2005 Toyota Highlander Owners Manual - Page 326

'05 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0409) BREAK−IN SCHEDULE PRE−TOWING SAFETY CHECK D Toyota recommends that you do not tow a trailer with a new vehicle or a vehicle with any new power train component (engine, transmission, differential, wheel bearings, etc.) for the first 800 km (500 miles) of driving. MAINTENANCE D Check that your vehicle remains level when a loaded or unloaded trailer is hitched. Do not drive if the vehicle has an abnormal nose−up or nose−down condition, and check for improper tongue load, overload, worn suspension or other possible causes. D If you tow a trailer, your vehicle will require more frequent maintenance due to the additional load. For this information, please refer to the scheduled maintenance information in the "Scheduled Maintenance Guide" or "Owner's Manual Supplement". D Make sure the trailer cargo is securely loaded so that it cannot shift. D Check that your rear view mirrors conform to any applicable federal, state/ provincial or local regulations. If not, install the rear view mirrors required for towing purposes. TRAILER TOWING TIPS When towing a trailer, your vehicle will handle differently than when not towing. The three main causes of vehicle− trailer accidents are driver error, excessive speed and improper trailer loading. Keep these in mind when towing: TRAILER LIGHTS D Your vehicle is equipped with a wire harness stored in the rear end under body. Some models are fitted with a socket for trailer lights under the rear bumper. Use either of them to connect and operate the trailer lights. However, the trailer lights must comply with federal, state/provincial and local regulations. See your local recreational vehicle dealer or rental agency for the correct type of wiring and relays for your trailer. Check for correct operation of the turn signals and stop lights each time you hitch up. Direct splicing may damage your vehicle's electrical system and cause a malfunction of your lights. D Retighten all fixing bolts of the towing ball and bracket after approximately 1000 km (600 miles) of trailer driving. D Before starting out, check operation of the lights and all vehicle−trailer connections. After driving a short distance, stop and recheck the lights and connections. Before actually towing a trailer, practice turning, stopping and backing with a trailer in an area away from traffic until you learn the feel. 326 2005 HIGHLANDER from Nov. '04 Prod. (OM48570U)