tire NISSAN X-TRAIL 2006 Owner's Guide

TIRE PRESSURE
Tire inflation pressureCheck the tire pressures (including the
spare) often and always prior to long
distance trips. The recommended tire
pressure specifications are shown on the
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. label or the Tire
and Loading Information label (if so
equipped) under the “Cold Tire Pres-
sure” heading. The Tire and Loading In-
formation label is affixed to the driver side
center pillar. Tire pressures should be
checked regularly because:

Most tires naturally lose air over time.

Tires can lose air suddenly when
driven over potholes or other objects
or if the vehicle strikes a curbwhile
parking.
The tire pressures should be checked
when the tires are cold. The tires are
considered COLD after the vehicle has
been parked for 3 or more hours, or
driven less than 1.6 km (1 mile) at mod-
erate speeds.Incorrect tire pressure, including un-
der inflation, may adversely affect
tire life and vehicle handling.
WARNING

Improperly inflated tires can fail
suddenly and cause an acci-
dent.

The Gross Vehicle Weight Rat-
ing (GVWR) is located on the
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. label. The
vehicle weight capacity is indi-
cated on the Tire and Loading
Information label (if so
equipped). Do not load your ve-
hicle beyond this capacity.
Overloading your vehicle may
result in reduced tire life, un-
safe operating conditions due
to premature tire failure, or un-
favorable handling characteris-
tics and could also lead to a
serious accident. Loading be-yond the specified capacity may
also result in failure of other
vehicle components.

Before taking a long trip, or
whenever you heavily load your
vehicle, use a tire pressure
gauge to ensure that the tire
pressures are at the specified
level.

Do not drive your vehicle over
137 km/h (85 MPH) unless it is
equipped with high speed rated
tires. Driving faster than 137
km/h (85 MPH) may result in
tire failure, loss of control and
possible injury.

For additional information re-
garding tires, refer to “Tire
Safety Information” in the War-
ranty Information Booklet.
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Tire and loading information label1
Seating capacity: The maximum
number of occupants that can be
seated in the vehicle.
2
Vehicle load limit: See loading infor-
mation in the “Technical and con-
sumer information” section.
3
Original size: The size of the tiresoriginally installed on the vehicle at
the factory.
4
Cold tire pressure: Inflate the tires to
this pressure when the tires are cold.
Tires are considered COLD after the
vehicle has been parked for 3 or
more hours, or driven less than 1.6
km (1 mile) at moderate speeds. The
recommended cold tire inflation is
set by the manufacturer to provide
the best balance of tire wear, vehicle
handling, driveability, tire noise, etc.,
up to the vehicle’s GVWR.
5
Tire size — refer to “Tire labeling”
later in this section.
6
Spare tire size or compact spare tire
size (if so equipped)
SDI1948
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Checking the tire pressure1. Remove the valve stem cap from the
tire.
2. Press the pressure gauge squarely
onto the valve stem. Do not press too
hard or force the valve stem sideways,
or air will escape. If the hissing sound
of air escaping from the tire is heard
while checking the pressure, reposi-
tion the gauge to eliminate this leak-
age.3. Remove the gauge.
4. Read the tire pressure on the gauge
stem and compare it to the specifica-
tion shown on the Tire and Loading
Information label.
5. Add air to the tire as needed. If too
much air is added, press the core of
the valve stem briefly with the tip of the
gauge stem to release pressure. Re-
check the pressure and add or release
air as needed.
6. Install the valve stem cap.
7. Check the pressure of all other tires,
including the spare.
SizeCold Tire
Inflation
Pressure
Front
Original
TireP215/65/R16
P215/60/R17220 kPa,
32 PSI
200 kPa,
29 PSI
Rear
Original
TireP215/65/R16
P215/60/R17240 kPa,
35 PSI
200 kPa,
29 PSI
Spare
TireP215/65/R16
P215/60/R17240 kPa,
35 PSI
200 kPa,
29 PSI
SDI1949
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TIRE LABELINGFederal law requires tire manufacturers
to place standardized information on the
sidewall of all tires. This information iden-
tifies and describes the fundamental
characteristics of the tire and also pro-
vides the tire identification number (TIN)
for safety standard certification. The TIN
can be used to identify the tire in case of
a recall in case of recall.
1
Tire size (example: P215/65R15
95H)
1. P: The “P” indicates the tire is de-
signed for passenger vehicles. (Not all
tires have this information.)
2. Three-digit number (215): This num-
ber gives the width in millimeters of the
tire from sidewall edge to sidewall
edge.
3. Two-digit number (65): This number,
known as the aspect ratio, gives thetire’s ratio of height to width.
4. R: The “R” stands for radial.
5. Two-digit number (15): This number is
the wheel or rim diameter in inches.
6. Two- or three-digit number (95): This
number is the tire’s load index. It is a
measurement of how much weight
each tire can support. You may not
find this information on all tires be-
cause it is not required by law.
7. H: Tire speed rating. You should not
drive the vehicle faster than the tire
speed rating.
SDI1575
EXAMPLE
SDI1951
EXAMPLE
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2
TIN (Tire Identification Number) for a
new tire (example: DOT XX XX XXX
XXXX)
1. DOT: Abbreviation for the “Depart-
ment Of Transportation”. The
symbol can be placed above,
below or to the left or right of the
Tire Identification Number.
2. Two-digit code: Manufacturer’s identi-
fication mark
3. Two-digit code: Tire size4. Three-digit code: Tire type code (Op-
tional)
5. Three-digit code: Date of Manufacture
6. Four numbers represent the week and
year the tire was built. For example, the
numbers 3103 means the 31st week
of 2003. If these numbers are missing,
then look on the other sidewall of the
tire.
3
Tire ply composition and material
The number of layers or plies of
rubber-coated fabric in the tire. Tire
manufacturers also must indicate the
materials in the tire, which include
steel, nylon, polyester, and others.
4
Maximum permissible inflation pres-
sure
This number is the greatest amount
of air pressure that should be put in
the tire. Do not exceed the maximum
permissible inflation pressure.
5
Maximum load rating
This number indicates the maximumload in kilograms and pounds that
can be carried by the tire. When
replacing the tires on the vehicle,
always use a tire that has the same
load rating as the factory installed
tire.
6
Term of “tubeless” or “tube type”
Indicates whether the tire requires an
inner tube (“tube type”) or not
(“tubeless”).
7
The word “radial”
The word “radial” is shown if the tire
has radial structure.
8
Manufacturer or brand name
Manufacturer or brand name is
shown.
Other tire-related terminology:
In addition to the many terms that are
defined throughout this section, Intended
Outboard Sidewall is (1) the sidewall that
contains a whitewall, bears white letter-
ing or bears manufacturer, brand and/or
model name molding that is higher or
deeper than the same molding on the
SDI1607
EXAMPLE
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other sidewall of the tire, or (2) the
outward facing sidewall of an asymmetri-
cal tire that has a particular side that must
always face outward when mounted on a
vehicle.TYPES OF TIRES
WARNING

