Do not tow a trailer during break-in. See New Vehicle Break-In for more information.
Caution: 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/retailer 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/retailer 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" that appears 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.
Pulling A Trailer
Here are some important points:
| • | There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure the rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you will be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police. |
| • | Consider using a sway control. See "Hitches" later in this section. |
| • | Do not tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles (800 km) the new vehicle is driven. The engine, axle or other parts could be damaged. |
| • | Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that a trailer is towed, do not drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and do not make starts at full throttle. This helps the engine and other parts of the vehicle wear in at the heavier loads. |
| • | Vehicles can tow in D (Drive). Shift the transmission to a lower gear if the transmission shifts too often under heavy loads and/or hilly conditions. |
Three important considerations have to do with weight:
| • | The weight of the trailer |
| • | The weight of the trailer tongue |
| • | And the weight on the vehicle's tires |
Weight of the Trailer
How heavy can a trailer safely be?
It depends on how the rig is used. For example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside temperature and how much the vehicle is used to pull a trailer are all important. It can depend on any special equipment on the vehicle, and the amount of tongue weight the vehicle can carry. See "Weight of the Trailer Tongue" later in this section for more information.
Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming only the driver is in the tow vehicle and it has all the required trailering equipment. The weight of additional optional equipment, passengers and cargo in the tow vehicle must be subtracted from the maximum trailer weight.
Use the following chart to determine how much the vehicle can weigh, based upon the vehicle model and options.
Vehicle | Axle Ratio | Maximum Trailer Weight | GCWR * |
|---|---|---|---|
1500 Series 2WD | |||
| 3.08 | 5,100 lbs (2 313 kg) | 11,000 lbs (4 990 kg) |
| 3.42 | 5,600 lbs (2 540 kg) | 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) |
| 3.42 | 8,100 lbs (3 674 kg) | 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) |
| 3.08 | 5,000 lbs (2 268 kg) | 11,000 lbs (4 990 kg) |
| 3.42 | 5,500 lbs (2 495 kg) | 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) |
| 3.42 | 8,000 lbs (3 629 kg) | 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) |
| 3.42 | 8,100 lbs (3 674 kg) | 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) |
1500 Series 4WD | |||
| 3.42 | 5,500 lbs (2 495 kg) | 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) |
| 3.42 | 5,400 lbs (2 449 kg) | 11,500 lbs (5 216 kg) |
| 3.42 | 7,900 lbs (3 583 kg) | 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) |
| 3.42 | 7,800 lbs (3 538 kg) | 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) |
| 3.42 | 7,700 lbs (3 493g) | 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg) |
*The Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) is the total allowable weight of the completely loaded vehicle and trailer including any passengers, cargo, equipment and conversions. The GCWR for the vehicle should not be exceeded. | |||
Ask your dealer/retailer for our trailering information or advice, or write us at our Customer Assistance Offices. See Customer Assistance Offices for more information.
Weight of the Trailer Tongue
The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total or gross weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. If you have a lot of options, equipment, passengers or cargo in your vehicle, it will reduce the tongue weight your vehicle can carry, which will also reduce the trailer weight your vehicle can tow. And if you will tow a trailer, you must add the tongue load to the GVW because your vehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See Loading the Vehicle for more information about your vehicle's maximum load capacity.
The trailer tongue weight (A) should be 10 percent to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B), up to a maximum of 600 lbs (272 kg) with a weight carrying hitch. The trailer tongue weight (A) should be 10 percent to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B), up to a maximum of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) with a weight distributing hitch.
Do not exceed the maximum allowable tongue weight for the vehicle. Choose the shortest hitch extension that will position the hitch ball closest to the vehicle. This will help reduce the effect of trailer tongue weight on the rear axle.
After loading the trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they are not, adjustments might be made by moving some items around in the trailer.
Trailering may be limited by the vehicle's ability to carry tongue weight. Tongue weight cannot cause the vehicle to exceed the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) or the RGAWR (Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating). The effect of additional weight may reduce the trailering capacity more than the total of the additional weight.
