transmission NISSAN ALTIMA COUPE 2009 D32 / 4.G Towing Guide

2009 Nissan Towing Guide 1
INTRODUCTION

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 Nissan vehicles are available from your
Nissan dealer. Hitches for other Nissan models should be bought from and installed by a
professional supplier of towing equipment.
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 SPECIFICATIONS section of this
guide for the towing capacities of 2009 Nissan vehicles produced at the time of Towing
Guide publication. Use this data to help select the proper Nissan vehicle to meet your
anticipated towing needs, and refer to it when renting a trailer or other piece of towing
equipment.

EQUIP YOUR NISSAN FOR TOWING
The frequency and type of towing should influence 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 that equipment.
If, on the other hand, your towing will be infrequent, choose the Nissan vehicle and
equipment that best meets your day-to-day needs. Be careful not to exceed the towing
capacity on those few occasions when you do tow.


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.

2009 Nissan Towing Guide 10 NOTE – Improper or poor quality trailer harness wiring may affect your vehicle’s electrical
system. Use only a Nissan approved wiring harness, or consult your dealer or a professional
supplier of towing equipment for compatible equipment.

SWAY CONTROL DEVICE
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. Follow the instructions
provided by the manufacturer for installing and using the sway control device.

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 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.
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
Nissan recommends that you allow a sufficient “break-in” (500 miles) of both the engine and
drivetrain before towing with your new Nissan vehicle. In addition, for the first 500 miles that
you tow a trailer, do not drive over 50 mph and do not make starts at full throttle.
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 oil, and possibly other fluids should be changed more frequently when towing.

MEASURING VEHICLE WEIGHT
The key to safe, efficient towing has to do with weight. Your vehicle — SUV, crossover, truck,
minivan, or passenger car — is capable of carrying and towing only a certain amount of

2009 Nissan Towing Guide 17 VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS
Vehicle modifications — beyond those required for proper hitch installation, wiring hook-up,
and necessary cooling system upgrading — are not recommended for any Nissan vehicle
being used for towing purposes. Changes to the drivetrain, suspension, exhaust systems,
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 possibly void warranty coverage.

TOOL KIT
It is always a good idea to travel with a special tool kit when towing. In addition to tools, it
should contain 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.
Be aware that not all automotive jacks can be used safely on a trailer.

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 be inspected, and do not forget the basics. 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.


TOWING
TIPS

If you have never towed a trailer before, be aware that it does take getting used to. To begin
with, towing noticeably affects your vehicle’s performance:
Š It will not accelerate as quickly — an important point to keep in mind when merging onto a
highway.
Š It will not stop as quickly. Leave more room than usual between you and the traffic ahead,
and brake sooner when coming to a stop.

2009 Nissan Towing Guide 19 vehicle. A special extended 5th wheel pin box or sliding hitch may be required to provide
additional trailer-to-truck clearance for tight maneuvering.

BACK UP WITH CAUTION
Backing up with a trailer is a difficult maneuver; however, there is a “trick” that can simplify the
procedure considerably. Simply steer with one hand at the bottom of the steering wheel. To
turn the trailer to the left, first move the steering wheel to the left. To turn the trailer to the
right, move the wheel to the right. All movements of the wheel should be done in small
increments. Of course, backing up should be done only at very slow speeds. For large trailers
that obstruct your rearward vision, have someone outside the vehicle act as a “spotter” to
guide you along.

PARK SMART
A tow vehicle and trailer can be an unwieldy combination in a small area, so always try to park
where you will have a relatively easy time maneuvering. Once parked, always block the wheels
on both the tow vehicle and the trailer.
Parking on a slope is not recommended. If, however, you must park on a slope and your
vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission, there are some precautions you should
take:
Š Have someone block the wheels once the tow vehicle and trailer are in position and being
held by the vehicle’s brake.
Š Next, apply the parking brake and only then move the gear lever into PARK. If you move the
lever into PARK before blocking the wheels and applying the parking brake, transmission
damage may occur.

