Solution for Trailer that Bumps Vehicle Bumper While Backing Up to It

Question:

Do they make any products that bolt on to protect a the rear bumper from occasional bumping and backing into the trailer as you are connecting/disconnecting from the hitch. Often times on unlevel ground the trailer may move slightly into the bumper or the vehicle may back to far and make contact between the back bumper and the trailer tongue. We purchased a Jeep Cherokee with a fully plastic rear bumper and are concerned with damage if the above occurs. What is available to prevent this?

asked by: Todd S

Expert Reply:

While we don't have a product that does what you are looking for I can help you. I am familiar with what you are describing. Once you back your vehicle up and get it perfectly lined up it moves several inches after you put it in park and release the brake...which screws up everything and sometimes bumps the tow vehicle.

If you have a great parking brake just apply that once you get lined up and the vehicle won't move. Or, and this took some trial and error on my part, you can put the vehicle in drive briefly before putting it in park. This will take the slack up in the drive trailer and won't allow the vehicle to roll backwards when you release the brake after going in park.

expert reply by: Jameson C