Front Power Distribution Center Fuses
A power distribution center is located in the engine compartment. This center contains fuses and relays.
| CAUTION | When installing the Power Distribution Center cover, it is important to ensure the cover is properly positioned and fully latched. Failure to do so may allow water to get into the Power Distribution Center, and possibly result in a electrical system failure. When replacing a blown fuse, it is important to use only a fuse having the correct amperage rating. The use of a fuse with a rating other than indicated may result in a dangerous electrical system overload. If a properly rated fuse continues to blow, it indicates a problem in the circuit that must be corrected. |
| Cavity | Fuse | Circuits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 20 Amp Yellow | Left High Beam Headlight |
| 2 | 20 Amp Yellow | Right High Beam Headlight |
| 3 | 15 Amp Dk. Blue | Adjustable Pedal |
| 4 | 20 Amp Yellow | Horn |
| 5 | 25 Amp Clear | Headlamp Washer - If Equipped |
| 6 | 15 Amp Dk. Blue | Front Control Module (FCM) |
| 7 | 20 Amp Yellow | Fog Lamp |
| 8 | 15 Amp Dk. Blue | Park Lamp |
| 9 | 15 Amp Dk. Blue | Non ABS Brakes |
| 10 | 5 Amp Orange | Starter |
| 11 | 20 Amp Yellow | Auto Shutdown/Powertrain Control Module (PCM) |
| 12 | ||
| 13 | ||
| 14 | 25 Amp Clear | Powertrain Control Module |
| 15 | 20 Amp Yellow | Injectors, Ignition Coils |
| 16 | 15 Amp Dk. Blue | Powertrain Control Module |
| 17 | 30 Amp Pink | Antilock Brake System (ABS) Valves |
| 18 | 30 Amp Pink | Windshield Wiper/Washer |
| 19 | 50 Amp Red | Radiator Fan |
| 20 | 20 Amp Lt. Blue | Starter |
| 21 | 50 Amp Red | ABS Pump Motor |
| 22 | 40 Amp Green | Radiator Fan High/Low |
| 23 | 50 Amp Red | High Intensity Lighting |
| 24 | ||
| 25 | 30 Amp Pink | Lighting Left High Beam/Right Low Beam |
| 26 | 20 Amp Lt. Blue | Transmission |
| 27 | 30 Amp Pink | Lighting Left Low Beam/Right High Beam |
Rear Power Distribution Center Fuses
There is also a power distribution center located in the trunk under the spare tire access panel. This center contains fuses and relays.
| CAUTION | When installing the Power Distribution Center cover, it is important to ensure the cover is properly positioned and fully latched. Failure to do so may allow water to get into the Power Distribution Center, and possibly result in a electrical system failure. When replacing a blown fuse, it is important to use only a fuse having the correct amperage rating. The use of a fuse with a rating other than indicated may result in a dangerous electrical system overload. If a properly rated fuse continues to blow, it indicates a problem in the circuit that must be corrected. |
| Cavity | Fuse | Circuits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 60 Amp Clear | Ignition Off Draw |
| 2 | 40 Amp Green | Battery |
| 3 | ||
| 4 | 40 Amp Green | Battery |
| 5 | 30 Amp Pink | Heated Seat/Steering Column |
| 6 | 20 Amp Yellow | Fuel Pump |
| 7 | ||
| 8 | 15 Amp Dk. Blue | Ignition Start/Run - Start |
| 9 | 20 Amp Yellow | Console Power Outlet |
| 10 | 10 Amp Red | Rear Fog Lamp - If Equipped |
| 11 | 25 Amp C/BRKR | Memory Module/Door Locks |
| 12 | 25 Amp C/BRKR | Passenger Power Seat |
| 13 | 30 Amp C/BRKR | Door Module Run/Acc/Delay |
| 14 | 10 Amp Red | Sentry Key/Remote Keyless Entry/Cluster |
| 15 | 20 Amp Yellow | Brake Light (5.7L) |
| 16 | 20 Amp Yellow | Power Outlet Trunk - if equipped |
| 17 | ||
| 18 | 20 Amp Yellow | Selectable Power Outlet |
| 19 | 10 Amp Red | Stop Lamp |
| 20 | 20 Amp Yellow | Rear Wiper - If Equipped |
| 21 | ||
| 22 | ||
| 23 | ||
| 24 | ||
| 25 | ||
| 26 | ||
| 27 | 10 Amp Red | Airbag/Occupant Classification Module |
| 28 | 10 Amp Red | Curtain Airbag - if equipped |
| 29 | 5 Amp Orange | Sentry Key/Remote Keyless Entry/Powertrain Control Module Ignition Feed |
| 30 | 10 Amp Red | Steering Column Module/Power Mirrors - if equipped |
| 31 | ||
| 32 | ||
| 33 | ||
| 34 | ||
| 35 | 5 Amp Orange | Power Antenna/Garage Door Opener/Ignition Delay |
| 36 | 20 Amp Yellow | Radio/Navigation |
