towing CHRYSLER VOYAGER 2023 User Guide

STARTING AND OPERATING95
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)
The GCWR is the total permissible weight of your vehicle
and trailer when weighed in combination.
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The GAWR is the maximum capacity of the front and rear
axles. Distribute the load over the front and rear axles
evenly. Make sure that you do not exceed either front or
rear GAWR
Úpage 93.
Tongue Weight (TW)
The TW is the downward force exerted on the hitch ball by
the trailer. You must consider this as part of the load on
your vehicle.
Trailer Frontal Area
The Frontal Area is the maximum height multiplied by the
maximum width of the front of a trailer.
Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
The TSC can be a mechanical telescoping link that can be
installed between the hitch receiver and the trailer tongue
that typically provides adjustable friction associated with
the telescoping motion to dampen any unwanted trailer
swaying motions while traveling.
The electronic TSC (if equipped) recognizes a swaying
trailer and automatically applies individual wheel brakes
and/or reduces engine power to attempt to eliminate the
trailer sway.
Weight-Carrying Hitch
A Weight-Carrying Hitch supports the trailer tongue weight,
just as if it were luggage located at a hitch ball or some
other connecting point of the vehicle. These kinds of
hitches are commonly used to tow small and medium
sized trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch

A Weight-Distributing Hitch works by applying leverage through
spring (load) bars. They are typically used for heavier loads to
distribute trailer tongue weight to the tow vehicle's front axle
and the trailer axle(s). When used in accordance with
manufacturer’s directions, it provides for a more level ride,
offering more consistent steering and brake control thereby
enhancing towing safety. The addition of a friction/hydraulic
sway control also dampens sway caused by traffic and
crosswinds and contributes positively to tow vehicle and trailer
stability. TSC and a Weight-Distributing (load equalizing) Hitch
are recommended for heavier TW and may be required
depending on vehicle and trailer configuration/loading to
comply with GAWR requirements.

WARNING!
It is important that you do not exceed the maximum
front or rear GAWR. A dangerous driving condition can
result if either rating is exceeded. You could lose control
of the vehicle and have a collision.
WARNING!
An improperly adjusted Weight-Distributing Hitch
system may reduce handling, stability, braking perfor -
mance, and could result in a collision.

 Weight-Distributing Hitch systems may not be compatible
with surge brake couplers. Consult with your hitch and
trailer manufacturer or a reputable Recreational Vehicle
dealer for additional information.

4

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96STARTING AND OPERATING
TRAILER HITCH CLASSIFICATION
The following chart provides the industry standard for the maximum trailer weight a given trailer hitch class can tow and should be used to assist you in selecting the correct trailer hitch
for your intended towing condition.
Trailer Hitch Classification Definitions
Class Max. Trailer Hitch Industry Standards
Class I - Light Duty 2,000 lb (907 kg)
Class II - Medium Duty 3,500 lb (1,587 kg)
Class III - Heavy Duty 6,000 lb (2,721 kg)
Class IV - Extra Heavy Duty 10,000 lb (4,535 kg)
Refer to the “Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)” chart for the Maximum Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) towable for your given drivetrain.
All trailer hitches should be professionally installed on your vehicle.

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STARTING AND OPERATING97
TRAILER TOWING WEIGHTS (MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS)
The following chart provides the maximum trailer weight ratings towable for your given drivetrain.
NOTE:The trailer tongue weight must be considered as part of the combined weight of occupants and cargo, and should never exceed the weight referenced on the Tire And Loading Infor -
mation Placard.
VEHICLE LOADING CHART
Follow these steps to determine the total weight the vehicle can carry:

1. Determine the cargo capacity of your vehicle.

Load Capacity = GVWR – Curb (weight of vehicle full fluids NO occupants).
2. Determine occupant count. For calculation purposes, average weight of an occupant is 150 lb (68 kg).
EXAMPLE:
 GVWR = 6,005 lb (2,723 kg)
 CURB = 4,500 lb (2,041 kg)
 Load Capacity = GVWR – CURB = 6,005 lb (2,723 kg) - 4,500 lb (2,041 kg) = 1,505 lb (682 kg)
4 Occupants (at 150 lb [68 kg]) + Max Trailer =
 1,505 lb (682 kg) – 600 lb (272 kg) (4 x 150 lb [68 kg]) – 360 lb (163 kg) (10% of 3,600 lb [1,632 kg]) = 545 lb (247 kg) of cargo in vehicle
Engine/Transmission Trailer Tow Package GCWRFrontal Area Maximum GTW Maximum Trailer TW
3.6L/Automatic Yes
8,600 lb (3,900 kg) 40 sq ft (3.72 sq m) 3,600 lb (1,632 kg) 360 lb (163 kg)
No 6,500 lb (2,948 kg) 40 sq ft (3.72 sq m) 1500 lb (680 kg) 149 lb (67 kg)
Refer to local laws for maximum trailer towing speeds.
4

