2007 Hyundai Elantra Owner's Manual - Page 228

Driving your vehicle Maintenance when trailer towing WARNING - Parking brake It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the parking brake is not firmly set. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be seriously or fatally injured. When you are ready to leave after parking on a hill 1. With the manual transaxle in Neutral or automatic transaxle in P (Park), apply your brakes and hold the brake pedal down while you: • Start your engine; • Shift into gear; and • Release the parking brake. 2. Slowly remove your foot from the brake pedal. 3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks. 4. Stop and have someone pick up and store the chocks. Your vehicle will need service more often when you regularly pull a trailer. Important items to pay particular attention to include engine oil, automatic transaxle fluid, axle lubricant and cooling system fluid. Brake condition is another important item to frequently check. Each item is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you find them quickly. If you're trailering, it's a good idea to review these sections before you start your trip. Don't forget to also maintain your trailer and hitch. Follow the maintenance schedule that accompanied your trailer and check it periodically. Preferably, conduct the check at the start of each day's driving. Most importantly, all hitch nuts and bolts should be tight. CAUTION • Due to higher load during trailer usage, overheating might occur in hot days or during uphill driving. If the coolant gauge indicates over-heating, switch off the A/C and stop the vehicle in a safe area to cool down the engine. • When towing check transaxle fluid more frequently. • If your vehicle is not equipped with the air conditioner, you should install a condenser fan to improve engine performance when towing a trailer. 5 43