towing NISSAN MAXIMA 2017 A36 / 8.G Owners Manual

High fluid temperature protection
mode
This transmission has a high fluid temperature
protection mode. If the fluid temperature be-
comes too high (for example, when climbing
steep grades in high temperatures with heavy
loads, such as when towing a trailer) , engine
power and, under some conditions, 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 and vehicle speed may be
limited.
Fail-safe
If the vehicle is driven under extreme con-
ditions, such as excessive wheel spinning
and subsequent hard braking, the fail-safe
system may be activated. The MIL may
come on to indicate the fail-safe mode is
activated. For additional information, refer
to “Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)” in the
“Instruments and controls” section of this
manual. This will occur even if all electrical
circuits are functioning properly. In this
case, place the ignition switch in the OFF
position and wait for 10 seconds. Then
place the ignition switch back in the ON
position. The vehicle should return to its
normal operating condition. If it does notreturn to its normal operating condition,
have the transmission checked and re-
paired, if necessary. It is recommended that
you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service.
WARNING
When the high fluid temperature protec-
tion mode or fail-safe operation occurs,
vehicle speed may be gradually reduced.
The reduced speed may be lower than
other traffic, which could increase the
chance of a collision. Be especially careful
when driving. If necessary, pull to the side
of the road at a safe place and allow the
transmission to return to normal opera-
tion, or have it repaired if necessary.
WARNING
●
Be sure the parking brake is fully re-
leased before driving. Failure to do so
can cause brake failure and lead to an
accident.
● Do not release the parking brake from
outside the vehicle.
● Do not use the shift lever in place of the
parking brake. When parking, be sure
the parking brake is fully engaged.
● To help avoid risk of injury or death
through unintended operation of the
vehicle and /or its systems, do not leave
children, people who require the assis-
tance of others or pets unattended in
your vehicle. Additionally, the tempera-
ture inside a closed vehicle on a warm
day can quickly become high enough to
cause a significant risk of injury or
death to people and pets.
PARKING BRAKE
Starting and driving5-21

●The system may not detect the vehicle
in front of you in certain road or weather
conditions. To avoid accidents, never
use the ICC system under the following
conditions:
– On roads where the traffic is heavy or there are sharp curves
– On slippery road surfaces such as on ice or snow, etc.
– During bad weather (rain, fog, snow, etc.)
– When rain, snow or dirt adhere to the bumper around the distance sensor
– On steep downhill roads (the vehicle may go beyond the set vehicle speed
and frequent braking may result in
overheating the brakes)
– On repeated uphill and downhill roads
– When traffic conditions make it diffi- cult to keep a proper distance be-
tween vehicles because of frequent
acceleration or deceleration
– Interference by other radar sources. ●
Do not use the ICC system if you are
towing a trailer. The system may not
detect a vehicle ahead.
● In some road or traffic conditions, a
vehicle or object can unexpectedly
come into the sensor detection zone
and cause automatic braking. Always
stay alert and avoid using the ICC sys-
tem where not recommended in this
warning section.
The radar sensor will not detect the following
objects: ● Stationary and slow moving vehicles
● Pedestrians or objects in the roadway
● Oncoming vehicles in the same lane
● Motorcycles traveling offset in the travel lane
The following are some conditions in which the
sensor cannot properly detect a vehicle ahead
and the system may not operate properly: ● When snow or road spray from traveling
vehicles reduces the sensor’s detection.
● When excessively heavy baggage is loaded
in the rear seat or the trunk of your vehicle. The ICC system is designed to automatically
check the sensor’s operation within the limita-
tions of the system.
The detection zone of the radar sensor is limited.
A vehicle ahead must be in the detection zone to
maintain the selected distance from the vehicle
ahead.
A vehicle ahead may move outside of the detec-
tion zone due to its position within the same lane
of travel. Motorcycles may not be detected in the
same lane ahead if they are traveling offset from
the centerline of the lane. A vehicle that is enter-
ing the lane ahead may not be detected until the
vehicle has completely moved into the lane.
If this occurs, the ICC system may warn you
by blinking the system indicator and
sounding the chime. The driver may have to
manually control the proper distance away
from the vehicle traveling ahead.
5-52Starting and driving

6 In case of emergency
Hazard warning flasher switch......................6-2
Emergency engine shut off .........................6-2
Flat tire ...........................................6-3
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) ..........6-3
Changing a flat tire .............................6-3
Jump starting .....................................6-8 Push starting
..................................... 6-10
If your vehicle overheats ........................... 6-10
Towing your vehicle ............................... 6-11
Towing recommended by NISSAN ..............6-12
Vehicle recovery (freeing a stuck vehicle) .........6-13

