2021 Honda Accord Owners Manual - Towing a Trailer

Towing a Trailer

1.5 L engine models

Your vehicle is not designed to tow a trailer. Attempting to do so can void your warranties.

2.0 L engine models

  Towing Load Limits Your vehicle can tow a trailer if you carefully observe the load limits, use the proper equipment, and follow the towing guidelines. Check the load limits before driving.

Maximum allowable weight of the trailer, cargo, and everything in or on it must not exceed 1,000 lbs (450 kg). Towing loads in excess of this can seriously affect vehicle handling and performance and can damage the engine and drivetrain.

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uuTowing a TraileruTowing Preparation

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.

uuTowing a TraileruTowing Preparation

  Towing Equipment and Accessories Towing equipment varies by the size of your trailer, how much load you are towing, and where you are towing.

  Hitches

The hitch must be of an approved type and properly bolted to the underbody.

Always use safety chains when you tow a trailer. Leave enough slack to allow the trailer to turn corners easily, but do not allow the chains to drag on the ground.

There are two common types of trailer brakes: surge and electric. Surge brakes are common for boat trailers, since the brakes will get wet. If you choose electric brakes, be sure they are electronically actuated. Do not attempt to attach trailer brakes to your vehicle’s hydraulic system, as it will lower braking effectiveness and create a potential hazard.

Many states and provinces/territories require special outside mirrors when towing a trailer. Even if mirrors are not required in your locale, you should install special mirrors if visibility is restricted in any way.

Trailer lights and equipment must comply with federal, state, province/territory, and local regulations. Check with your local trailer sales or rental agency for the requirements in the area where you plan to tow.

uuTowing a TraileruDriving Safely with a Trailer

2.0 L engine models

Things You Need To Know Before Towing a Trailer

Have the trailer properly serviced and keep it in good condition.

Make sure that all the weights and load in the vehicle and trailer are within limits.

2 Towing Load Limits P. 409

Securely attach the hitch, safety chains, and other necessary parts to the trailer.

Securely store all the items in and on the trailer so that they do not shift while driving.

Check if the lights and brakes on the trailer are working properly.

Check the pressure of the trailer tires, including the spare.

Models with Low Speed Braking Control

Turn off the Low Speed Braking Control system. It may activate if it detects the vehicle being towed as an obstacle.

2 System On and Off P. 469

Turn off the rear parking sensor system.

2 Turning off All Rear Sensors P. 526

Drive slower than normal.

Obey posted speed limits for vehicles with trailers.

Use the D position when towing a trailer on level roads.

Turn more slowly and with a wider turning arc than normal.

Allow more time and distance for braking.

Do not brake or turn suddenly.

uuTowing a TraileruTowing Behind a Motorhome

Driving in Hilly Terrain

Monitor your temperature gauge. If it nears the red (Hot) mark, turn off the climate control system and reduce speed. Pull to the side of the road safely to cool down the engine if necessary.

Your vehicle is not designed to be towed behind a motorhome. If your vehicle needs to be towed in an emergency, refer to the emergency towing information.

2 Emergency Towing P. 628