2003 Nissan Altima Owners Manual

5-22 Starting and driving

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

6 In case of emergency

Flat tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Changing a flat tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Jump starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Push starting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8
If your vehicle overheats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9

Towing your vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10
Towing recommended by NISSAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10
Vehicle recovery (freeing a stuck vehicle) . . . . . . . . . 6-11
Flat towing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

FLAT TIRE

CHANGING A FLAT TIRE If you have a flat tire, follow the instructions be- low. Stopping the vehicle 1. Safely move the vehicle off the road and

away from traffic.

2. Turn on the hazard warning flashers.

3. Park on a level surface and apply the parking brake. Shift the manual transmission into R (Reverse), or the automatic transmission into P (Park).

4. Turn off the engine.

5. Raise the hood to warn other traffic and to signal professional road assistance person- nel that you need assistance.

6. Have all passengers get out of the vehicle and stand in a safe place, away from traffic and clear of the vehicle.

WARNING

c Make sure the parking brake is securely applied and the manual transmission is shifted into R (Reverse), or the auto- matic transmission into P (Park).

6-2 In case of emergency

c Never change tires when the vehicle is on a slope, ice or slippery areas. This is hazardous.

c Never change tires if oncoming traffic is close to your vehicle. Wait for profes- sional road assistance.

WCE0044

Blocking wheels Place suitable blocks s1 at both the front and back of the wheel diagonally opposite the flat tire s2 to prevent the vehicle from rolling when it is jacked up.

WARNING

Be sure to block the wheel as the vehicle may move and result in personal injury.

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

Removing the bolt-on wheel cover (if so equipped)

CAUTION

Do not use your hands to pry off wheel caps or wheel covers. Doing so could re- sult in personal injury.

The wheel covers are held on by the wheel nuts. The wheel cover will be removed along with the wheel when the nuts are removed.

WCE0050

WCE0067

Getting the spare tire and tools Open the trunk. Lift the trunk floor carpeting and spare tire cover. Remove the jack s1 and wheel nut wrench s2 from the tool box. Remove the spare tire.

In case of emergency 6-3

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

c Use the correct jack-up points. Never use any other part of the vehicle for jack support.

c Never jack up the vehicle more than

necessary.

c Never use blocks on or under the jack. c Do not start or run the engine while vehicle is on the jack. It may cause the vehicle to move. This is especially true for vehicles with limited slip differential carriers.

c Do not allow passengers to stay in the

vehicle while it is on the jack.

c Never run the engine with a wheel(s) off the ground. It may cause the vehicle to move.

CE1089

Jacking up vehicle and removing the damaged tire

WARNING

c Never get under the vehicle while it is

supported only by the jack.

c Use only the jack provided with your vehicle to lift the vehicle. Do not use the jack provided with your vehicle on other vehicles. The jack is designed for lifting only your vehicle during a tire change.

6-4 In case of emergency

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

Always refer to the proper illustrations for the correct placement and jack-up points for your specific vehicle model and jack type. Carefully read the caution label attached to the jack body and the following instruc- tions.

1. Loosen each wheel nut one or two turns by turning counterclockwise with the wheel nut wrench. Do not remove the wheel nuts until the tire is off the ground.

LCE0020
2. Place the jack directly under the jack-up point as illustrated so the top of the jack contacts the vehicle at the jack-up point. Align the jack head between the two notches in the front or the rear as shown. Also fit the groove of the jack head between the notches as shown. The jack should be used on firm and level ground.

3. To lift the vehicle, securely hold the jack lever and rod with both hands. Carefully raise the vehicle until the tire clears the ground. Re- move the wheel nuts, and then remove the tire.

WCE0056

Installing the spare tire The spare tire is designed for emergency use. See specific instructions under the heading (cid:147)Wheels and tires(cid:148) in the (cid:147)Mainte- nance and do-it-yourself(cid:148) section of this manual.

1. Clean any mud or dirt from the surface be-

tween the wheel and hub.

2. Carefully put the spare tire on and tighten

the wheel nuts finger tight.

3. With the wheel nut wrench, tighten wheel nuts alternately and evenly as illustrated until they are tight.

In case of emergency 6-5

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

4. Lower

the vehicle slowly until

the tire touches the ground. Then, with the wheel nut wrench, tighten the wheel nuts securely in the sequence illustrated (sA , sB , sC , sD , sE ). Lower the vehicle completely.

WARNING c Incorrect wheel nuts or

improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose or come off. This could cause an accident.

c Do not use oil or grease on the wheel studs or nuts. This could cause the nuts to become loose.

c Retighten the wheel nuts when the ve- hicle has been driven for 600 miles (1,000 km) (also in cases of a flat tire, etc.).

As soon as possible, tighten the wheel nuts to the specified torque with a torque wrench.

Wheel nut tightening torque:

80 ft-lb (108 N•m)

The wheel nuts must be kept tightened to specification at all is recom- mended that wheel nuts be tightened to specifications at each lubrication interval. 6-6 In case of emergency

times.

It

Adjust tire pressure to the COLD pressure. COLD pressure: After vehicle has been parked for three hours or more or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). COLD tire pressures are shown on the tire placard affixed to the center console. 5. Securely store the flat tire and jacking equip-

ment in the vehicle.

6. Place the spare tire cover and the trunk floor

carpeting over the damaged tire.

7. Close the trunk.

WARNING

c Always make sure that the spare tire and jacking equipment are properly se- cured after use. Such items can become dangerous projectiles in an accident or sudden stop.

c The spare tire is designed for emer- gency use. See specific instructions un- der the heading (cid:147)Wheels and tires(cid:148) in the (cid:147)Maintenance and do-it-yourself(cid:148) section of this manual.

JUMP STARTING

To start your engine with a booster battery, the instructions and precautions below must be fol- lowed.

