Black plate (59,1)Cadillac Escalade/Escalade ESV Owner Manual - 2012 - 2nd CRC - 11/29/11Driving and Operating 9-59Before starting, check all trailer hitchparts and attachments, safetychains, electrical connectors,lamps, tires and mirrors. If thetrailer has electric brakes, start thecombination moving and then applythe trailer brake controller by handto be sure the brakes work.During the trip, check occasionallyto be sure that the load is secureand the lamps and any trailerbrakes still work.Following DistanceStay at least twice as far behind thevehicle ahead as you would whendriving the vehicle without a trailer.This can help to avoid heavybraking and sudden turns.PassingMore passing distance is neededwhen towing a trailer. Thecombination will not accelerate asquickly and is longer so it isnecessary to go much fartherbeyond the passed vehicle beforereturning to the lane.Backing UpHold the bottom of the steeringwheel with one hand. Then, to movethe trailer to the left, move that handto the left. To move the trailer to theright, move your hand to the right.Always back up slowly and,if possible, have someoneguide you.Making TurnsNotice: Making very sharp turnswhile trailering could cause thetrailer to come in contact with thevehicle. The vehicle could bedamaged. Avoid making verysharp turns while trailering.When turning with a trailer, makewider turns than normal. Do this sothe trailer will not strike softshoulders, curbs, road signs, treesor other objects. Avoid jerky orsudden maneuvers. Signal well inadvance.If the trailer turn signal bulbs burnout, the arrows on the instrumentpanel will still flash for turns. It isimportant to check occasionally tobe sure the trailer bulbs are stillworking.Driving on GradesReduce speed and shift to a lowergear before starting down a long orsteep downgrade. If thetransmission is not shifted down, thebrakes might get hot and no longerwork well.Vehicles can tow in D (Drive). Shiftthe transmission to a lower gear ifthe transmission shifts too oftenunder heavy loads and/or hillyconditions.
