2007 Saab 9-3 Owner's Manual - Page 188

188 Starting and driving Trailer hitch attachment 3 Trailer hitch attachments are available as accessories. These are designed for a maximum trailer weight of 3500 lbs (1588 kg), with trailer brakes. An electrical connection 3 for the towbar and an electrical unit are provided in the electrical centre on the left-hand side of the luggage compartment. If the car has a 13-pin Saab genuine electrical socket then it is possible to supply a trailer/caravan with rear fog lights and reversing lights. The caravan can also have interior and exterior lighting even when the car's ignition is switched off. In which case, remember not to load the battery for too long so that it is discharged and prevents the car from starting. There is also access to power in the caravan during a journey, the caravan battery can be charged for example. Also, if the car has SPA, this is deactivated automatically if a trailer is hitched up and correctly connected to the Saab genuine trailer socket. Saab recommendations: • Use a genuine Saab trailer hitch that is designed and tested for your Saab. • Contact your Saab dealer for advice on which trailer hitch is designed for your car. Towing a trailer 3 WARNING • Do not drive with a trailer on inclines steeper than 15 %. The load on the drive (front) wheels will be so low that the wheels can start to spin and prevent further progress. • In addition, the car's parking brake may not always be sufficient to hold the car and trailer securely, as the wheels may start to slide. • Always apply the trailer's parking brake when unhitching it. There is otherwise a risk of personal injury or damage to the bumper should the trailer start to roll. • When you hitch up the trailer be sure to attach its safety chains to the holes by the hitch. Make sure you are familiar with the legal requirements regarding speed limits for towing, maximum trailer weights, trailer braking requirements, and also any special driving licence provisions.