Consider the following example:
A vehicle model base weight is 5,500 lbs (2 495 kg); 2,800 lbs (1 270 kg) at the front axle and 2,700 lbs (1 225 kg) at the rear axle. It has a GVWR of 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg), a RGAWR of 4,000 lbs (1 814 kg) and a GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating) of 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg). The trailer rating should be:
Expect tongue weight to be at least 10 percent of trailer weight (850 lbs (386 kg)) and because the weight is applied well behind the rear axle, the effect on the rear axle is greater than just the weight itself, as much as 1.5 times as much. The weight at the rear axle could be 850 lbs (386 kg) X 1.5 = 1,275 lbs (578 kg). Since the rear axle already weighs 2,700 lbs (1 225 kg), adding 1,275 lbs (578 kg) brings the total to 3,975 lbs (1 803 kg). This is very close to, but within the limit for RGAWR as well. The vehicle is set to trailer up to 8,500 lbs (3 856 kg).
If the vehicle has many options and there is a front seat passenger and two rear seat passengers with some luggage and gear in the vehicle as well. 300 lbs (136 kg) could be added to the front axle weight and 400 lbs (181 kg) to the rear axle weight. The vehicle now weighs:
Weight is still below 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg) and you might think 700 additional pounds (318 kg) should be subtracted from the trailering capacity to stay within GCWR limits. The maximum trailer would only be 7,800 lbs (3 538 kg). You may go further and think the tongue weight should be limited to less than 1,000 lbs (454 kg) to avoid exceeding GVWR. But the effect on the rear axle must still be considered. Because the rear axle now weighs 3,100 lbs (1 406 kg), 900 lbs (408 kg) can be put on the rear axle without exceeding RGAWR. The effect of tongue weight is about 1.5 times the actual weight. Dividing the 900 lbs (408 kg) by 1.5 leaves only 600 lbs (272 kg) of tongue weight that can be handled. Since tongue weight is usually at least 10 percent of total loaded trailer weight, expect that the largest trailer the vehicle can properly handle is 6,000 lbs (2 721 kg).
It is important that the vehicle does not exceed any of its ratings -- GCWR, GVWR, RGAWR, Maximum Trailer Rating or Tongue Weight. The only way to be sure it is not exceeding any of these ratings is to weigh the vehicle and trailer.
Total Weight on the Vehicle's Tires
Be sure the vehicle's tires are inflated to the upper limit for cold tires. These numbers can be found on the Certification label at the rear edge of the driver door or see Loading Your Vehicle for more information. Make sure not to go over the GVW limit for the vehicle, or the GAWR, including the weight of the trailer tongue. If using a weight distributing hitch, make sure not to go over the rear axle limit before applying the weight distribution spring bars.
Hitches
It is important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why the right hitch is needed.
Weight-Distributing Hitches and Weight Carrying Hitches
A: Body to Ground Distance
B: Front of Vehicle
When using a weight-distributing hitch, the hitch must be adjusted so the distance (A) remains the same both before and after coupling the trailer to the tow vehicle.
If a step-bumper hitch will be used, the bumper could be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure there is ample room when turning to avoid contact between the trailer and the bumper.
If the loaded trailer being pulled will weigh more than 5,000 lbs (2 270 kg), be sure to use a properly mounted weight-distributing hitch and sway control of the proper size. This equipment is very important for proper vehicle loading and good handling when driving. Always use a sway control if the trailer will weigh more than these limits. Ask a hitch dealer about sway controls.
Safety Chains
Always attach chains between the vehicle and the trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer to help prevent the tongue from contacting the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. If the trailer being towed weighs up to the vehicle's trailer rating limit, safety chains may be attached to the attaching point on the hitch platform. Always leave just enough slack so the rig can turn. Never allow safety chains to drag on the ground.
Tow/Haul Mode
Pressing this button at the end of the shift lever turns on and off the tow/haul mode.
This indicator light on the instrument panel cluster comes on when the tow/haul mode is on.
Tow/Haul is a feature that assists when pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load. See Tow/Haul Mode for more information.
Tow/Haul is designed to be most effective when the vehicle and trailer combined weight is at least 75 percent of the vehicle's Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). See "Weight of the Trailer" earlier in the section. Tow/Haul is most useful under the following driving conditions:
| • | When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load through rolling terrain. |
| • | When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load in stop and go traffic. |
| • | When pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load in busy parking lots where improved low speed control of the vehicle is desired. |
Operating the vehicle in Tow/Haul when lightly loaded or with no trailer at all will not cause damage. However, there is no benefit to the selection of Tow/Haul when the vehicle is unloaded. Such a selection when unloaded may result in unpleasant engine and transmission driving characteristics and reduced fuel economy. Tow/Haul is recommended only when pulling a heavy trailer or a large or heavy load.
