Contents Wiring diagrams Section: Oem General Information All sections

Vehicle Quick Reference: Other Dodge Nitro I

Oem General Information 3 illustrations ~1892 words

Schedule "A"

Kilometers12 00024 00036 00048 000
(Miles)(7,500)(15,000)(22,500)(30,000)
[Months][6][12][18][24]
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.XXXX
Rotate the tires.XXXX
Inspect the engine air filter element, and replace if necessary.X
Replace the spark plugs (3.7L Only).X
Inspect the brake linings.X
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add as necessary (3.7L Only).XXXX
Inspect the transfer case fluid, add as necessary.X
Kilometers60 00072 00084 00096 000
(Miles)(37,500)(45,000)(52,500)(60,000)
[Months][30][36][42][48]
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.XXXX
Rotate the tires.XXXX
Inspect the engine air filter element, and replace if necessary.X
Inspect the PCV Valve, and replace if necessary.<X
Replace the spark plugs (3.7L Only).X
Inspect the brake linings.X
Inspect the drive belt, and replace as needed.X
Flush and replace the engine coolant/anti-freeze. Where both time and mileage are indicated, follow the interval which occurs first.X
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add as necessary (3.7L Only).XXXX
Inspect transfer case fluid, add as necessary.X
Kilometers108 000120 000132 000144 000
(Miles)(67,500)(75,000)(82,500)(90,000)
[Months][54][60][66][72]
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.XXXX
Rotate the tires.XXXX
Inspect the engine air filter element, and replace if necessary.X
Inspect the PCV Valve, and replace if necessary.<X
Replace the spark plugs (3.7L Only).X
Inspect the brake linings.XX
Inspect the drive belt, and replace as needed. Not required if previously replaced (3.7L Only).XX
Inspect the drive belt, and replace as needed. Not required if previously replaced (4.0L Only).XX
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add as necessary (3.7L Only).XXXX
Inspect transfer case fluid, add as necessary.X
Flush and replace the engine coolant/anti-freeze. Where both time and mileage are indicated, follow the interval which occurs first.X
Kilometers156 000168 000180 000192 000
(Miles)(97,500)(105,000)(112,500)(120,000)
[Months][78][84][90][96]
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.XXXX
Rotate the tires.XXXX
Inspect the engine air filter element, and replace if necessary.X
Inspect the PCV Valve, and replace if necessary.<X
Replace the spark plugs (3.7L Only).X
Replace the spark plugs (4.0L Only).X
Inspect the timing belt, replace if necessary (4.0L Only).X
Inspect the brake linings.X
Inspect the drive belt, and replace as needed. Not required if previously replaced (3.7L Only).XX
Inspect the drive belt, and replace as needed. Not required if previously replaced (4.0L Only).XX
Flush and replace the engine coolant/anti-freeze if not done at 60 months.X
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add as necessary (3.7L Only).XXXX
Drain and refill the transfer case fluid.X

Inspection and service should be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.

<-- This maintenance is recommended by the manufacturer to the owner, but it is not required to maintain emissions warranty.

Schedule "B"

Follow schedule "B" if you usually operate your vehicle under one or more of the following conditions.

