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Start the engine.
X
Vehicles with the AIRMATIC package:
X
select highway level and set ADS to
AUTO or COMF.
Switch off the engine.
X
Close all doors and the tailgate.
X
Couple up the trailer.
X
Establish all electrical connections.
X
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The vehicle's wiring harness features a
cable connection to the brake indicator
lamp.
i
Vehicles with the AIRMATIC package:
with a trailer attached, the vehicle will
always remain at highway level. When
coupling up a trailer, please observe the
following:
Unless highway level has been set
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manually, the vehicle automatically
lowers to highway level when it reaches
a speed of 5 mph (8 km/h).
High-speed level is not available.
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These restrictions apply to all accessories
powered through a connection to the trailer
power socket of your vehicle, e.g. a bicycle
carrier.
Observe the maximum permissible trailer
dimensions (width and length).
Most U.S. states and all Canadian provinces
require by law:
safety chains between the towing vehicle
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and the trailer. The chains should be cross-
wound under the trailer drawbar. They must
be fastened to the vehicle's trailer
coupling, not to the bumper or the axle.
Allow for enough play in the chains to
facilitate turning tight corners.
a separate brake system for certain types
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of trailer.
a safety switch for braked trailers. Check
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the specific legal requirements applicable
to your state.
Towing a trailer
If the trailer detaches from the towing
vehicle, the safety switch applies the
trailer's brakes.
Towing a trailer
There are numerous legal requirements
concerning the towing of a trailer, e.g. speed
restrictions. Make sure that your vehicle/
trailer combination complies with the local
requirements not only in your area of
residence but also at any location to which
you are traveling. The police and local
authorities can provide reliable information.
Please observe the following when towing a
trailer:
To acquaint yourself with driving with a
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trailer and with the resulting changes to
handling, you should practice cornering,
stopping and backing up in a traffic-free
location.
Before driving, check:
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Trailer tow hitch
-
Safety switch for braked trailers
-
Safety chains
-
Electrical connections
-
Lights
-
the wheels
-
Adjust the exterior mirrors to provide an
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unobstructed view of the rear section of the
trailer.
If the trailer features electronically
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controlled brakes, pull away the vehicle/
trailer combination carefully, manually
brake using the brake controller, and check
the brakes for correct function.
Secure any objects on the trailer to prevent
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the cargo from slipping when the vehicle is
in motion.
If you couple up a trailer, regularly check
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the cargo for secure fastening and make
sure that the trailer lamps and (if
applicable) the trailer brakes are
functioning correctly.
195
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