2004 Nissan Xterra Owner's Manual - Page 173

USING FOUR WHEEL DRIVE (4WD) ● Do not leave the transfer control lever in the N (Neutral) position. Otherwise, the vehicle could roll unexpectedly even if the manual transmission is in any gear or the automatic transmission is in the P (Park) position. If the ATP light is on, this indicates that the automatic transmission P position will not function and the transfer control lever is in the N position. ● Failure to engage the transfer control lever in 2H, 4H or 4L could result in the vehicle moving unexpectedly, which could cause serious personal injury or property damage. 4H - (4WD, high range) Four wheels are driven. Use when driving on roads where it is difficult to drive in the 2H position (for example, driving at normal speeds on snow covered, icy, wet, muddy or sandy roads). The 4H position provides greater power and traction. Avoid excessive speed as it will cause increased fuel consumption, higher oil temperature and could damage drivetrain components. Speed over 50 MPH (80 km/h) in 4H are not recommended. 4L - (4WD, low range) Four wheels are driven. Use when climbing or descending steep hills, or during driving in sand, mud or deep snow. The 4L position provides maximum power and traction. Avoid raising vehicle speed excessively, as the recommended maximum speed is approximately 30 MPH (48 km/h). N - No wheels are driven. Always keep the transfer lever out of the N (Neutral) position. Shift the lever quickly and smoothly when moving across the N (Neutral) position with the vehicle stopped. WSD0067 To move the transfer case lever: : Push down on the lever to shift : Shift without pushing down on the lever CAUTION Do not drive on dry hard surface roads in four-wheel drive. Driving on dry hard surfaces in 4H or 4L may cause unnecessary noise, tire wear, and increased fuel consumption. NISSAN recommends driving in the 2H position under these conditions. 2H - (2WD, high range) Only the rear wheels are driven. Use for driving under the same conditions as standard 2WD vehicles or state dynamometer I/M testing. TRANSFER CASE SHIFTING PROCEDURES WARNING ● When parking always make sure the transfer control lever is in the 2H, 4H or 4L position and the parking brake is applied. Starting and driving 5-19