2006 Lexus LS 430 Owners Manual - Page 170

2-5. Driving information NOTICE n When installing a trailer hitch l Use only the position recommended by your Lexus 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 Lexus recommends trailers with brakes that conform to any applicable federal and state/provincial requlations. n Do not directly splice trailer lights Direct splicing may damage your vehicle's electrical system and cause a malfunction. Trailer towing tips Your vehicle will handle differently when towing a trailer. The three main causes of vehicle-trailer accidents are driver error, excessive speed and improper trailer loading. Keep these in mind when towing. • Before starting out, check the trailer's lights and the vehicle-trailer connections. Recheck after driving a short distance. • 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. • Reversing with a trailer attached is difficult and requires practice. Grip the bottom of the steering wheel and move your hand to the left to move the trailer to the left. Move your hand to the right to move the trailer to the right. (This is generally opposite to reversing without a trailer attached.) Avoid sharp or prolonged turning. Have someone guide you when reversing to reduce the risk of an accident. 156