Saturn 2009 VUE Hybrid User Manual

Page 217

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CAUTION

(Continued)

Adjust the Climate Control
system to a setting that
brings in only outside air and
set the fan speed to the
highest setting. See Climate
Control System in the Index.

For more information about
carbon monoxide, see Engine
Exhaust
on page 2-26.

Towing a trailer requires a certain
amount of experience. Get to know
the rig before setting out for the open
road. Get acquainted with the feel of
handling and braking with the added
weight of the trailer. And always keep
in mind that the vehicle you are
driving is now longer and not as
responsive as the vehicle is by itself.

Before starting, check all trailer
hitch parts and attachments, safety
chains, electrical connectors,
lamps, tires and mirror adjustments.

If the trailer has electric brakes,
start the vehicle and trailer moving
and then apply the trailer brake
controller by hand to be sure
the brakes are working. This checks
the electrical connection at the
same time.

During the trip, check occasionally
to be sure that the load is secure,
and that the lamps and any
trailer brakes are still working.

Following Distance

Stay at least twice as far behind
the vehicle ahead as you would
when driving the vehicle without
a trailer. This can help to avoid
situations that require heavy
braking and sudden turns.

Passing

More passing distance is needed
when towing a trailer. Because
the rig is longer, it is necessary
to go much farther beyond the
passed vehicle before returning
to the lane.

Backing Up

Hold the bottom of the steering
wheel with one hand. Then, to move
the trailer to the left, move that
hand to the left. To move the trailer
to the right, move your hand to
the right. Always back up slowly
and, if possible, have someone
guide you.

Making Turns

Notice: Making very sharp turns
while trailering could cause
the trailer to come in contact with
the vehicle. The vehicle could
be damaged. Avoid making very
sharp turns while trailering.

When turning with a trailer, make
wider turns than normal. Do this
so the trailer will not strike soft
shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees
or other objects. Avoid jerky or
sudden maneuvers. Signal well in
advance.

Driving Your Vehicle

4-31

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