| 37 | 15 Amp Dk. Blue | Transmission |
| 38 | 5 Amp Orange | Analog Clock/Garage Door Opener |
| 39 | 10 Amp Red | Heated Mirror |
| 40 | 5 Amp Orange | Power Mirror |
| 41 | 10 Amp Red | Climate Control Module/Headlamp Leveling - if equipped/Rear Park Assist - if equipped/Tire Pressure Monitoring - if equipped |
| 42 | 30 Amp Pink | Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) Blower Motor |
| 43 | 30 Amp Pink | Rear Defroster |
| 44 | 20 Amp Lt. Blue | Audio Amplifier |
SCHEDULE B
Follow schedule "B" if you usually operate your vehicle under one or more of the following conditions. Change the automatic transmission fluid and filter every 60,000 miles (96 000 km) if the vehicle is usually operated under one or more of the conditions marked with an.
- Day or night temperatures are below 32° F (0° C).
- Stop and go driving.
- Extensive engine idling.
- Driving in dusty conditions.
- Short trips of less than 10 miles (16.2 km).
- More than 50% of your driving is at sustained high speeds during hot weather, above 90° F (32° C).
- Trailer towing.
- Taxi, police or delivery service (commercial services).
- Off-road or desert operation.
- If equipped for and operating with E-85 (ethanol) fuel.
Note. If ANY of these apply to you then change your engine oil every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first and follow SCHEDULE B .
Note. IF ANY of these apply to you then flush and replace the engine coolant every 102,000 miles (164,000 km) or 60 months, whichever comes first, and follow SCHEDULE B .
| Miles | 3,000 | 6,000 | 9,000 | 12,000 | 15,000 | 18,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Kilometers) | (5 000) | (10 000) | (15 000) | (20 000) | (25 000) | (30 000) |
| Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months. | X | X | X | X | X | X |
| Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if required.* | X | X | X | X | X | |
| Replace the air cleaner filter. | X | |||||
| Inspect the front and rear brake linings and rotors. | X | |||||
| Replace the air conditioning filter. | X | |||||
| Rotate the tires. | X | X | X |
* This maintenance is recommended by the manufacture to the owner but is not required to maintain the emissions warranty.
(!) This maintenance is not required if previously replaced.
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.
| Miles | 21,000 | 24,000 | 27,000 | 30,000 | 33,000 | 36,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Kilometers) | (35 000) | (40 000) | (45 000) | (50 000) | (55 000) | (60 000) |
| Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months. | X | X | X | X | X | X |
| Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if required.* | X | X | X | X | X | |
| Replace the air cleaner filter. | X | |||||
| Replace the spark plugs. 5.7L Engine. | X | |||||
| Inspect the front and rear brake linings and rotors. | X | X | ||||
| Check and replace, if necessary, the PCV valve. * | X | |||||
| Replace the air conditioning filter. | X | X | ||||
| Rotate the tires. | X | X | X |
* This maintenance is recommended by the manufacture to the owner but is not required to maintain the emissions warranty.
(!) This maintenance is not required if previously replaced.
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.
| Miles | 39,000 | 42,000 | 45,000 | 48,000 | 51,000 | 54,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Kilometers) | (65 000) | (70 000) | (75 000) | (80 000) | (85 000) | (90 000) |
| Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months. | X | X | X | X | X | X |
| Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if required.* | X | X | X | X | X | |
| Replace the air cleaner filter. | X | |||||
| Inspect the front and rear brake linings and rotors. | X | |||||
| Change the rear axle fluid. | X | |||||
| Replace the air conditioning filter. | X | |||||
| Rotate the tires. | X | X | X | |||
| Change the Transfer Case Fluid - All Wheel Drive (AWD) only | X |
* This maintenance is recommended by the manufacture to the owner but is not required to maintain the emissions warranty.
