The 2001 Nissan Xterra is an ideal consumer towing vehicle. Depending on the model, this SUV can tow up to 5,000 lbs. (2268 kg). You can find a variety of Nissan-certified trailer hitches, as well as various sizes of trailers this sport utility vehicle can tow. Whether you have a towing harness or a specific trailer hitch, attaching a trailer to your Xterra is fast and easy.
Check the towing capacity of your trailer hitch, and ensure that you have certified bumper hitch or receiver-type frame-mounted hitch either through your Nissan dealer or third-party vendor. Towing more than 2,000 lbs. (907 kg) requires special hitches.
Attach the hitch to the rear of your Xterra. Follow the mounting directions, and secure the hitch using the mounting bolts. If unsure or unable to mount the hitch yourself, defer to trained Nissan specialist.
Attach a trailer safety chain between the trailer and the hitch; always use a safety chain attached to the hitch, never to the vehicle's bumper or axle. The safety chain helps prevent the trailer from becoming detached in transit.
Connect the set of trailer lights, which should comply with Federal as well as local guidelines. If you need assistance connecting the trailer lights, visit your Nissan dealer.
If your Xterra does not have a trailer tow harness and module, you have finished. If it does, continue reading. (The trailer tow module sends turn/stop signal controls to the trailer from your vehicle.)
Locate the vehicle harness attached to the frame behind the right rear wheel well, and remove the connector cap using the tool provided with the vehicle harness. Store the connector cap in the glove box for safekeeping.
Connect the tow harness to the vehicle harness connection end, and route the trailer tow harness so it does not prevent access to the spare tire winch socket.
Connect the tow harness connector (labeled "SAE J1239") to the trailer, and test the turn/stop signals to confirm they are working properly.
Disconnect the tow harness from both the trailer and the vehicle once you have finished towing. Store the tow harness in the glove box, and reconnect the connector cap to the vehicle harness.
