2011 Ford Taurus Owner Guide 3rd Printing - Page 233
2011 Ford Taurus Manual
Page 233 highlights
Tires, Wheels and Loading WARNING: Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer weight exceeds the limit of the vehicle and could result in engine damage, transmission damage, structural damage, loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and personal injury. Preparing to tow Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer and make sure it is properly attached to your vehicle. Contact your authorized dealer or a reliable trailer dealer as soon as possible if you require assistance. Hitches Do not use a hitch that clamps onto the vehicle's bumper; use a load-carrying hitch. You must distribute the load in your trailer so that 10-15% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue. Safety chains Always connect the trailer's safety chains to the frame or hook retainers of the vehicle hitch. To connect the trailer's safety chains, cross the chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners. If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency gives to you. Do not attach safety chains to the bumper. Trailer brakes Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type trailer brakes are safe if installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer's specifications. The trailer brakes must meet local and Federal regulations. WARNING: Do not connect a trailer's hydraulic brake system directly to your vehicle's brake system. Your vehicle may not have enough braking power and your chances of having a collision greatly increase. WARNING: Do not operate Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) when towing a trailer equipped with brakes. Aftermarket trailer brakes will not function properly when ACC is activated, which may lead to loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of serious injury. 233 2011 Taurus Owners Guide, 3rd Printing USA (fus)