Trailer Brakes
A loaded trailer that weighs more than 2,000 lbs (900 kg) needs to have its own brake system that is adequate for the weight of the trailer. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so they are installed, adjusted and maintained properly.
Since the vehicle is equipped with StabiliTrak®, the trailer brakes cannot tap into the vehicle's hydraulic system.
Integrated Trailer Brake Control System
The vehicle may have an Integrated Trailer Brake Control (ITBC) system for electric trailer brakes.
This symbol is located on the Trailer Brake Control Panel on vehicles with an Integrated Trailer Brake Control System. The power output to the trailer brakes is based on the amount of brake pressure being applied by the vehicle’s brake system. This available power output to the trailer brakes can be adjusted to a wide range of trailering situations.
The ITBC system is integrated with the vehicle’s brake, anti-lock brake and StabiliTrak (if equipped) systems. In trailering conditions that cause the vehicle’s anti-lock brake or StabiliTrak systems to activate, power sent to the trailer's brakes will be automatically adjusted to minimize trailer wheel lock-up. This does not imply that the trailer has the StabiliTrak system.
If the vehicle’s brake, anti-lock brake or StabiliTrak systems are not functioning properly, the ITBC system may not be fully functional or may not function at all. Make sure all of these systems are fully operational to ensure full functionality of the ITBC system.
The ITBC system is powered through the vehicle's electrical system. Turning the ignition off will also turn off the ITBC system. The ITBC system is fully functional only when the ignition is in ON or in RUN.
The ITBC system can only be used with trailers with electric brakes.
Caution: Connecting a trailer that is not compatible with the ITBC system may result in reduced or complete loss of trailer braking. There may be an increase in stopping distance or trailer instability which could result in personal injury or damage to the vehicle, trailer, or other property. An aftermarket controller may be available for use with trailers with surge, air or electric-over-hydraulic trailer brake systems. To determine the type of brakes on the trailer and the availability of controllers, check with your trailer manufacturer or dealer/retailer.
When trailering, make sure of the following:
| • | The ITBC system is used only with trailers that are equipped with electric brakes. |
| • | All applicable local and federal laws and regulations are followed. |
| • | All electrical and mechanical connections to the trailer are made correctly. |
| • | The trailer’s brakes are in proper working condition. |
| • | The trailer and vehicle are properly loaded for the towing condition. |
The ITBC system is a factory installed item. Out-of-factory installation of this system should not be attempted. GM is not responsible for warranty or performance of the system resulting from out-of-factory installation.
Trailer Brake Control Panel
Manual Trailer Brake Apply Lever
Trailer Gain Adjustment Buttons
The ITBC system has a control panel located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering column. See Instrument Panel Overview for more information on location. The control panel allows adjustment the amount of output, referred to as trailer gain, available to the electric trailer brakes and allows manual application the trailer brakes. The Trailer Brake Control Panel is used along with the Trailer Brake Display Page on the DIC to adjust and display power output to the trailer brakes.
Trailer Brake DIC Display Page
The ITBC system displays messages into the vehicle’s Driver Information Center (DIC). See DIC Warnings and Messagesfor more information.
The display page indicates Trailer Gain setting, power output to the electric trailer brakes, trailer connection and system operational status.
Trailer Gain Setting
Power Output to Trailer Brakes
No trailer with electric brakes connected or fault present
The Trailer Brake Display Page can be displayed by performing any of the following actions:
| • | Scrolling through the DIC menu pages using the odometer trip stem or the DIC Vehicle Information button (if equipped). |
| • | Pressing a Trailer Gain button - If the Trailer Brake Display Page is not currently displayed, pressing a Trailer Gain button will first recall the current Trailer Gain setting. After the Trailer Brake Display Page is displayed, each press and release of the gain buttons will then cause the Trailer Gain setting to change. |
| • | Activating the Manual Trailer Brake Apply lever |
| • | Connecting a trailer equipped with electric trailer brakes |
All DIC warning and service messages must first be acknowledged by the driver by pressing the odometer trip stem or the DIC Vehicle Information button (if equipped) before the Trailer Brake Display Page can be displayed and Trailer Gain can be adjusted.
