2004 Nissan Maxima Owner's Manual - Page 174

PARKING BRAKE Start the vehicle in 1st gear and shift to 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th up to 6th gear in sequence according to vehicle speed. To back up, lift up on the reverse lever and then move it to the R (Reverse) position after stopping the vehicle completely. If it is difficult to move the shift lever into R (Reverse) or 1 (1st), shift into N (Neutral), then release the clutch pedal. Depress the clutch pedal again and shift into R (Reverse) or 1 (1st). For quick acceleration in high altitude areas (over 4,000 ft [1,219 m]): WARNING ● Be sure the parking brake is fully released before driving. Failure to do so can cause brake failure and lead to an accident. ● Do not release the parking brake from outside the vehicle. ● Do not use the gear shift in place of the parking brake. When parking, be sure the parking brake is fully engaged. ● Do not leave children unattended in a vehicle. They could release the parking brake and cause an accident. GEAR CHANGE 1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th 5th to 6th MPH (km/h) 15 (24) 25 (40) 40 (65) 45 (75) 50 (80) Suggested maximum speed in each gear Downshift to a lower gear if the engine is not running smoothly, or if you need to accelerate. Do not exceed the maximum suggested speed (shown below) in any gear. For level road driving, use the highest gear suggested for that speed. Always observe posted speed limits, and drive according to the road conditions, which will ensure safe operation. Do not over-rev the engine when shifting to a lower gear as it may cause engine damage or loss of vehicle control. GEAR 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th MPH (km/h) 35 (55) 60 (95 Suggested upshift speeds The following are suggested vehicle speeds for shifting into a higher gear. These suggestions relate to fuel economy and vehicle performance. Actual upshift speeds will vary according to road conditions, the weather and individual driving habits. For quick acceleration in low altitude areas (less than 4,000 ft [1,219 m]) and normal acceleration in high altitude areas (over 4,000 ft [1,219 m]): GEAR CHANGE 1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th 5th to 6th MPH (km/h) 15 (24) 25 (40) 40 (64) 45 (72) 50 (80) 5-12 Starting and driving