2013 Honda Accord Owner's Manual - Page 424

Towing a Trailer Towing Preparation ■ Towing Load Limits Your vehicle can tow a trailer if you carefully observe the load limits, use the proper equipment, and follow the towing guidelines. Check the load limits before driving. 1 Towing Load Limits 2013 Accord Sedan QRG 3 WARNING Exceeding any load limit or improperly loading your vehicle and trailer can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed. Check the loading of your vehicle and trailer carefully before starting to drive. Check if all loads are within limits at a public scale. If a public scale is not available, add the estimated weight of your cargo load to the weight of your trailer (as quoted by the manufacturer), and the tongue load. Break-in Period Avoid towing a trailer during your vehicle's first 600 miles (1,000 km). Never exceed the gross weight ratings. Gross weight information 2 Vehicle Specifications P. 570 P. 572 ■ Total trailer weight Maximum allowable weight of the trailer, cargo, and everything in or on it must not exceed 1,000 lbs (450 kg). Towing loads in excess of this can seriously affect vehicle handling and performance and can damage the engine and drivetrain. Total Load ■ Tongue load The weight of the tongue with a fully loaded trailer on the hitch should be approximately 10% of the total trailer weight. • Excessive tongue load reduces front tire traction and steering control. Too little tongue load can make the trailer unstable and cause it to sway. Tongue Ton gue Load Load TOC Driving • To achieve a proper tongue load, start by loading 60% of the load toward the front of the trailer and 40% toward the rear. Readjust the load as needed. Index Home Continued 423