2016 NISSAN QASHQAI towing

•If the engine is revving up to a hazardous
speed in manual shift mode, the transmission
may shift up automatically. When the vehicle
speed decreases, the transmission automati-
cally shifts down and shifts to 1st gear before
the vehicle comes to a stop.
Accelerator downshift – In the D (Drive)
and Ds (Drive Sport) position
For rapid passing or driving uphill, fully depress the
accelerator pedal to the floor. This shifts the trans-
mission down into a lower gear, depending on the
vehicle speed.
Shift lock release
j
1LHD models
j2RHD models
jAShift lock release buttonIf the battery charge is low or discharged, the shift
lever may not move from the P (Park) position even
with the brake pedal depressed and the shift lever
button pushed.
To move the shift lever, perform the following proce-
dure:
1.Models with Intelligent Key system:
Place the ignition switch in the “OFF” or LOCK
position.
Models without Intelligent Key system:
Place the ignition switch in the LOCK position,
and remove the key if it is inserted.
2. Apply the parking brake.
3. Push down the shift lock release button
jA . Use
a suitable tool.
4. Push and hold the shift lever button and move
the shift lever to the N (Neutral) position while
holding down the shift lock release button.
Place the ignition switch in the ON position to un-
lock the steering wheel. The vehicle may be moved
to the desired location.
For models with Intelligent Key system: If the battery
is discharged completely, the steering wheel cannot
be unlocked. Do not move the vehicle with the steer-
ing wheel locked.
If the shift lever cannot be moved out of the P (Park)
position, have a NISSAN dealer or qualified work-
shop check the XTRONIC system as soon as pos-
sible.
WARNING
If the shift lever cannot be moved from the P
(Park) position while the engine is running and
the brake pedal is depressed, the stop lights may
not work. Malfunctioning stop lights could cause
an accident injuring yourself and others.
High fluid temperature protection mode
This transmission has a high fluid temperature pro-
tection mode. If the fluid temperature becomes too
high (for example, when climbing steep grades in
high temperature with heavy loads, such as when
towing a trailer), engine power and, under some
conditions, vehicle speed will be decreased auto-
matically to reduce the chance of transmission dam-
age. Vehicle speed can be controlled with the ac-
celerator pedal, but engine and vehicle speed may
be limited.
Fail-safe
When the fail-safe operation occurs, the vehicle
speed will be decreased automatically to reduce the
chance of transmission damage. Vehicle speed can
be controlled with the accelerator pedal, but the
engine power may be limited. Have a NISSAN dealer
or qualified workshop check and repair the trans-
mission.
NSD502
Starting and driving5-21

4WD MODE OPERATIONSCAUTION
Depending on the driving conditions, the 4WD
mode may automatically change from 2WD to
4WD even when the 2WD mode is selected.
If this occurs while driving, the 4WD mode indi-
cator light will not illuminate.
Do not start the engine while in the 2WD, AUTO,
or LOCK mode:
•When on free-roller or jacking the front tyres
with the rear tyres on the ground.
•When towing with the rear tyres raised from
the ground.
4WD SHIFT TIPS
•If the 4WD mode control is operated while cor-
nering, accelerating or decelerating, or if the ig-
nition is turned OFF while in the AUTO or LOCK
position you may feel a jolt - this is normal.
•The oil temperature of power train parts will in-
crease if the vehicle is continuously operated
under conditions where the difference in rotation
between the front and rear wheels is large (wheel
slip), such as when driving the vehicle on rough
roads through sand or mud, or when freeing a
stuck vehicle. In these cases, the message [4WD
High Temp. Stop Vehicle] will appear in the ve-
hicle information display and the 4WD mode
changes to the 2WD condition to protect the
power train parts. If you stop the vehicle, with
4WD Mode Wheels driven4WD mode
indicator light
(
m,m)Driving conditions
2WDFront wheels-
The wheel drive mode is in
2WD when driving on a normal
road
*1Goes off For driving on dry, paved roads
AUTODistribution of torque to the
front and rear wheels changes
automatically, depending on
road conditions encountered
[ratio; 100:0 (2WD)→50:50
(4WD)]. This results in
improved driving stability
m
For driving on paved or slippery roads
LOCK Four wheels
*2m/mFor driving on rough roads
*1The 2WD mode may change to the 4WD mode automatically depending on the driving condition. The 4WD mode indi-
cator light does not illuminate.
*2LOCK mode changes to AUTO mode automatically when the vehicle is sharply accelerated or when the vehicle speed
is over approximately 40 km/h (25 MPH). The 4WD LOCK indicator light goes off. Turning off the ignition automatically
cancels LOCK mode.
Starting and driving5-27

