TOWING A TRAILER
WARNING
• Overloading or improper loading of a trailer and its cargo can adversely affect vehicle handling, braking and performance and may lead to accidents.
• Do not tow a trailer when the TEMPO- RARY FULL SIZE spare tire is installed.
CAUTION
• Do not tow a trailer or haul a heavy load for the first 500 mile (805 km). Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged.
• For the first 500 miles (805 km) that you tow a trailer, do not drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and do not make starts at full throttle. This helps the engine and other parts of your ve- hicle wear in at the heavier loads.
Your new vehicle was designed to be used primarily to carry passengers and cargo. Remember that towing a trailer places ad- ditional loads on your vehicle's engine, drive train, steering, braking and other systems.
A NISSAN Towing Guide (U.S. only) is available on the website at www.nissanusa.com. This guide includes information on trailer towing capability and the special equipment required for proper towing. MAXIMUM LOAD LIMITS Maximum trailer loads Never allow the total trailer load to exceed the value specified in the “Towing Load/ Specification” chart found in this section. The total trailer load equals trailer weight plus its cargo weight.
• When towing a trailer load of 3,500 lbs.
(1,587 kg) or more, trailers with a brake system MUST be used.
The maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) should not exceed the value specified in the following “Towing Load/ Specification” chart.
The GCWR equals the combined weight of the towing vehicle (including passengers and cargo) plus the total trailer load. Tow- ing loads greater than these or using improper towing equipment could ad- versely affect vehicle handling, braking and performance. The ability of your vehicle to tow a trailer is not only related to the maximum trailer loads, but also the places you plan to tow. Tow weights appropriate for level highway driving may have to be reduced for low traction situations (for example, on slippery boat ramps).
Temperature conditions can also affect towing. For example, towing a heavy trailer in high outside temperatures on graded roads can affect engine performance and cause overheating. The engine protection mode, which helps reduce the chance of engine damage, could activate and auto- matically decrease engine power. Vehicle speed may decrease under high load. Plan your trip carefully to account for trailer and vehicle load, weather and road conditions.
WARNING Overheating can result in reduced en- gine power and vehicle speed. The re- duced speed may be lower than other traffic, which could increase the chance of a collision. Be especially careful when driving. If the vehicle cannot maintain a safe driving speed, pull to the side of the road in a safe area. Allow the engine to cool and return to normal operation. For additional information, see “If your vehicle overheats” (P. 6-13).
CAUTION Vehicle damage resulting from im- proper towing procedures is not cov- ered by NISSAN warranties.
Tongue load When using a weight carrying or a weight distributing hitch, keep the tongue load be- tween 10 - 15% of the total trailer load or use the trailer tongue load specified by the trailer manufacturer. The tongue load must be within the maximum tongue load limits shown in the following “Towing Load/ Specification” chart. If the tongue load be- comes excessive, rearrange cargo to allow for proper tongue load.
Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)/maximum Gross Axle Weight (GAW) The GVW of the towing vehicle must not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) shown on the F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label. The GVW equals the combined weight of the unloaded vehicle, passengers, luggage, hitch, trailer tongue load and any other optional equipment. In addition, front or rear GAW must not ex- ceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) shown on the F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certifica- tion label.
WTI0160 CA0036
Towing capacities are calculated assum- ing a base vehicle with driver and any op- tions required to achieve the rating. Addi- tional passengers, cargo and/or optional equipment, such as the trailer hitch, will add weight to the vehicle and reduce your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity and trailer tongue load. The vehicle and trailer need to be weighed to confirm the vehicle is within the GVWR, Front GAWR, Rear GAWR, Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and Towing capacity. All vehicle and trailer weights can be mea- sured using platform type scales com- monly found at truck stops, highway weigh stations, building supply centers or salvage yards. To determine the available payload capac- ity for tongue load, use the following proce- dure. 1. Locate the GVWR on the F.M.V.S.S./
C.M.V.S.S. certification label. 2. Weigh your vehicle on the scale with all
of the passengers and cargo that are normally in the vehicle when towing a trailer.
3. Subtract the actual vehicle weight from the GVWR. The remaining amount is the available maximum tongue load.
To determine the available towing capacity, use the following procedure. 1. Find the GCWR for your vehicle on the
"Towing Load/Specification" chart found in this section.
