Can You Use Cruise Control While Towing? (The Definitive Guide)

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Can You Use Cruise Control While Towing?

Cruise control is a convenient feature that can help drivers relax and save gas on long road trips. But what about when you’re towing a trailer? Is it safe to use cruise control in this situation?

The answer is: it depends.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of using cruise control while towing, and we’ll provide some tips for safe towing.

We’ll also discuss the different types of cruise control systems and how they work. So whether you’re a seasoned tow truck driver or you’re just about to embark on your first towing adventure, read on for all the information you need to know about using cruise control while towing.

Question Answer Source
Can you use cruise control while towing? Yes, you can use cruise control while towing, but there are some things to keep in mind. Car and Driver
When should you not use cruise control while towing? You should not use cruise control while towing in the following situations:
  • When going uphill
  • When going downhill
  • When turning
  • When merging onto or exiting the highway
How to use cruise control while towing safely To use cruise control while towing safely, follow these tips:
  • Start by accelerating to the desired speed without using cruise control.
  • Once you reach your desired speed, engage the cruise control.
  • Keep an eye on your speed and adjust the cruise control as needed.
  • Be prepared to take over manual control of the vehicle if necessary.

Cruise control is a feature on many vehicles that allows the driver to set a desired speed and then the vehicle will automatically maintain that speed without the driver having to keep their foot on the accelerator. This can be a convenient feature for long road trips or when driving in heavy traffic. However, there are some situations where it is not safe to use cruise control, such as when towing a trailer.

What is cruise control?

Cruise control is a system that automatically maintains a preset speed for a vehicle. It is controlled by a switch on the dashboard that the driver can use to set the desired speed. Once the speed is set, the cruise control system will use the throttle to maintain that speed without the driver having to keep their foot on the accelerator.

Cruise control can be a convenient feature for long road trips or when driving in heavy traffic. It can help to reduce driver fatigue and stress, and it can also improve fuel economy. However, there are some situations where it is not safe to use cruise control, such as when towing a trailer.

Can you use cruise control while towing?

The short answer is no, you should not use cruise control while towing. There are a few reasons for this.

First, when you are towing a trailer, your vehicle is working harder than it would be if you were driving without a trailer. This means that the engine is under more strain and it is producing more heat. Cruise control can actually increase the amount of heat that the engine produces, which can lead to overheating.

Second, when you are towing a trailer, your vehicle’s handling is different than it would be if you were driving without a trailer. This is because the trailer adds weight to the back of the vehicle, which can change the way the vehicle handles. Cruise control can make it more difficult to control the vehicle, especially in windy conditions or when changing lanes.

Finally, using cruise control while towing can increase your risk of a collision. This is because cruise control can make it difficult to react quickly to changing conditions on the road. If you need to brake suddenly, you may not be able to do so as quickly if you are using cruise control.

it is not safe to use cruise control while towing. If you need to use cruise control, you should first unhitch the trailer.

Can You Use Cruise Control While Towing?

Cruise control is a convenient feature that can help you maintain a steady speed on long road trips. But can you use cruise control while towing?

The answer is yes, but there are some things you need to keep in mind.

The pros and cons of using cruise control while towing

There are both pros and cons to using cruise control while towing.

Pros:

  • Cruise control can help you maintain a steady speed, which can be helpful when towing a heavy load.
  • It can also help you reduce your fuel consumption.
  • Cruise control can make it easier to keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.

Cons:

  • Cruise control can make it difficult to react to sudden changes in traffic.
  • If you’re not careful, you could end up over-speeding or under-speeding.
  • Cruise control can make it difficult to control your vehicle in slippery or icy conditions.

How to use cruise control safely while towing

If you decide to use cruise control while towing, there are a few things you can do to make it safer.

  • Start out slowly. When you first start towing, don’t use cruise control right away. Instead, accelerate gradually and get used to the feel of towing before you turn on cruise control.
  • Adjust your speed. The speed you set for cruise control will depend on the weight of your load and the conditions of the road. Be sure to adjust your speed as needed to maintain a safe following distance.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on the road and be aware of other vehicles around you. If you need to brake suddenly, be prepared to release the cruise control and use your brakes.
  • Don’t use cruise control in slippery or icy conditions. Cruise control can make it difficult to control your vehicle in slippery or icy conditions. If the roads are wet or icy, it’s best to avoid using cruise control altogether.

Cruise control can be a convenient feature, but it’s important to use it safely when towing. By following these tips, you can reduce your risk of accidents and enjoy a safe and comfortable towing experience.

Can You Use Cruise Control While Towing?

Yes, you can use cruise control while towing, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

  • Make sure your vehicle is properly equipped. Not all vehicles have cruise control, and some vehicles that do have cruise control may not be able to be used while towing. Check your owner’s manual to see if your vehicle is equipped with cruise control and if it can be used while towing.
  • Be aware of the weight of your trailer. The heavier your trailer, the more difficult it will be to maintain a constant speed with cruise control. If you’re towing a heavy trailer, you may need to use your brakes more often to keep your speed under control.
  • Start out slowly and gradually increase your speed. When you first start towing, it’s important to start out slowly and gradually increase your speed. This will help you get a feel for how your vehicle handles with the trailer attached.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. When you’re using cruise control, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to be prepared to take your foot off the gas pedal if necessary. This is especially important when you’re approaching a hill, merging onto a highway, or changing lanes.

By following these tips, you can safely use cruise control while towing.

Additional FAQs:

  • What is the safest speed to tow at? The safest speed to tow at is the speed that you feel comfortable with and that allows you to maintain control of your vehicle. In general, it’s best to avoid towing at high speeds.
  • Can I use cruise control on a steep hill? It is not recommended to use cruise control on a steep hill. When you’re going downhill, it’s important to use your brakes to control your speed.
  • What should I do if my trailer starts to sway? If your trailer starts to sway, it’s important to take your foot off the gas pedal and apply the brakes gently. You may also need to turn the steering wheel in the direction that the trailer is swaying.
  • What if I have to stop suddenly while towing? If you have to stop suddenly while towing, it’s important to do so in a controlled manner. Apply the brakes gently and downshift if necessary. You may also need to turn the steering wheel in the direction that you’re going to avoid jackknifing the trailer.

    it is generally not recommended to use cruise control while towing. There are a number of reasons for this, including the fact that it can be dangerous, it can damage your vehicle, and it can reduce your fuel efficiency. However, there are some cases where using cruise control while towing may be acceptable, such as when you are on a long, straight road and you are confident in your ability to control your vehicle. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use cruise control while towing is a personal one, but it is important to be aware of the risks involved.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.