  1. Day or night temperatures are below 0°C (32°F).
  2. Stop and go driving.
  3. Extensive engine idling.
  4. Driving in dusty conditions.
  5. Short trips of less than 16.2 km (10 miles).
  6. More than 50% of your driving is at sustained high speeds during hot weather, above 32°C (90°F).
  7. Trailer towing.
  8. Taxi, police, or delivery service (commercial service).
  9. Off-road or desert driving.
Kilometers5 00010 00014 00019 00024 000
(Miles)(3,000)(6,000)(9,000)(12,000)(15,000)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months.XXXXX
Rotate the tires.XX
Inspect the engine air filter element, replace if necessary.X
Inspect the brake linings.X
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add as necessary (3.7L Only).XXXXX
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.X
Inspect the transfer case fluid, add if necessary.X
Kilometers29 00034 00038 00043 00048 000
(Miles)(18,000)(21,000)(24,000)(27,000)(30,000)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months.XXXXX
Rotate the tires.XXX
Inspect the engine air filter element, replace if necessary.X
Inspect the PCV Valve, and replace if necessary.<X
Replace the spark plugs (3.7L Only).X
Inspect the brake linings.X
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add as necessary (3.7L Only).XXXXX
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.X
Inspect the transfer case fluid, add if necessary.X
Kilometers53 00058 00062 00067 00072 000
(Miles)(33,000)(36,000)(39,000)(42,000)(45,000)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months.XXXXX
Rotate the tires.XX
Inspect the engine air filter element, replace if necessary.X
Inspect the drive belt, and replace as needed.X
Inspect the brake linings.X
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add as necessary (3.7L Only).XXXXX
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.X
Inspect the transfer case fluid, add if necessary.X
Kilometers77 00082 00086 00091 00096 000
(Miles)(48,000)(51,000)(54,000)(57,000)(60,000)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months.XXXXX
Rotate the tires.XXX
Inspect the engine air filter element, replace if necessary.X
Inspect the PCV Valve, and replace if necessary.<X
Replace the spark plugs (3.7L Only).X
Inspect the drive belt, and replace as needed. Not required if belt was previously.X
Inspect the brake linings.XX
Inspect manual transmission fluid, add as necessary (3.7L Only).XXXXX
Drain and refill the automatic transmission fluid. Replace main sump filter and spin-on cooler return filter (if equipped).!X
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.X
Drain and refill the transfer case fluid.X
Flush and replace the engine coolant/anti-freeze.X
Kilometers101 000106 000110 000115 000120 000
(Miles)(63,000)(66,000)(69,000)(72,000)(75,000)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months.XXXXX
Rotate the tires.XX
Inspect the engine air filter element, replace if necessary.X
Inspect the drive belt, and replace as needed. Not required if belt was previously replaced.X
Inspect the brake linings.X
Inspect manual transmission fluid, add as necessary (3.7L Only).XXXXX
Inspect the transfer case fluid, add if necessary.X
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.X
Kilometers125 000130 000134 000139 000144 000
(Miles)(78,000)(81,000)(84,000)(87,000)(90,000)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months.XXXXX
Rotate the tires.XXX
Inspect the engine air filter element, replace if necessary.X
Inspect the PCV Valve, and replace if necessary.<X
Replace the spark plugs (3.7L Only).X
Inspect the drive belt, and replace as needed. Not required if belt was previously replaced.X
Inspect the brake linings.X
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.X
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add as necessary (3.7L Only).XXXXX
Inspect the transfer case fluid, add if necessary.X
Kilometers149 000154 000158 000163 000168 000
(Miles)(93,000)(96,000)(99,000)(102,000)(105,000)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months.XXXXX
Rotate the tires.XX
Inspect the engine air filter element, replace if necessary.X
Replace the spark plugs (4.0L Only).X
Inspect the timing belt, replace if necessary (4.0L Only).X
Inspect the drive belt, and replace as needed. Not required if belt was previously replaced.X
Inspect the brake linings.X
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add as necessary (3.7L Only).XXXXX
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.X
Inspect the transfer case fluid, add if necessary.X
Flush and replace the engine coolant/anti-freeze, if not done at 60,000 miles (96 000 km).X
Kilometers173 000178 000182 000187 000192 000
(Miles)(108,000)(111,000)(114,000)(117,000)(120,000)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at 3 months.XXXXX
Rotate the tires.XXX
Inspect the engine air filter element, replace if necessary.X
Inspect the PCV Valve, and replace if necessary.<X
Replace the spark plugs (3.7L Only).X
Inspect the drive belt, and replace as needed. Not required if belt was previously replaced.X
Inspect the brake linings.XX
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.X
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add as necessary (3.7L Only).XXXXX
Drain and refill the automatic transmission fluid. Replace main sump filter and spin-on cooler return filter (if equipped).!X
Drain and refill the transfer case fluid.X
Flush and replace the engine coolant/anti-freeze, if not replaced at 102,000 miles (163 000 km).X

Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.

