2009 Nissan Xterra Owner's Manual - Page 244

Two-wheel drive models NISSAN recommends that your vehicle be towed with the driving (rear) wheels off the ground or place the vehicle on a flat bed truck as illustrated. ● If you have to tow manual transmission models with the rear wheels on the ground (if you do not use towing dollies) or four wheels on the ground: ● Always release the parking brake. ● Move the transmission shift lever to the N (Neutral) position. ● Observe the following restricted towing speeds and distances for manual transmission models only: Speed: Below 60 MPH (97 km/h) Distance: Less than 500 miles (805 km) If the speed or distance must necessarily be greater, remove the propeller shaft before towing to prevent damage to the transmission. CAUTION ● Never tow automatic transmission models with the rear wheels on the ground or four wheels on the ground (forward or backward), as this may cause serious and expensive damage to the transmission. If it is necessary to tow the vehicle with the front wheels raised always use towing dollies under the rear wheels. ● When towing automatic or manual transmission models with the front wheels on the ground or on towing dollies: - Turn the ignition key to the OFF position, and secure the steering wheel in a straight-ahead position with a rope or similar device. Never secure the steering wheel by turning the ignition key to the LOCK position. This may damage the steering lock mechanism. ACE1037 TOWING RECOMMENDED BY NISSAN 6-12 In case of emergency