2012 NISSAN Towing Guide 21
the hood. Never remove the radiator cap when the radiator is hot. If the cap is removed
under these conditions, hot water/coolant under high pressure may spurt out, possibly
causing serious injury.
5. As soon as the engine has cooled to its normal operating temperature, visually inspect the
drive belts for damage or looseness. A loose belt reduces water pump efficiency. Be
careful to keep your hands, hair, jewelry, and clothing clear of the running drive belt and
other moving parts when inspecting the engine and radiator. Also check to see if the
cooling fan is running, and inspect the water pump, radiator, and radiator hoses for leaks.
Keep in mind, too, that if your vehicle is equipped with an electric fan motor, it may start
without warning any time the coolant temperature is high. If you find leaking coolant, a
loose or missing drive belt, or an inoperable fan, turn off the engine immediately.
6. If no leaks are apparent and all other components appear to be operating properly with
the engine cooled to its normal operating temperature, check the coolant level in the
reservoir tank with the engine running. Add coolant to the reservoir tank if needed. At this
point, if repairs are required, go to the nearest NISSAN dealer. See the IN CASE OF
EMERGENCY section of your vehicle owner’s manual for additional information on
overheating.
NOTES – All NISSAN vehicles have an engine protection mode, which helps reduce the
chance of engine damage if the engine coolant reaches a specified temperature. See your
vehicle owner’s manual for details.
1 Maximum Trailer Weight values are calculated assuming a base vehicle with driver and any
options required to achieve the rating. Additional passengers, cargo and/or optional
equipment will add weight to the vehicle and reduce your vehicle’s maximum towing
capacity and trailer tongue load.
2 Use of a weight-distributing hitch system is recommended when towing over 5,000 lbs.
3 The Maximum Trailer Weight and Gross Combined Weight ratings for 5th wheel and
gooseneck trailer towing are the same as specified for conventional trailer towing.
4 Most states require a separate braking system on trailers with a loaded weight above a
specific amount. Check local ordinances. 7-pin connector trailer wire harnesses are
required for use with trailer brakes (available separately).
