Towing Trailers - Abarth 2014 500 Owner's Manual

CONDITIONS OF USE
Cold starting
Short journeys and frequent cold starts
do not allow the engine to reach
optimum operating temperature. This
results in a significant increase in
consumption levels (from +15 to +30%
on the urban cycle) and emissions.
Traffic and road
conditions
High fuel consumption is caused by
heavy traffic, for instance when
travelling in a queue with frequent use
of low gears or in cities with many traffic
lights. Winding mountain roads and
rough road surfaces also adversely
affect consumption.
Stops in traffic
During prolonged hold-ups (e.g. level
crossings) switch off the engine.

TOWING TRAILERS

IMPORTANT
INFORMATION
For towing caravans or trailers the car
must be fitted with a certified tow hook
and an adequate electrical system.
Installation should be carried out by
specialised personnel who will issue the
required papers for travelling on roads.
Install any specific and/or additional
door mirrors as specified by the
Highway Code.
Remember that when towing a trailer,
steep hills are harder to climb, braking
distances increase and overtaking
takes longer depending on the overall
weight of the trailer.
Engage a low gear when driving
downhill, rather than constantly using
the brake.
The weight the trailer exerts on the car
tow hook reduces the car's loading
capacity by the same amount. To make
sure that the maximum towable weight
is not exceeded (given in the car
registration document) account should
be taken of the fully laden trailer,
including accessories and luggage.
Respect the speed limits specific to
each country for vehicles towing
trailers.
In any case, the top speed must not
exceed 100 km/h.
94) 95)
WARNING
94) The ABS with which the car is
equipped will not control the
braking system of the trailer.
Particular caution is therefore
required on slippery surfaces.
95) Never modify the braking system
of the car to control the trailer
brake. The trailer braking system
must be fully independent of
the car's hydraulic system.
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