2009 Nissan Xterra Owner's Manual - Page 206

WARNING Apply the parking brake if the selector lever is in any position while the engine is not running. Failure to do so could cause the vehicle to move unexpectedly or roll away and result in serious personal injury or property damage. If the key is turned to the OFF or ACC position for any reason while the vehicle is in N (Neutral), or any D (Drive) position, the key cannot be turned to the LOCK position and be removed from the ignition switch. Move the shift selector to the P (Park) position, then the key can be turned to LOCK. P (Park): parking brake. When parking on a hill, apply the parking brake first, then shift the shift selector into the P (Park) position. R (Reverse): Do not downshift into the 3 position at speeds over the following and do not exceed the following speeds in the 3 position. 2WD: 71 MPH (115 km/h) 4H: 62 MPH (100 km/h) 4LO: 31 MPH (50 km/h) 2 (Second gear): Use this position for hill climbing or engine braking on downhill grades. Do not downshift into the 2 position at speeds over the following and do not exceed the following speeds in the 2 position. 2WD: 62 MPH (100 km/h) 4H: 62 MPH (100 km/h) 4LO: 31 MPH (50 km/h) CAUTION To prevent transmission damage, use the P (Park) or R (Reverse) position only when the vehicle is completely stopped. Use the R (Reverse) position to back up. Make sure the vehicle is completely stopped before selecting the R (Reverse) position. The brake pedal must be depressed to move the shift selector from P (Park), N (Neutral) or any drive position to R (Reverse). N (Neutral): Neither forward nor reverse gear is engaged. The engine can be started in this position. You may shift to N (Neutral) and restart a stalled engine while the vehicle is moving. D (Drive): Use this position for all normal forward driving. 3 (Third gear): Use this position for driving up and down long slopes where engine braking would be advantageous. CAUTION To prevent transmission damage, use the P (Park) or R (Reverse) position only when the vehicle is completely stopped. Use the P (Park) shift selector position when the vehicle is parked or when starting the engine. Make sure the vehicle is completely stopped. The brake pedal should be depressed to move the shift selector from N (Neutral) or any drive position to P (Park). Apply the 5-14 Starting and driving