2011 Chevrolet Malibu Owner's Manual - Page 243

Driving and Operating 4. Reapply the brake pedal. Then apply the parking brake and shift into P (Park). 5. Release the brake pedal. 9-45 Maintenance When Trailer Towing The vehicle needs service more often when pulling a trailer. See this manual's Maintenance Schedule or Index for more information. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transmission fluid, engine oil, axle lubricant, belts, cooling system and brake system. Inspect these before and during the trip. Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts are tight. Trailer Towing Before pulling a trailer, there are three important considerations that have to do with weight: ... Leaving After Parking on a Hill 1. Apply and hold the brake pedal. 2. Start the engine. 3. Shift into a gear. 4. Release the parking brake. 5. Let up on the brake pedal. 6. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks. 7. Stop and have someone pick up and store the chocks. The weight of the trailer. The weight of the trailer tongue. The total weight on your vehicle's tires. Weight of the Trailer How heavy can a trailer safely be? It should never weigh more than 454 kg (1,000 lbs). But even that can be too heavy. It depends on how the rig is used. For example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside temperature and how much the vehicle is used to pull a trailer are all important. It can depend on any special equipment on the vehicle, and the amount of tongue weight the vehicle can carry. See "Weight of the Trailer Tongue" later in this section for more information. Engine Cooling When Trailer Towing The cooling system may temporarily overheat during severe operating conditions. See Engine Overheating on page 10‑20.