Trailer Towing General Towing Information; Driving Characteristics And Towing Tips - Cadillac XT4 Owner's Manual

274 DRIVING AND OPERATING
Warning (Continued)
Keep sparks, flames, and
smoking materials away
from fuel.
Avoid using electronic devices
while filling fuel.
Trailer Towing
General Towing
Information
Only use towing equipment that has
been designed for the vehicle. Contact
your retailer or trailer retailer for
assistance with preparing the vehicle
to tow a trailer. Read the entire
section before towing a trailer.
To tow a disabled vehicle, see Towing
the Vehicle 0 349.
Driving Characteristics and
Towing Tips
Warning
You can lose control when towing a
trailer if the correct equipment is
not used or the vehicle is not driven
properly. For example, if the trailer
is too heavy or the trailer brakes are
inadequate for the load, the vehicle
may not stop as expected. You and
others could be seriously injured.
The vehicle may also be damaged,
and the repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Pull a trailer only if all the steps in
this section have been followed. Ask
your dealer for advice and
information about towing a trailer
with the vehicle.
Driving with a Trailer
Trailering is different than just driving
the vehicle by itself. Trailer towing
means changes in handling,
acceleration, braking, durability, and
fuel economy. Successful, safe
trailering takes correct equipment,
and it has to be used properly.
The following information has many
time-tested, important trailering tips
and safety rules. Many of these are
important for your safety and that of
your passengers. Read this section
carefully before pulling a trailer.
When towing a trailer:
Become familiar with and follow all
state and local laws that apply to
trailer towing. These requirements
vary from state to state.
State laws may require the use of
extended side view mirrors. Even if
not required, you should install
extended side view mirrors if your
visibility is limited or restricted
while towing.
Do not tow a trailer during the first
800 km (500 mi) of vehicle use to
prevent damage to the engine, axle,
or other parts.
It is recommended to perform the
first oil change before heavy towing.