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STARTING AND OPERATING99
(Continued)
TRAILER AND TONGUE WEIGHT
Never exceed the maximum tongue weight stamped on
your fascia/bumper or trailer hitch.

Weight Distribution

Consider the following items when computing the weight
on the rear axle of the vehicle:
The tongue weight of the trailer.
 The weight of any other type of cargo or equipment put
in or on your vehicle.
 The weight of the driver and all passengers.
NOTE:
Remember that everything put into or on the trailer adds to the
load on your vehicle. Also, additional factory-installed options or
dealer-installed options must be considered as part of the total
load on your vehicle

Ú
page 221.

TOWING REQUIREMENTS
To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle drivetrain
components, the following guidelines are recommended.
Perform the maintenance listed in “Scheduled Servicing”
Úpage 192. When towing a trailer, never exceed the
GAWR or GCWR ratings.
CAUTION!
 Do not tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles
(805 km) the new vehicle is driven. The engine, axle
or other parts could be damaged.
 Then, during the first 500 miles (805 km) that a
trailer is towed, do not drive over 50 mph (80 km/h)
and do not make starts at full throttle. This helps the
engine and other parts of the vehicle wear in at the
heavier loads.
WARNING!
Make certain that the load is secured in the trailer
and will not shift during travel. When trailering cargo
that is not fully secured, dynamic load shifts can
occur that may be difficult for the driver to control.
You could lose control of your vehicle and have a
collision.
When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, do not over -
load your vehicle or trailer. Overloading can cause a
loss of control, poor performance or damage to
brakes, axle, engine, transmission, steering, suspen -
sion, chassis structure or tires.
 Safety chains must always be used between your
vehicle and trailer. Always connect the chains to the
hook retainers of the vehicle hitch. Cross the chains
under the trailer tongue and allow enough slack for
turning corners.
 Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a
grade. When parking, apply the parking brake on the
tow vehicle. Put the tow vehicle transmission in
PARK. For four-wheel drive vehicles, make sure the
transfer case is not in NEUTRAL. Always, block or
"chock" the trailer wheels.
 GCWR must not be exceeded.
 Total weight must be distributed between the tow
vehicle and the trailer such that the following four
ratings are not exceeded :
 GVWR
 GTW
 GAWR
 Tongue weight rating for the trailer hitch utilized
WARNING!
4

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100STARTING AND OPERATING
Towing Requirements — Tires
Do not attempt to tow a trailer while using a compact
spare tire.
 Do not drive more than 50 mph (80 km/h) when towing
while using a full size spare tire.
 Proper tire inflation pressures are essential to the safe
and satisfactory operation of your vehicle.
 Check the trailer tires for proper tire inflation pressures
before trailer usage.
 Check for signs of tire wear or visible tire damage
before towing a trailer.
 Replacing tires with a higher load carrying capacity will
not increase the vehicle's GVWR and GAWR limits.
 For further information
Úpage 224.
Towing Requirements — Trailer Brakes
Do not interconnect the hydraulic brake system or
vacuum system of your vehicle with that of the trailer.
This could cause inadequate braking and possible
personal injury.
 An electronically actuated trailer brake controller is
required when towing a trailer with electronically actu -
ated brakes. When towing a trailer equipped with a
hydraulic surge actuated brake system, an electronic
brake controller is not required.
 Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers over
1,000 lb (453 kg) and required for trailers in excess of
2,000 lb (907 kg).
Towing Requirements — Trailer Lights And
Wiring
Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the trailer size,
stop lights and turn signals on the trailer are required for
motoring safety.
The Trailer Tow Package may include a four and seven-pin
wiring harness. Use a factory approved trailer harness and
connector.
NOTE:
Do not cut or splice wiring into the vehicle’s wiring harness.
The electrical connections are all complete to the vehicle
but you must mate the harness to a trailer connector.
Refer to the following illustrations.
NOTE:

Disconnect the trailer wiring connector from the vehicle
(or any other device plugged into vehicle’s electrical
connectors) before launching a boat into water.
 Be sure to reconnect once clear from water area.

