Nissan Frontier (2019 year). Instruction

WARNING

Do not install accessories over the gap
between the front and rear side chan-
nels. Doing this could affect the rear
structure in certain rear impacts, which
could result in serious injury.

CAUTION

Properly secure all cargo with ropes or
straps to prevent it from sliding or shift-
ing. Use the channel end stoppers to
help secure items in the channels from
sliding off the end of the truck bed.

Channel end stoppers (if so
equipped)

The channel end stoppers should be used
to help prevent accessories installed in the
channels from sliding or shifting off the end
of the truck bed.

1 correct installation, 2 incorrect installation

LTI0123

WTI0119

Technical and consumer information

10-27

They must be installed so they are properly
seated in the detents in the channel.

Install the channels end stoppers as fol-
lows:

1. Remove the channel protectors by slid-

ing them out the back of the truck bed.
Properly store the channel protectors.

2. Loosen the bolt on the center of the

end stopper with the provided wrench
and insert it into the channel.

3. Position the end stopper to the desired

location on the channel so the nubs on
the bottom of the end stopper fully
seat into the channel detents.

4. Tighten the bolt on the center of the

end stopper with the provided wrench.

LOADING TIPS

∙ The GVW must not exceed GVWR

or GAWR as specified on the
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S.

certification

label.

∙ Do not load the front and rear

axle to the GAWR. Doing so will
exceed the GVWR.

WARNING

∙ Properly secure all cargo with

ropes or straps to help prevent
it from sliding or shifting. Do not
place cargo higher than the
seatbacks. In a sudden stop or
collision, unsecured cargo could
cause personal injury.

∙ Do not load your vehicle any

heavier than the GVWR or the
maximum

front

and

rear

GAWRs. If you do, parts of your
vehicle can break, tire damage
could occur, or it can change the
way your vehicle handles. This
could result in loss of control
and cause personal injury.

∙ Overloading

not

only

can

shorten the life of your vehicle
and the tire, but can also cause
unsafe vehicle handling and
longer braking distances. This
may cause a premature tire fail-
ure which could result in a seri-
ous accident and personal in-
jury.

Failures

caused

overloading are not covered by
the vehicle’s warranty.

10-28

Technical and consumer information

CREW CAB MODELS

Crew Cab short wheel base models
should not be used to carry a slide-in
camper.

KING CAB® MODELS

This information is provided for you to
properly install a slide-in camper and is
based on the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration regulations. It is rec-
ommended that, before installing the
camper, you carefully read the following in-
formation and ensure that the camper
meets the specifications.

This information may not apply to some
Canada model vehicles.

SPECIAL BODY VEHICLES

Some vehicles are equipped with commer-
cial or camper bodies. However, this Own-
er’s Manual does not cover these options.
For additional information, refer to the
body manufacturer’s instruction manual.

LOCATION FOR CENTER OF
GRAVITY

The

illustration

indicates

the

recom-

mended cargo center of gravity location.

King Cab®:

L1 = 36.7 in (931 mm)

WARNING

Improper loading may be dangerous. If
a load is too far back, it can affect han-
dling characteristics. If a load is too far
forward,

the

front

axle

may

overloaded.

When the truck is used to carry a slide-in
camper, the total cargo load of the truck
consists of the camper manufacturer’s
weight figure, plus:

∙ the

weight

installed

additional

camper equipment not included in the
camper manufacturer’s weight figure,

∙ the weight of camper cargo,

∙ and the weight of occupants in the

camper.

LTI0128

LTI0129

TRUCK-CAMPER LOADING
INFORMATION

Technical and consumer information

10-29

The total cargo load should not exceed the
truck’s pay load weight rating and the
camper’s center of gravity should fall within
the truck’s recommended center of gravity
location when installed.

WARNING

Overloading or improper loading can
adversely affect vehicle handling, brak-
ing and performance and may lead to
accidents.

VEHICLE LOAD WEIGHT CAPACITY

The

vehicle

payload

weight

capacity

shown on the Tire and Loading Information
label, refer to “Tire and Loading Information
label” in this section, indicates the maxi-
mum total weight of passengers, optional
equipment (air conditioning, trailer hitch,
etc.) and cargo that your vehicle is de-
signed to carry.