TRAILER GAIN - This setting is displayed anytime the Trailer Brake Display Page is active. This setting can be adjusted from 0.0 to 10.0 with either a trailer connected or disconnected. To adjust the Trailer Gain, press one of the Trailer Gain adjustment buttons located on the Trailer Brake Control Panel. Press and hold a gain button to cause the Trailer Gain to continuously adjust. To turn the output to the trailer off, adjust the Trailer Gain setting to 0.0 (zero).
0.0 (zero) gain is the factory default setting. To properly adjust trailer gain, see the Trailer Gain Adjustment Procedure later in this section.
TRAILER OUTPUT - This is displayed any time a trailer with electric brakes is connected. Output to the electric brakes is based on the amount of vehicle braking present and relative to the Trailer Gain setting. Output is displayed from 0 to 10 bars for each gain setting.
The Trailer Output will indicate "- - - - - -" on the Trailer Brake Display Page whenever the following occur:
| • | No trailer is connected. |
| • | A trailer without electric brakes is connected (no DIC message is displayed). |
| • | A trailer with electric brakes has become disconnected (a CHECK TRAILER WIRING message will also be displayed on the DIC). |
| • | There is a fault present in the wiring to the electric trailer brakes (a CHECK TRAILER WIRING message will also be displayed on the DIC). |
| • | There is a fault in the ITBC system (a SERVICE TRAILER BRAKE SYSTEM message will also be displayed in the DIC). |
Manual Trailer Brake Apply
The Manual Trailer Brake Apply Lever is located on the Trailer Brake Control Panel and is used to apply the trailer’s electric brakes independent of the vehicle’s brakes. This lever is used in the Trailer Gain Adjustment Procedure to properly adjust the power output to the trailer brakes. Sliding the lever to the left will apply only the trailer brakes. The power output to the trailer is indicated in the Trailer Brake Display Page in the DIC. If the vehicle’s service brakes are applied while using the Manual Trailer Brake Apply Lever, the trailer output power will be the greater of the two.
The trailer and the vehicle's brake lamps will come on when either vehicle braking or manual trailer brakes are applied.
Trailer Gain Adjustment Procedure
Trailer Gain should be set for a specific trailering condition and must be adjusted any time vehicle loading, trailer loading or road surface conditions change.
Setting the Trailer Gain properly is needed for the best trailer stopping performance. A trailer that is over-gained may result in locked trailer brakes. A trailer that is under-gained may result in not enough trailer braking. Both of these conditions may result in poorer stopping and stability of the vehicle and trailer.
Use the following procedure to correctly adjust Trailer Gain for each towing condition:
- Make sure the trailer brakes are in proper working condition.
- Connect a properly loaded trailer to the vehicle and make all necessary mechanical and electrical connections. See Loading the Vehicle for more information.
- After the electrical connection is made to a trailer equipped with electric brakes:
- Adjust the Trailer Gain by using the gain adjustment (+ / -) buttons on the Trailer Brake Control Panel.
- Drive the vehicle with the trailer attached on a level road surface representative of the towing condition and free of traffic at about 20 to 25 mph (32 to 40 km/h) and fully apply the Manual Trailer Brake Apply lever.
- Adjust the Trailer Gain to just below the point of trailer wheel lock-up, indicated by trailer wheel squeal or tire smoke when a trailer wheel locks.
- Re-adjust Trailer Gain any time vehicle loading, trailer loading or road surface conditions change or if trailer wheel lock-up is noticed at any time while towing
| • | A TRAILER CONNECTED message will be briefly displayed on the DIC display. |
| • | The Trailer Brake Display Page will appear on the DIC showing TRAILER GAIN and TRAILER OUTPUT. |
| • | In the Trailer Output display on the DIC, "- - - - - -" will disappear if there is no error present. Connecting a trailer without electric brakes will not clear the six dashed lines. |
Adjusting trailer gain at speeds lower than 20 to 25 mph (32 to 40 km/h) may result in an incorrect gain setting.
Trailer wheel lock-up may not occur if towing a heavily loaded trailer. In this case, adjust the Trailer Gain to the highest allowable setting for the towing condition.