WARNING

c If done incorrectly, jump starting can lead to a battery explosion, resulting in severe injury or death. It could also damage your vehicle.

c Explosive hydrogen gas is always present in the vicinity of the battery. Keep all sparks and flames away from the battery.

c Do not allow battery fluid to come into contact with eyes, skin, clothing or painted surfaces. Battery fluid is a cor- rosive sulfuric acid solution which can cause severe burns. If the fluid should come into contact with anything, imme- diately flush the contacted area with water.

c Keep battery out of

children.

the reach of

c The booster battery must be rated at 12
volts. Use of an improperly rated battery can damage your vehicle.

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

c Whenever working on or near a battery, always wear suitable eye protectors (for example, goggles or industrial safety spectacles) and remove rings, metal bands, or any other jewelry. Do not lean over the battery when jump starting.

c Do not attempt to jump start a frozen battery. It could explode and cause se- rious injury.

c Your vehicle has an automatic engine cooling fan. It could come on at any time. Keep hands and other objects away from it.

WARNING

Always follow the instructions below. Failure to do so could result in damage to the charging system and cause personal injury.

1.

If the booster battery is in another vehicle, position the two vehicles to bring their bat- teries near each other. Do not allow the two vehicles to touch.

WCE0054
2. Apply the parking brake. Move the shift lever to N (Neutral) (manual transmission) or to P (Park) (automatic transmission). Switch off all unnecessary electrical systems (lights, heater, air conditioner, etc.).

3. Remove vent caps on the battery (if so equipped). Cover the battery with an old cloth to reduce explosion hazard.

4. Connect jumper cables in the sequence il-

lustrated (sA , sB , sC , sD ).

In case of emergency 6-7

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

8. Replace the vent caps (if so equipped). Be sure to dispose of the cloth used to cover the vent holes as it may be contaminated with corrosive acid.

PUSH STARTING

WARNING

c Automatic transmission models cannot be push-started or tow-started. This may cause transmission or other ve- hicle damage.

c Three-way catalyst equipped models should not be started by pushing. The three-way catalyst may be damaged.

c Never try to start the vehicle by towing it. When the engine starts, the forward surge could cause the vehicle to collide with the tow vehicle.

CAUTION

c Always connect positive (1) to positive (1) and negative (2) to body ground (for example, strut mounting bolt, engine lift bracket, etc.) (cid:151) not to the battery.

c Make sure the jumper cables do not touch moving parts in the engine com- partment and that the cable clamps do not contact any other metal.

5. Start the engine of the booster vehicle and

let it run for a few minutes.

6. Keep the engine speed of the booster ve- hicle at about 2,000 rpm, and start the en- gine of the vehicle being jump started.

CAUTION

Do not keep the starter motor engaged for more than 10 seconds. If the engine does not start right away, turn the key off and wait 3 to 4 seconds before trying again.

7. After starting the engine, carefully discon- nect the negative cable and then the positive cable.

6-8 In case of emergency

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

6. After the engine cools down, check the cool- ant level in the reservoir tank with the engine running. Add coolant to the reservoir tank if necessary. Have your vehicle repaired at a NISSAN dealer.

IF YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS

If your vehicle is overheating (indicated by an extremely high temperature gauge reading), or if you feel a lack of engine power, detect abnormal noise, etc. take the following steps.

WARNING

c Do not continue to drive if your vehicle overheats. Doing so could cause a ve- hicle fire.

c To avoid the danger of being scalded, never remove the radiator cap while the engine is still hot. When the radiator cap is removed, pressurized hot water will spurt out, possibly causing serious injury.

c Do not open the hood if steam is com-

ing out.

1. Move the vehicle safely off the road, apply the parking brake and move the shift lever to N (Neutral) (manual transmission) or to P (Park) (automatic transmission). Do not stop the engine.

2. Turn off the air conditioner (if so equipped). Open all the windows, move the heater or air conditioner temperature control to maximum hot and fan control to high speed.

3. Get out of the vehicle. Look and listen for steam or coolant escaping from the radiator before opening the hood. (If steam or cool- ant is escaping, turn off the engine.) Wait until no steam or coolant can be seen before proceeding.

4. Open the engine hood.

WARNING

If steam or water is coming from the en- gine, stand clear to prevent getting burned.

5. Visually check drive belts for damage or looseness. Also check if the cooling fan is running. The radiator hoses and radiator should not leak water. If coolant is leaking, the water pump belt is missing or loose, or the cooling fan does not run, stop the en- gine.

WARNING

Be careful not to allow your hands, hair, jewelry or clothing to come into contact with, or get caught in, engine belts or the engine cooling fan. The engine cooling fan can start at any time when the coolant temperature is high.

In case of emergency 6-9

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

TOWING YOUR VEHICLE

When towing your vehicle, all State (Provincial in Canada) and local regulations for towing must be followed. Incorrect towing equipment could dam- age your vehicle. Towing instructions are avail- able from a NISSAN dealer. Local service opera- tors are generally familiar with the applicable laws and procedures for towing. To assure proper towing and to prevent accidental damage to your vehicle, NISSAN recommends having a service operator tow your vehicle. It is advisable to have the service operator carefully read the following precautions:

WARNING

c Never ride in a vehicle that is being

towed.

c Never get under your vehicle after it has

been lifted by a tow truck.

CAUTION

c When towing, make sure that the trans- mission, axles, steering system and powertrain are in working condition. If any unit is damaged, dollies must be used.

c Always attach safety chains before

towing.

6-10 In case of emergency

For information about towing your vehicle behind a recreational vehicle (RV), refer to (cid:147)Flat towing(cid:148) in the (cid:147)Technical and consumer information(cid:148) sec- tion of this manual.

ACE0511

TOWING RECOMMENDED BY NISSAN NISSAN recommends that your vehicle be towed with the driving (front) wheels off the ground or place the vehicle on a flat bed truck as illustrated.

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

c When towing automatic transmission models with the front wheels on towing dollies, or when towing manual trans- mission models with the front wheels on the ground: c Turn the ignition key to the OFF po- sition, and secure the steering wheel in a straight-ahead position with a rope or similar device. Never secure the steering wheel by turning the ig- nition key to the LOCK position. This may damage the steering lock mechanism.

c Move the gearshift lever to the N

(Neutral) position.

c When towing automatic or manual transmission models with the rear wheels on the ground (if you do not use towing dollies): Always release the parking brake.

