2004 Nissan Maxima Owner's Manual - Page 263

TOWING LOAD/SPECIFICATION CHART TOWING LOAD / SPECIFICATION CHART UNIT: lb (kg) MAXIMUM TOWING LOAD MAXIMUM TONGUE LOAD 1,000 (454) 100 (45) ● Do not modify the vehicle exhaust system, brake system, etc. to install a trailer hitch. ● To reduce the possibility of additional damage if your vehicle is struck from the rear, where practical, remove the hitch and/or receiver when not in use. ● After the hitch is removed, seal the bolt holes to prevent exhaust fumes, water or dust from entering the passenger compartment. ● Regularly check that all trailer hitch mounting bolts are securely mounted. not to the vehicle bumper or axle. Be sure to leave enough slack in the chains to permit turning corners. Trailer lights Trailer lights should comply with federal and/or local regulations. When wiring the vehicle for towing, connect the stop and tail light pickup into the vehicle electrical circuit. TOWING SAFETY Trailer 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. Trailer brakes If your trailer is equipped with a braking system, make sure it conforms to federal and/or local regulations and that it is properly installed. Tire pressures ● When towing a trailer, inflate the vehicle tires to the recommended cold tire pressure indicated on the tire placard. ● Trailer tire condition, size, load rating and proper inflation pressure should be in accordance with the trailer and tire manufacturer's specifications. WARNING Never connect a trailer brake system directly to the vehicle brake system. Pre-towing tips ● Be certain your vehicle maintains a level position when a loaded and/or unloaded trailer is hitched. Do not drive the vehicle if it has an abnormal nose-up or nose-down condition; check for improper tongue load, overload, worn suspension or other possible causes of either condition. ● Always secure items in the trailer to prevent load shift while driving. CAUTION ● Do not use axle-mounted hitches. ● The hitch should not be attached to or affect the operation of the impactabsorbing bumper. Safety chains Always use suitable safety chains between your vehicle and the trailer. The safety chains should be crossed and should be attached to the hitch, Technical and consumer information 9-15