Four-Pin Connector

WARNING!

Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle's hydraulic
brake lines. It can overload your brake system and cause
it to fail. You might not have brakes when you need them
and could have an accident.
 Towing any trailer will increase your stopping distance.
When towing, you should allow for additional space
between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.
Failure to do so could result in an accident.

CAUTION!
If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lb (453 kg)
loaded, it should have its own brakes and they should
be of adequate capacity. Failure to do this could lead
to accelerated brake lining wear, higher brake pedal
effort, and longer stopping distances.
1 — Ground
2 — Park
3 — Left Stop/Turn
4 — Right Stop/Turn

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STARTING AND OPERATING101

Seven-Pin Connector

TOWING TIPS
Before towing, practice turning, stopping, and backing up
the trailer in an area located away from heavy traffic.
Automatic Transmission
Select the DRIVE range when towing. The transmission
controls include a drive strategy to avoid frequent shifting
when towing. For increased engine braking on steep
downhill grades, select the LOW range.
Cruise Control — If Equipped
Do not use on hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
 When using the Cruise Control, if you experience speed
drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h), disengage until
you can get back to cruising speed.
 Use Cruise Control in flat terrain and with light loads to
maximize fuel efficiency.
RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME)
TOWING THIS VEHICLE BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE
1 — Backup Lamps
2 — Running Lamps
3 — Left Stop/Turn
4 — Ground
5 — Battery
6 — Right Stop/Turn
7 — Electric Brakes
Towing Condition Wheel OFF The Ground FWD Models
Flat TowNONENOT ALLOWED
Dolly Tow Front
OK
Rear NOT ALLOWED
On Trailer ALLOK
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102STARTING AND OPERATING
NOTE:
To avoid inadvertent Electric Park Brake (EPB) engage -
ment, you must ensure that the Auto Park Brake
feature is disabled before towing this vehicle (if rear
wheels are on the ground). The Auto Park Brake feature
is enabled or disabled via the customer programmable
features
Úpage 105.
 When towing your vehicle, always follow applicable
state and provincial laws. Contact state and provincial
Highway Safety offices for additional details.
 If your vehicle is disabled and in need of commercial
towing service, for further information
Úpage 190.
DO NOT flat tow this vehicle. Damage to the drivetrain will
result. Recreational Towing
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Models
Recreational towing is allowed ONLY if the front wheels
are
OFF the ground. This may be accomplished using a tow
dolly (front wheels off the ground) or vehicle trailer (all four
wheels off the ground). If using a tow dolly, follow this
procedure:

1. Properly secure the dolly to the tow vehicle, following the dolly manufacturer's instructions.

2. Drive the front wheels onto the tow dolly.
3. Apply the parking brake.
4. Place the transmission in PARK.
5. Turn the ignition OFF.
6. Properly secure the front wheels to the dolly, following the dolly manufacturer's instructions.
7. Turn the ignition to the ON/RUN position, but do not start the vehicle.
8. Press and hold the brake pedal.
9. Release the parking brake.
10. Turn the ignition OFF.
11. Release the brake pedal.
DRIVING TIPS
DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES
Information in this section will aid in safe controlled
launches in adverse conditions.
Acceleration

Rapid acceleration on snow covered, wet, or other slippery
surfaces may cause the driving wheels to pull erratically to
the right or left. This phenomenon occurs when there is a
difference in the surface traction under the front (driving)
wheels.

CAUTION!
 DO NOT flat tow this vehicle. Damage to the drive -
train will result. If this vehicle requires towing, make
sure the drive wheels are OFF the ground.
 Ensure that the EPB is released, and remains
released, while being towed.
 Towing this vehicle in violation of the previously listed
requirements can cause severe transmission
damage. Damage from improper towing is not
covered under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
WARNING!
Rapid acceleration on slippery surfaces is dangerous.
Unequal traction can cause sudden pulling of the front
wheels. You could lose control of the vehicle and
possibly have a collision. Accelerate slowly and carefully
whenever there is likely to be poor traction (ice, snow,
wet, mud, loose sand, etc.).

