2009 Nissan Xterra Owner's Manual - Page 219

When the vehicle is stuck, ● Set the 4WD shift switch to 4H or 4LO. ● Use the Electronic Locking Rear Differential (E-Lock) system (if so equipped). Turn the switch ON while the vehicle is stationary and apply the throttle to try to free the vehicle. ● If it is difficult to free the vehicle, rock the vehicle back and forth between reverse and drive gears. ● If the vehicle is stuck deep in mud, place stones or wooden blocks under the tires. Then try the recovery procedures above. Tire chains may be effective. ● When the vehicle is stopped after making a turn, you may feel a slight jolt after the selector lever is shifted to N or P. This occurs because the transfer clutch is released and not because of a malfunction. CAUTION ● When driving straight, shift the 4WD shift switch to the 2WD or 4H position. Do not move the 4WD shift switch when making a turn or reversing. LSD0145 CAUTION ● Do not spin the tires excessively. Tires will sink deep into the mud, making it difficult to free the vehicle. ● Avoid shifting gears with the engine running at high speeds as this may cause malfunction. 4WD shift switch operations ● Shift the 4WD shift switch to either the 2WD, 4H or 4LO position, depending on driving conditions. ● If the 4WD shift switch is operated while making a turn, accelerating or decelerating or if the key switch is turned off while in the 4H or 4LO position, you may feel a jolt. This is not abnormal. ● Do not shift the 4WD shift switch while driving on steep downhill grades. Use the engine brake and low automatic transmission gears (D1 or D2) or manual transmission (1st gear or 2nd gear) for engine braking. ● Do not operate the 4WD shift switch with the rear wheels spinning. ● Before placing the 4WD shift switch in the 4H position from 2WD, ensure the vehicle speed is less than 62.5 MPH (100 km/h). Failure to do so can damage the 4WD system. ● Never shift the 4WD shift switch between 4LO and 4H while driving. Starting and driving 5-27