Mastering Safe Trailering: Six Essential Tips From Brookings Auto Mall

Are you gearing up for an adventure, ready to hit the road with a camper in tow or a boat hitched up behind you? Before you embark on your journey, it’s essential to prioritize safety. At Brookings Auto Mall, we’re not just about providing top-notch vehicles; we’re also committed to ensuring your adventures are as safe as they are exciting. Here are six important tips to keep in mind for safe trailering and towing:

Know Your Limits

Your vehicle’s towing capacity isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a critical factor in ensuring safe towing. Exceeding this limit can lead to hazardous handling, compromised braking, and potential damage to your vehicle. Take the time to review your vehicle’s towing capacity, ensuring it aligns with the weight of your trailer. Don’t forget to check your owner’s manual or our latest towing guide for specifics.When you visit Brookings Auto Mall, explore our lineup of Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC trucks designed to handle towing with ease. Our knowledgeable staff can guide you to the perfect vehicle for your towing needs.

Pack with Precision

Properly distributing the weight in your trailer is essential for stability on the road. Aim to have around 60% of the load in the front half of the trailer, and maintain a tongue weight between 10-15% of the total trailer weight. Secure all cargo to prevent shifting during transit, ensuring even distribution from side to side.

Check Your Tires

Before hitting the road, inspect the tires on both your tow vehicle and trailer. Proper inflation is key to optimal handling and fuel efficiency. Don’t forget to check the spare tires as well. And if you’re embarking on a longer journey, consider inspecting your trailer’s hub bearings for added peace of mind.

Illuminate Your Path

Ensure all lights on your trailer are in working order, including tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals. These lights are crucial for visibility, especially at night or in adverse weather conditions. A quick pre-trip check can prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road.

Mind Your Brakes

Larger trailers or heavier loads often require trailer brakes for safe stopping power. Make sure your trailer brake system is functioning correctly and that the emergency “breakaway” cable is properly attached to your tow vehicle. This safety feature could make all the difference in the event of a hitch failure.

Mirror, Mirror

Adjust your side view mirrors to provide a clear view extending to the end of your trailer. If needed, consider mirrors specifically designed for towing, which can extend to improve visibility and enhance safety.

At Brookings Auto Mall, we’re not just here to sell vehicles; we’re here to make sure your adventures are safe and enjoyable. Visit us today to explore our selection of Chevy and GMC trucks perfectly suited for towing, and let’s make your next journey a memorable one—for all the right reasons. Safe travels!