2009 Toyota Corolla Owners Manual - Page 427

2-5. Driving information NOTICE n When installing a trailer hitch l Use only the position recommended by your Toyota dealer. Do not install the trailer hitch on the bumper; this may cause body damage. l Do not use axle-mounted hitches, as they can cause damage to the axle housing, wheel bearings, wheels or tires. n Brakes Toyota recommends trailers with brakes that conform to all applicable federal and state/provincial regulations. n Safety chain A safety chain must always be used between the towing vehicle and the trailer. Leave sufficient slack in the chain for turns. The chain should cross under the trailer tongue to prevent the tongue from dropping to the ground in the case that it becomes damaged or separated. For the correct safety chain installation procedure, ask your Toyota dealer. n Do not directly splice trailer lights Directly splicing trailer lights may damage your vehicle's electrical system and cause a malfunction. Trailer towing tips Your vehicle will handle differently when towing a trailer. The 3 main causes of vehicle-trailer accidents are driver error, excessive speed and improper trailer loading. Keep the following in mind when towing. l Before starting out, check the trailer lights and the vehicle-trailer connections. Recheck after driving a short distance. l Practice turning, stopping and reversing with the trailer attached in an area away from traffic until you become accustomed to the feel of the vehicle. 174