tires INFINITI QX50 2021 Towing Guide

2021 INFINITI Towing Guide


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SAFETY IS PRIORITY ONE
Obviously, your first concern should be safety. Your vehicle was designed to be used
primarily to carry passengers and cargo. Always remember that towing a trailer places
additional loads on your vehicle’s engine, drivetrain, suspension, steering, braking, and
other systems. Therefore, be certain that your vehicle can meet the demands of the towing
application you have in mind.

Rent or purchase only the highest-quality towing and safety equipment you can find.
Reinforced tow hitches designed especially for certain INFINITI vehicles are available from
your INFINITI retailer. Hitches for other INFINITI models — if INFINITI recommends towing
with that vehicle — should be bought from and installed by a professional supplier of towing
equipment. Carefully review all information and literature provided with any hitch you
purchase for safety and proper use information. Finally, it is important to follow the towing
capacity limit set for your specific vehicle and to ensure that your vehicle is in top
mechanical condition, especially the tires, brakes, suspension, and engine cooling system.
See your vehicle owner’s manual for details.

NEVER EXCEED THE ESTABLISHED TOWING CAPACITY
Towing capacities vary from vehicle to vehicle. See the towing information in your vehicle
owner’s manual to confirm whether your 2021 INFINITI vehicle can be used for towing and
if so its towing capacity.

EQUIP YOUR INFINITI FOR TOWING
The frequency and type of towing dictate the manner in which you equip your vehicle. If
you plan to tow often, either for recreation or work, select the engine size, transmission
type, suspension, and towing capacity that are best suited to your requirements. This guide
can help you select the proper equipment.

READ THIS GUIDE BEFORE YOU TOW
This guide was designed to provide an overview of safe towing practices. Here, you will
find information on towing equipment, safety, proper loading and driving techniques,
towing tips, and much more.

It is also a good idea to discuss your towing requirements with either your INFINITI retailer
or a professional supplier of towing equipment before you equip your INFINITI vehicle for
towing. Finally, there are state and local laws on towing that you should review to ensure
compliance with all regulations.

CAUTION: INFINITI recommends you do not use your new vehicle to tow a trailer or
haul a heavy load for the first 500 miles (800 km) of use. Your engine, axle or other parts
could be damaged. 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 your engine and other parts of your
vehicle wear in at heavier loads.







INTRODUCTION

2021 INFINITI Towing Guide


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RENTING
The first thing to keep in mind when renting any type of tow equipment, trailer or tow dolly
is to rent only from professional companies that specialize in towing and towing equipment.
Specialized companies should hire professional staff that can assist you in selecting and
installing the proper towing equipment for your INFINITI vehicle.

When renting, make sure you have your vehicle owner’s manual on hand so that you can
reference the towing capacities for your specific vehicle. Make certain that the tow
equipment and components you rent do not exceed your vehicle’s maximum towing
capacity. Make sure that any related towing equipment you rent has the proper weight
class rating for your maximum intended towed load weight, and the maximum Gross
Combined Weight Rating.

While you are at the rental company, ask questions. How much does the empty trailer
weigh? How much weight will the trailer hold? What is the trailer’s tongue load? With what
type of brakes is it equipped (if any)? All of these factors have an effect on whether your
INFINITI vehicle is capable of safely pulling that type of trailer, dolly, or piece of tow
equipment.

Make certain that the trailer stoplights, taillights, turn signals, and brakes (if equipped) are
connected and are operating correctly, and that all safety equipment is properly installed.
Check the safety chains/cables, tie-downs, etc.

For safer operation, carefully inspect the condition of the trailer and towing equipment.
Specifically, check to make sure the tires are not worn excessively and are properly inflated.
Make sure there are not any broken welds, missing bolts, and that the hitch components
are not damaged. Towing safety should be a high priority when choosing and renting
towing equipment, including hitches.

WARNING: NEVER RENT A CLAMP-ON-TYPE HITCH. The hitch should not be
attached to or affect the operation of the impact-absorbing bumper. Use only a
permanent-type hitch properly attached to the vehicle to help avoid personal injury or
property damage.

PURCHASING
If you are buying a trailer, be sure that your INFINITI vehicle has the towing capacity to pull
it. Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for detailed information regarding the towing
capacity of your specific vehicle. Your vehicle owner’s manual should ALWAYS be
referenced before making any towing decisions.

