2011 Nissan Xterra Owner's Manual - Page 209

The automatic transmission in your vehicle is electronically controlled to produce maximum power and smooth operation. The recommended operating procedures for this transmission are shown on the following pages. Follow these procedures for maximum vehicle performance and driving enjoyment. WARNING Apply the parking brake if the shift selector is in any position while the engine is not running. Failure to do so could cause the vehicle to move unexpectedly or roll away and result in serious personal injury or property damage. If the ignition switch is placed in the OFF position for any reason while the vehicle is in N (Neutral), or any D (Drive) position, the ignition switch cannot be placed in the LOCK position and the key cannot be removed from the ignition switch. Move the shift selector to the P (Park) position, then the ignition switch can be placed in LOCK. P (Park): Starting the vehicle 1. After starting the engine, fully depress the foot brake pedal before moving the shift selector out of the P (Park) position. 2. Keep the foot brake pedal depressed and move the shift selector into a driving gear. 3. Release the foot brake, then gradually start the vehicle in motion. The automatic transmission is designed so the foot brake pedal MUST be depressed before shifting from P (Park) to any drive position while the ignition switch is in the ON position. The shift selector cannot be moved out of the P (Park) position and into any of the other gear positions if the ignition switch is placed in the LOCK or OFF position. To move the shift selector: : Push the button while depressing the brake pedal : Push the button to shift : Shift without depressing brake pedal LSD0151 CAUTION To prevent transmission damage, use the P (Park) or R (Reverse) position only when the vehicle is completely stopped. Use the P (Park) shift selector position when the vehicle is parked or when starting the engine. Make sure the vehicle is completely stopped. The brake pedal should be depressed to move the shift selector from N (Neutral) or any drive position to P (Park). Apply the parking brake. When parking on a hill, apply the Shifting After starting the engine, fully depress the brake pedal and move the shift selector out of the P (Park) position. 5-14 Starting and driving