While driving, the Blind Spot Warning (BSW) sys-
tem helps alert the driver to the presence of other
vehicles in adjacent lanes.
The BSW system uses the rear view monitor cam-
era unit
j1.
WARNING
•The BSW system is not a replacement for
proper driving procedure and is not designed
to prevent contact with vehicles or objects.
When driving, always use the side and rear
mirrors and always turn your head and look in
the direction you will move to ensure it is safe
to change lanes. Never rely solely on the BSW
system.
•The camera units may not function properly
under the following conditions:
– When towing a trailer.– When strong light enters the camera unit.
(for example, light directly shines on the
front or rear of the vehicle at sunrise or
sunset.)
– When ambient brightness changes sud-
denly. (for example, when the vehicle en-
ters or exits a tunnel or passes under a
bridge.)
•If the camera lens is excessively dirty, the au-
tomatic washer may not be able to completely
clean the lens. This could result in the camera
not detecting vehicles or lane markers.
•Excessive noise (for example, audio system
volume, open vehicle window) will interfere
with the chime sound, and it may not be heard.
BSW SYSTEM OPERATION
The BSW system operates above approximately 32
km/h (20 MPH).
The BSW light is shown in the vehicle information
display if the Blind Spot Warning system is active.
To switch the system on or off, see the description
later in this section.
When the camera unit detects a vehicle in the de-
tection zone, the Blind Spot Indicator light located in
the front corner of the door window (by the outside
NAA1426
NAA1425Blind Spot Indicator light on the inside of the mirrors
NAA1427BSW light in the vehicle information display
BLIND SPOT WARNING (BSW)
SYSTEM (where fitted)
5-30Starting and driving

When the above conditions are corrected, the BSW
system will resume automatically.
BSW AUTOMATIC DEACTIVATION
When dirt, rain or snow accumulates on the rear
camera, or the windscreen in front of the multi-sens-
ing camera, the BSW system will be turned off auto-
matically. The BSW light will blink.
Action to take:
If the message appears, park the vehicle in a safe
place, clean the camera unit and/or windscreen with
a soft cloth. Then turn off and restart the engine.
BSW MALFUNCTION
If the BSW system malfunctions, it will be turned off
automatically and the BSW light (orange) will illumi-
nate.
Action to take:
Stop the vehicle in a safe location, turn off and re-
start the engine. If the BSW light (orange) continues
to illuminate, have the BSW system checked by a
NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop.
BSW CAMERA UNIT MAINTENANCE
The rear camera unitj1 for the BSW system is
located above the rear number plate and it has a
automatic washer and blower for cleaning the lens.
To maintain the proper operation of the BSW sys-
tem and prevent a system malfunction be sure to
observe the following:
•Always keep the camera unit clean. Be careful
not to damage the nozzle of automatic washer
and blower.
•Do not attach “number plate accessories” that
reflect light.
•Do not strike or damage the areas around the
camera unit.The Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system alerts
the driver when the vehicle is travelling close to ei-
ther the left or the right of a travelling lane.
The LDW system uses the multi-sensing front cam-
era unit situated in front of the interior rear view mir-
ror
j1.
WARNING
•The LDW system is only a warning device to
help inform the driver of a potential unin-
tended lane departure. It will not steer the
vehicle or prevent loss of control. It is the driv-
er’s responsibility to stay alert, drive safely,
keep the vehicle in the travelling lane, and be
in control of the vehicle at all times.
•The camera units may not function properly
under the following conditions:
– When towing a trailer.
NAA1429
NSD522
LANE DEPARTURE WARNING
(LDW) SYSTEM (where fitted)
Starting and driving5-33

