Hyundai Santa Cruz: Trailer Towing / Maintenance when Towing a Trailer

Your vehicle will need service more often when you regularly pull a trailer. Important items to pay particular attention to include engine oil, transmission fluid, axle lubricant and cooling system fluid. Brake condition is another important item to frequently check. If you’re trailering, it’s a good idea to review these items before you start your trip. Don’t forget to also maintain your trailer and hitch. Follow the maintenance schedule that accompanied your trailer and check it periodically. Preferably, conduct the check at the start of each day’s driving. Most importantly, all hitch nuts and bolts should be tight.

NOTICE

To prevent vehicle damage:

• Due to higher load during trailer usage, overheating might occur on hot days or during uphill driving. If the coolant gauge indicates over-heating, switch off the air conditioner and stop the vehicle in a safe area to cool down the engine.
• Do not switch off the engine while the coolant gauge indicates overheating. (Keep the engine idle to cool down the engine)
• When towing check transmission fluid more frequently.
• If your vehicle is not equipped with an air conditioner, you should install a condenser fan to improve engine performance when towing a trailer.