2009 Toyota Matrix Owners Manual - Page 398

2-5. Driving information CAUTION n To avoid accident or injury l Do not exceed the trailer hitch assembly weight, gross vehicle weight, gross axle weight and trailer tongue load capacities. l Never load more weight in the back than in the front of the trailer. About 60% of the load should be in the front half of the trailer, and the remaining 40% in the rear. n Hitches l Use only a hitch that conforms to the total trailer weight requirement. When driving 2 l Follow the directions supplied by the hitch manufacturer. l Lubricate the hitch ball with a light coat of grease. l Remove the trailer hitch whenever you are not towing a trailer. After removing the hitch, seal any mounting hole in the vehicle body to prevent entry of any substances into the vehicle. n When towing a trailer l If the gross trailer weight exceeds 1500 lb. (680 kg), trailer brakes are required. Toyota recommends trailers with brakes that conform to all applicable federal and state/provincial regulations. l Never tap into your vehicle's hydraulic system, as this will lower the vehicle's braking effectiveness. l Never tow a trailer without using a safety chain securely attached to both the trailer and the vehicle. If damage occurs to the coupling unit or hitch ball, there is danger of the trailer wandering into another lane. 151