2001 Nissan Xterra Owner's Manual - Page 165

PUSH STARTING CAUTION Automatic transmission models cannot be push or tow started. This may cause transmission or other vehicle damage. Never try to start the vehicle by towing it. When the engine starts, the forward surge could cause the vehicle to collide with the tow vehicle. IF YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS If your vehicle is overheating (indicated by an extremely high temperature gauge reading), or if you feel a lack of engine power, or detect abnormal noise, etc., take the following steps: WARNING Do not continue to drive if your vehicle overheats. Doing so could cause a vehicle fire. To avoid the danger of being scalded, never remove the radiator cap while the engine is still hot. When the radiator cap is removed, pressurized hot water will spurt out, possibly causing serious injury. Do not open the hood if steam is coming out. 1. Move the vehicle safely off the road, apply the parking brake and move the gearshift lever to N (Neutral), or the automatic transmission into P (Park). Do not stop the engine. 2. Turn off the air conditioner (if so equipped). Open all of the windows, move the heater or air conditioner temperature control to maximum hot and fan control to high speed. 3. If engine overheating is caused by climbing a long hill on a hot day, run the engine at a fast idle (approximately 1,500 r/min) until the temperature gauge indicator returns to normal. 4. Get out of the vehicle. Look and listen for steam or coolant escaping from the radiator before opening the hood. Wait until no steam or coolant can be seen before proceeding. 5. Open the hood. WARNING If steam or water is coming from the engine, stand clear to prevent getting burned. 6. Visually check drive belts for damage or looseness. Also check if the cooling fan is running. The radiator hoses and radiator should not leak water. If coolant is leaking, or the water pump belt is missing or loose, or the cooling fan does not run, stop the engine. 6-10 In case of emergency