When changing or replacing tires, be
sure all four tires are of the same
type (for example, Summer, All Sea-
son or Snow) and construction. A
NISSAN dealer may be able to help
you with information about tire type,
size, speed rating and availability.

Replacement tires may have a lower
speed rating than the factory
equipped tires, and may not match
the potential maximum vehicle
speed. Never exceed the maximum
speed rating of the tire.

For additional information regarding
tires, refer to “Tire Safety Informa-
tion” in the Warranty InformationBooklet.
All season tiresNISSAN specifies All Season tires on some
models to provide good performance for use all
year, including snowy and icy road conditions.
All Season tires are identified by ALL SEASON
and/or M&S on the tire sidewall. Snow tires have
better snow traction than All Season tires and
may be more appropriate in some areas.Summer tiresNISSAN specifies summer tires on some models
to provide superior performance on dry roads.
Summer tire performance is substantially re-
duced in snow and ice. Summer tires do not
have the tire traction rating “M&S” on the tire
sidewall.
If you plan to operate your vehicle in snowy or icy
conditions, NISSAN recommends the use of
SNOW tires or ALL SEASON tires on all four
wheels.Snow tiresIf snow tires are needed, it is necessary to select
tires equivalent in size and load rating to the
original equipment tires. If you do not, it canadversely affect the safety and handling of your
vehicle.
Generally, snow tires will have lower speed
ratings than factory equipped tires and may not
match the potential maximum vehicle speed.
Never exceed the maximum speed rating of the
tire.
If you operate your vehicle in snowy or icy
conditions, NISSAN recommends the use of
snow or all season tires on all four wheels.
For additional traction on icy roads, studded tires
may be used. However, some provinces and
states prohibit their use. Check local, state and
provincial laws before installing studded tires.
Skid and traction capabilities of studded snow
tires on wet or dry surfaces may be poorer than
that of non-studded snow tires.
Four-wheel drive models
CAUTION

Always use tires of the same size,
brand, construction (bias, bias-belted
or radial), and tread pattern on all
four wheels. Failure to do so may
result in a circumference difference
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between tires on the front and rear
axles which will cause excessive tire
wear and may damage the transmis-
sion, transfer case and differential
gears.

ONLY use spare tires specified for
each 4-wheel drive model.
If excessive tire wear is found, it is recommended
that all four tires be replaced with tires of the
same size, brand, construction and tread pat-
tern. The tire pressure and wheel alignment
should also be checked and corrected as nec-
essary. Contact a NISSAN dealer.
Tire chains must be installed only on the
front wheels and not on the rear wheels.
Do not drive with tire chains on paved roads
which are clear of snow. Driving with chains in
such conditions can cause damage to the vari-
ous mechanisms of the vehicle due to some
overstress.
TIRE CHAINSUse of tire chains may be prohibited according
to location. Check the local laws before installing
tire chains. When installing tire chains, make
sure they are of proper size for the tires on yourvehicle and are installed according to the chain
manufacturer’s suggestions.Use only SAE
class S chains.Class “S” chains are used on
vehicles with restricted tire to vehicle clearance.
Vehicles that can use Class “S” chains are
designed to meet the SAE standard minimum
clearances between the tire and the closest
vehicle suspension or body component required
to accommodate the use of a winter traction
device (tire chains or cables). The minimum
clearances are determined using the factory
equipped tire size. Other types may damage
your vehicle. Use chain tensioners when recom-
mended by the tire chain manufacturer to ensure
a tight fit. Loose end links of the tire chain must
be secured or removed to prevent the possibility
of whipping action damage to the fenders or
undercarriage. If possible, avoid fully loading
your vehicle when using tire chains. In addition,
drive at a reduced speed. Otherwise, your ve-
hicle may be damaged and/or vehicle handling
and performance may be adversely affected.