HIGH-ALTITUDE PERFORMANCE
An engine will lose about 4% of its performance for every 1,000 feet above sea level that you
travel. If you will be towing in high altitudes, it is a good idea to allow more time than usual due
to the engine’s reduced performance.

TOW MODE (IF EQUIPPED)
Tow Mode is recommended when towing a heavy trailer or hauling a heavy load, particularly
when stop-and-go traffic, rolling terrain, or a busy parking lot is involved.
Driving the vehicle in Tow Mode with minimal trailer load will not cause any damage;
however, fuel economy may be reduced and transmission/engine driving characteristics may
feel different. See your vehicle owner’s manual for additional information about Tow Mode.

2009 Nissan Towing Guide 20 HILLS – UPGRADES
As the incline increases, your vehicle — if equipped with an automatic transmission — is
designed to automatically select the correct gear for the best towing comfort and
performance. To maintain speed or avoid up and down shifts, manually shift to a lower gear as
needed.
The added weight of a trailer places an increased load on the engine and cooling system,
so monitor your coolant temperature gauge and automatic transmission fluid temperature
gauge (if equipped) very carefully. At the first sign of overheating, pull to the side of the road.
See IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS later in this section for more information.

HILLS – DOWNGRADES
While going downhill, the weight of the trailer pushing on the tow vehicle may decrease
overall stability. Therefore, to maintain adequate control, reduce your speed and shift to a
lower gear. If your vehicle is equipped with Tow Mode, see your vehicle owner’s manual for
information about the use of this function.
Avoid long or repeated use of the brakes when descending a hill, as this reduces their
effectiveness and could cause overheating. Shifting to a lower gear instead provides “engine
braking” and reduces the need to brake as frequently.

AUTOMATIC CRUISE CONTROL
Do not use cruise control while towing a trailer.

IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
A moderate increase in engine operating temperature is normal when towing a trailer. If,
however, the coolant temperature gauge reading is abnormally high, or if you are experiencing
a significant loss of power, or if you hear unusual engine noises,* the engine may be
overheating and you should immediately take the following steps:

1. Pull your vehicle safely over to the side of the road, out of traffic. Apply the parking brake
and move the gearshift lever to NEUTRAL (manual) or PARK (automatic). DO NOT STOP
THE ENGINE.

2. Turn off the air conditioning and, after opening all the windows, turn the heater on to
maximum hot and the fan to its highest speed. The heater core in your vehicle is just like a
miniature engine radiator and will provide an extra cooling surface to help reduce engine
temperature.

3. If the temperature does not drop or continues to increase, stop the engine immediately.

*See your vehicle owner’s manual for additional indications that your vehicle may be overheating.

2009 Nissan Towing Guide 23
SPECIFICATIONS

TOWING CAPACITIES
Crossovers, Minivans, SUVs, and Trucks









































2009 ARMADA TOWING DATA
Engine Type 5.6L V8
Transmission A/T
Model(s) 2WD 4WD
without optional tow package 6,500 6,500 Maximum
Trailer Weight1,4 (lbs.) with optional tow package6 9,100 9,000
without optional tow package 650 650 Maximum
Trailer Tongue Load (lbs.) with optional tow package6 910 900
without optional tow package 12,800 13,000 Gross Combined
Weight Rating (lbs.) with optional tow package6 15,100 15,100
2009 FRONTIER TOWING DATA
Engine Type 2.5L
4-Cylinder 4.0L V6
Transmission A/T & M/T
Model(s)
King
Cab
2WD
King
Cab
2WD
King
Cab
4WD
Crew
Cab
2WD
Crew
Cab
4WD
Maximum
Trailer Weight1,3,4 (lbs.) 3,500 6,500 6,300 6,300 6,100
Maximum
Trailer Tongue Load3 (lbs.) 350 650 630 630 610
Gross Combined
Weight Rating (lbs.) 7,936 11,133 11,133 11,133 11,133
Maximum
Trailer Frontal Area 60 sq. ft.