(!) This maintenance is not required if previously replaced.
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.
| Miles | 57,000 | 60,000 | 63,000 | 66,000 | 69,000 | 72,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Kilometers) | (95 000) | (100 000) | (105 000) | (110 000) | (115 000) | (120 000) |
| Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months. | X | X | X | X | X | X |
| Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if required.* | X | X | X | X | X | |
| Replace the air cleaner filter. | X | |||||
| Replace the spark plugs. 5.7L Engine. | X | |||||
| Inspect the front and rear brake linings and rotors. | X | X | ||||
| Check and Inspect the accessory drive belt and tensioner. Replace if required. | X | |||||
| Check and replace, if necessary, the PCV valve. * (!) | X | |||||
| Change the automatic transmission fluid and filter. | X | |||||
| Replace the air conditioning filter. | X | X | ||||
| Flush and replace engine coolant at 60 months if not done at 102,000 miles. | X | |||||
| Rotate the tires. | X | X | X |
* This maintenance is recommended by the manufacture to the owner but is not required to maintain the emissions warranty.
(!) This maintenance is not required if previously replaced.
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.
| Miles | 75,000 | 78,000 | 81,000 | 84,000 | 87,000 | 90,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Kilometers) | (125 000) | (130 000) | (135 000) | (140 000) | (145 000) | (150 000) |
| Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months. | X | X | X | X | X | X |
| Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if required.* | X | X | X | X | ||
| Replace the air cleaner filter. | X | X | ||||
| Replace the spark plugs. 5.7L Engine. | X | |||||
| Inspect the front and rear brake linings and rotors. | X | |||||
| Check and replace, if necessary, the PCV valve. * (!) | X | |||||
| Replace the air conditioning filter. | X | |||||
| Rotate the tires. | X | X | X |
* This maintenance is recommended by the manufacture to the owner but is not required to maintain the emissions warranty.
(!) This maintenance is not required if previously replaced.
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.
| Miles | 93,000 | 96,000 | 99,000 | 102,000 | 105,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Kilometers) | (155 000) | (160 000) | (165 000) | (170 000) | (175 000) |
| Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months. | X | X | X | X | X |
| Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if required.* | X | X | X | X | |
| Replace the air cleaner filter. | X | ||||
| Inspect the front and rear brake linings and rotors. | X | ||||
| Replace the engine timing belt 3.5L Engine. | X | ||||
| Replace the spark plugs. 2.7L, 3.5L Engines. | X | ||||
| Check and Inspect the accessory drive belt and tensioner. Replace if required. | X | ||||
| Change the rear axle fluid. | X | ||||
| Replace the air conditioning filter. | X | ||||
| Change the Transfer Case Fluid - All Wheel Drive (AWD) only | X | ||||
| Flush and replace engine coolant at 102,000 miles if not done at 60 months. | X | ||||
| Rotate the tires. | X | X |
* This maintenance is recommended by the manufacture to the owner but is not required to maintain the emissions warranty.
(!) This maintenance is not required if previously replaced.
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.
| Miles | 108,000 | 111,000 | 114,000 | 117,000 | 120,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Kilometers) | (180 000) | (185 000) | (190 000) | (195 000) | (200 000) |
| Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months. | X | X | X | X | X |
| Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if required.* | X | X | X | X | |
| Replace the air cleaner filter. | X | ||||
| Inspect the front and rear brake linings and rotors. | X | X | |||
| Replace the spark plugs. 5.7L Engines. | X | ||||
| Check and replace, if necessary, the PCV valve. * | X | ||||
| Change the automatic transmission fluid and filter. | X | ||||
| Replace the air conditioning filter. | X | X | |||
| Flush and replace the engine coolant at 120 months, if not replaced at 102,000 miles. | X | ||||
| Rotate the tires. | X | X | X |
* This maintenance is recommended by the manufacture to the owner but is not required to maintain the emissions warranty.
(!) This maintenance is not required if previously replaced.
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.
