2009 Mazda CX-9 Owner's Manual - Page 162
2009 Mazda CX-9 Manual
Page 162 highlights
Before Driving Your Mazda Towing qSafety Chains Safety chains must be used as a precautionary measure should the trailer become unintentionally unhitched. They should cross under the trailer tongue and attach to the hitch. Leave enough slack to allow full turns. Consult literature published by your trailer or hitch manufacturer for more details. WARNING Make sure the safety chain is securely attached to both the trailer and the vehicle prior to departure: Towing a trailer without using a safety chain securely attached to both the trailer and the vehicle is dangerous. If damage occurs to the coupling unit or hitch ball, the trailer could wander into another lane and cause a collision. qTrailer Lights Trailer lights must comply with all federal, state, and local regulations. Equip your trailer as required before towing it day or night. CAUTION Do not connect a trailer lighting system directly to the lighting system of your Mazda. This may damage your vehicle's electrical system and lighting systems. Have a recreational vehicle dealer or trailer rental agency connect the system, and inspect the brake lights and turn signals yourself before each trip. qTrailer Brakes If the total trailer weight exceeds 450 kg (1,000 lb), trailer brakes are required. If your trailer has brakes, make sure they comply with all federal, state, and local regulations. WARNING Do not connect a hydraulic trailer-brake system to your vehicle's brake system: Connecting a hydraulic trailer-brake system directly to the vehicle brake system is dangerous and will result in inadequate braking and possible injury. qTrailer Towing Tips l l l Verify that your Mazda maintains a near-normal attitude when a loaded or unloaded trailer is connected. Do not drive if it has an abnormal front-up or front-down position. Inspect for incorrect tongue load, worn suspension parts, and trailer overloading. Make sure the trailer is properly loaded and the cargo is secure to prevent it from shifting. Make sure the mirrors conform to all government regulations. If they do not, install required rear view mirrors appropriate for towing purposes. 4-18