2011 Acura MDX Owner's Manual - Page 491
2011 Acura MDX Manual
Page 491 highlights
Towing a Trailer Hitch Trailer Brakes We strongly recommend that you have your dealer install a class 3 hitch. Using non-Acura equipment may result in serious damage to your vehicle. Read the trailer manufacturer's instructions, and select the appropriate draw bar for the height of the trailer you will be towing. Weight Distributing Hitch Acura recommends that any trailer with a total trailer weight of 1,000 lbs (450 kg) or more has its own brakes. There are two common types of trailer brakes: surge and electric. Surge brakes are common for boat trailers, since the brakes will get wet. If you choose electric brakes, be sure they are electronically actuated. Do not attempt to tap into your vehicle's hydraulic system. No matter how successful it may seem, any attempt to attach trailer brakes to your vehicle's hydraulic system will lower braking effectiveness and create a potential hazard. See your trailer dealer or rental agency for more information on installing electric brakes. A 4-pin gray connector is available as an option at your dealer. This connector has all of the circuits required to install most electric trailer brake controllers. A jumper harness to adapt your electric trailer brake controller to the vehicle is included with the optional Acura Genuine trailer hitch kit. To obtain a connector and a trailer hitch kit, see your dealer. Driving A weight distributing hitch is not recommended for use with your vehicle, as an improperly adjusted weight distributing hitch may reduce handling, stability, and braking performance. Have a qualified mechanic install your trailer brake controller following the trailer brake controller manufacturer's instructions. Failure to properly install the trailer brake controller may increase the distance it takes for you to stop your vehicle when towing a trailer. CONTINUED 487 2011 MDX