How to Know if a Vehicle is Set Up for a Trailer

One of the primary ways to tell if your vehicle is equipped to tow a trailer is to see if there is a trailer hitch on the back. Although this is the most obvious way to tell, there are other things that you should check to make sure that it is ready to safely and legally tow a trailer.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Locate your Owner's Manual for the vehicle and find the specifications about towing capacities for your vehicle. There will be a load capacity listed. Do not attempt to tow a load larger than the capacity listed or you may damage the vehicle and could possibly create a dangerous situation.

2. Check to make sure the vehicle is equipped with a tow hitch. If not, you will need to have one installed. The dealership or your local mechanic can perform the installation.

3. Look for wiring to run the lights of the trailer. This will usually be contained in an electrical connector near the rear bumper. You should also check at the fuse box to make sure the wiring exists and is working.

4. Make sure your mirrors on the tow vehicle allow the driver to see the rear of the trailer. To tow a trailer safely, the driver must be able to see behind the vehicle and if at all possible to see both sides of the trailer. This is extremely important when backing the trailer.

5. Inspect for wiring that will allow control of the trailer brakes if it is equipped with brakes. Larger trailers that are very heavy come equipped with their own brakes to aid in stopping and don't rely on the towing vehicle to perform all the braking for the vehicle and trailer.