SYSTEM OPERATION
The forward emergency braking system will func-
tion when your vehicle is driven at speeds above
approximately 5 km/h (3 MPH).
If a risk of a forward collision is detected, the for-
ward emergency braking system will provide the
first warning to the driver by flashing the forward
collision warning light (orange) and providing an au-
dible warning.
If the driver applies the brakes quickly and forcefully
after the warning, and the forward emergency brak-
ing system detects that there is still the possibility of
a forward collision, the system will automatically in-
crease the braking force.
If the driver does not take action, the forward emer-
gency braking system issues the second visual
warning (red) and audible warning. If the driver re-
leases the accelerator pedal, then the system ap-
plies partial braking
If the risk of a collision becomes imminent, the for-
ward emergency braking system applies harder
braking automatically.
NOTE
The vehicle’s brake lights come on when braking
is performed by the forward emergency braking
system.
Depending on vehicle speed and distance to the
vehicle ahead, as well as driving and roadway con-
ditions, the system may help the driver avoid a for-ward collision or may help mitigate the
consequences if a collision should one be unavoid-
able.
If the driver is handling the steering wheel, acceler-
ating or braking, the forward emergency braking
system will function later or will not function.
The automatic braking will cease under the follow-
ing conditions:
•When the steering wheel is turned as far as nec-
essary to avoid a collision.
•When the accelerator pedal is depressed.
•When there is no longer a vehicle detected
ahead.
If the forward emergency braking system has
stopped the vehicle, the vehicle will remain at a
standstill for approximately 2 seconds before the
brakes are released.
WARNING
•The radar sensor does not detect the follow-
ing objects:
– Pedestrians, animals or obstacles in the
roadway
– Oncoming vehicles
– Crossing vehicles
•The radar sensor has some performance limi-
tations. If a stationary vehicle is in the vehi-
cle’s path, the forward emergency brakingsystem will not function when the vehicle is
driven at speeds over approximately 45 MPH
(70 km/h).
•The radar sensor may not detect a vehicle
ahead in the following conditions:
– Dirt, ice, snow or other material covering
the radar sensor.
– Interference by other radar sources.
– Snow or road spray from travelling
vehicles.
– If the vehicle ahead is narrow (e.g. motor-
cycle).
– When driving on a steep downhill slope or
roads with sharp curves.
– When towing a trailer.
•In some road or traffic conditions, the forward
emergency braking system may unexpectedly
apply partial braking. When acceleration is
necessary, continue to depress the accelera-
tor pedal to override the system.
•Braking distances increase on slippery sur-
faces.
•Excessive noise will interfere with the warn-
ing chime sound, and the chime may not be
heard.
•The system is designed to automatically
check the sensor’s functionality, within cer-
tain limitations. The system may not detect
some forms of obstruction of the sensor area
Starting and driving5-41

Your new vehicle was designed to be used primarily
to carry passengers and luggage.
Remember that towing a trailer will place additional
loads on your vehicle’s engine, drive-train, steering,
braking and other systems. Towing a trailer will also
exaggerate other conditions, such as sway caused
by crosswinds, rough road surfaces or passing
trucks. Driving style and speed must be adjusted
according to the circumstances. Before towing a
trailer, see a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop
for an explanation of towing equipment and its
proper use.
OPERATING PRECAUTIONS
•Avoid towing a trailer during the running-in
schedule.
•Choose proper coupling devices (trailer hitch,
safety chain, roof carrier, etc.) for your vehicle
and trailer. These devices are available from a
NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop where you
can also obtain more detailed information about
trailer towing.
Heavy-duty kits are available at a NISSAN dealer
or qualified workshop.
•It is advisable to contact a NISSAN dealer or
qualified workshop for towing details, before
towing a trailer up steep slopes for long dis-
tances.
•Never allow the total trailer load (trailer weight
plus its cargo weight) to exceed the maximum
set for the coupling device.Contact a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop
for more information on this matter.
•The trailer must be loaded so that heavy goods
are distributed over the axle and as low in the
trailer as possible. Poor load distribution can se-
riously affect the stability of the trailer and tow
vehicle.
•Do not exceed the maximum permitted vertical
load on the trailer hitch.
•Before driving, make sure that the lighting sys-
tem of the trailer works properly.
•When towing with 4WD models, the 4WD mode
switch should be in the AUTO position. Using
the vehicle in AUTO mode gives better traction,
particularly when moving off from stationary and/
or on an incline, as the vehicle is less likely to
wheel spin.
•Avoid abrupt starts, accelerations and stops.
•Avoid sharp turns and lane changes.
•Always drive your vehicle at a moderate speed.
•Always block the wheels on both vehicle and
trailer when parking. Apply the handbrake (where
fitted) on the trailer. Parking on a steep slope is
not recommended.
If parking on a steep slope is unavoidable it is
also advisable to put the vehicle into gear, or
select P (Park (XTRONIC models)), and turn the
front wheels into the kerb (in addition to the other
precautions described). Before parking on asteep slope consider the incline (the towing
weights quoted are for a 12% slope).
•Follow the trailer manufacturer’s instructions.
•Have your vehicle serviced more often than at
the intervals specified in the separately provided
Warranty Information and Maintenance booklet.
•Trailer towing requires more fuel than under nor-
mal circumstances because of a considerable
increase in traction power required and resis-
tance.
•When towing a trailer, observe the following re-
stricted towing speed:
Speed: below 100 km/h (62 MPH)
•Observe the legal maximum speeds for trailer
operation.
CAUTION
While towing a trailer, check the engine coolant
temperature gauge regularly to prevent engine
overheating.
NSD239Z
TRAILER TOWING
5-54Starting and driving

