There are a number of points which need to be checked before towing a trailer or caravan.
Vehicles with adaptive air suspension*: Before hitching up a trailer, make sure that the auto mode is selected and the Raise function is not activated.
To activate the auto mode, select the following on the infotainment system: Function selector button CAR > auto.
To lower the vehicle, select the following on the infotainment system: Function selector button CAR > control button Lower.
Observe the maximum permitted trailer weights ►Link.
Trailer weights
Never exceed the maximum permitted trailer weights.
If you do not load the trailer up to the maximum permitted trailer weight, you can then climb correspondingly steeper gradients.
The maximum trailer weights listed are only applicable for altitudes up to 1000 m above sea level. With increasing altitude the engine power and therefore the car's climbing ability are impaired because of the reduced air density, so the maximum trailer weight has to be reduced accordingly. The weight of the car and trailer must be reduced by 10% for every further 1000 m (or part thereof). This figure refers to the combined weight of the (loaded) vehicle and (loaded) trailer.
The figures for the draw bar weight that appear on the identification plate of the towing bracket are for certification purposes only. The correct figures for your specific model, which may be lower than these figures for the towing bracket, are given in the registration documents and in ►Link.
Drive select settings (adaptive air suspension)*
Ensure that the suspension is at the normal height level before hitching up a trailer and before adjusting the draw bar weight. The auto or comfort mode must be selected ►Link, Caution! and the Raise function must not be activated.
If you have to drive on a rough surface, you can raise the vehicle again after hitching up the trailer and adjusting the draw bar weight ►Link.
Distributing the load
Distribute loads in the trailer so that heavy objects are as near to the axle as possible. Loads carried in the trailer must be secured to prevent them slipping. A badly distributed load can also affect handling. This can activate the trailer stabilisation* feature and cause the vehicle to reduce speed.
Where possible, operate the trailer with the maximum permitted draw bar weight on the ball joint of the towing bracket, but do not exceed the specified limit.
Tyre pressure
Check the tyre pressures on your car, and adjust for "full load" conditions (refer to the sticker listing the tyre pressures inside the driver's door). It may also be necessary to adjust the tyre pressures on the trailer according to the recommendations of the trailer manufacturer.
Exterior mirrors
Check whether you can see enough of the road behind the trailer with the standard mirrors. If this is not the case you should have additional mirrors fitted. Both exterior mirrors should be mounted on hinged extension brackets. Adjust the mirrors to give sufficient vision to the rear.
Headlights
The headlight beam settings will be adjusted automatically by the headlight range control system.
Power supply
When you switch off the ignition, the power supply to the trailer is not interrupted as long as the energy management system does not intervene.
Vehicles with adaptive air suspension*:
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The height of the parked vehicle can change as a result of variations in temperature and loading.
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Always select auto or comfort mode and make sure the Raise function is deactivated; otherwise the drawbar weight specification for your vehicle will no longer apply.
Note
We recommend having the car serviced between the normal inspection intervals if it used frequently for towing a trailer.