Jeep Compass, Operating Information Manual

Page: 197 / 310

NOTE:
Remember that everything put into or on the
trailer adds to the load on your vehicle. Also,
additional
factory-installed options, or
dealer-installed options, must be consid-
ered as part of the total load on your vehicle.
Refer to the Tire and Loading Information
placard, located on the drivers door pillar,
for the maximum combined weight of occu-
pants and cargo for your vehicle.
Towing Requirements
To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle
drivetrain components the following guidelines
are recommended:
CAUTION!
•
Do not tow a trailer at all during the first
500 miles (805 km) the new vehicle is
driven. The engine, axle or other parts
could be damaged.
(Continued)
CAUTION! (Continued)
•
Then, during the first 500 miles (805 km)
that a trailer is towed, do not drive over
50 mph (80 km/h) and do not make starts
at full throttle. This helps the engine and
other parts of the vehicle wear in at the
heavier loads.
WARNING!
Improper towing can lead to an injury acci-
dent. Follow these guidelines to make your
trailer towing as safe as possible:
•
Make certain that the load is secured in the
trailer and that it will not shift during travel.
When trailering cargo that is not fully se-
cured, dynamic load shifts can occur that
may be difficult for the driver to control. You
could lose control of your vehicle and have
an accident.
•
All trailer hitches should be professionally
installed on your vehicle.
(Continued)
WARNING! (Continued)
•
When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, do
not overload your vehicle or trailer. Over-
loading can cause a loss of control, poor
performance, or damage to brakes, axle,
engine, transmission, steering, suspen-
sion, chassis structure, or tires.
•
Safety chains must always be used be-
tween your vehicle and trailer. Always con-
nect the chains to the frame or hook re-
tainers of the vehicle hitch. Cross the
chains under the trailer tongue and allow
enough slack for turning corners.
•
Vehicles with trailers should not be parked
on a grade. When parking, apply the park-
ing brake on the tow vehicle. Always, block
or
"
chock
"
the trailer wheels.
•
GCWR must not be exceeded.
(Continued)
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