ACE1001

WARNING

c Never

tow automatic transmission models with the front wheels on the ground or four wheels on the ground (forward or backward), as this may cause serious and expensive damage to the transmission. If it is necessary to tow the vehicle with the rear wheels raised always use towing dollies under the front wheels.

WCE0052
VEHICLE RECOVERY (freeing a stuck vehicle) Front

WARNING

c Stand clear of a stuck vehicle. c Do not spin your tires at high speed. This could cause them to explode and result in serious injury. Parts of your vehicle could also overheat and be damaged.

In case of emergency 6-11

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

CAUTION

CAUTION

c Use the towing hook only, not other parts of the vehicle. Otherwise, the ve- hicle body will be damaged.

c Use the towing hook only to free a ve- hicle stuck in sand, snow, mud, etc. Never tow the vehicle for a long dis- tance using only the towing hook.

c The towing hook is under tremendous force when used to free a stuck vehicle. Always pull the cable straight out from the front or rear of the vehicle. Never pull the hook at an angle.

c Pulling devices should be routed so they do not touch any part of the suspension, steering, brake or cooling systems.

c Pull devices such as ropes or canvas straps are not recommended for use in vehicle towing or recovery.

Rear

WARNING

c Stand clear of a stuck vehicle. c Do not spin your tires at high speed. This could cause them to explode and result in serious injury. Parts of your vehicle could also overheat and be damaged.

6-12 In case of emergency

c Tow chains or cables must be attached only to the main structural members of the vehicle.

c Pulling devices should be routed so they do not touch any part of the sus- pension, steering, brake or cooling systems.

c Always pull the cable straight out from the front or rear of the vehicle. Never pull the vehicle at an angle.

c Pull devices such as ropes or canvas straps are not recommended for use in vehicle towing or recovery.

FLAT TOWING Towing your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground is sometimes called flat towing. This method is sometimes used when towing a vehicle behind a recreational vehicle, such as a motor home.

CAUTION

c Failure to follow these guidelines can result in severe transmission damage. c Whenever flat towing your vehicle, al-

ways tow forward, never backward.

c DO NOT tow any automatic transmis- sion vehicle with all four wheels on the ground (flat towing). Doing so WILL DAMAGE internal transmission parts due to lack of transmission lubrication. c For emergency towing procedures refer to (cid:147)Towing recommended by NISSAN(cid:148) in the (cid:147)In case of emergency(cid:148) section of this manual.

Automatic Transmission To tow a vehicle equipped with an automatic transmission, an appropriate vehicle dolly MUST be placed under the towed vehicle(cid:146)s drive wheels. Always follow the dolly manufacturer(cid:146)s recommendations when using their product. Manual Transmission c Always tow with the manual transmission in

Neutral.

c After towing 500 miles, start and idle the engine with the transmission in Neutral for two minutes. Failure to idle the engine after every 500 miles of towing may cause dam- age to internal transmission parts.

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

7 Appearance and care

Cleaning exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
Washing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
Waxing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
Removing spots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
Underbody . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
Aluminum alloy wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
Chrome parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
Cleaning interior. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4

Floor mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
Corrosion protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

Most common factors contributing to vehicle corrosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
Environmental factors influence the rate of corrosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
To protect your vehicle from corrosion . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

CLEANING EXTERIOR

In order to maintain the appearance of your ve- hicle, it is important to take proper care of it.

In the following cases, please wash your vehicle as soon as possible to protect the paint surface: c after a rainfall to prevent possible damage

from acid rain.

c after driving on coastal roads. c when contaminants such as soot, bird drop- pings, tree sap, metal particles or bugs get on the paint surface.

c when dust or mud builds up on the surface. Whenever possible, store or park your vehicle inside a garage or in a covered area.

When it is necessary to park outside, park in a shady area or protect the vehicle with a body cover. Be careful not to scratch the paint surface when putting on or removing the body cover. WASHING Wash dirt off with a wet sponge and plenty of water. Clean the vehicle thoroughly using a mild soap, a special vehicle soap or general purpose dishwashing liquid mixed with clean, lukewarm (never hot) water. 7-2 Appearance and care

CAUTION

c Do not wash the vehicle with strong household soap, strong chemical deter- gents, gasoline or solvents.

c Avoid using tight-napped or

c Do not wash the vehicle in direct sun- light or while the vehicle body is hot, as the surface may become water-spotted. rough cloths, such as washing mitts. Care must removing caked-on dirt or other foreign sub- stances so the paint surface is not scratched or damaged.

taken when

be

Rinse the vehicle thoroughly with plenty of clean water. Inside flanges, seams and folds on the doors, hatches and hood are particularly vulnerable to the effects of road salt. Therefore, these areas must be cleaned regularly. Take care that the drain holes in the lower edge of the door are open. Spray water under the body and in the wheel wells to loosen the dirt and wash away road salt. A damp chamois can be used to dry the vehicle to avoid water spots.

WAXING Regular waxing protects the paint surface and helps retain new vehicle appearance. After wax- ing, polishing is recommended to remove built-up residue and to avoid a (cid:147)weathered(cid:148) ap- pearance.

A NISSAN dealer can assist you in choosing the proper product. c Wax your vehicle only after a thorough wash- ing. Follow the instructions supplied with the wax.

c Do not use a wax containing any abrasives, cutting compounds or cleaners that may damage the vehicle finish.

c If the surface does not polish easily, use a

(cid:147)road tar(cid:148) remover and wax again.

Machine compounding or aggressive polishing on a base coat/clear coat paint finish may dull the finish or leave swirl marks. REMOVING SPOTS Remove tar and oil spots, industrial dust, insects, and tree sap as quickly as possible from the surface of the paint to avoid lasting damage or staining. Special cleaning products are available at a NISSAN dealer or any automotive accessory store.