Before driving a loaded vehicle, confirm
that you do not exceed the GVWR or the
GAWR for your vehicle. For additional infor-
mation, refer to ’’Vehicle loading informa-
tion’’ in this section.

Also check tires for proper inflation pres-
sures. For additional information, refer to
the Tire and Loading Information label.

MEASUREMENT OF WEIGHTS

Secure

loose

items

prevent

weight shifts that could affect the
balance of your vehicle. When the ve-
hicle is loaded, drive to a scale and
weigh the front and the rear wheels
separately to determine axle loads.
Individual axle loads should not ex-
ceed either of the GAWR. The total of
the axle loads should not exceed the
GVWR. These ratings are given on
the

vehicle

certification

label.

weight ratings are exceeded, move
or remove items to bring all weights
below the ratings.

WARNING

∙ Overloading or improper loading of a

trailer and its cargo can adversely af-
fect vehicle handling, braking and
performance

and

may

lead

accidents.

∙ Do not tow a trailer when the TEMPO-

RARY FULL SIZE spare tire is installed.

CAUTION

∙ Do not tow a trailer or haul a heavy

load for the first 500 mile (805 km).
Your engine, axle or other parts could
be damaged.

∙ For the first 500 miles (805 km) that

you tow a trailer, do not drive over
50 mph (80 km/h) and do not make
starts at full throttle. This helps the
engine and other parts of your vehicle
wear in at the heavier loads.

Your new vehicle was designed to be used
primarily to carry passengers and cargo.
Remember that towing a trailer places ad-
ditional loads on your vehicle’s engine,
drive train, steering, braking and other sys-
tems.

TOWING A TRAILER

10-30

Technical and consumer information

A NISSAN Towing Guide (U.S. only) is avail-
able

the

website

www.nissanusa.com. This guide includes
information on trailer towing capability and
the special equipment required for proper
towing.

MAXIMUM LOAD LIMITS

Maximum trailer loads

Never allow the total trailer load to exceed
the

value

specified

the

“Towing

Load/Specification” chart found in this sec-
tion. The total trailer load equals trailer
weight plus its cargo weight.

∙ When

towing

trailer

load

3,500 lbs. (1,587 kg) or more, trailers
with a brake system MUST be used.

The maximum Gross Combined Weight
Rating (GCWR) should not exceed the value
specified

the

following

“Towing

Load/Specification” chart.

The GCWR equals the combined weight of
the towing vehicle (including passengers
and cargo) plus the total trailer load. Tow-
ing loads greater than these or using im-
proper towing equipment could adversely
affect vehicle handling, braking and perfor-
mance.

The ability of your vehicle to tow a trailer is
not only related to the maximum trailer
loads, but also the places you plan to tow.
Tow weights appropriate for level highway
driving may have to be reduced for low
traction situations (for example, on slippery
boat ramps).

Temperature conditions can also affect
towing. For example, towing a heavy trailer
in high outside temperatures on graded
roads can affect engine performance and
cause overheating. The engine protection
mode, which helps reduce the chance of
engine damage, could activate and auto-
matically decrease engine power. Vehicle
speed may decrease under high load. Plan
your trip carefully to account for trailer and
vehicle load, weather and road conditions.

WARNING

Overheating can result in reduced en-
gine power and vehicle speed. The re-
duced speed may be lower than other
traffic, which could increase the chance
of a collision. Be especially careful when
driving. If the vehicle cannot maintain a
safe driving speed, pull to the side of the
road in a safe area. Allow the engine to
cool and return to normal operation. For
additional information, refer to “If your
vehicle overheats” in the “In case of
emergency” section of this manual.

LTI0161

Technical and consumer information

10-31

CAUTION

Vehicle damage resulting from im-
proper towing procedures is not cov-
ered by NISSAN warranties.

Tongue load

When using a weight carrying or a weight
distributing hitch, keep the tongue load be-
tween 10 - 15% of the total trailer load or use
the trailer tongue load specified by the
trailer manufacturer. The tongue load
must be within the maximum tongue load
limits shown in the following “Towing
Load/Specification” chart. If the tongue
load becomes excessive, rearrange cargo
to allow for proper tongue load.

Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight
(GVW)/maximum Gross Axle
Weight (GAW)

The GVW of the towing vehicle must not
exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
(GVWR) shown on the F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S.
certification label. The GVW equals the
combined weight of the unloaded vehicle,
passengers, luggage, hitch, trailer tongue
load and any other optional equipment. In
addition, front or rear GAW must not ex-
ceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
shown on the F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certifica-
tion label.

WTI0160

CA0036

10-32

Technical and consumer information

Towing capacities are calculated assum-
ing a base vehicle with driver and any op-
tions required to achieve the rating. Addi-
tional passengers, cargo and/or optional
equipment, such as the trailer hitch, will
add weight to the vehicle and reduce your
vehicle’s maximum towing capacity and
trailer tongue load.

The vehicle and trailer need to be weighed
to confirm the vehicle is within the GVWR,
Front GAWR, Rear GAWR, Gross Combined
Weight Rating (GCWR) and Towing capacity.

All vehicle and trailer weights can be mea-
sured using platform type scales com-
monly found at truck stops, highway weigh
stations, building supply centers or salvage
yards.

To determine the available payload capac-
ity for tongue load, use the following proce-
dure.

1. Locate

the

GVWR

the

F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label.

2. Weigh your vehicle on the scale with all

of the passengers and cargo that are
normally in the vehicle when towing a
trailer.

3. Subtract the actual vehicle weight from

the GVWR. The remaining amount is
the available maximum tongue load.

To determine the available towing capacity,
use the following procedure.

1. Find the GCWR for your vehicle on the

"Towing

Load/Specification"

chart

found in this section.

2. Subtract the actual vehicle weight

from the GCWR. The remaining amount
is the available maximum towing ca-
pacity.

To determine the Gross Trailer Weight,
weigh your trailer on a scale with all equip-
ment and cargo, that are normally in the
trailer when it is towed. Make sure the
Gross Trailer Weight is not more than the
Gross Trailer Weight Rating shown on the
trailer and is not more than the calculated
available maximum towing capacity.

Also weigh the front and rear axles on the
scale to make sure the Front Gross Axle
Weight and Rear Gross Axle Weight are not
more than Front Gross Axle Weight and
Rear

Gross

Axle

Weight

the

F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label. The

cargo in the trailer and vehicle may need to
be moved or removed to meet the speci-
fied ratings.

Example:

∙ Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) as weighed

on a scale- including passengers, cargo
and hitch - 5,185 lbs. (2352 kg).

∙ Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

from F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification la-
bel - 5,815 lbs. (2638 kg).

∙ Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)

from “Towing Load/Specification" chart
- 11,133 lbs. (5050 kg).

∙ Maximum Trailer towing capacity from

“Towing Load/Specification" chart -
6,100 lbs. (2767 kg).

Technical and consumer information

10-33

5,815 lbs. (2638 kg)

GVWR

– 5,185 lbs. (2352 kg)

GVW

= 630 lbs. (286 kg)

Available for tongue

weight

11,133 lbs. (5050 kg)

GCWR

– 5,185 lbs. (2352 kg)

GVW

= 5,948 lbs. (2698 kg) Capacity available for

towing

630 lbs. (286 kg)

Available tongue

weight

/ 5,948 lbs. (2698 kg)

Available capacity

10 % tongue weight

The available towing capacity may be less
than the maximum towing capacity due to
the passenger and cargo load in the ve-
hicle.

Remember to keep trailer tongue weight
between 10 - 15 percent of the trailer weight
or within the trailer tongue load specifica-
tion recommended by the trailer manufac-
turer. If the tongue load becomes exces-
sive, rearrange the cargo to obtain the
proper tongue load. Do not exceed the
maximum tongue weight specification

shown in the “Towing Load/Specification”
chart even if the calculated available
tongue weight is greater than 15 percent. If
the calculated tongue weight is less than
10 percent, reduce the total trailer weight to
match the available tongue weight.

Always verify that available capacities are
within the required ratings.

Trailer frontal area

CAUTION

Exceeding the maximum trailer frontal
area specification may exceed the tow-
ing capacity of the vehicle. This may af-
fect the towing performance and lead
to vehicle damage.