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SAFETY125
The following conditions must be met in order for HSA to
activate:
The feature must be enabled.
 The vehicle must be stopped.
 The parking brake must be off.
 The driver door must be closed.
 The vehicle must be on a sufficient grade.
 The gear selection must match vehicle uphill direction
(i.e., vehicle facing uphill is in forward gear; vehicle
backing uphill is in REVERSE (R) gear).
 HSA will work in REVERSE gear and all forward gears.
The system will not activate if the transmission is in
PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
Disabling And Enabling HSA
This feature can be turned on or turned off. To change the
current setting, proceed as follows: Úpage 105.
Towing With HSA
HSA will also provide assistance to mitigate roll back while
towing a trailer.
Ready Alert Braking (RAB)
RAB may reduce the time required to reach full braking
during emergency braking situations. It anticipates
when an emergency braking situation may occur by
monitoring how fast the throttle is released by the driver.
The Electronic Brake Control (EBC) system will prepare the
brake system for a panic stop.
Rain Brake Support (RBS)
RBS may improve braking performance in wet conditions.
It will periodically apply a small amount of brake pressure
to remove any water buildup on the front brake rotors.
It functions when the windshield wipers are in LO or HI
speed. When RBS is active, there is no notification to the
driver and no driver interaction is required.
Traction Control System (TCS)

The TCS monitors the amount of wheel spin of each of the
driven wheels. If wheel spin is detected, the TCS may apply
brake pressure to the spinning wheel(s) and/or reduce vehicle
power to provide enhanced acceleration and stability. A feature
of the TCS, Brake Limited Differential (BLD) functions similarly
to a limited slip differential and controls the wheel spin across
a driven axle. If one wheel on a driven axle is spinning faster
than the other, the system will apply the brake of the spinning
wheel. This will allow more vehicle torque to be applied to the
wheel that is not spinning. BLD may remain enabled even if TCS
and the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) are in reduced modes.

Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
TSC uses sensors in the vehicle to recognize an
excessively swaying trailer and will take the appropriate
actions to attempt to stop the sway. Note that TSC cannot
stop all trailers from swaying. Always use caution when
towing a trailer and follow the trailer tongue weight
recommendations
Úpage 94.
When TSC is functioning, the ESC Activation/Malfunction
Indicator Light will flash, the engine power may be reduced
and you may feel the brakes being applied to individual
wheels to attempt to stop the trailer from swaying. TSC is
disabled when the ESC system is in the “Partial Off” mode.
WARNING!

There may be situations where the Hill Start Assist (HSA) will
not activate and slight rolling may occur, such as on minor
hills or with a loaded vehicle, or while pulling a trailer. HSA is
not a substitute for active driving involvement. It is always
the driver’s responsibility to be attentive to distance to other
vehicles, people, and objects, and most importantly brake
operation to ensure safe operation of the vehicle under all
road conditions. Your complete attention is always required
while driving to maintain safe control of your vehicle. Failure
to follow these warnings can result in a collision or serious
personal injury.

WARNING!
 If you use a trailer brake controller with your trailer,
the trailer brakes may be activated and deactivated
with the brake switch. If so, there may not be enough
brake pressure to hold both the vehicle and the
trailer on a hill when the brake pedal is released.
In order to avoid rolling down an incline while
resuming acceleration, manually activate the trailer
brake or apply more vehicle brake pressure prior to
releasing the brake pedal.
 HSA is not a parking brake. Always apply the parking
brake fully when exiting your vehicle. Also, be certain
to place the transmission in PARK.
 Failure to follow these warnings can result in a colli -
sion or serious personal injury.
6

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126SAFETY
AUXILIARY DRIVING SYSTEMS
BLIND SPOT MONITORING (BSM) —
I
F EQUIPPED

The BSM system uses two radar sensors, located inside the
rear fascia/bumper, to detect highway licensable vehicles
(automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, etc.) that enter the blind
spot zones from the rear/front/side of the vehicle.

