2008 Honda Element Owner's Manual - Page 177

Main Menu Table Of Contents Towing a Trailer Your vehicle has been designed primarily to carry passengers and their cargo. You can also use it to tow a trailer if you carefully observe the load limits, use the proper equipment, and follow the guidelines in this section. Be sure to read the Driving OffHighway Guidelines section on page 179 if you plan to tow off paved surfaces. Total Trailer Weight: The maximum allowable weight of the trailer and everything in or on it must not exceed 1,500 lbs (680 kg). Towing a trailer that is too heavy can seriously affect your vehicle's handling and performance. It can also damage the engine and drivetrain. Tongue Load: The weight that the tongue of a fully-loaded trailer puts on the hitch should be approximately 10 % of the total trailer weight. Too much tongue load reduces front-tire traction and steering control. Too little tongue load can make the trailer unstable and cause it to sway. CONTINUED Load Limits Driving Exceeding any load limit or improperly loading your vehicle and trailer can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed. Check the loading of your vehicle and trailer carefully before starting to drive. 173 2008 Element