually reduces the vehicle’s speed to help regain control of the trailer.
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY. Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) automatically detects when sway is developing on a correctly attached trailer. When active, TSA gradually reduces the vehicle’s speed to help regain control of the trailer.
TRAILER STABILITY ASSIST (TSA) LIMITATIONS
Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) does not operate if:
- The trailer is jack-knifing.
- Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is switched off.
TSA performance may be reduced when traveling on slippery surfaces.
TOW ASSIST
WARNING
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY.
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY.
NOTES
Tow assist only operates if the connected trailer has had a profile created and has been calibrated. See TRAILER CALIBRATION. Tow assist displays camera views of the rear or side of the vehicle, to assist the driver when reversing a trailer. Trajectory lines are overlaid onto the images, depicting the predicted path of the trailer. Different camera views can be selected via the touchscreen. See TOUCHSCREEN HOME MENU. Tow assist can be configured to use either the surround camera system or the rear camera system.
Tow assist only operates if the connected trailer has had a profile created and has been calibrated. See TRAILER CALIBRATION. Tow assist displays camera views of the rear or side of the vehicle, to assist the driver when reversing a trailer. Trajectory lines are overlaid onto the images, depicting the predicted path of the trailer. Different camera views can be selected via the touchscreen. See TOUCHSCREEN HOME MENU. Tow assist can be configured to use either the surround camera system or the rear camera system.
The tow assist icon displays on the touchscreen passenger side bar when a trailer is connected. See TOUCHSCREEN HOME MENU.
To activate tow assist:
- Touch the tow assist icon.
- Select the appropriate profile for the connected trailer.
- Select Reverse (R).
CAUTION
The trajectory lines change color based on the angle of the trailer in relation to the vehicle. Red trajectory lines indicate that damage may occur to the vehicle or trailer if the steering is turned further in the same direction.
TOW ASSIST LIMITATIONS
The following may have an affect on tow assist performance:
- Varying ambient light conditions: If varying light conditions are experienced, the trajectory lines are removed from the touchscreen image.
- If a door or taildoor is opened: In this event, the corresponding camera view is replaced with a black screen.
- If the camera wash feature is used: In this event, the rear camera view becomes unclear.
ADVANCED TOW ASSIST
WARNING
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY.
NOTES
Advanced tow assist only operates if the connected trailer has had a profile created, and has been calibrated. See TRAILER CALIBRATION. Advanced tow assist displays camera views of the rear and side of the vehicle, to assist the driver when reversing a trailer. Trajectory lines are overlaid onto the images, depicting the predicted path of the trailer. Different camera views can be selected via the touchscreen. See CAMERA SYSTEM OVERVIEW. Advanced tow assist also operates the steering wheel when the vehicle is reversing, and all conditions are met.
Advanced tow assist only operates if the connected trailer has had a profile created, and has been calibrated. See TRAILER CALIBRATION. Advanced tow assist displays camera views of the rear and side of the vehicle, to assist the driver when reversing a trailer. Trajectory lines are overlaid onto the images, depicting the predicted path of the trailer. Different camera views can be selected via the touchscreen. See CAMERA SYSTEM OVERVIEW. Advanced tow assist also operates the steering wheel when the vehicle is reversing, and all conditions are met.
NOTES
The vehicle’s speed and brakes must be controlled by the driver.
The vehicle’s speed and brakes must be controlled by the driver.
WARNING
The driver is responsible for detecting obstacles, and for estimating both the trailer and vehicle’s distance from the obstacles, when maneuvering. Failure to do so can result in vehicle or trailer damage, serious injury, or death.
The driver is responsible for detecting obstacles, and for estimating both the trailer and vehicle’s distance from the obstacles, when maneuvering. Failure to do so can result in vehicle or trailer damage, serious injury, or death.
The tow assist icon displays on the touchscreen passenger side bar when a trailer is connected.
To enable advanced tow assist:
- Touch the tow assist icon.
- Select the appropriate profile for the connected trailer.
The advanced tow assist icon displays on the touchscreen passenger side bar once a trailer profile is selected.
Select Reverse (R).
To activate advanced tow assist:
- Touch the advanced tow assist icon on the touchscreen.
- Select START.
An advanced tow assist icon on the front control panel now illuminates. The driver’s side rotary climate control can now be used to control the path of the trailer when reversing.
NOTES
Press and hold the driver’s side rotary climate control for approximately a second to align the trailer straight in relation to the vehicle. When the required path has been set using the rotary climate control, use the accelerator and brake pedals to maneuver the trailer.
Press and hold the driver’s side rotary climate control for approximately a second to align the trailer straight in relation to the vehicle. When the required path has been set using the rotary climate control, use the accelerator and brake pedals to maneuver the trailer.
NOTES
The driver can take control of the steering wheel if required. In this event, advanced tow assist is canceled.
The driver can take control of the steering wheel if required. In this event, advanced tow assist is canceled.
The trajectory lines change color as follows:
- Green lines indicate that the trailer is reversing in a straight line.
- Magenta lines indicate that the trailer is reversing at an angle.
- Red lines indicate that the trailer’s reversing angle is too tight. Red lines are accompanied by a warning message on the touchscreen.
NOTES
The vehicle’s ignition must be switched off before disconnecting a trailer.
The vehicle’s ignition must be switched off before disconnecting a trailer.
ADVANCED TOW ASSIST LIMITATIONS
Advanced tow assist does not operate if:
- Any gear other than Reverse (R) is selected.
- The steering wheel is used to maneuver the vehicle.
- The tail door is open or unlatched.
- Any of the doors are opened or unlatched.
- All Terrain Progress Control (ATPC) is enabled.
- The vehicle’s speed exceeds 5 mph (8 km/h).
Advanced tow assist performance is adversely affected if non-approved towing equipment is used.
The touchscreen displays messages to inform the user of any conditions that have not been met in order for the system to operate. The touchscreen also displays messages regarding system faults or performance issues.
ESSENTIAL TOWING CHECKS
WARNING
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY.
Make sure the relevant safety warnings and cautions have been read and understood before towing a trailer. See TOWING SAFETY.
The following checks must be carried out before towing:
- Do not exceed the maximum permissible towing weights. See TOWING WEIGHTS.
- Load the trailer to achieve an even weight distribution between the axles when towing a trailer with more than one axle,
- Remember to include the weight of the trailer, plus the weight of the load, when calculating the laden weight of the trailer.
- If possible, spread the load of any cargo between the vehicle’s loadspace and the trailer. Loading more weight into the vehicle generally improves stability. Make sure not to exceed the vehicle’s weight limits.
- Check that the tire pressures are correct for the current loading condition of the vehicle.
- Make sure that a suitable safety chain is used and correctly connected. Refer to the trailer manufacturer’s guidelines. See TOW HITCH RECEIVER.
- Make sure that the tow ball is secure.
- Check the operation of all the trailer lights.