jATongue load
jBTotal trailer load
jCLess than 10%
MAXIMUM LOAD LIMITS (for Australia)
Maximum trailer loads (including tyres and other
loaded equipment):
1) Never allow the total trailer load to exceed:
Engine –
TransmissionAxle Towing capacity
R9M – CVT 2WD750 kg Trailer without brakes
1400 kg Trailer with brakes
MR20DD – 6MT 2WD716 kg Trailer without brakes
1400 kg Trailer with brakes
MR20DD – CVT 2WD727 kg Trailer without brakes
1200 kg Trailer with brakes
2) The total trailer load must be lower than the fol-
lowing three values, even if it does not exceed
the maximum permissible trailer load:
•Towing capacity displayed on a tow-bar.
•Trailer’s gross vehicle mass marked on a
coupling body.
•Gross vehicle mass marked on a trailer data
plate.
The maximum trailer load that can be towed by your
vehicle depends on the towing equipment fitted to
the vehicle. Therefore, it is important to not only
have the correct equipment fitted, but also to use it
correctly. Towing loads greater than the value speci-
fied for your vehicle or using towing equipment thatis not provided by NISSAN could seriously affect
the handling and/or performance of your vehicle.
Vehicle damage resulting from improper towing pro-
cedures is not covered by NISSAN warranties. In-
formation on trailer towing and the required equip-
ment should be obtained from a NISSAN dealer or
qualified workshop.
Maximum rear gross axle weight
The rear gross axle weight must not exceed the
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
Engine – Transmission Axle GAWR
R9M – CVT 2WD 1015 kg
MR20DD – 6MT 2WD 985 kg
MR20DD – CVT 2WD 1000 kg
The trailer must be loaded so that heavy goods are
placed over the axle.
Maximum tongue load
Never allow the tongue load to exceed 10% of the
total trailer load. If the tongue load exceeds 10%,
rearrange the cargo in the trailer.
TYRE PRESSURE
When towing a trailer, inflate the vehicle tyres to the
maximum recommended COLD tyre pressure, as
indicated on the tyre placard (for full loading). Make
sure the trailer tyre pressures are correct.
CAUTION
Do not tow a trailer when the vehicle is installed
with a temporary-use spare tyre.
SAFETY CHAINS
Always use a suitable chain between the vehicle
and trailer. The chain should be attached to the hitch
and not to the vehicle bumper or axle. Be sure to
leave enough slack in the chain to permit turning
corners. The chain should not drag on the ground:
passing the chain across the trailer hitch may be the
best practice depending on your trailer.
TRAILER BRAKES
Ensure that trailer brakes are installed as required
by local regulations. Also check that all other trailer
equipment conforms to local regulations.
CA0050Z
Starting and driving5-55

TRAILER DETECTION (where fitted)
When towing a trailer and the turn signal switch is
used, the electrical system of the vehicle will detect
an additional electrical load of the trailer lighting. As
a result, the trailer direction indicator light comes
on.
INSTALLATION OF COUPLING
DEVICE (except for Australia)
NISSAN recommends that the coupling device for
trailer towing be installed under the following condi-
tions:
•Maximum permissible vertical load on the cou-
pling device: 981 N (100 kg, 221 lb)
•The coupling device, mounting points and instal-
lation parts on your vehicle: as shown as an ex-
ample in the illustration.
Follow all of the coupling device manufacturer’s in-
structions for installation and use.
Rear overhang of coupling device:
jA 914 mm (36 in)
jI Fixed towbar
jII Detachable towbar
NSD478
5-56Starting and driving