! Applies only if vehicle is used for frequent trailer towing or fleet/commercial service.

<-- This maintenance is recommended by the manufacturer to the owner, but is not required to maintain emissions warranty.

Kilometers20 00040 00060 00080 000100 000
(Miles)(12,500)(25,000)(37,500)(50,000)(62,500)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.XXXXX
Inspect the engine air filter element. Replace as necessary.XXX
Replace the engine air filter element.XX
Replace the fuel filter/water separator unit.XX
Replace the engine accessory drive belt.X
Inspect the brake linings.XX
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add if necessary.XX
Inspect the transfer case fluid, add if necessary.X
Kilometers120 000140 000160 000180 000200 000
(Miles)(75,000)(87,500)(100,000)(112,500)(125,000)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.XXXXX
Inspect the engine air filter element. Replace as necessary.XXX
Replace the engine air filter element.XXX
Replace the fuel filter/water separator unit.XXX
Flush and replace the engine coolant.XX
Replace the engine accessory drive belt.X
Replace the engine timing belt, and timing belt tensioner.X
Inspect the brake linings.XXX
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add if necessary.XXX
Inspect the transfer case fluid, add if necessary.X

Inspection and service should be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.

Follow schedule "B" if you usually operate your vehicle under one or more of the following conditions.

  1. Day or night temperatures are below 0°C (32°F).
  2. Stop and go driving.
  3. Extensive engine idling.
  4. Driving in dusty conditions.
  5. Short trips of less than 16.2 km (10 miles).
  6. More than 50% of your driving is at sustained high speeds during hot weather, above 32°C (90°F).
  7. Trailer towing.
  8. Taxi, police, or delivery service (commercial service).
  9. Off-road or desert driving.
Kilometers10 00020 00030 00040 00050 000
(Miles)(6,250)(12,500)(18,750)(25,000)(31,250)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.XXXXX
Inspect the engine air filter element. Replace as necessary.XXXXX
Replace the engine air filter element.XX
Replace the fuel filter/water separator unit.X
Inspect the brake linings.XX
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.XX
Kilometers60 00070 00080 00090 000100 000
(Miles)(37,500)(43,750)(50,000)(56,250)(62,500)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.XXXXX
Inspect the engine air filter element. Replace as necessary.XXXXX
Replace the engine air filter element.XXX
Replace the fuel filter/water separator unit.X
Replace the engine accessory drive belt.X
Inspect the brake linings.XXX
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.XXX
Drain and refill the transfer case fluid.X
Drain and refill the automatic transmission fluid, and replace sump filter.<X
Kilometers10 00020 00030 00040 00050 000
(Miles)(6,250)(12,500)(18,750)(25,000)(31,250)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.XXXXX
Inspect the engine air filter element. Replace as necessary.XXX
Replace the engine air filter element.XX
Replace the fuel filter/water separator unit.X
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.XX
Inspect the brake linings.XX
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add if necessary.X
Inspect the transfer case fluid, add if necessary.XX
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.XX
Kilometers60 00070 00080 00090 000100 000
(Miles)(37,500)(43,750)(50,000)(56,250)(62,500)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.XXXXX
Inspect the engine air filter element. Replace as necessary.XX
Replace the engine air filter element.XXX
Replace the fuel filter/water separator unit.X
Replace the engine accessory drive belt.X
Inspect the brake linings.XXX
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.XXX
Inspect the transfer case fluid, add if necessary.XXX
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add if necessary.X
Drain and refill the automatic transmission fluid. Replace main sump filter and spin-on cooler return filter (if equipped).X
Kilometers110 000120 000130 000140 000150 000
(Miles)(68,750)(75,000)(81,250)(87,500)(93,750)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.XXXXX
Inspect the engine air filter element. Replace as necessary.XXXXX
Replace the engine air filter element.XX
Replace the engine accessory drive belt.X
Replace the fuel filter/water separator unit.X
Inspect the brake linings.XX
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add if necessary.X
Inspect the transfer case fluid, add if necessary.XX
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.XX
Kilometers160 000170 000180 000190 000200 000
(Miles)(100,000)(106,250)(112,500)(118,750)(125,000)
Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.XXXXX
Inspect the engine air filter element. Replace as necessary.XX
Replace the engine air filter element.XXX
Replace the engine accessory drive belt.X
Replace the engine timing belt, and timing belt tensioner.X
Replace the fuel filter/water separator unit.XX
Flush and replace the engine coolant/anti-freeze.X
Inspect the brake linings.XXX
Inspect the manual transmission fluid, add if necessary.X
Drain and refill the automatic transmission fluid. Replace main sump filter and spin-on cooler return filter (if equipped).X
Inspect the transfer case fluid, add if necessary.XXX
Drain and refill the front and rear axle fluid.XXX