The trailer frontal area affects the towing
load of a trailer. The frontal area is the total
area of the vehicle and trailer that is af-
fected by air resistance while towing. Do
not exceed the maximum trailer frontal
area specification shown in the "Towing
Load/Specification” chart. The frontal area
can be determined by multiplying the
width of the trailer by the height of the
trailer. For example, a trailer that is 8 feet
wide by 6 feet tall has a trailer frontal area of
48 square feet.

TOWING LOAD/SPECIFICATION

WARNING

The towing capacities provided in this
manual are for general reference only.
The safe towing capacity of your vehicle
is affected by dealer and factory in-
stalled options and passenger and
cargo loads. You must weigh the vehicle
and trailer as described in this manual
to determine the actual vehicle towing
capacity. Do not exceed the published
maximum towing capacity or the GCWR
or

the

GVWR

shown

the

FMVSS/CMVSS label. Doing so can re-
sult in an accident causing serious per-
sonal injury or property damage.

10-34

Technical and consumer information

King Cab® 2WD (4 cyl)

King Cab® 2WD (6 cyl)

King Cab® 4WD (6 cyl)

Crew Cab 2WD

Crew Cab 4WD

Maximum Towing Capacity*1,
*2, *3

3,810 lbs. (1,728 kg)

6,720 lbs. (3,048 kg)

6,510 lbs. (2,953 kg)

6,640 lbs. (3,012 kg)

6,380 lbs. (2,894 kg)

Maximum Tongue Load*2, *3

381 lbs. (173 kg)

672 lbs. (305 kg)

651 lbs. (295 kg)

664 lbs. (301 kg)

638 lbs. (289 kg)

Maximum Gross Combined
Weight Rating

7,937 lbs. (3,600 kg)

11,230 lbs. (5,094 kg)

Maximum trailer frontal area

30 sq feet (2.78 sq meters)

*1:

∙ The towing capacity is calculated using the SAE International SAE J2807 test method. Additional passengers, cargo and/or optional

equipment will add weight to the vehicle and reduce your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity.

∙ All towing above 1,000 lbs. (454 kg) requires the use of trailer brakes.

∙ NISSAN recommends the use of a tandem axle trailer whenever towing above 3,000 lbs. (1,361 kg).

*2: The maximum towing capacity when using the Genuine NISSAN step bumper as a ball mount is 3,500 lbs. (1,588 kg) and 350 lbs. (158 kg)
tongue load.

*3: Use of a weight-distributing hitch system is recommended when towing over 5,000 lbs.

Technical and consumer information

10-35

TOWING SAFETY
Trailer hitch

Your vehicle may be equipped with an op-
tional trailer tow package. The trailer tow
package includes a receiver-type frame
mounted hitch. This hitch is rated for the
maximum towing capacity of this vehicle
when the proper towing equipment is
used. Choose a proper ball mount and
hitch ball that is rated for the trailer to be
towed. Genuine NISSAN ball mounts and
hitch balls are available from a NISSAN
dealer.

If your vehicle is not equipped with the op-
tional trailer tow package, check the tow-
ing capacity of your bumper hitch or
receiver-type

frame

mounted

hitch.

Choose a proper hitch for your vehicle and
trailer. A Genuine NISSAN trailer hitch is
available from a 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 pass-
ing trucks.

WARNING

Trailer hitch components have specific
weight ratings. Your vehicle may be ca-
pable of towing a trailer heavier than
the weight rating of the hitch compo-
nents. Never exceed the weight rating
of the hitch components. Doing so can
cause serious personal injury or prop-
erty damage.

Hitch ball

Choose a hitch ball of the proper size and
weight rating for your trailer:

∙ The required hitch ball size is stamped

on most trailer couplers. Most hitch
balls also have the size printed on the
top of the ball.

∙ Choose the proper class hitch ball

based on the trailer weight.

∙ The diameter of the threaded shank of

the hitch ball must be matched to the
ball mount hole diameter. The hitch ball
shank should be no more than 1/16”
smaller than the hole in the ball mount.

∙ The threaded shank of the hitch ball

must be long enough to be properly
secured to the ball mount. There should
be at least 2 threads showing beyond
the lock washer and nut.

