2009 Nissan Xterra Owner's Manual - Page 316

The available towing capacity may be less than the maximum towing capacity due to the passenger and cargo load in the vehicle. Remember to keep trailer tongue weight between 10 - 15% of the trailer weight or within the trailer tongue load specification recommended by the trailer manufacturer. If the tongue load becomes excessive, rearrange the cargo to obtain the proper tongue load. Do not exceed the maximum tongue weight specification shown in the "Towing load/specification" chart even if the calculated available tongue weight is greater than 15%. If the calculated tongue weight is less than 10% , reduce the total trailer weight to match the available tongue weight. Always verify that available capacities are within the required ratings. trailer frontal area specification shown in the Towing Load/Specification" chart. The frontal area can be determined by multiplying the width of the trailer by the height of the trailer. For example, a trailer that is 8 feet wide by 6 feet tall has a trailer frontal area of 48 square feet. TOWING SAFETY Trailer hitch Your vehicle may be equipped with an optional trailer tow package. The trailer tow package includes a receiver-type frame mounted hitch. This hitch is rated for the maximum towing capacity of this vehicle when the proper towing equipment is used. Choose a proper ball mount and hitch ball that is rated for the trailer to be towed. Genuine Nissan ball mounts and hitch balls are available from your NISSAN dealer. If your vehicle is not equipped with the optional trailer tow package, check the towing capacity of your bumper hitch or receiver-type frame mounted hitch. Choose a proper hitch for your vehicle and trailer. A genuine Nissan trailer hitch is available from your NISSAN dealer. Make sure the trailer hitch is securely attached to the vehicle to help avoid personal injury or property damage due to sway caused by crosswinds, rough road surfaces or passing trucks. TOWING LOAD/SPECIFICATION US & CAN 2WD Maximum Towing 5,000 lb. Capacity*1, *2 (2268 kg) Maximum Tongue 500 lb. Load (227 kg) Maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating Maximum trailer frontal area 9,658 lb. (4,380 kg) 4WD 5,000 lb. (2268 kg) 500 lb. (227 kg) 9,658 lb. (4,380 kg) Trailer frontal area CAUTION Exceeding the maximum trailer frontal area specification may exceed the towing capacity of the vehicle. This may affect the towing performance and lead to vehicle damage. The trailer frontal area affects the towing load of a trailer. The frontal area is the total area of the vehicle and trailer that is affected by air resistance while towing. Do not exceed the maximum 60 sq ft (5.52 sq meters) *1: The towing capacity values are calculated assuming a base vehicle with driver and any options required to achieve the rating. Additional passengers, cargo and/or optional equipment will add weight to the vehicle and reduce your vehicle's maximum towing capacity. *2: Use of a weight-distributing hitch system is recommended when towing over 5,000 lbs. 9-22 Technical and consumer information