5. Determine the combined weightof luggage and cargo being
loaded on the vehicle. That
weight may not safely exceed
the available cargo and luggage
load capacity calculated in
step 4.
6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will
be transferred to your vehicle.
Consult this manual to deter-
mine how this reduces the avail-
able cargo and luggage load ca-
pacity of your vehicle.
Before driving a loaded vehicle, con-
firm that you do not exceed the
GVWR or the GAWR for your vehicle.
For additional information, refer to
“Measurement of weights” in this
section.
Also check tires for proper inflation
pressures. For additional informa-
tion, refer to “Tire and Loading Infor-
mation label” in the “Do-it-yourself ”
section of this manual.LOADING TIPS
∙ The GVW must not exceed GVWR or GAWR as specified on the
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification
label.
∙ Do not load the front and rear axle to the GAWR. Doing so will
exceed the GVWR.
WARNING
∙ Properly secure all cargo with ropes or straps to help prevent
it from sliding or shif ting. Do not
place cargo higher than the
seatbacks. In a sudden stop or
collision, unsecured cargo could
cause personal injury.
∙ Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR or the
maximum front and rear
GAWRs. If you do, parts of your
vehicle can break, tire damage
could occur, or it can change the
way your vehicle handles. This
could result in loss of control
and cause personal injury. ∙ Overloading and improper
loading not only can shorten
the life of your vehicle and the
tire, but can also cause unsafe
vehicle handling and longer
braking distances. This may
cause a premature tire failure
which could result in a serious
accident and personal injury.
Failures caused by overloading
are not covered by the vehicle’s
warranty.
MEASUREMENT OF WEIGHTS
Secure loose items to prevent
weight shif ts that could affect the
balance of your vehicle. When the ve-
hicle is loaded, drive to a scale and
weigh the front and the rear wheels
separately to determine axle loads.
Individual axle loads should not ex-
ceed either of the Gross Axle Weight
Ratings (GAWR). The total of the axle
loads should not exceed the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). These
ratings are given on the vehicle cer-
tification label. If weight ratings are
Technical and consumer information10-17
exceeded, move or remove items to
bring all weights below the ratings.WARNING
Overloading or improper loading of a
trailer and its cargo can adversely affect
vehicle handling, braking and perfor-
mance and may lead to accidents.
CAUTION
∙ Do not tow a trailer or haul a heavyload for the first 500 miles (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 vehicle
wear in at the heavier loads.
Your new vehicle was designed to be used
primarily to carry passengers and cargo. Re-
member that towing a trailer places addi-
tional loads on your vehicle’s engine, drive
train, steering, braking and other systems.
A NISSAN Towing Guide (U.S. only) is avail-
able 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 sec-
tion. 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 GCWR should not exceed
the value specified in the following “Towing
Load/Specification” chart.
TOWING A TRAILER
10-18Technical and consumer information
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 im-
proper towing equipment could adversely
affect vehicle handling, braking and perfor-
mance.
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, refer to “If your
vehicle overheats” in the “In case of
emergency ” section of this manual.
CAUTION
Vehicle damage resulting from im-
proper towing procedures is not cov-
ered by NISSAN warranties.
LTI2025
Technical and consumer information10-19
“Towing load/specification” chart even if
the calculated available tongue weight is
greater than 15%. If the calculated tongue
weight is less than 10%, reduce the total
trailer weight to match the available
tongue weight.
Always verif y that available capacities are
within the required ratings.
TOWING LOAD/SPECIFICATION
WARNING
The towing capacities provided in this
manual are for general reference only.
The safe towing capacity of your vehicle
is affected by dealer and factory in-
stalled options and passenger and
cargo loads. You must weigh the vehicle
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.
