2017 NISSAN Towing Guide 10
Sudden maneuvers, wind gusts, and buffeting caused by other vehicles can affect trailer
handling. Sway control devices may be used to help control these effects. 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.
GENUINE NISSAN PARTS AND ACCESSORIES
Whether you will be towing occasionally or on a regular basis, NISSAN offers a full range of
Genuine NISSAN Parts and Accessories to help you tow with confidence.
Every Genuine NISSAN Parts and Accessory is thoroughly tested and inspected for fit and
workmanship. Therefore, you can be certain that every item is designed to be compatible with
the standard features of your vehicle and designed to assist you with your towing needs.
It is recommended you contact your NISSAN dealer for more information on accessories or
towing-related parts for your NISSAN vehicle.
PREPARING
YOUR VEHICLE
BREAK-IN AND MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
CAUTION- NISSAN recommends that you allow a sufficient “break-in” (500 miles) of both
the engine and drivetrain before towing with your new NISSAN vehicle. Do not tow a trailer or
haul a heavy load for the first 500 miles. For the first 500 miles that you tow a trailer, do not
drive over 50 mph and do not make starts at full throttle. This helps the engine and other
parts of your vehicle wear in at heavier loads.
Keep in mind, too, that towing places higher demands and added loads on vehicle
components, so more frequent maintenance is called for. Your NISSAN Service &
Maintenance Guide provides the accelerated maintenance schedule for towing purposes.
Engine oil, filter, transmission fluid, and possibly other fluids should be changed more
frequently when towing.
MEASURING VEHICLE WEIGHT
The key to safer, efficient towing has to do with weight. Your vehicle — SUV, crossover, truck
or passenger car — is capable of carrying and towing only a certain amount of weight. You
must compare your vehicle’s tow weight ratings with the combined weight of the vehicle,
trailer, and their contents. This will help ensure that the total weight does not exceed any of
your vehicle’s tow weight ratings.
There are four weights to consider when towing:
Gross Vehicle Weight
Gross Axle Weight (Front and Rear)