Do not use the chains on dry roads.
Tire chains must be installed only on the
front wheels and not on the rear wheels.
Do not drive with tire chains on paved roads
which are clear of snow. Driving with chains in
such conditions can cause damage to the vari-
ous mechanisms of the vehicle due to someoverstress.8-40
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CHANGING WHEELS AND TIRES
Tire rotationNISSAN recommends rotating the tires
every 12,000 km (7,500 miles).
See “Flat tire” in the “6. In case of
emergency” section of this manual for tire
replacing procedures.
As soon as possible, tighten the
wheel nuts to the specified torque
with a torque wrench.Wheel nut tightening torque:
108 N⋅m (11 kg-m, 80 ft-lb)
The wheel nuts must be kept tight-
ened to specifications at all times. It
is recommended that wheel nuts be
tightened to the specification at
each tire rotation interval.
WARNING

After rotating the tires, check
and adjust the tire pressure.

Retighten the wheel nuts when
the vehicle has been driven for
1,000 km (600 miles) (also in
cases of a flat tire, etc.).

Do not include the spare tire in
the tire rotation.

For additional information re-
garding tires, refer to “Tire
Safety Information” in the War-
ranty Information Booklet.1. Wear indicator
2. Location mark
Tire wear and damage
WARNING

Tires should be periodically in-
spected for wear, cracking,
bulging or objects caught in the
tread. If excessive wear, cracks,
bulging or deep cuts are found,
SDI1662
MDI0004A
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the tire(s) should be replaced.

The original tires have a built-in
tread wear indicator. When the
wear indicators are visible, the
tire(s) should be replaced.

Tires degrade with age and use.
Have tires, including the spare,
over 6 years old checked by a
qualified technician because
some tire damage may not be
obvious. Replace the tires as
necessary to prevent tire failure
and possible personal injury.

Improper service of the spare
tire may result in serious per-
sonal injury. If it is necessary to
repair the spare tire, contact a
NISSAN dealer.

For additional information re-
garding tires, refer to “Tire
Safety Information” in the War-
ranty Information Booklet.
Replacing wheels and tiresWhen replacing a tire, use the same size, tread
design, speed rating and load carrying capacity
as originally equipped. Recommended types and
sizes are shown in “Wheels and tires” in the
“Technical and consumer information” section of
this manual.
WARNING

The use of tires other than those
recommended or the mixed use of
tires of different brands, construction
(bias, bias-belted or radial), or tread
patterns can adversely affect the ride,
braking, handling, ground clearance,
body-to-tire clearance, tire chain
clearance, speedometer calibration,
headlight aim and bumper height.
Some of these effects may lead to
accidents and could result in serious
personal injury.

If the wheels are changed for any
reason, always replace with wheels
which have the same offset dimen-
sion. Wheels of a different offsetcould cause premature tire wear, de-
grade vehicle handling characteris-
tics and/or interference with the
brake discs/drums. Such interfer-
ence can lead to decreased braking
efficiency and/or early brake
pad/shoe wear. Refer to “Wheels and
Tires” in the “Technical and con-
sumer information” section of this
manual for wheel offset dimensions.

Do not install a deformed wheel or
tire even if it has been repaired. Such
wheels or tires could have structural
damage and could fail without warn-
ing.

The use of retread tire is not recom-
mended.

For additional information regarding
tires, refer to “Tire Safety Informa-
tion” in the Warranty Information
Booklet.
Wheel balanceUnbalanced wheels may affect vehicle handling
and tire life. Even with regular use, wheels can
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get out of balance. Therefore, they should be
balanced as required.
Wheel balance service should be per-
formed with the wheels off the vehicle.
Spin balancing the wheels on the vehicle
could lead to mechanical damage.
For additional information regarding tires, refer to
“Tire Safety Information” in the Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet.Care of wheels
Wash the wheels when washing the vehicle
to maintain their appearance.

Clean the inner side of the wheels when the
wheel is changed or the underside of the
vehicle is washed.

Do not use abrasive cleaners when washing
the wheels.

Inspect wheel rims regularly for dents or
corrosion. Such damage may cause loss of
pressure or poor seal at the tire bead.

NISSAN recommends waxing the road wheel
sidewalls to protect against road salt in areas
where it is used during winter.
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