<-- Applies only if vehicle is used for frequent trailer towing, or fleet/commercial service.

Inspection and service should be performed anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.

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.

WARNINGIf the gross trailer weight (GTW) is 3,500 lbs. (1 587 kg) or more, it is mandatory to use a weight-distributing hitch to ensure stable handling of your vehicle. If you use a standard weight- carrying hitch, you could lose control of your vehicle and cause an accident.

Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)

The gross combination weight rating (GCWR) is the total permissible weight of your vehicle and trailer when weighed in combination. (Note that GCWR ratings include a 150 lbs (68 kg) allowance for the presence of a driver).

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.

WARNINGIt 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 system 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 manufacturers' 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 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.

WARNINGAn improperly adjusted Weight Distributing Hitch system may reduce handling, stability, braking performance, and could result in an accident. Weight Distributing Systems may not be compatible with Surge Brake Couplers. Consult with your hitch and trailer manufacturer or a reputable Recreational Vehicle dealer for additional information.

Scheme 10

Scheme 10

Scheme 11

Scheme 11

Trailer Hitch Classification

The rear bumper is intended to tow trailers up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without added equipment or alterations to the standard equipment. 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 the Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings) chart below for the Max. GTW towable for your given drivetrain.

Trailer Hitch Classification
ClassMax. GTW (Gross Trailer Wt.)
Class I - Light Duty2,000 lbs (907 kg)
Class II - Medium Duty3,500 lbs (1587 kg)
Class III - Heavy Duty5,000 lbs (2268 kg)
Class IV - Extra Heavy Duty10,000 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/TransmissionModelGCWR (Gross Combined Wt. Rating)Frontal AreaMax. GTW (Gross Trailer Wt.)Tongue Wt. (See Note)
3.7L/6-Speed Manual4x28,500 lbs (3 855 kg)40 Sq. Ft. (3.72 square meters)3,500 lbs (1 587 kg)350 lbs (159 kg)
3.7L/6-Speed Manual4x48,750 lbs (3 969 kg)40 Sq. Ft. (3.72 square meters)3,500 lbs (1 587 kg)350 lbs (159 kg)
3.7L/Automatic4x27,150 lbs (3 243 kg)32 Sq. Ft. (2.97 square meters)2,000 lbs (907 kg)200 lbs (91 kg)
3.7L/Automatic4x47,400 lbs (3 356 kg)32 Sq. Ft. (2.97 square meters)2,000 lbs (907 kg)200 lbs (91 kg)
3.7L/Automatic w/ Cooler4x29,850 lbs (4 468 kg)64 Sq. Ft. (5.94 square meters)3,500 lbs (1 588 kg)350 lbs (159 kg)
3.7L/Automatic w/Cooler4x410,100 lbs (4 581 kg)64 Sq. Ft. (5.94 square meters)3,500 lbs (1 588 kg)350 lbs (159 kg)
4.0L/Automatic4x27,150 lbs (3 243 kg)32 Sq. Ft. (2.97 square meters)2,000 lbs (907 kg)200 lbs (91 kg)
4.0L/Automatic4x47,400 lbs (3 356 kg)32 Sq. Ft. (2.97 square meters)2,000 lbs (907 kg)200 lbs (91 kg)
4.0L/Automatic w/ Cooler4x29,850 lbs (4 468 kg)64 Sq. Ft. (5.94 square meters)3,500 lbs (1 588 kg)350 lbs (159 kg)
4.0L/Automatic w/ Cooler4x410,100 lbs (4 581 kg)64 Sq. Ft. (5.94 square meters)3,500 lbs (1 588 kg)350 lbs (159 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.