TOWING EQUIPMENT

2021 INFINITI Towing Guide


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Naturally, you will want to select the towing and safety equipment that adheres to federal
safety regulations, as well as any regulations in any state in which you may travel.
And if you plan to tow often, consider convenience. Quick-disconnect trailer light
connectors and ratchet-type tie-downs, for example, make the job go faster and easier and
are usually worth the extra small investment. Purchase towing items such as hitches and
hitch balls only from your INFINITI retailer or a professional supplier of towing equipment.

If you are intending to use your vehicle to tow a trailer you already own, you must ensure
that your loaded trailer remains well within your vehicle's towing capacity as specified in
the vehicle owner's manual. In addition, you should purchase the right type, style, and class*
of hitch and towing equipment to properly adapt the trailer to your vehicle.

TYPES OF EQUIPMENT
Towing requires a variety of equipment, and, depending upon the application, there can be
several types or styles of each piece of equipment. Working with your INFINITI retailer or a
professional supplier of towing equipment, it should be relatively simple to determine the
proper type of equipment for your specific vehicle given the intended application. This
section explains the most common pieces of towing equipment available.

HITCHES
Whichever type of hitch you use, it should be firmly bolted to your vehicle, and should be of
the appropriate weight class for the trailer, tow dollies or towing equipment you intend to
tow. In addition, keep the following in mind:

WARNING- Never modify the vehicle’s braking or exhaust systems or its body
structure/frame when installing the hitch. Altering the brakes or structure on a vehicle
could increase the likelihood of a crash.

 Installing an aftermarket hitch may affect the rear crash performance of your vehicle.
Changing the crash performance of a vehicle could lead to more severe vehicle damage,
personal injury or death in a crash. Be sure that the hitch does not interfere in any way
with the vehicle’s impact-absorbing bumper.
 Never attach a hitch or towing device to the vehicle bumper. This may affect the
operation of the impact-absorbing bumper. Use only a permanent-type hitch properly
attached to the vehicle to help avoid personal injury or property damage.


Regularly check to see that all hitch-mounting bolts are securely fastened to ensure
the hitch will not come loose, and remains properly attached to the vehicle to help
avoid property damage, personal injury or death.

CAUTION- If you have a receiver-type hitch using a ball mount; remove the ball mount
when not towing, or protect it with a special cover, this will help keep it from damage, and
prevent rust from forming on it.

 If you install a hitch yourself, remember that it must be securely attached to the frame
or underbody, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Never attach a hitch or
towing device to the vehicle axle housing. This may damage the housing, wheel
bearings, wheels, or tires.


*
Refer to your owner’s manual for the equipment class information specific to your vehicle.
WHAT IS RIGHT FOR

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GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT (GVW)
The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is the actual weight of the fully loaded vehicle or
trailer, including passengers, cargo, and fuel, hitch, trailer tongue weight, and any
optional equipment.

The best way to determine the GVW is by having
the vehicle — loaded and ready to tow —
weighed at a public scale. That figure must
include the combined weight of all passengers
and cargo that are normally in the vehicle when
towing a trailer.

The GVW of the towing vehicle must not exceed
the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) shown
on the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard
(F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S.) certification label located
in the driver’s-side door area. Weigh your vehicle
on a platform type scale with all of the
passengers and cargo that are normally in the
vehicle when towing a trailer. Subtract the actual
vehicle weight from the GVWR. The remaining
amount is the available maximum tongue/king
pin load.

To avoid overloading the vehicle, be sure to
include the trailer tongue weight as a part of the
cargo when determining how much weight can
be safely carried inside the vehicle. The weight of
any roof rack cargo should also be included.



MFD BY NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD
DATE
GVWR
GAWR FR.
WITH

GAWR RR.
WITH
THIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO
ALL APPLICABLE FEDERAL
MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY
STANDARDS IN EFFECT ON
THE DATE OF MANUFACTURE
SHOWN ABOVE.
SEE OWNERS MANUAL FOR
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.
TIRES
TIRES
TYPE: TRUCK
MODEL: 3B000
COLOR TRIM TRANS
AXLE ENGINE

RIMS AT PSI
COLD SINGLERIMS AT PSI
COLD SINGLE

F.M.V.S.S
Certification Label

2021 INFINITI Towing Guide


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WARNING-The trailer load should be
balanced equally from side-to-side.
Unequal side-to-side loading can negatively
affect handling and braking. Once in
place, all cargo should be firmly secured to
prevent shifting. If the load should shift
abruptly during braking or cornering, it
could adversely affect the handling and
stability of your vehicle and cause a
very unsafe situation and may lead to an
accident or personal injury.
● DO NOT carry flammable materials, such as
gasoline, in your trailer. In the event of an
accident, it may result in an explosion, fire,
or personal injury or death.