2. Subtract the actual vehicle weight from the GCWR. The remaining amount is the available maximum towing capacity.
To determine the Gross Trailer Weight, weigh your trailer on a scale with all equip- ment and cargo, that are normally in the trailer when it is towed. Make sure the Gross Trailer Weight is not more than the Gross Trailer Weight Rating shown on the trailer and is not more than the calculated available maximum towing capacity. Also weigh the front and rear axles on the scale to make sure the Front Gross Axle Weight and Rear Gross Axle Weight are not more than Front Gross Axle Weight and Rear Gross Axle Weight on the F.M.V.S.S./ C.M.V.S.S. certification label. The cargo in
the trailer and vehicle may need to be moved or removed to meet the specified ratings. Example: • Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) as weighed
on a scale- including passengers, cargo and hitch - 5,185 lbs. (2352 kg).
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) from F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label - 5,815 lbs. (2638 kg).
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) from “Towing Load/Specification" chart - 11,133 lbs. (5050 kg).
• Maximum Trailer towing capacity from “Towing Load/Specification" chart - 6,100 lbs. (2767 kg).
Technical and consumer information 10-29
5,815 lbs. (2638 kg) GVWR – 5,185 lbs. (2352 kg) GVW
= 630 lbs. (286 kg) Available for tongue weight
11,133 lbs. (5050 kg) GCWR – 5,185 lbs. (2352 kg) GVW
= 5,948 lbs. (2698 kg) Capacity available for towing
630 lbs. (286 kg) Available tongue weight
/ 5,948 lbs. (2698 kg) Available capacity = 10 % tongue
weight The available towing capacity may be less than the maximum towing capacity due to the passenger and cargo load in the vehicle. Remember to keep trailer tongue weight between 10 - 15 percent of the trailer weight or within the trailer tongue load specifica- tion recommended by the trailer manufac- turer. If the tongue load becomes exces- sive, rearrange the cargo to obtain the proper tongue load. Do not exceed the maximum tongue weight specification
shown in the “Towing Load/Specification” chart even if the calculated available tongue weight is greater than 15 percent. If the calculated tongue weight is less than 10 percent, reduce the total trailer weight to match the available tongue weight. Always verify that available capacities are within the required ratings.
Trailer frontal area
CAUTION
Exceeding the maximum trailer frontal area specification may exceed the tow- ing capacity of the vehicle. This may affect the towing performance and lead to vehicle damage.
The trailer frontal area affects the towing load of a trailer. The frontal area is the total area of the vehicle and trailer that is af- fected by air resistance while towing. Do not exceed the maximum trailer frontal area specification shown in the "Towing Load/Specification” chart. The frontal area can be determined by multiplying the width of the trailer by the height of the trailer. For example, a trailer that is 8 feet wide by 6 feet tall has a trailer frontal area of 48 square feet.
TOWING LOAD/SPECIFICATION
WARNING
The towing capacities provided in this manual are for general reference only. The safe towing capacity of your ve- hicle is affected by dealer and factory installed options and passenger and cargo loads. You must weigh the ve- hicle and trailer as described in this manual to determine the actual vehicle towing capacity. Do not exceed the published maximum towing capacity or the GCWR or the GVWR shown on the FMVSS/CMVSS label. Doing so can re- sult in an accident causing serious per- sonal injury or property damage.
10-30
Technical and consumer information
King Cab® models
Axle type 2WD 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity*1, *2, *3 6,720 lbs. (3,048 kg) 6,510 lbs. (2,953 kg)
Maximum Tongue Load*2, *3 672 lbs. (305 kg) 651 lbs. (295 kg)
Maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating 11,427 lbs. (5,183 kg) 11,427 lbs. (5,183 kg)
Maximum trailer frontal area 30 sq feet (2.78 sq meters)
Crew Cab – Short wheel base models Axle type 2WD 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity*1, *2, *3 6,570 lbs. (2,980 kg) 6,370 lbs. (2,889 kg)
Maximum Tongue Load*2, *3 657 lbs. (298 kg) 637 lbs. (289 kg)
Maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating 11,427 lbs. (5,183 kg) 11,427 lbs. (5,183 kg)
Maximum trailer frontal area 30 sq feet (2.78 sq meters)
Crew Cab – Long wheel base models Axle type 2WD 4WD
Maximum Towing Capacity*1, *2, *3 6,460 lbs. (2,930 kg) 6,260 lbs. (2,839 kg)
Maximum Tongue Load*2, *3 646 lbs. (293 kg) 626 lbs. (284 kg)
Maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating 11,427 lbs. (5,183 kg) 11,427 lbs. (5,183 kg)
Maximum trailer frontal area 30 sq feet (2.78 sq meters)
*1: • The towing capacity is calculated using the SAE International SAE J2807 test method. Additional passengers, cargo and/or optional equipment will add weight
to the vehicle and reduce your vehicle's maximum towing capacity. • All towing above 3,500 lbs. (1,587 kg) requires the use of trailer brakes. • NISSAN recommends the use of a tandem axle trailer whenever towing above 3,000 lbs. (1,361 kg).
