subject: Tips for pulling a trailer using your new Skoda [print this page] Tips for pulling a trailer using your new Skoda
Driving using a trailer is not that taxing, however if you are not used to it then the whole experience can be a bit frightening. The number one problem is becoming comfortable with the added length of the trailer and how to tow on the road if you have a new vehicle.
So if this sounds familiar and you are going on a trip, then here are some handy guidelines to follow, in order to ensure you have a more secure road trip in your Skoda and feel more in control of your vehicle, as compiled by www.leasecar.co.uk.
1) Firstly, you need to check the manual. Most caravans or trailers have a manual or maybe just a safety label on the inside that will tell you what type of vehicle you need in order to tow it safely. You should also check the Skoda manual as you don't want to overload your Skoda's engine.
2) Then, ensure that the trailer has a hitch package. This package is a system to connect the electronics of your trailer or caravan to your car. This type of package is a necessary feature because it powers the rear lights on your trailer or caravan, ensuring that other drivers are aware that you are on the road.
3) You really should make you have a good view from your Skoda. This could involve extenders for your wing mirrors to make sure you can see behind the trailer and also give you better visibility of other road users, who may want to overtake. A serious crash could not only ruin a holiday but could also cause some serious damage, so be careful.
4) Before setting off do a safety inspection. This will ensure that everything is safe and connected correctly. It will include: checking hitch wiring is long enough to account for turns, checking the pressure of tyres, connecting the stabilizer and equalizer, making sure the camper or trailer is balanced and place the trailer tongue into the correct position.
5) Before setting off have a thorough inspection of all of your cases and belongings. This is so important because you don't want to be driving along, get to your destination and then discover all of your belongings are broken, all over the floor and in a thousand pieces.
6) Hold your speed when you go down a hill. Move your gear stick into a lower gear and go down the hill at a snail's pace, this is perhaps the only way to deal with our hilly countryside.
7) When you reverse you should be especially careful and take your time. When turning a corner any adjustment of the steering wheel can damage the caravan or camper and destroy the tow bar, making it unusable.
8) Next, you should try and not make any sharp or abrupt turns. Where possible, your driving should be loose and smooth and steering should be made as early as possible, this will help to ensure you keep extra safe on your road trip and during any excursions.
9) Lastly, most Skodas should be appropriate for towing but if you have concerns then it might be a good idea to hire or lease a newer Skoda instead. For instance, last month I discovered a Skoda leasing deal from www.leasecar.co.uk that was great for towing my caravan during my holiday.
By sticking to the advice given above you will have a stress free time during your next trip, irrespective of the final destination.