PROVIDING FOR VEHICLE/TRAILER STABILITY


WARNING- Improper loading, excessive or insufficient trailer tongue load,
overloading, excessive trailer weight, poorly designed trailer suspensions, crosswinds,
and poor maintenance are all things that can affect the stability of your vehicle
and trailer combination. Vehicle instability may result in loss of vehicle control and
cause an accident, personal injury or death.

If swaying occurs, gradually reduce speed, and apply only the trailer brakes to help
reduce sway. Steady the steering wheel and gradually pull over and stop to check
the cargo load for proper balance and distribution to ensure proper trailer tongue
load. In addition, check the condition of the suspension and shocks, as well as the tires,
tire pressures, and wheel bearings on both the tow vehicle and trailer.
If the swaying continues and your trailer is suitably balanced and within the towing
capacity limits of your vehicle, discontinue towing and consult your INFINITI retailer or
trailer manufacturer to determine the problem.

VEHICLE SPEED
Please note that some states have specific regulations and speed limits for vehicles
that are towing trailers. Remember to reduce your speed in unsafe or less-than-ideal
road conditions or weather. When towing a trailer, braking distances increase while
handling agility decreases. Always leave yourself an extra margin of distance to
respond to emergencies.

2021 INFINITI Towing Guide


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PASSENGERS

WARNING- Never allow passengers to ride inside a trailer while it is being towed.
Not only is this unlawful in most areas, passengers could be seriously injured during
sudden trailer movement or in an accident. In addition, trailers may allow fumes from
the tow vehicle to leak inside. This could result in carbon monoxide poisoning from the
engine exhaust.

VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS

WARNING - DO NOT modify your vehicle beyond those required for proper hitch
installation, wiring hook-up, or adding extended mirrors on any INFINITI vehicle being
used for towing purposes. Changes to the drivetrain, suspension, exhaust systems,
electrical, frame structure/unibody, or other vehicle components are not necessary for
towing within the limits described in this guide. These changes may diminish the
reliability and longevity of your vehicle, and damage caused by such modifications
may not be covered under your vehicle’s warranty or may possibly result in loss of
vehicle control and cause an accident, personal injury or death.


TOOL KIT
When towing, bring tools including flares, a flashlight, emergency reflectors, jumper
cables, extra fuses, extra radiator coolant, oil, and easily replaced spare parts such as
taillight bulbs. You should also carry spare tires for your tow vehicle and trailer, as well
as a jack suitable for use on the trailer. Choose a jack that can raise and lower the
trailer so that you can connect the coupler to and disconnect it from the ball of your
hitch. Choose one with a weight capacity that matches or surpasses your trailer
tongue weight.

WARNING- Be aware that your automotive jack is designed for lifting only your
vehicle during a tire change. Using an automobile jack to lift a trailer-bearing load may
be unstable possibly causing it to fall off the jack stand which may result in property
damage or serious injury or death.

BEFORE STARTING OUT
Before starting out on a trip, make one last inspection of the tow vehicle and the trailer.
Are the tire pressures correct? Are the safety chains/cables securely in place? Is the
cargo tied down securely? Do all the lights work? Is the coupler properly attached over
the hitch ball and secured using a locking pin? Is the breakaway switch hooked up
and functioning properly? Are vehicle and electric trailer brakes working properly?

Make a checklist of key items to inspect. When towing, vehicle engine oil, transmission
oil*, and coolant should always be checked before starting out. Finding a potential
problem while in your driveway is better than discovering it miles from home.
If you have never towed a trailer before, be aware that it does take getting used to.
*When checking or replacement is required, it is recommended you visit an INFINITI retailer for
service.
TOWING TIPS/CAUTIONS &

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At INFINITI, we back everything we build. So we are proud that every INFINITI is
protected by some of the best New Vehicle Limited Warranties, including
4-year/60,000-mile (whichever comes first) Basic coverage. All 2021 models also
feature 6-years/70,000-mile (whichever comes first) Powertrain coverage.*

For additional peace of mind, the Elite INFINITI Extended Protection Plan provides you
with quality long-term mechanical protection for 8 years/120,000 miles (measured from
in service date and zero miles, whichever comes first)”— long past your vehicle’s Basic
and Powertrain Limited Warranty. With the extra coverage, if a covered component
fails during the term of the plan, INFINITI pays… not you.** Plus, the Elite INFINITI
Extended Protection Plan includes extensive Roadside Assistance benefits and car
rental coverage.