Ball mount

The hitch ball is attached to the ball mount
and the ball mount is inserted into the
hitch receiver. Choose a proper class ball
mount based on the trailer weight. Addi-
tionally, the ball mount should be chosen to
keep the trailer tongue level with the
ground.

10-36

Technical and consumer information

Bumper towing

The Genuine NISSAN step bumper has pro-
visions to install a trailer hitch ball and is
designed to tow trailers of a maximum
weight of 3,500 lbs. (1,588 kg).

To install a trailer hitch ball cut out the circle
in the center of the step bumper

䊊

, then

remove it to install the trailer hitch ball.

Weight carrying hitches

A weight carrying or “dead weight” ball
mount is one that is designed to carry the
whole amount of tongue weight and gross
weight directly on the ball mount and on
the receiver.

Weight distribution hitch

This type of hitch is also called a “load-
leveling” or “equalizing” hitch. A set of bars
attach to the ball mount and to the trailer
to distribute the tongue weight (hitch
weight) of your trailer. Many vehicles can’t
carry the full tongue weight of a given
trailer, and need some of the tongue
weight transferred through the frame and
pushing down on the front wheels. This
gives stability to the tow vehicle.

A weight-distributing hitch system (Class
IV) is recommended if you plan to tow trail-
ers with a maximum weight over 5,000 lbs.
(2,268 kg). Check with the trailer and towing
equipment manufacturers to determine if
they recommend the use of a weight-
distributing hitch system.

NOTE:

A weight-distributing hitch system may
affect the operation of trailer surge
brakes. If you are considering use of a
weight-distributing hitch system with a
surge brake-equipped trailer, check with
the surge brake, hitch or trailer manufac-
turer to determine if and how this can be
done.

Follow the instructions provided by the
manufacturer for installing and using the
weight-distributing hitch system.

General set-up instructions are as follows:

1. Park unloaded vehicle on a level sur-

face. With the ignition on and the doors
closed, allow the vehicle to stand for
several minutes so that it can level.

2. Measure the height of a reference point

on the front and rear bumpers at the
center of the vehicle.

3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle and ad-

just the hitch equalizers so that the
front bumper height is within 0 -
.5 inches (0 – 13 mm) of the reference
height measured in step 2. The rear
bumper should be no higher than the
reference height measured in step 2.

LTI0132

Technical and consumer information

10-37

WARNING

Properly adjust the weight distributing
hitch so the rear of the bumper is no
higher than the measured reference
height when the trailer is attached. If
the rear bumper is higher than the mea-
sured reference height when loaded,
the vehicle may handle unpredictably
which could cause a loss of vehicle con-
trol and cause serious personal injury or
property damage.

Sway control device

Sudden maneuvers, wind gusts, and buf-
feting caused by other vehicles can affect
trailer handling. Sway control devices may
be used to help control these affects. If you
choose to use one, contact a reputable
trailer hitch supplier to make sure the sway
control device will work with the vehicle,
hitch, trailer and the trailer’s brake system.
Follow the instructions provided by the
manufacturer for installing and using the
sway control device.

Class I hitch

Class I trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball
mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow
trailers of a maximum weight of 2,000 lbs.
(907 kg).

Class II hitch

Class II trailer hitch equipment (receiver,
ball mount and hitch ball) can be used to
tow trailers of a maximum weight of
3,500 lbs. (1,587 kg).

The Genuine NISSAN step bumper is con-
sidered a Class II ball mount.

Class III hitch

Class III trailer hitch equipment (receiver,
ball mount and hitch ball) can be used to
tow trailers of a maximum weight of
5,000 lbs. (2,268 kg).

Class IV hitch

Class IV trailer hitch equipment (receiver,
ball mount and hitch ball) can be used to
tow trailers of a maximum weight of
10,000 lbs. (4,535 kg). A weight distributing
hitch should be used to tow trailers that
weigh over 5,000 lbs. (2,268 kg).

Your vehicle may be equipped with Class IV
trailer

hitch

equipment

that

has

10,000 lbs. (4,535 kg) maximum weight rat-
ing, but your vehicle is only capable of tow-
ing the maximum trailer weights shown in
the “Towing Load/Specification” chart in
this section.