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

UNDERBODY In areas where road salt is used in winter, it is necessary to clean the underbody regularly in order to prevent dirt and salt from building up and causing the acceleration of corrosion on the un- derbody and suspension. Before the winter pe- riod and again in the spring, the underseal must be checked and, if necessary, retreated.

Use glass cleaner to remove smoke and dust film from the glass surfaces. It is normal for glass to become coated with a film after the vehicle is parked in the hot sun. Glass cleaner and a soft cloth will easily remove this film.

CAUTION

When cleaning the inside of the windows, do not use sharp-edged tools, abrasive cleaners or chlorine-based disinfectant cleaners. They could damage the electri- cal conductors, radio antenna elements or rear window defroster elements. ALUMINUM ALLOY WHEELS Wash the wheels regularly, especially during win- ter months in areas where road salt is used. If not removed, road salt could discolor the wheels. CHROME PARTS Clean all chrome parts regularly with a non- abrasive chrome polish to maintain the finish.

Appearance and care 7-3

WAI0007

GLASS When cleaning the rear window, it may be easier to clean if the high-mounted stop light is removed first.

Be careful when removing the high-mounted stop light to reduce the risk of damaging the high-mounted stop light wires.

To remove the high-mounted stop light: s1 Push toward rear of vehicle. s2

Lift to remove.

The high-mounted stop light must be properly reinstalled before driving your vehicle.

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

CLEANING INTERIOR

Occasionally remove loose dust from the interior trim, plastic parts and seats using a vacuum cleaner or soft brush. Wipe the vinyl and leather surfaces with a clean, soft cloth dampened in mild soap solution, then wipe clean with a dry, soft cloth. Before using any fabric protector, read the manufacturer(cid:146)s recommendations. Some fab- ric protectors contain chemicals that may stain or bleach the seat material. Use a cloth dampened only with water to clean the meter and gauge lens.

CAUTION

c Never use benzine, thinner or any simi-

lar material.

c Small dirt particles can be abrasive and damaging to leather surfaces and should be removed promptly. Do not use saddle soap, polishes, oils, clean- ing fluids, solvents, detergents or ammonia-based cleaners as they may damage the leather(cid:146)s natural finish.

c Never use fabric protectors unless rec-

ommended by the manufacturer.

c Do not use glass or plastic cleaner on meter or gauge lens covers. It may dam- age the lens cover.

7-4 Appearance and care

FLOOR MATS The use of genuine NISSAN floor mats can ex- tend the life of your vehicle carpet and make it easier to clean the interior. No matter what mats are used, be sure they are fitted for your vehicle and are properly positioned in the footwell to prevent interference with pedal operation. Mats should be maintained with regular cleaning and replaced if they be- come excessively worn.

WAI0006
Floor mat positioning aid (driver(cid:146)s side only) This vehicle includes a front floor mat bracket to act as a floor mat positioning aid. NISSAN floor mats have been specially designed for your ve- hicle model. The driver(cid:146)s side floor mat has a grommet hole incorporated in it. Position the mat by placing the floor mat bracket hook through the floor mat grommet hole while centering the mat in the footwell. Periodically check to make certain the mats are properly positioned.

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

SEAT BELTS The seat belts can be cleaned by wiping them with a sponge dampened in a mild soap solution. Allow the belts to dry completely in the shade before using them. See (cid:147)Seat belt maintenance(cid:148) in the (cid:147)Safety (cid:150) Seats, seat belts and supplemen- tal air bags(cid:148) section of this manual.

WARNING

Do not allow wet seat belts to roll up in the retractor. NEVER use bleach, dye or chemical solvents to clean the seat belts, since these materials may severely weaken the seat belt webbing.

CORROSION PROTECTION

MOST COMMON FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO VEHICLE CORROSION 1. The accumulation of moisture-retaining dirt and debris in body panel sections, cavities, and other areas.

2. Damage to paint and other protective coat- ings caused by gravel and stone chips or minor traffic accidents.

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS INFLUENCE THE RATE OF CORROSION Moisture Accumulation of sand, dirt and water on the ve- hicle body underside can accelerate corrosion. Wet floor coverings will not dry completely inside the vehicle, and should be removed for drying to avoid floor panel corrosion. Relative humidity Corrosion will be accelerated: c in areas of high relative humidity. c in areas where the temperatures stay above

freezing.

c where atmospheric pollution exists.

c where road salt is used. Temperature High temperatures accelerate the rate of corro- sion to those parts which are not well ventilated. Air pollution Industrial pollution, the presence of salt in the air in coastal areas, or heavy road salt use acceler- ates the corrosion process. Road salt also accel- erates the disintegration of paint surfaces. TO PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE FROM CORROSION c Wash and wax your vehicle often to keep the

vehicle clean.

c Always check for minor damage to the paint

and repair it as soon as possible.

c Keep drain holes at the bottom of the doors

open to avoid water accumulation.

c Check the underbody for accumulation of sand, dirt or salt. If present, wash with water as soon as possible.

Appearance and care 7-5

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

CAUTION

c NEVER remove dirt, sand or other de- bris from the passenger compartment by washing it out with a hose. Remove dirt with a vacuum cleaner or broom.

c Never allow water or other liquids to come in contact with electronic compo- nents inside the vehicle as this may damage them.

Chemicals used for road surface de-icing are extremely corrosive. They accelerate corrosion and deterioration of underbody components such as the exhaust system, fuel and brake lines, brake cables, floor pan and fenders. In winter, the underbody must be cleaned periodically. For additional protection against rust and corro- sion, which may be required in some areas, con- sult a NISSAN dealer.