When Towing Trailers with Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) between 3,500 lbs (1 588 kg) and 5,000 lbs (2 268 kg)

The following chart provides maximum trailer weight ratings towable for the following engine/transmission combinations, ONLY if using a weight distributing hitch.

Engine/TransmissionModelGCWR (Gross Combined Wt. Rating)Frontal AreaMax. GTW (Gross Trailer Wt.)Tongue Wt. (See Note)
3.7L/Automatic w/ Cooler4x29,850 lbs (4 468 kg)64 Sq. Ft. (5.94 square meters)5,000 lbs (2 268 kg)500 lbs (227 kg)
3.7L/Automatic w/Cooler4x410,100 lbs (4 581 kg)64 Sq. Ft. (5.94 square meters)5,000 lbs (2 268 kg)500 lbs (227 kg)
4.0L/Automatic w/ Cooler4x29,850 lbs (4 468 kg)64 Sq. Ft. (5.94 square meters)5,000 lbs (2 268 kg)500 lbs (227 kg)
4.0L/Automatic w/ Cooler4x410,100 lbs (4 581 kg)64 Sq. Ft. (5.94 square meters)5,000 lbs (2 268 kg)500 lbs (227 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 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 12

Scheme 12: Trailer and Tongue Weight

Consider the following items when computing the weight on the rear axle of the vehicle

  1. The tongue weight of the trailer.
  2. The weight of any other type of cargo or equipment put in or on your vehicle.
  3. 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 for the maximum combined weight of occupants and cargo for your vehicle.

Towing Requirements

To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle drivetrain components the following guidelines are recommended

CAUTIONAvoid 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.

WARNINGImproper 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.
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. GCWR must not be exceeded.
  5. 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

  1. Do not attempt to tow a trailer while using a compact spare tire.
  2. Proper tire inflation pressures are essential to the safe and satisfactory operation of your vehicle.
  3. Also, check the trailer tires for proper tire inflation pressures before trailer usage.
  4. Check for signs of tire wear or visible tire damage before towing a trailer. Refer to «DESCRIPTION»(ref-306141-S33147323572008120900000) on Tread Wear Indicators for the proper inspection procedure.
  5. When replacing tires, refer to «DESCRIPTION»(ref-306141-S33147323572008120900000) 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers over 1,000 lbs (454 kg) and required for trailers in excess of 2,000 lbs (907 kg).
CAUTIONIf 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.
WARNINGDo 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.

Note. 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 - TOW/HAUL (If Equipped)

To reduce potential for automatic transmission overheating, press the "TOW HAUL" button when driving in hilly areas or shift the transmission to Drive position 2 on more severe grades. Refer to Towing Tips under Trailer Towing in Owner's Manual.

Towing Tips - Electronic Speed Control (If Equipped)

  1. Don't use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
  2. 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.
  3. Use speed control in flat terrain and with light loads to maximize fuel efficiency.

Towing Tips - Cooling System

To reduce potential for engine and transmission overheating, take the following actions

  1. City Driving - When stopped for short periods of time, put transmission in neutral and increase engine idle speed.
  2. Highway Driving - Reduce speed.
  3. Air Conditioning - Turn off temporarily.
  4. refer to «COOLING»(ref-306154) for more information.