6. After the engine cools down, check the cool-ant level in the engine coolant reservoir tank
with the engine running. Add coolant to the
engine coolant reservoir tank if necessary.
Have your vehicle repaired. It is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for
this service. When towing your vehicle, all State (Provincial in
Canada) and local regulations for towing must be
followed. Incorrect towing equipment could dam-
age your vehicle. Towing instructions are avail-
able from a NISSAN dealer. Local service opera-
tors are generally familiar with the applicable laws
and procedures for towing. To assure proper
towing and to prevent accidental damage to your
vehicle, NISSAN recommends having a service
operator tow your vehicle. It is advisable to have
the service operator carefully read the following
precautions:
WARNING
●
Never ride in a vehicle that is being
towed.
● Never get under your vehicle after it has
been lifted by a tow truck.
CAUTION
● When towing, make sure that the trans-
mission, axles, steering system and
powertrain are in working condition. If
any of these conditions apply, dollies or
a flatbed tow truck must be used.
● Always attach safety chains before
towing. For additional information about towing your ve-
hicle behind a Recreational Vehicle (RV) , refer to
“Flat towing” in the “Technical and consumer
information” section of this manual.
TOWING YOUR VEHICLE
In case of emergency6-11

TOWING RECOMMENDED BY
NISSAN
NISSAN recommends that your vehicle be towed
with the driving (front) wheels off the ground or
place the vehicle on a flat bed truck as illustrated.
CAUTION
●Never tow CVT models with the front
wheels on the ground or 4 wheels on
the ground (forward or backward) , as
this may cause serious and expensive
damage to the transmission. If it is nec-
essary to tow the vehicle with the rear
wheels raised always use towing dollies
under the front wheels.
● When towing with the front wheels on
towing dollies:
– Place the ignition switch in the OFF position, and secure the steering
wheel in a straight-ahead position
with a rope or similar device.
– Move the shift lever to the N (Neutral) position.
● When towing CVT models with the rear
wheels on the ground (if you do not use
towing dollies): Always release the
parking brake.
● When towing CVT models with the front
wheels on the ground, dollies must be
used or place the vehicle on a flat bed
truck.
LCE2227LCE2228
6-12In case of emergency

VEHICLE RECOVERY (freeing a stuck
vehicle)
WARNING
To avoid vehicle damage, serious personal
injury or death when recovering a stuck
vehicle:
●Contact a professional towing service
to recover the vehicle if you have any
questions regarding the recovery
procedure.
● Tow chains or cables must be attached
only to main structural members of the
vehicle.
● Do not use the vehicle tie-downs to tow
or free a stuck vehicle.
● Only use devices specifically designed
for vehicle recovery and follow the
manufacturer’s instructions.
● Always pull the recovery device straight
out from the front of the vehicle. Never
pull at an angle.
● Route recovery devices so they do not
touch any part of the vehicle except the
attachment point. If your vehicle is stuck in sand, snow, mud, etc.,
use a tow strap or other device designed specifi-
cally for vehicle recovery. Always follow the
manufacturer’s instructions for the recovery de-
vice.Rocking a stuck vehicle
WARNING
●
Stand clear of a stuck vehicle.
● Do not spin your tires at high speed.
This could cause them to explode and
result in serious injury. Parts of your
vehicle could also overheat and be
damaged.
If your vehicle is stuck in sand, snow, mud, etc.,
use the following procedure: 1. Turn off the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system.
2. Make sure the area in front and behind the vehicle is clear of obstructions.
3. Turn the steering wheel right and left to clear an area around the front tires.
4. Slowly rock the vehicle forward and back- ward.
● Shift back and forth between R (Reverse)
and D (Drive) . ●
Apply the accelerator as little as possible
to maintain the rocking motion.
● Release the accelerator pedal before
shifting between R (Reverse) and D
(Drive) .
● Do not spin the tires above 35 mph
(55 km/h).
5. If the vehicle cannot be freed after a few tries, contact a professional towing service
to remove the vehicle.
In case of emergency6-13

Engine coolant*:Replace coolant at the speci-
fied interval. When adding or replacing coolant,
be sure to use only Genuine NISSAN Long Life
Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or equivalent with the
proper mixture. (For additional information on the
proper mixture for your area, refer to “Engine
cooling system” in the “Do-it-yourself” section of
this manual.)
NOTE: Mixing any other type of coolant or the use
of non-distilled water may reduce the recom-
mended service interval of the coolant.
Engine oil and oil filter: Replace engine oil
and oil filter at the specified intervals. For recom-
mended oil grade and viscosity refer to “Recom-
mended fluids/lubricants and capacities” in the
“Technical and consumer information” section of
this manual.
Fuel lines*: Check the fuel hoses, piping and
connections for leaks, looseness, or deteriora-
tion. Tighten connections or replace parts as
necessary.
Spark plugs: Replace at specified intervals. In-
stall new plugs of the same type as originally
equipped.CHASSIS AND BODY
MAINTENANCE:
Brake lines and cables: Visually inspect for
proper installation. Check for chafing, cracks,
deterioration, and signs of leaking. Replace any
deteriorated or damaged parts immediately.
Brake pads, rotors, drums and linings:
Check for wear, deterioration and fluid leaks.
Replace any deteriorated or damaged parts im-
mediately.
Exhaust system: Visually inspect the exhaust
pipes, muffler and hangers for leaks, cracks, de-
terioration, and damage. Tighten connections or
replace parts as necessary.
In-cabin microfilter: Replace at specified in-
tervals. When driving for prolonged periods in
dusty conditions, replace the filter more fre-
quently.
Steering gear and linkage, axle and sus-
pension parts, drive shaft boots: Check for
damage, looseness, and leakage of oil or grease.
Under severe driving conditions, inspect more
frequently. Tire rotation:
Tires should be rotated every
5,000 miles (8,000 km) according to the instruc-
tions under “General maintenance” in this sec-
tion. When rotating tires, check for damage and
uneven wear. Replace if necessary.
Transmission fluid/oil: Visually inspect for
signs of leakage at specified intervals.
If towing a trailer, using a camper or car-top
carrier, or driving on rough or muddy roads, re-
place the CVT fluid every 60,000 miles
(96,000 km) or request the dealer to inspect the
fluid deterioration data using a CONSULT. If the
deterioration data is more than 210000, replace
the CVT fluid.
9-6Maintenance and schedules