2009 Nissan Towing Guide 24



































2009 MURANO TOWING DATA
Engine Type 3.5L V6
Transmission CVT
Maximum Trailer Weight1 (lbs.) 3,500
Maximum Trailer Tongue Load (lbs.) 350
Gross Combined Weight Rating (lbs.) 8,300
2009 PATHFINDER TOWING DATA
Engine Type 4.0L V6 5.6L V8
Transmission A/T
Maximum Trailer Weight1,4 (lbs.) 6,000 7,000
Maximum Trailer Tongue Load (lbs.) 600 700
Gross Combined Weight Rating (lbs.) 11,133 12,570
Maximum Trailer Frontal Area 60 sq. ft.
2009 ROGUE TOWING DATA
Engine Type 2.5L 4-Cylinder
Transmission CVT
Model(s) with
Manual Shift Mode
without
Manual Shift Mode
Maximum Trailer Weight1 (lbs.) 1,500 1,000
Maximum Trailer Tongue Load (lbs.) 150
Gross Combined Weight Rating (lbs.) 5,636 5,136
2009 QUEST TOWING DATA
Engine Type 3.5L V6
Transmission A/T
Maximum Trailer Weight1 (lbs.) 3,500
Maximum Trailer Tongue Load (lbs.) 350
Gross Combined Weight Rating (lbs.) 8,500

2009 Nissan Towing Guide 25
2009 TITAN TOWING DATA - WITH OPTIONAL TOWING PACKAGE 6
Engine Type 5.6L V8
Transmission A/T
KING CAB
XE SE PRO-4X LE Model(s)
2WD 4WD 2WD 4WD 4WD 2WD 4WD
Maximum Trailer Weight1,2,4,5 (lbs.) 9,500 9,400 9,500 9,400 9,300 9,200 9,200
Maximum Trailer Tongue Load2 (lbs.) 950 940 950 940 930 920 920
King Pin Load (lbs.) 1,425 1,410 1,425 1,410 1,395 1,380 1,380
Short Wheel Base Gross Combined Weight Rating5 (lbs.) 15,10015,10015,10015,10015,100 15,100 15,100
Maximum Trailer Weight1,2,4,5 (lbs.) 9,400 9,200 9,400 9,100 - 9,100 8,900
Maximum Trailer Tongue Load2 (lbs.) 940 920 940 910 - 910 890
King Pin Load (lbs.) 1,410 1,380 1,410 1,365 - 1,365 1,335
Long Wheel Base Gross Combined Weight Rating5 (lbs.) 15,10015,10015,10015,100- 15,100 15,100
CREW CAB
XE SE PRO-4X LE Model(s)
2WD 4WD 2WD 4WD 4WD 2WD 4WD
Maximum Trailer Weight1,2,4,5 (lbs.) 9,400 9,400 9,400 9,300 9,300 9,200 9,100
Maximum Trailer Tongue Load2 (lbs.) 940 940 940 930 930 920 910
King Pin Load (lbs.) 1,410 1,410 1,410 1,395 1,395 1,380 1,365
Short Wheel Base Gross Combined Weight Rating5 (lbs.) 15,10015,10015,10015,10015,100 15,100 15,100
Maximum Trailer Weight1,2,4,5 (lbs.) 9,300 9,100 9,300 9,100 9,000 9,100 8,900
Maximum Trailer Tongue Load2 (lbs.) 930 910 930 910 900 910 890
King Pin Load (lbs.) 1,395 1,365 1,395 1,365 1,350 1,365 1,335
Long Wheel Base Gross Combined Weight Rating5 (lbs.) 15,10015,10015,10015,10015,100 15,100 15,100