*2: The maximum towing capacity when using the Genuine NISSAN step bumper as a ball mount is 3,500 lbs. (1,588 kg) and 350 lbs. (158 kg) tongue load. *3: Use of a weight-distributing hitch system is recommended when towing over 5,000 lbs.
TOWING SAFETY Trailer hitch Your vehicle may be equipped with an op- tional trailer tow package. The trailer tow package includes a receiver-type frame mounted hitch. This hitch is rated for the maximum towing capacity of this vehicle when the proper towing equipment is used. Choose a proper ball mount and hitch ball that is rated for the trailer to be towed. Genuine NISSAN ball mounts and hitch balls are available from a NISSAN dealer. If your vehicle is not equipped with the op- tional trailer tow package, check the tow- ing capacity of your bumper hitch or receiver-type frame mounted hitch. Choose a proper hitch for your vehicle and trailer. A Genuine NISSAN trailer hitch is available from a NISSAN dealer. Make sure the trailer hitch is securely attached to the vehicle to help avoid personal injury or property damage due to sway caused by crosswinds, rough road surfaces or pass- ing trucks.
WARNING Trailer hitch components have specific weight ratings. Your vehicle may be ca- pable of towing a trailer heavier than the weight rating of the hitch compo- nents. Never exceed the weight rating of the hitch components. Doing so can cause serious personal injury or prop- erty damage.
Hitch ball Choose a hitch ball of the proper size and weight rating for your trailer: • The required hitch ball size is stamped on
most trailer couplers. Most hitch balls also have the size printed on the top of the ball.
• Choose the proper class hitch ball based on the trailer weight.
• The diameter of the threaded shank of the hitch ball must be matched to the ball mount hole diameter. The hitch ball shank should be no more than 1/16” smaller than the hole in the ball mount.
• The threaded shank of the hitch ball must be long enough to be properly secured to the ball mount. There should be at least 2 threads showing beyond the lock washer and nut.
Ball mount The hitch ball is attached to the ball mount and the ball mount is inserted into the hitch receiver. Choose a proper class ball mount based on the trailer weight. Addi- tionally, the ball mount should be chosen to keep the trailer tongue level with the ground.
Bumper towing The Genuine NISSAN step bumper has pro- visions to install a trailer hitch ball and is designed to tow trailers of a maximum weight of 3,500 lbs. (1,588 kg). To install a trailer hitch ball cut out the circle in the center of the step bumper OA , then remove it to install the trailer hitch ball.
Weight carrying hitches A weight carrying or “dead weight” ball mount is one that is designed to carry the whole amount of tongue weight and gross weight directly on the ball mount and on the receiver.
Weight distribution hitch This type of hitch is also called a “load- leveling” or “equalizing” hitch. A set of bars attach to the ball mount and to the trailer to distribute the tongue weight (hitch weight) of your trailer. Many vehicles can't carry the full tongue weight of a given trailer, and need some of the tongue weight transferred through the frame and pushing down on the front wheels. This gives stability to the tow vehicle. A weight-distributing hitch system (Class IV) is recommended if you plan to tow trail- ers with a maximum weight over 5,000 lbs. (2,268 kg). Check with the trailer and towing equipment manufacturers to determine if they recommend the use of a weight- distributing hitch system.
NOTE: A weight-distributing hitch system may affect the operation of trailer surge brakes. If you are considering use of a weight-distributing hitch system with a surge brake-equipped trailer, check with the surge brake, hitch or trailer manufac- turer to determine if and how this can be done. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for installing and using the weight-distributing hitch system. General set-up instructions are as follows: 1. Park unloaded vehicle on a level surface.
With the ignition switch in the ON posi- tion and the doors closed, allow the ve- hicle to stand for several minutes so that it can level.
2. Measure the height of a reference point on the front and rear bumpers at the center of the vehicle.
3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle and ad- just the hitch equalizers so that the front bumper height is within 0 - .5 inches (0 – 13 mm) of the reference height mea- sured in step 2. The rear bumper should be no higher than the reference height measured in step 2.