NOTE:
The towing specifications are based on
S grade models. VQ40DE - Bumper towing
Axle type
2WD
Maximum Payload 2,800 lbs. (1,270 kg) Maximum
Towing Capacity *1, *2 2,000 lbs. (907 kg)
Maximum Tongue load *2 200 lbs. (90.7 kg) Maximum Gross
Combined Weight Rating 13,400 lbs. (6,078 kg)
VK56VD - Bumper towing
Axle type
2WD
Maximum Payload 2,680 lbs. (1,216 kg) Maximum
Towing Capacity *1, *2 2,000 lbs. (907 kg)
Maximum
Tongue load *2 200 lbs. (90.7 kg)
Maximum Gross
Combined Weight Rating 16,000 lbs. (7,257 kg)
VK56VD - Class IV hitch towing
Axle type
2WD
Maximum Payload 2,680 lbs. (1,216 kg) Maximum
Towing Capacity *1, *2 8,700 lbs. (3,946 kg)
Maximum
Tongue load *2 870 lbs. (395 kg)
Maximum Gross
Combined Weight Rating 16,000 lbs. (7,257 kg)
*1: The towing capacity values are calcu-
lated 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.
*2: Use of a weight-distributing hitch sys-
tem is recommended when towing over
5,000 lbs. (2,268 kg).
10-22Technical and consumer information
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.
Technical and consumer information10-23
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 mea-
sured reference height when loaded,
the vehicle may handle unpredictably
which could cause a loss of vehicle con-
trol and cause serious personal 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).
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 rat-
ing, but your vehicle is only capable of tow-
ing the maximum trailer weights shown in
the “Towing Load/Specification” chart in
this section.
Tire pressures
∙ When towing a trailer, inflate thevehicle tires to the recom-
mended cold tire pressure indi-
cated on the Tire and Loading In-
formation 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.
Technical and consumer information10-25
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, stoplight and turn signal circuits
as a signal source. The module/
converter must draw no more that 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 retailer
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 contact a NISSAN dealer or repu-
table trailer retailer. Vehicles equipped with
the optional trailer tow package are
equipped with a 7-pin trailer harness con-
nector. If your trailer is equipped with a flat
4-pin connector, 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
When towing a trailer load of 3,500 lbs.
(1,587 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.
Several types of braking systems are avail-
able.
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). For additional
information, refer to “Electric trailer brake
controller” in this section.
Have a professional supplier of towing
equipment make sure the trailer brakes are
properly installed and demonstrate proper
brake function testing.
WARNING
Never connect a trailer brake system
directly to the vehicle brake system.
10-26Technical and consumer information
Traction AA, A, B and C
The traction grades, from highest to low-
est, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades repre-
sent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pave-
ment as measured under controlled
conditions on specified government test
surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire
marked C may have poor traction perfor-
mance.
WARNING
The traction grade assigned to this tire
is based on straight-ahead braking
traction tests, and does not include ac-
celeration, cornering, hydroplaning, or
peak traction characteristics.Temperature A, B and C
The temperature grades are A (the high-
est), B, and C, representing the tire’s resis-
tance to the generation of heat, and its
ability to dissipate heat when tested under
controlled conditions on a specified indoor
laboratory test wheel. Sustained high tem-
perature can cause the material of the tire
to degenerate and reduce tire life, and ex-
cessive temperature can lead to sudden
tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a
level of performance which all passenger
car tires must meet under the Federal Mo-
tor Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A
represent higher levels of performance on
the laboratory test wheel than the mini-
mum required by law.
WARNING
The temperature grade for this tire is
established for a tire that is properly in-
flated and not overloaded. Excessive
speed, under-inflation, or excessive
loading, either separately or in combi-
nation, can cause heat build-up and
possible tire failure.Your NISSAN vehicle is covered by the
following emission warranties:
For USA
1. Emission Defects Warranty
2. Emissions Performance Warranty
Details of this warranty may be found with
other vehicle warranties in your Warranty
Information Booklet which comes with
your NISSAN vehicle. If you did not receive a
Warranty Information Booklet, or it is lost,
you may obtain a replacement by writing
to: ∙ Nissan North America, Inc. Consumer Affairs Department
P.O. Box 685003
Franklin, TN 37068-5003
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
WARRANTY
10-32Technical and consumer information