7-6 Appearance and care

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself

Maintenance requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
General maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
Explanation of general maintenance items . . . . . . . . . 8-2
Maintenance precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
Engine compartment check locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
Engine cooling system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
Checking engine coolant level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
Changing engine coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10
Engine oil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-10
Checking engine oil level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10
Changing engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11
Changing engine oil filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13
Automatic transmission fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14
Temperature conditions for checking. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14
Power steering fluid. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15
Brake and clutch fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-16
Brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-16
Clutch fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-17
Window washer fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-17
Window washer fluid reservoir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-17
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-18
Jump starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-19
Drive belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-20
Spark plugs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-21

Replacing spark plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-21
Air cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-22
In-cabin microfilter (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-22
Windshield wiper blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25
Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25
Replacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25
Parking brake and brake pedal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26
Checking parking brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26
Checking brake pedal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-26
Brake booster. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-27
Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-27
Engine compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-27
Passenger compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-29
Keyfob battery replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-30
Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-31
Headlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-31
Front park/turn/sidemarker light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-31
Fog lights (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-31
Exterior and interior lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-33
Wheels and tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-40
Tire pressure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-40
Types of tires. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-41
Tire chains. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-42
Changing wheels and tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-42

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

Your new NISSAN has been designed to have minimum maintenance requirements with longer service intervals to save you both time and money. However, some day-to-day and regular maintenance is essential to maintain your NIS- SAN(cid:146)s good mechanical condition, as well as its emission and engine performance. It is the owner(cid:146)s responsibility to make sure that the scheduled maintenance, as well as general maintenance, is performed. As the vehicle owner, you are the only one who can ensure that your vehicle receives proper maintenance. You are a vital link in the mainte- nance chain. Scheduled maintenance For your convenience, both required and optional scheduled maintenance items are described and listed in your (cid:147)NISSAN Service and Maintenance Guide.(cid:148) You must refer to that guide to ensure that necessary maintenance is performed on your NISSAN at regular intervals. General maintenance General maintenance includes those items which should be checked during normal day-to-day op- eration of the vehicle. They are essential if your vehicle is to continue to operate properly. It is your responsibility to perform these maintenance procedures regularly as prescribed. 8-2 Maintenance and do-it-yourself

Performing general maintenance checks requires minimal mechanical skill and only a few general automotive tools. These checks or inspections can be done by you, a qualified technician, or, if you prefer, a NISSAN dealer. Where to go for service If maintenance service is required or your vehicle appears to malfunction, have the systems checked and corrected by a NISSAN dealer. NISSAN technicians are well-trained specialists who are kept up-to-date with the latest service information through technical bulletins, service tips, and in-dealership training programs. They are completely qualified to work on NISSAN ve- hicles before they work on your vehicle, rather than after they have worked on it. You can be confident that a NISSAN dealer(cid:146)s service department performs the best job to meet the maintenance requirements on your vehicle (cid:151) in a reliable and economic way.

During the normal day-to-day operation of the vehicle, general maintenance should be per- formed regularly as prescribed in this section. If you detect any unusual sounds, vibrations or smells, be sure to check for the cause or have a NISSAN dealer do it promptly. In addition, you should notify a NISSAN dealer if you think that repairs are required.

When performing any checks or maintenance work, closely observe the (cid:147)Maintenance precau- tions(cid:148) later in this section. EXPLANATION OF GENERAL MAINTENANCE ITEMS information on the following Additional items with (cid:147)*(cid:148) is found later in this section. Outside the vehicle The maintenance items listed here should be performed from time to time, unless otherwise specified. Doors and engine hood Check that the doors and engine hood operate properly. Also ensure that all latches lock securely. Lubricate hinges, latches, latch pins, rollers and links as necessary. Make sure that the secondary latch keeps the hood from opening when the primary latch is released.

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

When driving in areas using road salt or other corrosive materials, check lubrication frequently. Lights* Clean the headlights on a regular basis. Make sure that the headlights, stop lights, tail lights, turn signal lights, and other lights are all operating properly and installed securely. Also check headlight aim. Road wheel nuts (lug nuts)* When checking the tires, make sure no wheel nuts are missing, and check for any loose wheel nuts. Tighten if necessary. Tire rotation* Tires should be rotated every 7,500 miles (12,000 km). Tire, wheel alignment and balance If the vehicle should pull to either side while driving on a straight and level road, or if you detect uneven or abnormal tire wear, there may be a need for wheel alignment. If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at normal highway speeds, wheel balancing may be needed. c For additional

information regarding tires, refer to (cid:147)Important Tire Safety Information(cid:148) (US) or (cid:147)Tire Safety Information(cid:148) (Canada) in the Warranty Information Booklet .

Tires* Check the pressure with a gauge at least once a month and always prior to long distance

trips. If necessary, adjust the pressure in all tires, including the spare, to the pressure specified. Check carefully for damage, cuts or excessive wear. Windshield Clean the windshield on a regular basis. Check the windshield at least every six months for cracks or other damage. Have a dam- aged windshield repaired by a qualified repair facility. Windshield wiper blades* Check for cracks or wear if they do not wipe properly. Inside the vehicle The maintenance items listed here should be checked on a regular basis, such as when per- forming periodic maintenance, cleaning the ve- hicle, etc. Additional information on the following items with an (cid:147)*(cid:148) is found later in this sec- tion. Accelerator pedal Check the pedal for smooth operation and make sure the pedal does not bind or require uneven effort. Keep the floor mat away from the pedal. Automatic transmission P (Park) position mechanism On a fairly steep hill check that your vehicle is held securely with the selector lever in the P position without applying any brakes.

Brake pedal and booster* Check the pedal for smooth operation and make sure it has the proper distance under it when depressed fully. Check the brake booster function. Be certain to keep the floor mat away from the pedal. Brakes Check that the brakes do not pull the vehicle to one side when applied. Clutch pedal* Make sure the pedal operates smoothly and check that it has the proper free travel. Parking brake* Check that the lever has the proper travel and confirm that your vehicle is held securely on a fairly steep hill with only the parking brake applied. Seats Check seat position controls such as seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to ensure they operate smoothly and all latches lock securely in every position. Check that the head restraints move up and down smoothly and the locks (if so equipped) hold securely in all latched positions. Seat belts Check that all parts of the seat belt system (for example, buckles, anchors, adjusters and retractors) operate properly and smoothly, and are installed securely. Check the belt web- bing for cuts, fraying, wear or damage. Steering wheel Check for changes in the steer- ing system, such as excessive freeplay, hard steering or strange noises.

