Lexus RX 450h Owner's Manual page 244

242 4-1. Before driving
Trailer lights
■
Check that the turn signal lights and stop-
●
lights are operating correctly every time
you hitch up the trailer. Directly wiring up
to your vehicle may damage the electri-
cal system and stop the lights from func-
tioning correctly.
Please consult your dealer when install-
●
ing trailer lights, as incorrect installation
may cause damage to the vehicle's lights.
Please take care to comply with your
state's laws when installing trailer lights.
Break-in schedule
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Lexus recommends that vehicles fitted with
new power train components should not be
used for towing trailers for the first 800 km
(500 miles).
Safety checks before towing
■
Check that the maximum load limit for
●
the towing hitch/bracket hitch ball is not
exceeded. Bear in mind that the coupling
weight of the trailer will add to the load
exerted on the vehicle. Also make sure
that the total load exerted on the vehicle
is within the range of the weight limits.
(P.243)
Ensure that the trailer load is secure.
●
Supplementary outside rear view mirrors
●
should be added to the vehicle if the traf-
fic behind cannot be clearly seen with
standard mirrors. Adjust the extending
arms of these mirrors on both sides of the
vehicle so that they always provide maxi-
mum visibility of the road behind.
Maintenance
■
Maintenance must be performed more
●
frequently when using the vehicle for
towing due to the greater weight burden
placed on the vehicle compared to nor-
mal driving.
Retighten all bolts securing the hitching
●
ball and bracket after towing for approxi-
mately 1000 km (600 miles).
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NOTICE
When the rear bumper strengthening
■
material is aluminum
Ensure the steel bracket part does not
come directly in contact with that area.
When steel and aluminum come into
contact, there is a reaction similar to cor-
rosion, which will weaken the section
concerned and may result in damage.
Apply a rust inhibitor to parts that will
come in contact when attaching a steel
bracket.
Weight limits
Check the allowable towing capacity,
GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass), MPAC
(Maximum Permissible Axle Capac-
ity), and permissible drawbar load
before towing. (P.562)
Towing hitch/bracket
Lexus recommends the use of the
Lexus hitch/bracket for your vehicle.
Other products of a suitable nature
and comparable quality may also be
used.