Towing w/ FWD

[tempest.runner]

I have a SeaDoo. It's weight filled w/gas and stuff is approx 850lbs and the trailer is approx 350lbs. I've read the towing capacity is either 1000lbs or 1500lbs... why is there a difference in numbers?

Also, what is the difference with a Canadian Nissan Rogue w/ Premium package vs one that doesn't in regards to towing besides the towing pre-wiring? I can't find much from Nissan's website. I've read somewhere that most FWD's do not have the proper tran cooler needed to tow excessive weights for long hauls. Any truth to that? Does the Premium FWD SL have the same tran cooler as every other rogue?

I'm also curious to what weights others have towed over 1000lbs and for what distance.

[philipa_240sx]

I've read the towing capacity is either 1000lbs or 1500lbs... why is there a difference in numbers?

There is truth to the aux trans cooler and it's effect on towing rating. The auxiliary trans oil cooler (visible on the lower RH corner of the rad) comes with all Rogues that have the manual/paddle shift option. This additional cooling gives allows the higher 1500lb rating.

Depending on year, only certain models/trim packages came with this option:

In Canada,

- You need the SL Premium Pack available on both FWD or AWD models. All model years apply.

In the US, it depends on model year,

- 2008: SL Premium Pack models, both FWD and AWD- 2009: AWD SL Premium Pack only- 2010: Not available. This means no 2010 Rogue in the US has the higher 1500lb tow rating.

AFAIK, there is no add-on transmission cooler option available. Either from the factory or aftermarket. Nissan does not sell individual parts for the CVT including the all important heat exchanger with the aux oil cooler lines. In the event the CVT does overheat, it will go into 'limp' mode and reduce the vehicle speed to protect the transmission.

The Rogue actually tows very well. I have towed up to 1200lbs with my FWD model that has the 1000lb rating. But I only do this for short distances. The CVT responds well to the additional loads, but the tendency for it to shift into high gear to save fuel really limits engine braking. I simply use the Overdrive Lock button on the shifter to overcome this.

[tempest.runner]

There is truth to the aux trans cooler and it's effect on towing rating. The auxiliary trans oil cooler (visible on the lower RH corner of the rad) comes with all Rogues that have the manual/paddle shift option. This additional cooling gives allows the higher 1500lb rating.

Depending on year, only certain models/trim packages came with this option:

In Canada,

- You need the SL Premium Pack available on both FWD or AWD models. All model years apply.

In the US, it depends on model year,

- 2008: SL Premium Pack models, both FWD and AWD- 2009: AWD SL Premium Pack only- 2010: Not available. This means no 2010 Rogue in the US has the higher 1500lb tow rating.

AFAIK, there is no add-on transmission cooler option available. Either from the factory or aftermarket. Nissan does not sell individual parts for the CVT including the all important heat exchanger with the aux oil cooler lines. In the event the CVT does overheat, it will go into 'limp' mode and reduce the vehicle speed to protect the transmission.

The Rogue actually tows very well. I have towed up to 1200lbs with my FWD model that has the 1000lb rating. But I only do this for short distances. The CVT responds well to the additional loads, but the tendency for it to shift into high gear to save fuel really limits engine braking. I simply use the Overdrive Lock button on the shifter to overcome this.

Philip, thanks again for the responses... It is very much appreciated!

I have the 2010 SL FWD w/ Premium package. So I'm technically allowed to tow upto 1500lbs. Would I need trailer brakes then?

If I may ask, what were you towing that weighed 1200lbs?

I have no overdrive with my Rogue. Since I have the paddle shifters, my understanding I want to tow in a low gear? What rpm's am I ideally wanting to tow for the long haul?

[philipa_240sx]

I have the 2010 SL FWD w/ Premium package. So I'm technically allowed to tow upto 1500lbs.

That is correct. The Canadian spec 2010 Rogue SL FWD with Premium Package comes with the aux trans cooler and is rated for 1500lbs towing capacity.

Would I need trailer brakes then?

Nissan recommends trailer brakes when towing more than 1000lbs. Refer to pg 9-20 in your owners manual. It's listed as 'Note 1' underneath the chart.

If I may ask, what were you towing that weighed 1200lbs?

A 5x10' landscape trailer loaded with garbage. Approx 800lb dry weight plus 400lb load.

I have no overdrive with my Rogue. Since I have the paddle shifters, my understanding I want to tow in a low gear? What rpm's am I ideally wanting to tow for the long haul?

Depends, the CVT is very good at adjusting ratios based on load so I leave it in 'auto' when cruising around. As soon as I climb a hill, descend a hill, or drive in city traffic I tend to use the OD lock. I would suggest using the 'momentary gear hold' feature of the CVT where you shift up/down manually when needed. The CVT will revert to auto after a short period.

[kerrton]

Hi there,

Please refer to an existing thread, which has lots of good info but hasn't been updated in a while....

zer...untry

[tempest.runner]

Hi there,

Please refer to an existing thread, which has lots of good info but hasn't been updated in a while....

zer...untry

That was a great read! This should be part of the FAQ IMO.

[tempest.runner]

Another question regarding laws in Ontario. A friend of mine told me that FWD vehicles are not legally allowed to tow anything over 1000lbs. Is there any truth in this? I can't find anything to back this up. My understanding is as long as you don't go over the GVWR, yer fine.

[philipa_240sx]

My understanding is as long as you don't go over the GVWR, yer fine.

In simple terms, yes. So long as you don't exceed the vehicle's weight rating, you are OK.

You can find more information regarding tow ratings and the all important GCWR (combined weight of trailer and vehicle) in your owners manual starting on pg 9-16.

BTW, there are FWD vehicles that will tow far more than 1000lbs. For example, a FWD Ford Escape V-6 has a 3500lb tow rating!