2004 Nissan Murano Owner's Manual - Page 265

than these or using improper towing equipment could adversely affect vehicle handling, braking and performance. 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 on very steep grades or in low traction situations (for example, on slippery boat ramps). Temperature conditions also can affect towing. For example, towing a heavy trailer in high outside temperatures on graded roads can affect engine performance and cause overheating. The transmission high fluid temperature protection mode, which helps reduce the chance of transmission damage, could activate and automatically decrease engine power. Vehicle speed may decrease to 40 to 50 MPH (65 to 80 km/h) under high load. Plan your trip carefully to account for trailer and vehicle load, weather, and road conditions. Also, when the high temperature mode operates, vehicle speed may be gradually reduced. On highways, 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 engine to cool or the transmission to return to normal operation. Tongue load Keep the tongue load between 9 to 11% of the total trailer load within the maximum tongue load limits shown in the following Towing Load/Specifications Chart. If the tongue load becomes excessive, rearrange cargo to allow for proper tongue load. TI1012M Maximum gross vehicle weight/ maximum gross axle weight The gross vehicle weight of the towing vehicle must not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) shown on the F.M.V.S.S. certification label. The gross vehicle weight equals the combined weight of the unloaded vehicle, passengers, luggage, hitch, trailer tongue load and any other optional equipment. In addition, front or rear gross axle weight must not exceed the gross axle weight rating (GAWR) shown on the F.M.V.S.S. certification label. WARNING Overheating can result in reduced engine power and lower vehicle speed. 9-18 Technical and consumer information