There is a fair bit more to safe towing that you might realise. Get advice from the experts at M.A.P.

Firstly you have to have the right vehicle. The more weight, the longer it takes to stop! By law this means that the load you are towing cannot weigh more than 1.5 times the weight of your vehicle. If you go beyond this you may not be insured in the case of an accident.

Consider the scenario of the driver who exceeds the legal weight when towing, is involved in an own-fault accident, and the trailer being towed hits their own rear bumber during the collision and sets off the air bags. The costs could be high and will the driver be able to make a claim? It's important to get it right!

Petrol or diesel? This is one of the most commonly asked questions about tow vehicles and it's really a matter of preference. Petrol engines have an edge in performance, especially when not towing, which is the great majority of the life of the vehicle. Modern diesel engines are superior for towing and much more fuel efficient. Diesel engines have improved a great deal in the last few years, and while they require a different driving style, have become much more popular. They generally cost significantly more to buy and this cost has to be weighed against their increased fuel efficiency - it takes a long time to recoup those extra dollars!

Manual or automatic? A lot of experienced towers will tell you that they prefer manuals because it gives them more control on hills, and for slowing down. However, a lot of vehicle manufacturers recommend automatics for towing, especially if it is a heavy load. Automatics are smoother, and allow you to concentrate on the the driving (or reversing!).

Sedan or 4X4? It is a common myth that a 4X4 is needed for towing. In truth, most six cylinder sedans, even front wheel drives, are more than capable of towing medium/heavy loads. Ask at M.A.P. about the towing capacity of your vehicle.

Secondly, it's important to minimise the weight of the trailer when towing. Many people load full eskys, camping gear etc into the boat, when its safer to but them into the vehicle. Caravaners need to be alert to the weight they add to their already heavy load.

Thirdly, increase the gap between you and vehicle in front because it takes a lot longer to stop the added weight. Doubling the distance to the vehicle in front is a good policy - that lets impatient drivers pass.

Fourthly. keep the speeds down. Large cars and 4X4s are capable of towing large loads quickly, but the faster you go the longer it takes to stop etc. In an emergency your vehicle will behave very differently with all that weight behind. While you might travel many thousands of kilometers with no problems, its that one emergency that might be so costly. Manufacturers advise a maximum speed of 80 kph when towing heavy loads!

Lastly, get the right gear so that the tow vehicle is at the right height, the tow's brakes compliment the vehicles, and the weight is evenly distributed. M.A.P. are experts and will help you make the most of your journey.

Last modified: 24/09/2007