Towing a trailer, Starting to drive, P. 97 – HONDA 2015 CR-V - Owner's Guide (Revised 01/07/2014) User Manual
Page 52: Towing a trailer starting to drive, Warning

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DRIVING
DRIVING
exceeding any load limit or improperly loading your vehicle and trailer can
cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.
Check the loading of your vehicle and trailer carefully before starting to driv
e.
WARNING
Towing a Trailer
Your vehicle can tow a trailer if you carefully observe the load limits, use the proper
equipment, and follow the towing guidelines. See the Owner’s Manual on the Owner
Information CD or at owners.honda.com (U.S.) or www.myhonda.ca (Canada) for
more information.
Towing Load Limits
Total trailer weight
Maximum allowable weight of the trailer, cargo, and
everything in or on it must not exceed 1,500 lbs (680
kg). Towing loads in excess of this can seriously
affect vehicle handling and performance and can
damage the engine and drivetrain.
Tongue load
The weight of the tongue with a fully loaded trailer
on the hitch should be approximately 10% of the
total trailer weight.
• excessive tongue load reduces front tire traction
and steering control. Too little tongue load can
make the trailer unstable and cause it to sway.
• To achieve a proper tongue load, start by loading
60% of the load toward the front of the trailer and
40% toward the rear. Readjust the load as needed.
Pre-tow checklist
When preparing to tow, and before driving away, ensure the following:
• The vehicle has been properly serviced, and the suspension and the cooling
system are in good operating condition.
• Avoid towing a trailer during your vehicle’s first 600 miles (1,000 km).
• The trailer has been properly serviced and is in good condition.
• All weights and loads are within limits. Never exceed the gross weight ratings.
• Check if all loads are within limits at a public scale. If a public scale is not
available, add the estimated weight of your cargo load to the weight of your
trailer (as quoted by the manufacturer) and the tongue load.
• The hitch, safety chains, and any other attachments are secure.
• All items in or on the trailer are properly secured and cannot shift while you drive.
Ton gue Loa d
Ton gue Loa d
Total load
Tongue load
Starting the Ignition*
Insert the key into the ignition and turn to turn on the vehicle or start the engine.
0
LOCK: Insert and remove the key in this position.
I
ACCESSORY: operate the audio system and other
accessories in this position.
II
ON: This is the position when driving.
III
START: This position is for starting the engine.
The switch returns to oN when you release the key.
Starting to Drive
Turn on the vehicle and start the engine to begin driving.
Before Starting the Engine
Check that the shift lever is in Park (P), then press the
brake pedal. Keep your foot firmly on the brake pedal
when starting the engine.
Brake pedal
The engine is harder to start in cold weather and in thinner air found at altitudes
above 8,000 feet (2,400 m). When starting the engine in cold weather, turn off
all electrical accessories such as the lights, climate control system, and rear
defogger in order to reduce battery drain.
*if equipped
Changing the Power Mode*
Use the ENGINE START/STOP button to cycle through power modes or start the
engine.
Accessory or On mode: Press ENGINE START/STOP
once without pressing the brake pedal for Accessory
mode. Press it again for on mode.
Starting the engine: Press and hold the brake pedal,
then press ENGINE START/STOP. Keep your foot firmly
on the brake pedal when starting the engine.
Turning the vehicle off: Shift to Park (P), then press
ENGINE START/STOP.
If you press the button and the shift lever is not in Park
(P), the vehicle goes into Accessory mode.