LTI2569
WARNING Properly adjust the weight distributing hitch so the rear of the bumper is no higher than the measured reference height when the trailer is attached. If the rear bumper is higher than the measured reference height when loaded, the vehicle may handle unpre- dictably which could cause a loss of ve- hicle control and cause serious per- sonal injury or property damage.
Sway control device Sudden maneuvers, wind gusts, and buf- feting caused by other vehicles can affect trailer handling. Sway control devices may be used to help control these affects. If you choose to use one, contact a reputable trailer hitch supplier to make sure the sway control device will work with the vehicle, hitch, trailer and the trailer's brake system. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for installing and using the sway control device.
Class I hitch Class I trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers of a maximum weight of 2,000 lbs. (907 kg).
Class II hitch Class II trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers of a maximum weight of 3,500 lbs. (1,587 kg). The Genuine NISSAN step bumper is con- sidered a Class II ball mount.
Class III hitch Class III trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers of a maximum weight of 5,000 lbs. (2,268 kg).
Class IV hitch Class IV trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers of a maximum weight of 10,000 lbs. (4,535 kg). A weight distributing hitch should be used to tow trailers that weigh over 5,000 lbs. (2,268 kg).
Your vehicle may be equipped with Class IV trailer hitch equipment that has a 10,000 lbs. (4,535 kg) maximum weight rating, but your vehicle is only capable of towing the maxi- mum trailer weights shown in the “Towing Load/Specification” chart in this section.
CAUTION •
Special hitches which include frame
reinforcements are required for tow- ing above 2,000 lbs. (907 kg). Suitable Genuine NISSAN hitches, ball mounts and hitch balls for pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles are available at a NISSAN dealer.
The hitch should not be attached to or affect the operation of the impact- absorbing bumper.
WARNING •
Do not use axle-mounted hitches. •
Do not modify the vehicle exhaust
system, brake system, etc. to install a trailer hitch.
To reduce the possibility of addi- tional damage if your vehicle is struck from the rear, where practical, remove the receiver when not in use.
Regularly check that all trailer hitch mounting bolts are securely mounted.
Tire pressures • When towing a trailer, inflate the
vehicle tires to the recommended cold tire pressure indicated on the Tire and Loading Information label.
• Trailer tire condition, size, load rat- ing and proper inflation pressure should be in accordance with the trailer and tire manufacturer's specifications.
Safety chains Always use suitable safety chains between your vehicle and the trailer. The safety chains should be crossed and should be attached to the hitch, not to the vehicle bumper or axle. The safety chains can be attached to the bumper if the hitch ball is mounted to the bumper. Be sure to leave enough slack in the chains to permit turn- ing corners.
Trailer lights
CAUTION
When splicing into the vehicle electrical system, a commercially available power-type module/converter must be used to provide power for all trailer lighting. This unit uses the vehicle bat- tery as a direct power source for all trailer lights while using the vehicle tail light, stop light and turn signal circuits as a signal source. The module/ converter must draw no more than 15 milliamps from the stop and tail lamp circuits. Using a module/converter that exceeds these power requirements may damage the vehicle's electrical system. See a reputable trailer dealer to obtain the proper equipment and to have it installed.
Trailer lights should comply with federal and/or local regulations. For assistance in hooking up trailer lights, it is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer or reputable trailer dealer. Vehicles equipped with the optional trailer tow package are equipped with a 7-pin trailer harness connector. A flat 4–pin harness is available from your dealer for vehicles without a tow package. If your trailer is equipped with a flat 4-pin connec-
tor, an adapter will be needed to connect the trailer lights to the vehicle. Adapters are available at auto parts stores and hitch retailers.
Trailer brakes If your trailer is equipped with a braking system, make sure it conforms to federal and/or local regulations and that it is prop- erly installed. Vehicles equipped with a 7–pin trailer har- ness connector are pre-wired for a trailer brake controller. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for a trailer brake adapter harness.
WARNING Never connect a trailer brake system directly to the vehicle brake system.
When towing a trailer load of 3,500 lbs. (1587 kg) or more, trailers with a brake system MUST be used. However, most states require a separate braking system on trailers with a loaded weight above a specific amount. Make sure the trailer meets the local regulations and the regu- lations where you plan to tow.
Technical and consumer information 10-35
Several types of braking systems are available.
Surge Brakes -The surge brake actuator is mounted on the trailer tongue with a hy- draulic line running to each trailer wheel. Surge brakes are activated by the trailer pushing against the hitch ball when the tow vehicle is braking. Hydraulic surge brakes are common on rental trailers and some boat trailers. In this type of system, there is no hydraulic or electric connection for brake operation between the tow ve- hicle and the trailer.