CAUTION

∙ Special hitches which include frame

reinforcements are required for tow-
ing above 2,000 lbs. (907 kg). Suitable
Genuine NISSAN hitches, ball mounts
and hitch balls for pickup trucks and
sport utility vehicles are available at a
NISSAN dealer.

∙ The hitch should not be attached to or

affect the operation of the impact-
absorbing bumper.

WARNING

∙ Do not use axle-mounted hitches.

∙ 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
receiver when not in use.

∙ Regularly check that all trailer hitch

mounting

bolts

are

securely

mounted.

10-38

Technical and consumer information

Tire pressures

∙ When towing a trailer, inflate the

vehicle

tires

the

recom-

mended cold tire pressure indi-
cated on the Tire and Loading In-
formation label.

∙ Trailer tire condition, size, load rat-

ing and proper inflation pressure
should be in accordance with the
trailer and tire manufacturer’s
specifications.

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, not to the vehicle
bumper or axle. The safety chains can be
attached to the bumper if the hitch ball is
mounted to the bumper. Be sure to leave
enough slack in the chains to permit turn-
ing corners.

Trailer lights

CAUTION

When splicing into the vehicle electrical
system,

commercially

available

power-type module/converter must be
used to provide power for all trailer
lighting. This unit uses the vehicle bat-
tery as a direct power source for all
trailer lights while using the vehicle tail
light, stop light and turn signal circuits
as

signal

source.

The

module/converter must draw no more
than 15 milliamps from the stop and tail
lamp

circuits.

Using

module/converter that exceeds these
power requirements may damage the
vehicle’s electrical system. See a repu-
table trailer dealer to obtain the proper
equipment and to have it installed.

Trailer lights should comply with federal
and/or local regulations. For assistance in
hooking up trailer lights, it is recommended
that you visit a NISSAN dealer or reputable
trailer dealer. Vehicles equipped with the
optional trailer tow package are equipped
with a 7-pin trailer harness connector. A flat
4–pin harness is available from your dealer
for vehicles without a tow package. If your
trailer is equipped with a flat 4-pin connec-

tor, an adapter will be needed to connect
the trailer lights to the vehicle. Adapters are
available at auto parts stores and hitch re-
tailers.

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 prop-
erly installed.

Vehicles equipped with a 7–pin trailer har-
ness connector are pre-wired for a trailer
brake controller. It is recommended that
you visit a NISSAN dealer for a trailer brake
adapter harness.

WARNING

Never connect a trailer brake system di-
rectly to the vehicle brake system.

When towing a trailer load of 3,500 lbs.
(1587 kg) or more, trailers with a brake
system MUST be used. However, most
states require a separate braking system
on trailers with a loaded weight above a
specific amount. Make sure the trailer
meets the local regulations and the regu-
lations where you plan to tow.

Several types of braking systems are avail-
able.

Technical and consumer information

10-39

Surge Brakes -The surge brake actuator is
mounted on the trailer tongue with a hy-
draulic line running to each trailer wheel.
Surge brakes are activated by the trailer
pushing against the hitch ball when the
tow vehicle is braking. Hydraulic surge
brakes are common on rental trailers and
some boat trailers. In this type of system,
there is no hydraulic or electric connection
for brake operation between the tow ve-
hicle and the trailer.

Electric Trailer Brakes -Electric braking
systems are activated by an electronic sig-
nal sent from a trailer brake controller (spe-
cial brake-sensing module). If electric trailer
brakes are used, refer to “Electric trailer
brake controller" in this section.

Have a professional supplier of towing
equipment make sure the trailer brakes are
properly installed and demonstrate proper
brake function testing.

Electric trailer brake controller

Trailers equipped with electric brakes may
require the installation of an aftermarket
trailer brake controller.

A Genuine NISSAN jumper harness is avail-
able that is specifically designed to be used
when installing an aftermarket brake con-
troller.

Install the aftermarket electric trailer brake
controller according to the manufacturer’s
instructions.

