Towing Tips - Jeep 2012 Compass Owner's Manual

376 STARTING AND OPERATING

Towing Tips

Before setting out on a trip, practice turning, stopping
and backing the trailer in an area away from heavy
traffic.
Manual Transmission – If Equipped
If using a manual transmission vehicle for trailer towing,
all starts must be in first gear to avoid excessive clutch
slippage.
Automatic Transmission – If Equipped
The automatic transmission fluid and filter should be
changed if you REGULARLY tow a trailer for more than
45 minutes of continuous operation. Refer to "Mainte-
nance Schedule" for the proper maintenance intervals.
Electronic Speed Control – If Equipped
− Do not use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
− When using the speed control, if you experience speed
drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h), disengage until
you can get back to cruising speed.
− Use speed control in flat terrain and with light loads to
maximize fuel efficiency.
Cooling System
To reduce the potential for engine and transmission
overheating, take the following actions:
− City Driving
When stopped for short periods of time, shift the trans-
mission into NEUTRAL but do not increase engine idle
speed.
− Highway Driving
Reduce speed.
− Air Conditioning
Turn off temporarily.