SCHEDULE A
| Miles | 6,000 | 12,000 | 18,000 | 24,000 | 30,000 | 36,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Kilometers) | (10 000) | (20 000) | (30 000) | (40 000) | (50 000) | (60 000) |
| [Months] | [6] | [12] | [18] | [24] | [30] | [36] |
| Change engine oil and engine oil filter. | X | X | X | X | X | X |
| Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if required.* | X | X | X | X | X | |
| Replace the air cleaner filter. | X | |||||
| Replace the spark plugs. 5.7L Engine. | X | |||||
| Inspect the front and rear brake linings and rotors. | X | X | ||||
| Replace the air conditioning filter. | X | X | X | |||
| Rotate the tires. | X | X | X | X | X | X |
* This maintenance is recommended by the manufacture to the owner but is not required to maintain the emissions warranty.
(!) This maintenance is not required if previously replaced.
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.
| Miles | 42,000 | 48,000 | 54,000 | 60,000 | 66,000 | 72,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Kilometers) | (70 000) | (80 000) | (90 000) | (100 000) | (110 000) | (120 000) |
| [Months] | [42] | [48] | [54] | [60] | [66] | [72] |
| Change engine oil and engine oil filter. | X | X | X | X | X | X |
| Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if required.* | X | X | X | X | X | |
| Replace the air cleaner filter. | X | |||||
| Inspect the front and rear brake linings and rotors. | X | X | ||||
| Replace the spark plugs. 5.7L Engine. | X | |||||
| Check and Inspect the accessory drive belt and tensioner. Replace if required. | X | |||||
| Flush and replace engine coolant at 60 months if not done at 102,000 miles. | X | |||||
| Check and replace, if necessary, the PCV valve. * | X | |||||
| Replace the air conditioning filter. | X | X | X | |||
| Rotate the tires. | X | X | X | X | X | X |
* This maintenance is recommended by the manufacture to the owner but is not required to maintain the emissions warranty.
(!) This maintenance is not required if previously replaced.
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.
| Miles | 78,000 | 84,000 | 90,000 | 96,000 | 102,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Kilometers) | (130 000) | (140 000) | (150 000) | (160 000) | (170 000) |
| [Months] | [78] | [84] | [90] | [96] | [102] |
| Change engine oil and engine oil filter. | X | X | X | X | X |
| Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if required.* | X | X | X | X | |
| Replace the air cleaner filter. | X | ||||
| Inspect the front and rear brake linings and rotors. | X | ||||
| Check and Inspect the accessory drive belt and tensioner. Replace if required. | X | ||||
| Replace the spark plugs. 2.7L, 3.5L Engines. | X | ||||
| Replace the spark plugs. 5.7L Engine. | X | ||||
| Check and replace, if necessary, the PCV valve. *(!) | X | ||||
| Replace the engine timing belt 3.5L Engine. | X | ||||
| Flush and replace the engine coolant at 102,000 miles if not done at 60 months. | X | ||||
| Replace the air conditioning filter. | X | X | |||
| Rotate the tires. | X | X | X | X | X |
* This maintenance is recommended by the manufacture to the owner but is not required to maintain the emissions warranty.
(!) This maintenance is not required if previously replaced.
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.
| Miles | 108,000 | 114,000 | 120,000 |
|---|---|---|---|
| (Kilometers) | (180 000) | (190 000) | (200 000) |
| [Months] | [108] | [114] | [120] |
| Change engine oil and engine oil filter. | X | X | X |
| Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if required.* | X | X | |
| Replace the air cleaner filter. | X | ||
| Inspect the front and rear brake linings and rotors. | X | ||
| Replace the spark plugs. 5.7L Engine. | X | ||
| Check and replace, if necessary, the PCV valve. * | X | ||
| Replace the air conditioning filter. | X | X | |
| Flush and replace the engine coolant at 120 months, if not replaced at 102,000 miles. | X | ||
| Rotate the tires. | X | X | X |
* This maintenance is recommended by the manufacturer to the owner but is not required to maintain the emissions warranty.
(!) This maintenance is not required if previously replaced.
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.
| WARNING | You can be badly injured working on or around a motor vehicle. Do only that service work for which you have the knowledge and the right equipment. If you have any doubt about your ability to perform a service job, take your vehicle to a competent mechanic. |
TRAILER TOWING
In this article 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.
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.
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)
The gross trailer weight (GTW) is the weight of the trailer plus the weight of all cargo, consumables and equipment (permanent or temporary) loaded in or on the trailer in its "loaded and ready for operation" condition. The recommended way to measure GTW is to put your fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale. The entire weight of the trailer must be supported by the scale.
