Toyota Matrix 2009 Owner's Manual page 362

CAUTION
n To avoid accident or injury
Do not exceed the trailer hitch assembly weight, gross vehicle weight,
l
gross axle weight and trailer tongue load capacities.
Never load more weight in the back than in the front of the trailer. About
l
60% of the load should be in the front half of the trailer, and the remaining
40% in the rear.
Hitches
n
Use only a hitch that conforms to the total trailer weight requirement.
l
Follow the directions supplied by the hitch manufacturer.
l
Lubricate the hitch ball with a light coat of grease.
l
l Remove the trailer hitch whenever you are not towing a trailer. After
removing the hitch, seal any mounting hole in the vehicle body to prevent
entry of any substances into the vehicle.
n When towing a trailer
If the gross trailer weight exceeds 1500 lb. (680 kg), trailer brakes are
l
required. Toyota recommends trailers with brakes that conform to all appli-
cable federal and state/provincial regulations.
Never tap into your vehicle's hydraulic system, as this will lower the vehi-
l
cle's braking effectiveness.
Never tow a trailer without using a safety chain securely attached to both
l
the trailer and the vehicle. If damage occurs to the coupling unit or hitch
ball, there is danger of the trailer wandering into another lane.
2-5. Driving information
2
151