Towing with a rope

1. For vehicles with automatic transmission check the automatic transmission fluid level. (Refer to “Automatic transmission fluid” on page 9–4.) If the fluid level is low, transport the vehicle with all wheels off the ground.

CAUTION

If the vehicle is out of automatic transmission fluid, the transmission could be damaged.

2. The towing hooks (A) are located as shown in the illustrations. Attach the tow rope to the towing hooks.

NOTE

(1) Using any part other than the designated towing hooks (A) could result in damage to vehicle body.
(2) Use care that the towing rope is kept as horizontal as possible. An angled towing rope can damage the vehicle body.
(3) Never attempt to tow out a ditched vehicle because the towing rope cannot be kept horizontal.

3. Turn the ignition switch to the “ACC” or “ON” position to unlock the steering wheel.

CAUTION

(1) As the engine is not running, the brake booster and power steering pump do not operate. This means higher brake depression force and higher steering effort are required. Therefore vehicle operation is more difficult than usual.
(2) Do not leave the key in the “LOCK” position. If the key is removed while driving, the steering will be locked causing loss of control.

4. Turn on the hazard warning lamps.
5. Move the gearshift lever (manual transmission) or the selector lever (automatic transmission) to Neutral or the “N” position.
6. During towing make sure that close contact is maintained between the drivers of both vehicles, and that the vehicles travel at low speed. Avoid abrupt starting or stopping which might subject the vehicles to shock.

WARNING

Avoid sudden braking, sudden acceleration and sharp turning; such operation could cause damage to the towing hooks or the tow rope. People in the vicinity could be injured as a result.

CAUTION

When going down a long slope, the brakes may overheat, reducting effectiveness. Have your vehicle towed on a trailer.

NOTE

(1) Be sure the towing speed is within the legal limit. In addition, if the vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission, make sure that the towing speed and distance given below are never exceeded.

Towing speed: 50 km/h
Towing distance: 30 km

(2) When the front tow hook is used, be very careful so that the rope does not cause damage to the body.
(3) To prevent entry of exhaust gas from the towing vehicle, set the air selection lever to the recirculation position.
(4) Your vehicle should only be used to tow another vehicle if the weight of the other vehicle is less than your vehicle.