Subaru 2003 Impreza - Manual (Page 289)

IMPREZA(NA) A1850BE-A (ENGLISH)
Driving tips
8-36
safety’s sake, you should employ extra cau-
tion when towing a trailer and you should
never speed. You should also keep the follow-
ing tips in mind:
B Before starting out on a trip
D Check that the vehicle and vehicle-to-hitch mount-
ing are in good condition. If any problems are
apparent, do not tow the trailer.
D Check that the vehicle sits horizontally with the
trailer attached. If the vehicle is tipped sharply up at
the front and down at the rear, check the total trailer
weight, GVW, GAWs and tongue load again, then
confirm that the load and its distribution are accept-
able.
D Check that the tire pressures are correct.
D Check that the vehicle and trailer are connected
properly. Confirm that
– the trailer tongue is connected properly to the
hitch ball.
– the trailer lights connector is connected prop-
erly and trailer’s brake lights illuminate when the
vehicle’s brake pedal is pressed, and that the trail-
er’s turn signal lights flash when the vehicle’s turn
signal lever is operated.
– the safety chains are connected properly.
– all cargo in the trailer is secured safety in posi-
tion.
– the side mirrors provide a good rearward field of
view without a significant blind spot.
D Sufficient time should be taken to learn the “feel”
of the vehicle/trailer combination before starting out
on a trip. In an area free of traffic, practice turning,
stopping and backing up.
B Driving with a trailer
D You should allow for considerably more stopping
distance when towing a trailer. Avoid sudden brak-
ing because it may result in skidding or jackknifing
and loss of control.
D Avoid abrupt starts and sudden accelerations. If
your vehicle has a manual transmission, always start
out in first gear and release the clutch at moderate
engine revolution.
D Avoid uneven steering, sharp turns and rapid lane
changes.
D Slow down before turning. Make a longer than
normal turning radius because the trailer wheels will
be closer than the vehicle wheels to the inside of the
turn. In a tight turn, the trailer could hit your vehicle.
D Crosswinds will adversely affect the handling of
your vehicle and trailer, causing sway. Crosswinds
can be due to weather conditions or the passing of