Electric Trailer Brakes -Electric braking systems are activated by an electronic sig- nal sent from a trailer brake controller (spe- cial brake-sensing module). If electric trailer brakes are used, see “Electric trailer brake controller" (P. 10-36).. Have a professional supplier of towing equipment make sure the trailer brakes are properly installed and demonstrate proper brake function testing.
Electric trailer brake controller Trailers equipped with electric brakes may require the installation of an aftermarket trailer brake controller.
A Genuine NISSAN jumper harness is avail- able that is specifically designed to be used when installing an aftermarket brake controller. Install the aftermarket electric trailer brake controller according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pre-towing tips • Be certain your vehicle maintains a level
position when a loaded and/or unloaded trailer is hitched. Do not drive the vehicle if it has an abnormal nose-up or nose- down condition; check for improper tongue load, overload, worn suspension or other possible causes of either condition.
• Always secure items in the trailer to pre- vent load shift while driving.
• Keep the cargo load as low as possible in the trailer to keep the trailer center of gravity low.
• Load the trailer so approximately 60% of the trailer load is in the front half and 40% is in the back half. Also make sure the load is balanced side to side.
• Check your hitch, trailer tire pressure, ve- hicle tire pressure, trailer light operation, and trailer wheel lug nuts every time you attach a trailer to the vehicle.
• Be certain your rearview mirrors conform to all federal, state or local regulations. If not, install any mirrors required for towing before driving the vehicle.
• Determine the overall height of the ve- hicle and trailer so the required clearance is known.
Trailer towing tips In order to gain skill and an understanding of the vehicle's behavior, you should prac- tice turning, stopping and backing up in an area which is free from traffic. Steering sta- bility and braking performance will be somewhat different than under normal driving conditions. • Always secure items in the trailer to pre-
vent load shift while driving. • Lock the trailer hitch coupler with a pin or
lock to prevent the coupler from inadver- tently becoming unlatched.
• Avoid abrupt starts, acceleration or stops. • Avoid sharp turns or lane changes. • Always drive your vehicle at a moderate
speed. 10-36
Technical and consumer information
• When backing up, hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Move your hand in the direction in which you want the trailer to go. Make small corrections and back up slowly. If possible, have someone guide you when you are back- ing up.
Always block the wheels on both vehicle and trailer when parking. Parking on a slope is not recommended; however, if you must do so:
CAUTION If you move the shift lever to the P (Park) position before blocking the wheels and applying the parking brake, transmission damage could occur.
1. Apply and hold the brake pedal. 2. Have someone place blocks on the
downhill side of the vehicle and trailer wheels.
3. After the wheel blocks are in place, slowly release the brake pedal until the blocks absorb the vehicle load.
4. Apply the parking brake. 5. Shift the transmission into P (Park).
6. Make sure the 4WD shift indicator light (if so equipped) indicates the transfer case is in 4H, 4LO, or 2WD and that the ATP light is off. If the 4WD shift indicator light is flashing, or the ATP light is ON, make sure the transmission is in P (Park) and turn the 4WD switch to 2WD or 4H. For additional information, see “Automatic transmission park warning light” (P. 2-12) and “Using 4-wheel drive (4WD)” (P. 5-111).
7. Turn off the engine. To drive away: 1. Start the vehicle. 2. Apply and hold the brake pedal. 3. Shift the transmission into gear. 4. Release the parking brake. 5. Drive slowly until the vehicle and trailer
are clear from the blocks. 6. Apply and hold the brake pedal. 7. Have someone retrieve and store the
blocks.
• While going downhill, the weight of the trailer pushing on the tow vehicle may decrease overall stability. Therefore, to maintain adequate control, reduce your speed and shift to a lower gear. Avoid long or repeated use of the brakes when descending a hill, as this reduces their effectiveness and could cause overheat- ing. Shifting to a lower gear instead pro- vides “engine braking” and reduces the need to brake as frequently.
• If the engine coolant temperature rises to a high temperature, see “If your vehicle overheats” (P. 6-13).
• Trailer towing requires more fuel than normal circumstances.
• Avoid towing a trailer for your vehicle's first 500 miles (805 km).
• For the first 500 miles (805 km) that you do tow, do not drive over 50 mph (80 km/h).
• Have your vehicle serviced more often than at intervals specified. For additional information, see the “Maintenance and schedules” section of this manual.