Other ITBC Related DIC Messages
In addition to displaying TRAILER GAIN and TRAILER OUTPUT through the DIC, trailer connection and ITBC system status is displayed in the DIC.
TRAILER CONNECTED - This message will be briefly displayed when a trailer with electric brakes is first connected to the vehicle. This message will automatically turn off in about ten seconds. The driver can also acknowledge this message before it automatically turns off.
CHECK TRAILER WIRING - This message will be displayed if:
- The ITBC system first determines connection to a trailer with electric brakes and then the trailer harness becomes disconnected from the vehicle.
- There is an electrical fault in the wiring to the electric trailer brakes. This message will continue as long as there is an electrical fault in the trailer wiring. This message will also turn off if the driver acknowledges this message off.
If the disconnect occurs while the vehicle is stationary, this message will automatically turn off in about thirty seconds. This message will also turn off if the driver acknowledges this message off or if the trailer harness is re-connected.
If the disconnect occurs while the vehicle is moving, this message will continue until the ignition is turned off. This message will also turn off if the driver acknowledges this message off or if the trailer harness is re-connected.
To determine if the electrical fault is on the vehicle side or trailer side of the trailer wiring harness connection, do the following:
- Disconnect the trailer wiring harness from the vehicle.
- Turn the ignition OFF.
- Wait ten seconds, then turn the ignition back to RUN.
- If the CHECK TRAILER WIRING message re-appears, the electrical fault is on the vehicle side.
If the CHECK TRAILER WIRING message only re-appears when connecting the trailer wiring harness to the vehicle, the electrical fault is on the trailer side.
SERVICE TRAILER BRAKE SYSTEM - This message will be displayed when there is a problem with the ITBC system. If this message persists over multiple ignition cycles there is problem with the ITBC system. Take the vehicle to an authorized GM dealer to have the ITBC system diagnosed and repaired.
If either the CHECK TRAILER WIRING or SERVICE TRAILER BRAKE SYSTEM message is displayed while driving the vehicle, power is no longer available to the trailer brakes. When traffic conditions allow, carefully pull the vehicle over to the side of the road and turn the ignition off. Check the wiring connection to the trailer and turn the ignition back on. If either of these messages continues, either the vehicle or trailer needs service.
An authorized GM dealer may be able to diagnose and repair problems with the trailer. However, any diagnosis and repair of the trailer is not covered under the vehicle warranty. Please contact your trailer dealer for assistance with trailer repairs and trailer warranty information.
Driving with a Trailer
Caution: When towing a trailer, exhaust gases may collect at the rear of the vehicle and enter if the liftgate, trunk/hatch, or rear-most window is open.
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO) which cannot be seen or smelled. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. To maximize safety when towing a trailer:| • | Have the exhaust system inspected for leaks and make necessary repairs before starting a trip. |
| • | Never drive with the liftgate, trunk/hatch, or rear-most window open. |
| • | Fully open the air outlets on or under the instrument panel. |
| • | Adjust the Climate Control system to a setting that brings in only outside air and set the fan speed to the highest setting. See Climate Control System in the Index. |
Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Get to know the rig before setting out for the open road. Get acquainted with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now longer and not as responsive as the vehicle is by itself.
Before starting, check all trailer hitch parts and attachments, safety chains, electrical connectors, lamps, tires and mirror adjustments. If the trailer has electric brakes, start the vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working. This checks the electrical connection at the same time.
During the trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working.
Following Distance
Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving the vehicle without a trailer. This can help to avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns.
Passing
More passing distance is needed when towing a trailer. Because the rig is longer, it is necessary to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before returning to the lane.
Backing Up
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, move that hand to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible, have someone guide you.
Making Turns
Notice: Making very sharp turns while trailering could cause the trailer to come in contact with the vehicle. The vehicle could be damaged. Avoid making very sharp turns while trailering.
When turning with a trailer, make wider turns than normal. Do this so the trailer will not strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance.
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer
The arrows on the instrument panel flash whenever signaling a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps also flash, telling other drivers the vehicle is turning, changing lanes or stopping.
When towing a trailer, the arrows on the instrument panel flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out. For this reason you may think other drivers are seeing the signal when they are not. It is important to check occasionally to be sure the trailer bulbs are still working.