Maintenance and do-it-yourself 8-3

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

etc., that may have accumulated. Make sure the hoses have no cracks, deformation, rot or loose connections. Underbody The underbody is frequently ex- posed to corrosive substances such as those used on icy roads or to control dust. It is very important to remove these substances from the underbody, otherwise rust may form on the floor pan, frame, fuel lines and exhaust system. At the end of winter, the underbody should be thor- oughly flushed with plain water, in those areas where mud and dirt may have accumulated. See the (cid:147)Appearance and care(cid:148) section of this manual. Windshield washer fluid* Check that there is adequate fluid in the reservoir.

Warning lights and chimes Make sure all warning lights and chimes are operating properly. Windshield wiper and washer* Check that the wipers and washer operate properly and that the wipers do not streak. Windshield defroster Check that the air comes out of the defroster outlets properly and in sufficient quantity when operating the heater or air conditioner. Under the hood and vehicle The maintenance items listed here should be checked periodically (for example, each time you check the engine oil or refuel). Automatic transmission fluid level* Check the level after putting the selector lever in P with the engine idling at operating temperature. Battery* Check the fluid level It should be between the MAX and MIN lines. Ve- hicles operated in high temperatures or under severe conditions require frequent checks of the battery fluid level. Brake and clutch fluid levels* Make sure that the brake and clutch fluid level is between the MIN and MAX lines on the reservoir. Engine coolant level* Check the coolant level when the engine is cold. 8-4 Maintenance and do-it-yourself

in each cell.

Engine drive belts* Make sure the drive belts are not frayed, worn, cracked or oily. Engine oil level* Check the level after parking the vehicle on a level surface with the engine off. Wait more than 10 minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan. Exhaust system Make sure there are no loose supports, cracks or holes. If the sound of the exhaust seems unusual or there is a smell of exhaust fumes, immediately have the exhaust system inspected by a NISSAN dealer. See the carbon monoxide warning in the (cid:147)Starting and driving(cid:148) section of this manual. Fluid leaks Check under the vehicle for fuel, oil, water or other fluid leaks after the vehicle has been parked for a while. Water dripping from the air conditioner after use is normal. If you should notice any leaks or if gasoline fumes are evident, check for the cause and have it corrected imme- diately. Power steering fluid level* and lines Check the level when the fluid is cold, with the engine off. Check the lines for proper attachment, leaks, cracks, etc. Radiator and hoses Check the front of the radiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves,

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS

When performing any inspection or maintenance work on your vehicle, always take care to prevent serious accidental injury to yourself or damage to the vehicle. The following are general precau- tions which should be closely observed.

WARNING

c Park the vehicle on a level surface, ap- ply the parking brake securely and block the wheels to prevent the vehicle from moving. For manual transmission models, move the shift lever to N (Neu- tral). For automatic transmission mod- els, move the selector lever to P (Park). c Be sure the ignition key is in the OFF or LOCK position when performing any parts replacement or repairs.

c Never leave the engine or automatic transmission related component har- nesses disconnected while the ignition switch is in the ON position.

c Never connect or disconnect the battery or any transistorized component while the ignition switch is in the ON position.

c Your vehicle is equipped with an auto- matic engine cooling fan. It may come on at any time without warning, even if the ignition key is in the OFF position and the engine is not running. To avoid injury, always disconnect the negative battery cable before working near the fan.

c If you must work with the engine run- ning, keep your hands, clothing, hair and tools away from moving fans, belts and any other moving parts.

c It is advisable to secure or remove any loose clothing and remove any jewelry, such as rings, watches, etc. before working on your vehicle.

c Always wear eye protection whenever

you work on your vehicle.

c If you must run the engine in an en- closed space such as a garage, be sure there is proper ventilation for exhaust gases to escape.

c Never get under the vehicle while it is supported only by a jack. If it is neces- sary to work under the vehicle, support it with safety stands.

c Keep smoking materials,

flame and sparks away from the fuel tank and battery.

c On gasoline engine models with the multiport fuel injection (MFI) system, the fuel filter or fuel lines should be serviced by a NISSAN dealer because the fuel lines are under high pressure even when the engine is off.

CAUTION

c Do not work under the hood while the engine is hot. Turn the engine off and wait until it cools down.

c Avoid contact with used engine oil and coolant. Improperly disposed engine oil, engine coolant and/or other vehicle fluids can damage the environment. Al- ways conform to local regulations for disposal of vehicle fluid.

Maintenance and do-it-yourself 8-5

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

This (cid:147)Maintenance and do-it-yourself(cid:148) section gives instructions regarding only those items which are relatively easy for an owner to perform. A genuine NISSAN service manual is also avail- able. See (cid:147)Owner(cid:146)s Manual/Service Manual or- der information(cid:148) in the (cid:147)Technical and consumer information(cid:148) section of this manual. You should be aware that incomplete or improper servicing may result in operating difficulties or excessive emissions, and could affect warranty coverage. If in doubt about any servicing, have it done by a NISSAN dealer.

8-6 Maintenance and do-it-yourself

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK LOCATIONS

Power steering fluid reservoir Spark plug caps Brake fluid reservoir

Air cleaner Battery Fuel/Fusible link box Transmission dipstick (A/T models) Engine oil dipstick

QR25DE engine 1. 2. 3. 4. Clutch fluid reservoir (M/T model) 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Radiator cap 11. Fuse block 12. Windshield washer fluid reservoir 13. Coolant reservoir 14. Engine oil filler cap NOTE: Engine cover removed for clarity.

LDI0073

Maintenance and do-it-yourself 8-7

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

Power steering fluid reservoir Engine oil filler cap Brake fluid reservoir

Air cleaner Battery Fuse/Fusible link box Transmission dipstick (A/T models) Engine oil dipstick

VQ35DE engine 1. 2. 3. 4. Clutch fluid reservoir (M/T model) 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Radiator cap 11. Fuse block 12. Windshield washer fluid reservoir 13. Coolant reservoir NOTE: Engine cover removed for clarity.

