2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara Owner's Manual - Page 242

Trailer Towing: 5, 11, 13 VEHICLE LOADING AND TOWING Additional Trailer Towing Warnings WARNING Never overload your trailer or your vehicle. Gross Trailer Weight must never exceed 1350 kg (3000 pounds). Gross Combined Weight must never exceed 3400 kg (7500 pounds) for 2WD or 3450 kg (7600 pounds) for 4WD. Gross vehicle weight must never exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) listed on the Safety Certification Label. Gross axle weight for the front and rear axles must not exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed on the Safety Certification Label. WARNING WARNING Connect trailer lights and hook up safety chains every time you tow. (Continued) • Allow adequate stopping distance. Stopping distance is increased when you tow a trailer. For each 16 km/h (10 mph) of speed, allow at least one vehicle and trailer length between you and the vehicle ahead. Follow at a greater distance if roads are wet or slippery. • Slow down when making turns. Remember that a larger than normal turning radius is needed because the trailer wheels will be closer than the vehicle wheels to the inside of the turn. • Avoid sudden acceleration and stopping of the vehicle. Do not make quick maneuvers unless they are necessary. • Slow down in cross winds and be prepared for wind blasts from large passing vehicles. • Be careful when passing other vehicles. Be sure to allow enough room for your trailer before you change lanes, and signal well in advance. • Slow down and shift into a lower gear before you reach long or steep downhill grades. It is hazardous to attempt downshifting while you are descending a hill. (Continued) WARNING Your vehicle will handle differently when towing a trailer. For your safety and the safety of others, you should observe the following precautions: • Practice turning, stopping and backing up before you begin towing in traffic. Do not tow in traffic until you are confident that you can handle the vehicle and trailer safely. • Never exceed posted towing speed limits or 72 km/h (45 mph), whichever is lower. • Never drive at a speed that causes shaking or swaying of the trailer. If you notice even the slightest sign of shaking or swaying, slow down. • Always have someone guide you when backing. (Continued) WARNING Do not tow a trailer having a gross trailer weight greater than 450 kg (1000 pounds) unless the trailer is equipped with trailer brakes. 6-5 79K21-03E