2009 Nissan Towing Guide 26



2009 TITAN TOWING DATA - WITHOUT OPTIONAL TOWING PACKAGE
Engine Type 5.6L V8
Transmission A/T
KING CAB
XE SE PRO-4X LE Model(s)
2WD 4WD 2WD 4WD 4WD 2WD 4WD
Maximum Trailer Weight1,2,4,5 (lbs.) 6,500 6,500 7,400 7,400 7,200 7,200 7,200
Maximum Trailer Tongue Load2 (lbs.) 650 650 740 740 720 720 720
King Pin Load (lbs.) 975 975 1,110 1,110 1,080 1,080 1,080
Short Wheel Base Gross Combined Weight Rating5 (lbs.) 12,80013,00012,80013,00013,000 12,800 13,000
Maximum Trailer Weight1,2,4,5 (lbs.) 6,500 6,500 7,100 7,100 - 7,000 6,900
Maximum Trailer Tongue Load2 (lbs.) 650 650 710 710 - 700 690
King Pin Load (lbs.) 975 975 1,065 1,065 - 1,050 1,035
Long Wheel Base Gross Combined Weight Rating5 (lbs.) 12,80013,00012,80013,000- 12,800 13,000
CREW CAB
XE SE PRO-4X LE Model(s)
2WD 4WD 2WD 4WD 4WD 2WD 4WD
Maximum Trailer Weight1,2,4,5 (lbs.) 6,500 6,500 7,400 7,300 7,300 7,100 7,000
Maximum Trailer Tongue Load2 (lbs.) 650 650 740 730 730 710 700
King Pin Load (lbs.) 975 975 1,110 1,095 1,095 1,065 1,050
Short Wheel Base Gross Combined Weight Rating5 (lbs.) 12,80013,00012,80013,00013,000 12,800 13,000
Maximum Trailer Weight1,2,4,5 (lbs.) 6,500 6,500 7,100 7,000 7,000 6,800 6,700
Maximum Trailer Tongue Load2 (lbs.) 650 650 710 700 700 680 670
King Pin Load (lbs.) 975 975 1,065 1,050 1,050 1,020 1,005
Long Wheel Base Gross Combined Weight Rating5 (lbs.) 12,80013,00012,80013,00013,000 12,800 13,000

2009 Nissan Towing Guide 27










































Passenger Vehicles – The towing capacity for Altima (Coupe, Hybrid, and Sedan), Maxima,
and Sentra vehicles is 1,000 lbs.; the maximum trailer tongue load is 100 lbs. DO NOT
tow a
trailer with 350Z Roadster, 370Z Coupe, cube, Versa, or GT-R.
NOTE – For passenger vehicles, the trailer tongue load must be subtracted from the GVWR
as shown on the F.M.V.S.S. certification label located in the driver’s-side door area.

2009 XTERRA TOWING DATA
Engine Type 4.0L V6
Transmission A/T & M/T
Model(s) 2WD & 4WD
Maximum
Trailer Weight1 (lbs.) 5,000
Maximum
Trailer Tongue Load (lbs.) 500
Gross Combined
Weight Rating (lbs.) 9,658
Maximum
Trailer Frontal Area 60 sq. ft.
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 The Maximum Trailer Weight when using the Genuine Nissan step bumper in this application as a
ball mount is 5,000 lbs.; the Maximum Trailer Tongue Load is 500 lbs.
3 The Maximum Trailer Weight when using the Genuine Nissan step bumper in this application as a
ball mount is 3,500 lbs.; the Maximum Trailer Tongue Load is 350 lbs. 4 Use of a weight-distributing hitch system is recommended when towing over 5,000 lbs. 5 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.
6 The vehicle optional tow package does not include a ball mount. Two ball mount options are
available through your Nissan dealer:
Š Class III hitch ball mount for trailers with a Maximum Trailer Weight of 5,000 lbs. or less.
NOTE – A hitch ball is not included with the Class III ball mount. This ball mount can be
used with any hitch ball with a shank diameter of 1” or larger.
Š Class IV weight-distributing hitch ball mount for trailers with a Maximum Trailer Weight
greater than 5,000 lbs. This ball mount can also be used with trailers under 5,000 lbs.
Maximum Trailer Weight.
NOTE – The Class IV ball mount includes a 2
5/16” hitch ball rated for 10,000 lbs. Smaller
hitch ball sizes may be used by following the instructions included in the ball mount kit.

NOTES:
Š Most states require a separate braking system on trailers with a loaded weight above a
specific amount. Check local ordinances.
Š A/T – Automatic Transmission, CVT – Continuously Variable Transmission