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. You could lose control of the vehicle and have an accident. |
Tongue Weight (TW)
The downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer. In most cases it should not be less than 10% or more than 15% of the trailer load. You must consider this as part of the load on your vehicle.
Frontal Area
The maximum height and maximum width of the front of a trailer.
Trailer Sway Control
The trailer sway control is a telescoping link that can be installed between the hitch receiver and the trailer tongue that 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 kind of hitches are the most popular on the market today and they're commonly used to tow small- and medium-sized trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing hitch includes a receiver attached to the tow vehicle, plus a removable hitch head and spring bar assembly that fits into the receiver opening and hook up brackets that connect the spring bars to the trailer frame.
Trailer Hitch Classification
Your vehicle may be factory equipped for safe towing of trailers weighing over 2,000 lbs (907 kg) with the optional Trailer Tow Prep Package. See your dealer for package content.
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. Refer to Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings) chart for the Max. GTW towable for your given drivetrain.
| Trailer Hitch Classification | |
|---|---|
| Class | Max. GTW (Gross Trailer Wt.) |
| Class I - Light Duty | 2,000 lbs (907 kg) |
| Class II - Medium Duty | 3,500 lbs (1587 kg) |
| Class III - Heavy Duty | 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) |
| Class IV - Extra Heavy Duty | 10,000 lbs (4540 kg) |
All trailer hitches should be professionally installed on your vehicle.
Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)
The following chart provides the maximum trailer weight ratings towable for your given drivetrain.
| Engine/Transmission | Frontal Area | Max. GTW (Gross Trailer Wt.) | Max. Tongue Wt. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.7L Automatic | 22 SQ. FT. (2.04 square meters) | Up to 2 persons & Luggage 1,000 lbs (454 kg) | 100 lbs (45 kg) |
| 22 SQ. FT. (2.04 square meters) | Up to 3 persons & Luggage 1,000 lbs (454 kg) | 100 lbs (45 kg) | |
| 22 SQ. FT. (2.04 square meters) | Up to 4 persons & Luggage 1,000 lbs (454 kg) | 100 lbs (45 kg) | |
| 22 SQ. FT. (2.04 square meters) | Up to 5 persons & NO Luggage 1,000 lbs (454 kg) | 100 lbs (45 kg) | |
| 3.5L & 5.7L Automatic | 32 SQ. FT. (2.97 square meters) | Up to 2 persons & Luggage 2,000 lbs (907 kg) | 200 lbs (91 kg) |
| 32 SQ. FT. (2.97 square meters) | Up to 3 persons & Luggage 2,000 lbs (907 kg) | 200 lbs (91 kg) | |
| 32 SQ. FT. (2.97 square meters) | Up to 4 persons & Luggage 1,500 lbs (680 kg) | 150 lbs (68 kg) | |
| 32 SQ. FT. (2.97 square meters) | Up to 5 persons & NO Luggage 1,000lbs (454 kg) | 100 lbs (45 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, and should never exceed the weight referenced on the Tire and Loading Information placard.
Trailer and Tongue Weight
Always load a trailer with 60% to 65% of the weight in the front of the trailer. This places 10% to 15% of the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) on the tow hitch of your vehicle. Loads balanced over the wheels or heavier in the rear can cause the trailer to sway severely side to side which will cause loss of control of the vehicle and trailer. Failure to load trailers heavier in front is the cause of many trailer accidents.
Never exceed the maximum tongue weight stamped on your bumper or trailer hitch.
Scheme 3
Consider the following items when computing the weight on the rear axle of the vehicle
- The tongue weight of the trailer.
- The weight of any other type of cargo or equipment put in or on your vehicle.
- The weight of the driver and all passengers.
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 in the Tire Safety Information Section of the owner's manual for the maximum combined weight of occupants and cargo for your vehicle.
Trailer sway control and a weight distributing (load equalizing) hitch are recommended for Tongue Weights (TW) above 150 lbs (68 kg) and required for Tongue Weights above 300 lbs (136 kg).
Towing Requirements
To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle drivetrain components the following guidelines are recommended
| CAUTION | Avoid towing a trailer for the first 500 miles (805 km) of vehicle operation. Doing so may damage your vehicle. During the first 500 miles (805 km) of trailer towing, limit your speed to 50 mph (80 km/h). |
When towing a trailer, never exceed the GAWR, or GCWR, ratings.
| WARNING | Improper towing can lead to an injury accident. Follow these guidelines to make your trailer towing as safe as possible: Make certain that the load is secured in the trailer and will not shift during travel. When trailering cargo that is not fully secured, dynamic load shifts can occur that may be difficult for the driver to control. You could lose control of your vehicle and have an accident. |
- When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, do not overload your vehicle or trailer. Overloading can cause a loss of control, poor performance or damage to brakes, axle, engine, transmission, steering, suspension, chassis structure or tires.
