Toyota makes some of the best all-around pickup trucks on the market. Long-term reliability tends to be excellent. However, owners must take the proper precautions when hauling a heavy load. Here are some of the biggest towing mistakes to avoid.
Failing to Utilize the ECT PWR Button
If you own a Toyota truck, there’s a good chance it has an ECT PWR (Electronically Controlled Transmission Power) button. While some people may view this feature as a performance booster, it's actually more effective at enhancing the truck’s hauling and towing capabilities. Engaging the ECT PWR function helps the engine to remain in its optimum power band, thus subjecting the powertrain to less stress.
Although pressing the ECT PWR button typically results in worst gas mileage, the extra grunt will definitely come in handy when pulling a loaded trailer. Less heat will build up inside the gearbox. This means your automatic transmission will last longer.
Forgetting to Properly Inspect the Tires and Wheels
Before using your Toyota truck to tow something, develop a habit of inspecting the tires. If your pickup isn’t equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system, take the time to manually check the air pressure. The extra sense of security is well worth it. Your tires must be able to support the additional weight.
It’s just as important to examine the tightness of the lug nuts before hitting the road. The last thing you want is for a wheel to suddenly fly off while you're sprinting down the highway. With a lug wrench in hand, drivers can properly tighten everything to factory specifications.
Falling to Inspect the Trailer’s Wiring Harness
Never underestimate the importance of inspecting a trailer’s wiring harness. Over time, it may experience a great deal of wear and tear. Rocks, road salt, and other debris can gradually eat away at the protective tubing.
If the harness becomes damaged, it’s only a matter of time before you begin to experience trouble. The trailer’s brake lights, turn signals, and other electrical features may fail to function. Fortunately, a genuine Toyota replacement wiring harness can be easily ordered.
Towing Over the Max
A Toyota truck’s maximum tow rating can vary greatly from one model to the next. Always remain aware of your vehicle’s peak towing capacity, which can be found in the owner's manual. Overstepping this limit can have some major consequences.
Overheating is one of the most common problems that can occur. Aside from putting the engine and other key components at risk of being damaged, exceeding the truck's towing capacity can also lead to poor handling. Furthermore, various parts will need to be replaced more often.