All of this makes the Elite INFINITI Extended Protection Plan a truly comprehensive
package, offering INFINITI owners exceptional value and peace of mind.
Coverage is
available throughout the United States. Repair work will be done at authorized INFINITI
retailers by INFINITI-trained technicians utilizing Genuine INFINITI Parts.

For more information about the Elite INFINITI Extended Protection Plan, contact your
participating INFINITI retailer or call 1-800-662-6200.

The quality of Genuine INFINITI Parts and Accessories is backed by the integrity of a
Genuine INFINITI Replacement Parts and Accessories Limited Warranty. If purchased
within the Basic coverage period of 4 years/60,000 miles (whichever comes first),
Genuine INFINITI Parts and Accessories are covered by the remaining period of the
warranty. If the remaining period is less than 12 months/12,000 miles (or if the vehicle
warranty has expired), then Genuine INFINITI Parts and Accessories except for
replacement audio components are covered by their own 12-month/12,000-mile from
the date of installation or purchase (whichever comes first). See your INFINITI Warranty
Information Booklet or ask your INFINITI retailer for specific details.

CONCERN FOR YOUR SAFETY
INFINITI urges you to always use your seat belt whenever you drive. And please make
sure all passengers are buckled up. Keep in mind that air bags are a supplemental
restraint system and must always be used in conjunction with a seat belt.

TRAILER TONGUE
LOAD The amount of trailer weight pressing down on the hitch.
WEIGHT-DISTRIBUTING
HITCH SYSTEM Type of hitch system that helps shift the trailer tongue weight to all trailer tires
and the tow vehicle front tires. Strongly recommended when towing trailers
with a Maximum Trailer Weight greater than 5,000 lbs.
WIRING HARNESS
Provides an electrical connection linking the tow vehicle’s electrical system to
the trailer’s system.

PROTECTION

2021 INFINITI Towing Guide


23 In addition, a rear-facing child restraint must never be used in the front passenger seat
if the vehicle is equipped with a front passenger air bag. Children 12 and under should
ride in the rear seat properly secured in child restraints, booster seats, or seat belts,
according to their size. Please see your vehicle owner's manual for more details.

*
For complete warranty details, refer to the INFINITI Warranty Information Booklet or see your
nearest INFINITI retailer.
**A nominal deductible may apply. For details please refer to the Elite INFINITI Extended
Protection Plan Service Agreement or contact your INFINITI retailer.


By far the most important benefit of INFINITI luxury is the Total Ownership Experience.®
Years before we ever built our first luxury car, we built this belief: Luxury is much more
than a collection of features on an automobile. It is a way of doing business based
upon building a lasting relationship. From the very moment you arrive at an INFINITI
retailer, we strive to exceed your expectations at every turn with our line of products
and our people. You will notice our commitment to your satisfaction in everything we
do, from the way we build our vehicles to the way we support them for years to come.
As an INFINITI driver you will enjoy a host of useful services like 24-hour Roadside
Assistance,* a Complimentary INFINITI Service Loan Car** and Trip Interruption
Benefits.* Your ownership experience will be a complete one, extending from our
showroom to our Web site and beyond.

ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
4-year/unlimited-mileage* includes: Trip Interruption Benefits, 24-hour toll-free customer
assistance number, battery boost, lock-outs, flat tires, out-of-gas, accident towing.

SERVICE LOAN CAR PROGRAM
When you make an appointment and drop off your INFINITI vehicle for warranty repair
maintenance at participating retailers, a complimentary INFINITI Service Loan Car** will
be waiting. And before your INFINITI is returned to you, it will be hand-washed and
running smoothly.

COMMITMENT
To a superior product representing excellent value, presented in a unique environment.
To honor our guests and treat them with respect during the buying process. To give our
customers outstanding service throughout their ownership, so that they may enjoy an
ongoing relationship with knowledgeable people. To be completely committed to
ensuring total satisfaction for our customers.

OWNERSHIP ONLINE
Our goal is to provide owners with a premium quality vehicle and an outstanding
ownership experience that does not end when you drive away from the showroom. To
THE TOTAL OWNERSHIP EXPERIENCE INFINITIUSA.com