- Safety chains must always be used between your vehicle and trailer. Always connect the chains to the frame or hook retainers of the vehicle hitch. Cross the chains under the trailer tongue and allow enough slack for turning corners.
- Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade. When parking, apply the parking brake on the tow vehicle. Put the tow vehicle automatic transmission in P for Park. Always, block or "chock" the trailer wheels.
- GCWR must not be exceeded.
- Total weight must be distributed between the tow vehicle and the trailer such that the following four ratings are not exceeded: GVWR GTW GAWR Tongue weight rating for the trailer hitch utilized (This requirement may limit the ability to always achieve the 10% to 15% range of tongue weight as a percentage of total trailer weight).
Towing Requirements - Tires
- Do not attempt to tow a trailer while using a compact spare tire.
- Proper tire inflation pressures are essential to the safe and satisfactory operation of your vehicle.
- Also, check the trailer tires for proper tire inflation pressures before trailer usage.
- Check for signs of tire wear or visible tire damage before towing a trailer. Refer to the «(Refer to TIRES/WHEELS/TIRES - DESCRIPTION)»(ref-255932-S28851826302007060500000) on Tread Wear Indicators for the proper inspection procedure.
- When replacing tires refer to «(Refer to TIRES/WHEELS/TIRES - DESCRIPTION)»(ref-255932-S28851826302007060500000) on Replacement Tires for proper tire replacement procedures. Replacing tires with a higher load carrying capacity will not increase the vehicle's GVWR and GAWR limits.
Towing Requirements - Trailer Brakes
- Do not interconnect the hydraulic brake system or vacuum system of your vehicle with that of the trailer. This could cause inadequate braking and possible personal injury.
- An electronically actuated trailer brake controller is required when towing a trailer with electronically actuated brakes. When towing a trailer equipped with a hydraulic surge actuated brake system, an electronic brake controller is not required.
- Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers over 1,000 lbs (454 kg) and required for trailers in excess of 2,000 lbs (907 kg).
| CAUTION | If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs (454 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. |
| WARNING | Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle's hydraulic brake lines. It can overload your brake system and cause it to fail. You might not have brakes when you need them and could have an accident. Towing any trailer will increase your stopping distance. When towing you should allow for additional space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. Failure to do so could result in an accident. |
Towing Tips
Before setting out on a trip, practice turning, stopping and backing the trailer in an area away from heavy traffic.
Towing Tips - Automatic Transmission
The "D" range can be selected when towing. However, if frequent shifting occurs while in this range, the "3" range should be selected.
Using the "3" range while operating the vehicle under heavy operating conditions will improve performance and extend transmission life by reducing excessive shifting and heat build up. This action will also provide better engine braking.
The automatic transmission fluid and filter should be changed if you REGULARLY tow a trailer for more than 45 minutes of continuous operation. See SCHEDULE B for transmission fluid change intervals.
Note. Check the automatic transmission fluid level before towing.
Towing Tips - Electronic Speed Control (If Equipped)
- Don't use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
- When using the speed control, if you experience speed drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h), disengage until you can get back to cruising speed.
- Use speed control in flat terrain and with light loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
Towing Tips - Autostick (If Equipped)
- For vehicles equipped with Autostick. By using the Autostick modes, and selecting a specific gear range, frequent shifting can be avoided. The highest gear range should be selected that allows for adequate performance. For example, choose "4" if the desired speed can be maintained. Choose "3" or "2" if needed to maintain the desired speed.
- Extended driving at high RPM should be avoided to prevent excess heat generation. A reduction in vehicle speed may be required to avoid extended driving at high RPM. Return to a higher gear range or vehicle speed when road conditions and RPM level allows.
Towing Tips - Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transmission overheating, take the following actions
- City Driving - When stopped for short periods of time, put transmission in neutral and increase engine idle speed.
- Highway Driving - Reduce speed.
- Air Conditioning - Turn off temporarily.
- refer to «COOLING»(ref-255951) for more information.