There are a number of points which need to be checked before towing a trailer or caravan.
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. Also refer to Link.
Suspension level
If your vehicle has adaptive air suspension*:
- You should select the automatic or comfort setting so that the suspension is at the Normal height level before hitching up the trailer and adjusting the draw bar weight Link.
- If you wish to use the dynamic setting while towing a trailer, this setting must be selected before hitching up the trailer and adjusting the draw bar weight. Please remember, however, that the suspension will be lowered to the Low level, and the ground clearance will be reduced accordingly.
- If you have to drive on a rough surface, you can select the offroad or lift setting after hitching up the trailer and adjusting the draw bar weight.
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 on the face of the driver's door pillar). 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
Before starting a journey, check the headlight beam settings with the trailer hitched up.
If the car is equipped with electrical headlight range control, you only need to turn the adjuster control as required, see Link.
The headlight beam settings will be adjusted automatically if your vehicle is equipped with dynamic headlight range control*.
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.
Note
- On vehicles equipped with the adaptive air suspension system* you must activate the Towing mode in the MMI Link before towing a trailer.
- We recommend having the car serviced between the normal inspection intervals if it used frequently for towing a trailer.