Rear Detection Zones

When the vehicle is started, the BSM Warning Light will
momentarily illuminate in both outside rearview mirrors
to let the driver know that the system is operational. The BSM system sensors operate when the vehicle is in
any forward gear and enters standby mode when the
vehicle is in PARK (P).
The BSM detection zone covers approximately one lane
width on both sides of the vehicle 12 ft (3.7 m). The zone
length starts at the outside rearview mirror and extends
approximately 10 ft (3 m) beyond the rear fascia/bumper
of the vehicle. The BSM system monitors the detection
zones on both sides of the vehicle when the vehicle speed
reaches approximately 6 mph (10 km/h) or higher and will
alert the driver of vehicles in these areas.
NOTE:

The BSM system DOES NOT alert the driver about
rapidly approaching vehicles that are outside the
detection zones.
 The BSM system detection zone DOES NOT change if
your vehicle is towing a trailer. Therefore, visually verify
the adjacent lane is clear for both your vehicle and
trailer before making a lane change. If the trailer or
other object (i.e., bicycle, sports equipment) extends
beyond the side of your vehicle, this may result in false
detections. The BSM Warning Light may even remain
illuminated the entire time the vehicle is in a forward
gear
Úpage 105.
 The Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system may experi -
ence dropouts (blinking on and off) of the side mirror
warning indicator lights when a motorcycle or any small
object remains at the side of the vehicle for extended
periods of time (more than a couple of seconds).
The BSM system can become blocked if snow, ice, mud, or
other road contaminations accumulate on the rear fascia/
bumper where the radar sensors are located. The system may
also detect blockage if the vehicle is operated in areas with
extremely low radar returns such as a desert or parallel to a
large elevation drop. If blockage is detected, a “Blind Spot
Temporarily Unavailable, Wipe Rear Corners” message will
display in the cluster, both mirror lights will illuminate, and BSM
and RCP alerts will not occur. This is normal operation. The
system will automatically recover and resume function when
the condition clears. To minimize system blockage, do not block
the area of the rear fascia/bumper where the radar sensors are
located with foreign objects (bumper stickers, bicycle racks,
etc.) and keep it clear of road contaminations.

Sensor Location

WARNING!
If TSC activates while driving, slow the vehicle down,
stop at the nearest safe location, and adjust the trailer
load to eliminate trailer sway.

23_RUV_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 126

190IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE
This section describes procedures for towing a disabled vehicle using a commercial towing service.

Proper towing or lifting equipment is required to prevent
damage to your vehicle. Use only tow bars and other equipment
designed for this purpose, following equipment manufacturer’s
instructions. Use of safety chains is mandatory. Attach a tow
bar or other towing device to main structural members of the
vehicle, not to fascia/bumper or associated brackets. State
and local laws regarding vehicles under tow must be observed.

NOTE:
You must ensure that the Auto Park Brake feature is
disabled before towing this vehicle (if rear wheels are
on the ground), to avoid inadvertent Electric Park Brake
(EPB) engagement. The Auto Park Brake feature is
enabled or disabled via the customer programmable
features in the Uconnect Settings.
 Vehicles with a discharged battery or total electrical
failure when the Electric Park Brake (EPB) is engaged,
will need a wheel dolly or jack to raise the rear wheels
off the ground when moving the vehicle onto a flatbed. FCA US LLC recommends towing your vehicle with all four
wheels
OFF the ground using a flatbed.
If flatbed equipment is not available, this vehicle must
be towed with the front wheels OFF the ground (using a
towing dolly, or wheel lift equipment with the front wheels
raised).
NOTE:Ensure that the Electric Park Brake is released, and
remains released, while being towed. Vehicle Recovery Tow Points
Your vehicle is equipped with Vehicle Recovery Points that
can be used to recover a disabled vehicle, located on the
underbody of the vehicle.
NOTE:

Ensure that the towing service tow hooks are properly
seated and secured in the attachment points.
 This recovery tow feature should be used by a trained
professional only.
 Use approved receptacle location to free the disabled
vehicle from its environment.
Towing Condition
Wheel OFF The Ground ALL MODELS
Flat Tow NONENOT ALLOWED
Wheel Lift Or Dolly Tow Front
ACCEPTABLE METHOD
Rear NOT ALLOWED
Flatbed ALLBEST METHOD
CAUTION!
Towing this vehicle in violation of the approved
requirements can cause severe transmission damage.
Damage from improper towing is not covered under the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

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