MAINTENANCE OPERATION
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or months, whichever comes first. miles x 1,000
(km x 1,000) Months MAINTENANCE INTERVAL
65
(104) 78 70
(112) 84 75
(120) 90 80
(128) 96 85
(136) 102 90
(144) 108 95
(152) 114 100
(160) 120 105
(168) 126 110
(176) 132 115
(184) 138 120
(192) 144
Brake lines and cables IIIIII
Brake pads and rotors  IIIIII
Brake fluid  RRR
CVT fluid See NOTE (1)IIIIII
Steering gear and linkage, axle and suspension parts  III
Tire rotation See NOTE (2)
Front drive shaft boots  IIIIII
Exhaust system  III
In-cabin microfilter RRRR
NISSAN Intelligent Key® battery RRRR
NOTE:
Maintenance items with “” should be performed more frequently according to “Maintenance under severe driving conditions”.
(1) If towing a trailer, using a camper or a car-top carrier or driving on rough or muddy roads, inspect CVT fluid deterioration at NISSAN
dealers every 60,000 miles (96,000 km), then change CVT fluid if necessary. And if the inspection is not performed, change (not just inspect)
CVT fluid every 60,000 miles (96,000 km).
(2) Refer to “Tire rotation” under the “General Maintenance” heading earlier in this section.
Maintenance and schedules9-11

10 Technical and consumer information
Recommended fluids/lubricants and capacities......10-2
Fuel recommendation .......................... 10-3
Engine oil and oil filter recommendations .........10-6
Air conditioner system refrigerant and oil
recommendations ............................. 10-7
Specifications .................................... 10-8
Engine ....................................... 10-8
Wheels and tires .............................. 10-9
Dimensions and weights .......................10-9
When traveling or registering in another country .....10-10
Vehicle identification ............................. 10-10
Vehicle identification number (VIN) plate ........10-10
Vehicle identification number
(chassis number) ............................. 10-10
Engine serial number .......................... 10-11
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label .........10-11
Emission control information label ..............10-11 Tire and loading information label
...............10-12
Air conditioner specification label ...............10-12
Installing front license plate .......................10-12
Vehicle loading information .......................10-13
Terms ....................................... 10-13
Vehicle load capacity ......................... 10-14
Loading tips ................................. 10-15
Measurement of weights ......................10-16
Towing a trailer .................................. 10-16
Flat towing ................................... 10-16
Uniform tire quality grading .......................10-17
Emission control system warranty .................10-18
Reporting safety defects ......................... 10-18
Readiness for inspection/maintenance (I/M) test ....10-19
Event Data Recorders (EDR) ......................10-19
Owner’s Manual/Service Manual order information . .10-20

Your engine was filled with a high-quality engine
oil when it was built. You do not have to change
the oil before the first recommended change
interval. Oil and filter change intervals depend
upon how you use your vehicle.
Operation under the following conditions may
require more frequent oil and filter changes:● repeated short distance driving at cold out-
side temperatures
● driving in dusty conditions
● extensive idling
● towing a trailer
● stop and go commuting
For additional information, refer to the “Mainte-
nance and schedules” section of this manual.
AIR CONDITIONER SYSTEM
REFRIGERANT AND OIL
RECOMMENDATIONS
The air conditioner system in your NISSAN
vehicle must be charged with the refriger-
ant HFC-134a (R-134a) and Genuine
NISSAN A/C System Oil Type ND-OIL8 or
the exact equivalents.
CAUTION
The use of any other refrigerant or oil may
cause severe damage to the air condition-
ing system and may require the replace-
ment of all air conditioner system
components.
The refrigerant HFC-134a (R-134a) in your
NISSAN vehicle does not harm the earth’s ozone
layer. Although this refrigerant does not affect the
earth’s atmosphere, certain government regula-
tions require the recovery and recycling of any
refrigerant during automotive air conditioner sys-
tem service. A NISSAN dealer has the trained
technicians and equipment needed to recover
and recycle your air conditioner system refriger-
ant.
It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer
when servicing your air conditioner system.
Technical and consumer information10-7