&
WARNING Danger of accident due to
unsuitable ball coupling
If you install an unsuitable ball coupling,
overloading of the trailer hitch and rear axle
will be the result. This is particularly the case
if the ball coupling is relatively long or angled
differently.
The handling characteristics may be heavily
impaired and the trailer can become
detached. There is a risk of fatal injury.
#
Only install a ball coupling that meets
the permitted dimensions and has been
designed for the trailer operation
requirements.
#
Do not modify the ball coupling or the
trailer hitch.
The values approved by the manufacturer can be
found on the identification plates and in the
"Technical data" section under "Trailer hitch" for
the towing vehicle (/ page 425).
&
WARNING Swerving of the vehicle/
trailer combination due to increased
speed
If the vehicle/trailer combination swerves,
you can lose control of it.
The vehicle/trailer combination can even tip
over.
#
Under no circumstances should you try
to increase the speed to straighten the
vehicle/trailer combination.
#
Reduce speed and do not counter-steer.
#
If necessary, apply the brakes.
*
NOTE Damage to the engine as a result
of overheating
#
If you retrofit a trailer hitch, modifica‐
tions to the engine cooling system may
be necessary, depending on the vehicle
model.
When retrofitting a trailer hitch, observe the
fastening points on the chassis.
Retrofitting a trailer hitch is permissible only if a
trailer load is specified in your vehicle docu‐
ments. If this is not the case, the vehicle is not
approved for trailer operation.
Further information can be obtained at a quali‐
fied specialist workshop.
If the trailer coupling is removable, it is essential
to comply with the operating instructions of the
trailer coupling manufacturer.
Couple and uncouple the trailer carefully. If you
do not connect the trailer to the towing vehicle
correctly, the trailer may become detached.
Observe the following notes on the tongue
weight:
R
Do not use a tongue weight that exceeds or
falls below the permissible tongue weight
R
Use a tongue weight as close as possible to
the maximum tongue weight
Do not exceed the following values:
R
Permissible trailer load
R
Permissible rear axle load of the towing vehi‐
cle
208
Driving and parking