8-8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself

LDI0074

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM

The engine cooling system is filled at the factory with a high-quality, year-round, anti-freeze cool- ant solution. The anti-freeze solution contains rust and corrosion inhibitors; therefore, additional engine cooling system additives are not neces- sary.

WARNING

c Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. Serious burns could be caused by high pressure fluid escaping from the radiator.

c The radiator is equipped with a pres- sure type radiator cap. To prevent en- gine damage, use only a genuine NISSAN radiator cap.

Outside temperature

down to

(cid:176)C

-35

(cid:176)F

-30

Demineral- ized or dis- tilled water

Genuine NISSAN Long Life Anti-freeze Coolant or equivalent

50%

50%

CAUTION

When adding or replacing coolant, be sure to use only a Genuine NISSAN Long Life Anti-freeze Coolant (green) or equivalent with the proper mixture ratio of 50% anti- freeze and 50% demineralized or distilled water. The use of other types of coolant solutions or coolant colors, such as or- ange, may damage the engine cooling system.

WDI0261

CHECKING ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL Check the coolant level in the reservoir when the engine is cold. If the coolant level is below the MIN level, add coolant to the MAX level. If the reservoir is empty, check the coolant level in the radiator when the engine is cold. If there is insufficient coolant in the radiator, fill the radiator with coolant up to the filler opening and also add it to the reservoir up to the MAX level. If the cooling system frequently requires coolant, have it checked by a NISSAN dealer.

Maintenance and do-it-yourself 8-9

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

CHANGING ENGINE COOLANT A NISSAN dealer can change the engine coolant. The service procedure can be found in the NISSAN Service Manual. Improper servicing can result in reduced heater performance and engine overheat- ing.

WARNING

c To avoid the danger of being scalded, never change the coolant when the en- gine is hot.

c Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. Serious burns could be caused by high pressure fluid escaping from the radiator.

c Avoid direct skin contact with used coolant. If skin contact is made, wash thoroughly with soap or hand cleaner as soon as possible.

c Keep coolant out of the reach of chil-

dren and pets.

Engine coolant must be disposed of properly. Check your local regulations.

8-10 Maintenance and do-it-yourself

ENGINE OIL

QR25DE

VQ35DE

WDI0211

WDI0212

4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean. Re-

insert it all the way.

CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL 1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply

the parking brake.

2. Start the engine and let it idle until it reaches

operating temperature.

3. Turn off the engine. Wait more than 10
minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan.

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

WDI0213

WDI0214

WDI0215

Type A

Type B

QR25DE

5. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level. It should be between the H (High) and L (Low) marks sB . This is the normal oper- ating oil level range. If the oil level is below the L (Low) mark sA , remove the oil filler cap and pour through the recommended oil opening. Do not overfill sC .

6. Recheck oil level with the dipstick. It is normal to add some oil between oil maintenance intervals or during the break-in period, depending on the severity of operating conditions.

CAUTION

Oil level should be checked regularly. Op- erating the engine with an insufficient amount of oil can damage the engine, and such damage is not covered by warranty.

CHANGING ENGINE OIL 1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply

the parking brake.

2. Start the engine and let it idle until it reaches

operating temperature, then turn it off.

3. Remove the oil filler cap by turning it coun-

terclockwise.

4. Place a large drain pan under the drain plug.

Maintenance and do-it-yourself 8-11

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

VQ35DE

WDI0216

5. Remove the drain plug with a wrench by turning it counterclockwise and completely drain the oil.

If the oil filter is to be changed, remove and replace it at this time. See (cid:147)Changing engine oil filter(cid:148) later in this section.

WARNING

c Prolonged and repeated contact with used engine oil may cause skin cancer.

8-12 Maintenance and do-it-yourself

The drain and refill capacity depends on the oil temperature and drain time. Use these specifications for reference only. Always use the dipstick to determine when the proper amount of oil is in the engine.

8. Start the engine. Check for leakage around the drain plug and oil filter. Correct as re- quired.

9. Turn the engine off and wait more than 10
minutes. Check the oil level with the dipstick. Add engine oil if necessary.

c Try to avoid direct skin contact with used oil. If skin contact is made, wash thoroughly with soap or hand cleaner as soon as possible.

c Keep used engine oil out of reach of

children.

CAUTION

Be careful not to burn yourself. The engine oil may be hot.

c Waste oil must be disposed of prop-

erly.

c Check your local regulations.

6. Clean and reinstall the drain plug and a new washer. Securely tighten the drain plug with a wrench. Do not use excessive force. Drain plug tightening torque: 22 - 29 ft-lb (29 - 39 N•m)

7. Refill engine with recommended oil through the oil filler opening, then install the oil filler cap securely.

and

(cid:147)Capacities

recommended See fuel/lubricants(cid:148) in the (cid:147)Technical and con- sumer information(cid:148) section of this manual for drain and refill capacity.

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

7. Screw on the oil filter until a slight resistance

is felt, then tighten an additional 2/3 turn.

8. Start

the engine and check for leakage

around the oil filter. Correct as required.

9. Turn the engine off and wait more than 10
minutes. Check the oil level. Add engine oil if necessary.

WDI0217

WDI0218

QR25DE

CHANGING ENGINE OIL FILTER 1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply

the parking brake. 2. Turn the engine off. 3. Place a large drain pan under the oil filter. 4. Loosen the oil filter with an oil filter wrench by turning it counterclockwise. Then remove the oil filter by turning it by hand.

VQ35DE

CAUTION

Be careful not to burn yourself. The engine oil may be hot.

5. Wipe the engine oil filter mounting surface

with a clean rag.

Be sure to remove any old gasket material remaining on the mounting surface of the engine.

6. Coat the gasket on the new filter with clean

engine oil.

Maintenance and do-it-yourself 8-13

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID

WARNING

c When the engine is running, keep hands, jewelry and clothing away from any moving parts such as the cooling fan and drive belts.

c Automatic transmission fluid is poison- ous and should be stored carefully in marked containers out of the reach of children.

