Towing with 08

[paulgp602]

Hi, I have an 08 EX-L AWD. Should I press the D3 button on the shifter when towing? I have a jet ski (about 1300 lbs with trailer) that I tow about 2 miles on secondary roads (not highway) on level ground to the boat ramp. I know that D3 will cancel out 4 and 5th gears if I use it.

So is it better to let the motor rev a little more or let it upshift and lug? I would think let it rev (it is a honda after all)! Thanks!

[Black Pearl]

Page 265 of the 08 manual states to use D on level ground and use D3 on hilly terrain when towing a trailer. I believe that fourth and fifth are overdrive gears. I see no problem in using D3.

[pepollock]

Kinda depends on the terrain. You probably don't want to be D3 at 65 mph on the Interstate. But towing around Nob Hill in San Francisco in D3 seems like a good idea. In general, the transmission knows what it is doing and won't let you hurt anything.