Driving On Grades
Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before starting down a long or steep downgrade. If the transmission is not shifted down, the brakes might have to be used so much that they would get hot and no longer work well.
Vehicles can tow in D (Drive). Shift the transmission to a lower gear if the transmission shifts too often under heavy loads and/or hilly conditions.
The tow/haul mode may be used if the transmission shifts too often. See Tow/Haul Mode earlier in this section.
When towing at high altitude on steep uphill grades, consider the following: Engine coolant will boil at a lower temperature than at normal altitudes. If the engine is turned off immediately after towing at high altitude on steep uphill grades, the vehicle may show signs similar to engine overheating. To avoid this, let the engine run while parked, preferably on level ground, with the automatic transmission in P (Park) for a few minutes before turning the engine off. If the overheat warning comes on, see Engine Overheating.
Parking on Hills
Caution: Parking the vehicle on a hill with the trailer attached can be dangerous. If something goes wrong, the rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both the vehicle and the trailer can be damaged. When possible, always park the rig on a flat surface.
If parking the rig on a hill:
- Press the brake pedal, but do not shift into P (Park) yet. Turn the wheels into the curb if facing downhill or into traffic if facing uphill.
- Have someone place chocks under the trailer wheels.
- When the wheel chocks are in place, release the regular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.
- Reapply the brake pedal. Then apply the parking brake and shift into P (Park).
- If the vehicle is four-wheel-drive, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear and not in N (Neutral).
- Release the brake pedal.
Caution: It can be dangerous to get out of the vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake firmly set. The vehicle can roll.
If the engine has been left running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure the vehicle will not move, even when on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. Always put the shift lever fully in P (Park) with the parking brake firmly set. If the transfer case on a four-wheel-drive vehicle is in N (Neutral), the vehicle will be free to roll, even if the shift lever is in P (Park). Be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear -- not in N (Neutral).Leaving After Parking on a Hill
- Apply and hold the brake pedal while you:
- Let up on the brake pedal.
- Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks.
- Stop and have someone pick up and store the chocks.
| • | Start the engine |
| • | Shift into a gear |
| • | Release the parking brake |
Maintenance When Trailer Towing
The vehicle needs service more often when pulling a trailer. See this manual's Maintenance Schedule or Index for more information. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transmission fluid, engine oil, axle lubricant, belts, cooling system and brake system. It is a good idea to inspect these before and during the trip.
Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts are tight.
Trailer Wiring Harness
Heavy-Duty Trailer Wiring Harness Package
Your vehicle is equipped with the seven-wire trailer towing harness. This harness with a seven-pin universal heavy-duty trailer connector is attached to the rear bumper beam. It is located next to the integrated trailer hitch.
The seven-wire harness contains the following trailer circuits:
| • | Yellow: Left Stop/Turn Signal |
| • | Dark Green: Right Stop/Turn Signal |
| • | Brown: Taillamps |
| • | White: Ground |
| • | Light Green: Back-up Lamps |
| • | Red: Battery Feed* |
| • | Dark Blue: Trailer Brake* |
*The fuses for these two circuits are installed in the underhood electrical center, but the wires are not connected. They should be connected by your dealer/retailer or a qualified service center.
If charging a remote (non-vehicle) battery, press the Tow/Haul mode button, if equipped, located at the end of the shift lever. This will boost the vehicle system voltage and properly charge the battery. If the trailer is too light for Tow/Haul mode, or the vehicle is not equipped with Tow/Haul, turn on the headlamps as a second way to boost the vehicle system and charge the battery.
Electric Brake Control Wiring Provisions
These wiring provisions are included with the vehicle as part of the trailer wiring package. These provisions are for an electric brake controller. The instrument panel contains blunt cut wires near the data link connector for the trailer brake controller. The harness contains the following wires:
| • | Dark Blue: Brake Signal to Trailer Connector |
| • | Red/Black: Battery |
| • | Light Blue/White: Brake Switch |
| • | White: Ground |
It should be installed by your dealer/retailer or a qualified service center.
If the vehicle is equipped with an ITBC, the blunt cuts exist, but are not connected further in the harness. If an aftermarket trailer brake controller is installed, the ITBC must be disconnected. Do not power both ITBC and aftermarket controllers to control the trailer brakes at the same time.