• When making a turn, your trailer wheels will be closer to the inside of the turn than your vehicle wheels. To compensate for this, make a larger than normal turning radius during the turn.
Technical and consumer information 10-37
• Crosswinds and rough roads will ad- versely affect vehicle/trailer handling, possibly causing vehicle sway. When be- ing passed by larger vehicles, be pre- pared for possible changes in crosswinds that could affect vehicle handling.
Do the following if the trailer begins to sway: 1. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal
to allow the vehicle to coast and steer as straight ahead as the road conditions allow. This combination will help stabilize the vehicle – Do not correct trailer sway by steering
or applying the brakes. 2. When the trailer sway stops, gently apply
the brakes and pull to the side of the road in a safe area.
3. Try to rearrange the trailer load so it is balanced as described in this section.
• Be careful when passing other vehicles. Passing while towing a trailer requires considerably more distance than normal passing. Remember, the length of the trailer must also pass the other vehicle before you can safely change lanes.
• Downshift the transmission to a lower gear for engine braking when driving down steep or long hills. This will help slow the vehicle without applying the brakes.
• Avoid holding the brake pedal down too long or too frequently. This could cause the brakes to overheat, resulting in re- duced braking efficiency.
• Increase your following distance to allow for greater stopping distances while tow- ing a trailer. Anticipate stops and brake gradually.
• NISSAN recommends that the cruise control not be used while towing a trailer.
• Some states or provinces have specific regulations and speed limits for vehicles that are towing trailers. Obey the local speed limits.
• Check your hitch, trailer wiring harness connections, and trailer wheel lug nuts after 50 miles (80 km) of travel and at every break.
• When launching a boat, don't allow the water level to go over the exhaust tail pipe or rear bumper.
• Make sure you disconnect the trailer lights before backing the trailer into the water or the trailer lights may burn out.
When towing a trailer, final drive gear oil should be replaced and transmission oil/ fluid should be changed more fre- quently. For additional information, refer to the “Do-it-yourself” section in this manual.
Tow mode (if so equipped) Using tow mode is recommended when pulling a heavy trailer or hauling a heavy load. Press the TOW MODE switch to acti- vate tow mode. The indicator light on the TOW MODE switch illuminates when tow mode is selected. Press the TOW MODE switch again to turn tow mode off. Tow mode is automatically canceled when the ignition switch is turned off. Tow mode includes the following features: • Grade logic — Adjusts transmission shifts
when pulling a trailer or hauling a load up a grade.
• Downhill Speed Control (DSC) — auto- matically downshifts when driving down a grade with a trailer or heavy load to help control vehicle speed.
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Technical and consumer information
Driving the vehicle in the tow mode with no trailer/load or light trailer/light load will not cause any damage. However, fuel economy may be reduced and the transmission/engine driving characteris- tics may feel unusual.
When towing a trailer, final drive gear oil should be replaced and transmission oil/ fluid should be changed more frequently. For additional information, see the “Do-it- yourself” section of this manual. FLAT TOWING – 4WD WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Towing a vehicle behind a recreational ve- hicle, such as a motor home, is sometimes called flat towing.
CAUTION •
DO NOT flat tow a 4WD vehicle
equipped with an automatic transmis- sion. Flat towing or using a vehicle dolly WILL DAMAGE internal transmis- sion parts due to lack of lubrication.
For emergency towing procedures, see “Towing recommended by NISSAN” in the “In case of emergency” (P. 6-15).
FLAT TOWING – 2WD WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Towing a vehicle behind a recreational ve- hicle, such as a motor home, is sometimes called flat towing.
CAUTION •
Failure to follow these guidelines can
result in severe transmission damage. •
Whenever flat towing your vehicle,
always tow forward, never backward. •
DO NOT tow any automatic transmis-
sion vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. Doing so WILL DAMAGE internal transmission parts due to lack of transmission lubrication.
For emergency towing procedures, see “Towing recommended by NISSAN” in the “In case of emergency” (P. 6-15).
To tow a vehicle equipped with an auto- matic transmission, an appropriate vehicle dolly
MUST be placed under the towed ve- hicle’s drive wheels.
Always follow the dolly manufacturer’s recommendations when using their product.
Automatic Transmission To tow a vehicle equipped with an auto- matic transmission, an appropriate vehicle dolly
MUST be placed under the towed ve- hicle's drive wheels.
Always follow the dolly manufacturer's recommendations when using their product.
NOTE: If the battery is completely drained the transmission will not manually shift to other positions.
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