Towing a trailer (BMW 5 Series E34)

Towing a trailer places increased demands on both the towing vehicle and the driver.

The trailer limits maneuverability, climbing ability, acceleration and braking capabilities, affects the vehicle's cornering behavior and other dynamic characteristics.

You will find information on the permissible towable load mass and the maximum permissible load on the coupling device in the "Technical Specifications" section. Information on the permissible towable load mass is also contained in the vehicle registration document. Information on the possibility of increasing it can be obtained at a BMW service station.

Maximum permissible load on the coupling device

We are talking about the load with which the drawbar of the sight presses on the ball head of the coupling device. It can be determined using household scales.

The minimum permissible load is 25 kg, and for towed loads over 1600 kg – 50 kg.

The permissible load value must not be exceeded, but it is desirable to maintain it as accurately as possible.

The trailer should be loaded so that the load is placed as low as possible and as close to the axle axis as possible. Lowering the trailer's center of gravity significantly improves the stability of the vehicle with the trailer.

The maximum permissible gross weight of the trailer must not be exceeded (axle load) and, accordingly, the maximum permissible mass of the towed load. The smaller value is decisive.

The weight with which the trailer drawbar presses on the ball head of the coupling device is added to the weight of the vehicle. In this case, the values of the maximum permitted mass of the vehicle and the load on the rear axle must not be exceeded. The load capacity is reduced by subtracting the mass of the towing device from its value, and when towing a trailer, also the weight falling on the ball head of the coupling device.



The towing hitch* with a removable ball head must be BMW-certified. It must only be installed at a BMW service station. The same applies to the installation of additional electrical equipment (for example, the indicator of the trailer turn signals).

The removable ball head should be coated with consistent grease, this will make its removal and installation much easier.

Features of operation of electrical equipment when driving with a trailer When transporting a caravan, it is necessary to take into account the increased power consumption. Therefore, taking into account the limited capacity of the battery, the switching on of current consumers should be short-lived.

BMW 525i, 535i:

The electrical circuits of the reversing lights, brake lights and fog lights are protected by fuses, which are located in a separate block, located behind the trim on the left in the trunk.

When installing a towing hitch after the car leaves the factory, it is recommended to reinforce the suspension. It may also be necessary to modify the engine cooling system. This can be done at a BMW service station.

As a rule, driving with a trailer requires installing an additional rear-view mirror on the car. The mirrors must be adjusted so that the driver can see the rear edge of the trailer from both sides. Mirrors can be purchased and installed at a BMW service station.

The slope that can be overcome is limited to 12% for safety reasons and to avoid creating obstacles to traffic flow, and 8% when towing a fully loaded trailer.





Towing a trailer places increased demands on the braking system. Road slopes require special attention. When approaching them, it is necessary to switch to a lower gear - up to first (set the AT control lever to position "1" or "2") - and then move downhill at low speed. Do not keep the brake pedal pressed constantly, slow down with short presses on it.

If your vehicle has an ABS* system, it is recommended to brake in such a mode that it is engaged.

When towing a trailer, do not exceed 80 km/h. The permissible load is calculated so that at this speed the car has optimal dynamic characteristics. If, when increasing speed, the trailer begins to "sway" from side to side, smoothly reduce speed without making sudden movements of the steering wheel.

Check the tire pressure of the towing vehicle and trailer regularly.

Before leaving, be sure to check the operation of the trailer's rear light unit.

Towing hitch cover

To open it, press the spring clips in both recesses using a screwdriver.

Before removing and installing the ball head, read the instructions supplied with it.

[The original entry can be found on the portal: «BMWMAN.ru»]