Towing may seem straightforward, but even experienced drivers can make mistakes that lead to safety hazards, vehicle damage, or costly repairs. Whether you’re towing a small trailer or a heavy-duty load, avoiding these common mistakes can save you time, money, and stress. Let’s go over the most frequent towing errors and how to prevent them.
1. Exceeding Your Towing Capacity
Every vehicle has a maximum towing capacity, and exceeding it can strain your engine, transmission, and brakes. Overloading also makes it harder to control your vehicle, increasing the risk of accidents. Always check your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s guide to confirm your vehicle’s towing limits before hitching up.
2. Improperly Securing the Load
Loose or shifting loads can cause dangerous swaying and instability. Ensure your cargo is properly secured using the right straps, chains, or tie-downs. Double-check connections before starting your journey and periodically during long trips.
3. Neglecting to Check the Hitch
Your hitch is the link between your vehicle and the trailer, and a faulty or improperly secured hitch can lead to a disaster. Always use the correct hitch for your trailer type and ensure it’s locked in place before driving. Don’t forget the safety chains as a backup measure.
4. Not Distributing Weight Properly
Incorrect weight distribution can cause swaying, poor handling, and increased wear on your vehicle. The general rule is to place about 60% of the weight toward the front of the trailer. Avoid overloading one side or placing too much weight at the rear, as this can lead to fishtailing.
5. Ignoring Tire Pressure and Condition
Tires on both your vehicle and trailer should be in good condition and properly inflated. Underinflated tires generate heat, which can lead to blowouts, while overinflated tires reduce traction. Regularly inspect tire pressure and tread depth before every trip.
6. Not Allowing Enough Stopping Distance
Towing adds significant weight, increasing your stopping distance. Tailgating or braking abruptly can lead to accidents. Always maintain a safe following distance and anticipate stops early to give yourself plenty of time to slow down.
7. Forgetting to Use Extended Mirrors
Standard side mirrors may not provide a clear view around a trailer, increasing blind spots. Using extended towing mirrors improves visibility, making lane changes and reversing much safer.
8. Turning Too Sharply
Towing a trailer requires wider turns than normal driving. Turning too sharply can cause the trailer to hit curbs, poles, or even your own vehicle. Take turns slowly and give yourself extra space when maneuvering.
9. Neglecting Trailer Lights and Brakes
Trailer lights and brakes (if equipped) are essential for safety. Before driving, check that your brake lights, turn signals, and running lights are working correctly. Malfunctioning lights make it harder for other drivers to see you, increasing the risk of collisions.
10. Driving Too Fast
Speeding while towing reduces control and increases the risk of trailer sway. Most experts recommend staying below 90 km/h (55 mph) unless otherwise posted. Drive at a steady, moderate pace and avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration.
Final Thoughts
Towing safely requires preparation, awareness, and attention to detail. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a smoother, safer towing experience while protecting your vehicle, cargo, and other drivers on the road. A little extra care goes a long way!
If you are in Brunswick, Victoria 3056, and looking for an emergency tow truck service or roadside assistance Melbourne service, this is the best way to visit us.
Northern Tow Trucks
620 Canning St
Carlton North VIC 3054
(03) 7064 2500