Pre-towing tips

∙ Be certain your vehicle maintains a level

position when a loaded and/or un-
loaded trailer is hitched. Do not drive the
vehicle if it has an abnormal nose-up or
nose-down condition; check for im-
proper tongue load, overload, worn sus-
pension or other possible causes of ei-
ther condition.

∙ Always secure items in the trailer to pre-

vent load shift while driving.

∙ Keep the cargo load as low as possible

in the trailer to keep the trailer center of
gravity low.

∙ Load the trailer so approximately 60%

of the trailer load is in the front half and
40% is in the back half. Also make sure
the load is balanced side to side.

∙ Check your hitch, trailer tire pressure,

vehicle tire pressure, trailer light opera-
tion, and trailer wheel lug nuts every
time you attach a trailer to the vehicle.

∙ Be certain your rearview mirrors con-

form to all federal, state or local regula-
tions. If not, install any mirrors required
for towing before driving the vehicle.

∙ Determine the overall height of the ve-

hicle and trailer so the required clear-
ance is known.

Trailer towing tips

In order to gain skill and an understanding
of the vehicle’s behavior, you should prac-
tice turning, stopping and backing up in an
area which is free from traffic. Steering sta-
bility and braking performance will be
somewhat different than under normal
driving conditions.

∙ Always secure items in the trailer to pre-

vent load shift while driving.

∙ Lock the trailer hitch coupler with a pin

or lock to prevent the coupler from in-
advertently becoming unlatched.

∙ Avoid abrupt starts, acceleration or

stops.

∙ Avoid sharp turns or lane changes.

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Technical and consumer information

∙ Always drive your vehicle at a moderate

speed.

∙ When backing up, hold the bottom of

the steering wheel with one hand. Move
your hand in the direction in which you
want the trailer to go. Make small cor-
rections and back up slowly. If possible,
have someone guide you when you are
backing up.

Always block the wheels on both vehicle
and trailer when parking. Parking on a
slope is not recommended; however, if you
must do so:

CAUTION

If you move the shift lever to the P (Park)
position before blocking the wheels
and applying the parking brake, trans-
mission damage could occur.

1. Apply and hold the brake pedal.

2. Have someone place blocks on the

downhill side of the vehicle and trailer
wheels.

3. After the wheel blocks are in place,

slowly release the brake pedal until the
blocks absorb the vehicle load.

4. Apply the parking brake.

5. Shift the transmission into P (Park).

6. Make sure the

indicator light (if so

equipped) indicates the transfer case is
in 4H, 4L, or 2H and that the ATP light is
off. If the

indicator light is flashing,

or the ATP light is ON, make sure the
transmission is in P (Park) (A/T) and
turn the 4WD switch to 2WD or 4H. For
additional information, refer to “Auto-
matic transmission park warning light”
in the “Instruments and controls” sec-
tion and “Using 4-wheel drive (4WD)” in
the “Starting and driving” section of this
manual.

7. Turn off the engine.

To drive away:

1. Start the vehicle.

2. Apply and hold the brake pedal.

3. Shift the transmission into gear.

4. Release the parking brake.

5. Drive slowly until the vehicle and trailer

are clear from the blocks.

6. Apply and hold the brake pedal.

7. Have someone retrieve and store the

blocks.

∙ While going downhill, the weight of the

trailer pushing on the tow vehicle may
decrease overall stability. Therefore, to
maintain adequate control, reduce your
speed and shift to a lower gear. Avoid
long or repeated use of the brakes
when descending a hill, as this reduces
their effectiveness and could cause
overheating. Shifting to a lower gear in-
stead provides “engine braking” and re-
duces the need to brake as frequently.

∙ If the engine coolant temperature rises

to a high temperature, refer to “If your
vehicle overheats” in the “In case of
emergency” section of this manual.

∙ Trailer towing requires more fuel than

normal circumstances.

∙ Avoid towing a trailer for your vehicle’s

first 500 miles (805 km).

∙ For the first 500 miles (805 km) that you

do tow, do not drive over 50 mph
(80 km/h).

∙ Have your vehicle serviced more often

than at intervals specified. For addi-
tional information, refer to “Mainte-
nance Schedules” in the “Maintenance
and schedules” section of this manual.

Technical and consumer information

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Nissan Frontier (2019 year). Instruction - part 30