Tow or Haul Mode and Fault Indicators

Tow Mode

These are Tow or Haul Mode and Fault Indicator symbols. If your vehicle is equipped with Tow Mode, one of these lights will be lit when the mode is selected. The symbol may be in text, using the word TOW and or HAUL, or as an image of one of several forms of a trailer.

• But first, is one of these truly your symbol?? If yes, continue on.
• Otherwise return to our main Picture Symbols page or Text Symbols page and scan again!

Many More Versions

In more advanced models, the second image above with the trailer is used to indicate that a Trailer Merge Assist system has been activated. It is tied directly to the vehicle’s blind spot monitoring system. Click the link for more.

The image with arrows above the trailer is no more than a Trailer Connected indicator. It illuminates when a trailer is connected and will go out when it is disconnected. The same is true of the image of the trailer hitch ball and the trailer, both shown in green.  The color makes more sense too. There’s little need for a warning color when simply noting something normal. The final image looks like a 19th century covered wagon.

If any of these illuminate unexpectedly, the system has likely been switched on accidently. Find the proper switch to turn it off, or, lacking a switch, check with a service center.

These versions however, are trailering fault warnings. The exclamation point in the triangle above the trailer in the first image is the give away. If illuminated, check all electrical connections as well as the physical trailer connection(s). Otherwise, the issue may involve the main vehicle’s suspension or stability control systems and a qualified service shop will be needed.

The second has the line through what is the trailer image again set inside the circle and brackets. The latter is the standard image depicting brakes. It indicates that the trailer’s brakes are in fact disconnected. It is likely an electronic system and thus a wiring issue.

Some vehicles offer Sway Control for use while towing, a system that works in in conjunction with the Stability Control System. And like that system, the Sway Control Indicator will flash when sway is detected and being corrected.

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Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.