8-14 Maintenance and do-it-yourself

WDI0219

WDI0220

QR25DE

TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS FOR CHECKING c The fluid level should be checked using the HOT range on the dipstick after the following conditions have been met:

(cid:150) The engine should be warmed up to op-

erating temperature.

(cid:150) The vehicle should be driven at least 5

minutes.

(cid:150) The automatic transmission fluid should be warmed to 122 - 176(cid:176)F (50 - 80(cid:176)C).

VQ35DE

c The fluid can be checked at fluid tempera- tures of 86 - 122(cid:176)F (30 - 50(cid:176)C) using the COLD range on the dipstick after the engine is warmed up and before driving. However, the fluid should be re-checked using the HOT range.

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and set

the parking brake.

2. Start the engine and then move the shift selector lever through each gear range, end- ing in P (Park).

3. Check the fluid level with the engine idling.

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

WDI0221
4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean with

lint-free paper.

5. Reinsert the dipstick into the dipstick tube

as far as it will go.

6. Remove the dipstick and note the reading. If the automatic transmission fluid level is within the normal operating range sB , no additional fluid is required. If the fluid level is low sA add fluid through the dipstick tube.

CAUTION

DO NOT OVERFILL. Use ONLY Genuine Nissan Matic D ATF (Continental U.S. and Alaska) or Canada NISSAN Automatic Transmission Fluid. Dexron(cid:153) III/Mercon(cid:153) or equivalent may also be used. Outside the continental United States and Alaska contact a NISSAN dealership for more in- in- formation regarding suitable fluids, cluding brand(s) of Dexron(cid:153) III/Mercon(cid:153) automatic trans- mission fluid.

recommended

NOTE: If the vehicle has been driven for a long time at high speeds, or in city traffic in hot weather, or if it is being used to pull a trailer, the fluid level cannot be read accu- rately. You should wait until the fluid has cooled down (about 30 minutes) before checking fluid level.

POWER STEERING FLUID

WDI0256
The fluid level should be checked using the HOT MAX range on the power steering fluid reservoir at fluid temperatures of 122(cid:176) - 176(cid:176)F (50(cid:176) - 80(cid:176)C) or using the COLD MAX range on the power steering fluid reservoir at fluid tempera- tures of 32(cid:176) - 86(cid:176)F (0(cid:176) - 30(cid:176)C).

If the fluid is below the MIN line, add Genuine NISSAN PSF fluid. Remove the cap and fill through the opening.

CAUTION

c DO NOT OVERFILL.

Maintenance and do-it-yourself 8-15

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

c Recommended

is NISSAN PSF or equivalent.

fluid

BRAKE AND CLUTCH FLUID

Genuine

For further brake and clutch fluid specification information, to (cid:147)Capacities and recom- mended fuel/lubricants(cid:148) in the (cid:147)Technical and consumer information(cid:148) section of this manual.

refer

WARNING

Use only new fluid from a sealed con- tainer. Old, inferior or contaminated fluid may damage the brake and clutch sys- tems. The use of improper fluids can dam- age the brake system and affect the vehi- cle(cid:146)s stopping ability.

CAUTION

Do not spill the fluid on any painted sur- faces. This will damage the paint. If fluid is spilled, immediately wash the surface with water.

LDI0079

BRAKE FLUID Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. If the fluid level is below the MIN line or the brake warning light comes on, add Genuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid or equivalent DOT 3 fluid up to the MAX line. If fluid must be added frequently, the system should be checked by a NISSAN dealer.

8-16 Maintenance and do-it-yourself

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

LDI0080

CLUTCH FLUID Check the clutch fluid level in the reservoir (manual transmissions only). If the fluid level is below the MIN line, add Genuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid or equivalent DOT 3 fluid up to the MAX line. If fluid must be added fre- quently, the system should be checked by a NISSAN dealer.

For further brake and clutch fluid specification information, to (cid:147)Capacities and recom- mended fuel/lubricants(cid:148) in the (cid:147)Technical and consumer information(cid:148) section of this manual.

refer

WARNING

Use only new fluid from a sealed con- tainer. Old, inferior or contaminated fluid may damage the brake and clutch sys- tems. The use of improper fluids can dam- age the brake system and affect the vehi- cle(cid:146)s stopping ability.

CAUTION

Do not spill the fluid on any painted sur- faces. This will damage the paint. If fluid is spilled, immediately wash the surface with water.

WINDOW WASHER FLUID

WDI0223

WINDOW WASHER FLUID RESERVOIR Fill the window washer fluid reservoir periodically. Add window washer fluid when the light comes on (if so equipped).

To fill the window washer fluid reservoir, lift the cap off the reservoir tank and pour the window washer fluid into the tank opening.

Add a washer solvent to the washer for better cleaning. In the winter season, add a windshield washer antifreeze. Follow the manufacturer(cid:146)s in- structions for the mixture ratio.

Maintenance and do-it-yourself 8-17

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

c When working on or near a battery, al- ways wear suitable eye protection and remove all jewelry.

c Battery posts, terminals and related ac- cessories contain lead and lead com- pounds. Wash hands after handling.

c Keep battery out of

children.

the reach of

BATTERY

c Keep the battery surface clean and dry. Any corrosion should be washed off with a solu- tion of baking soda and water.

c Make certain the terminal connections are

clean and securely tightened.

c If the vehicle is not to be used for 30 days or longer, disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal cable to prevent discharge.

WARNING

c Do not expose the battery to flames or electrical sparks. Hydrogen gas gener- ated by the battery is explosive. Do not allow battery fluid to contact your skin, eyes, fabrics or painted surfaces. After touching a battery or battery cap, do not touch or rub your eyes. Thoroughly wash your hands. If the acid contacts your eyes, skin or clothing, immediately flush with water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.

c Do not operate the vehicle if the fluid in the battery is low. Low battery fluid can cause a higher load on the battery which can generate heat, reduce bat- tery life, and in some cases lead to an explosion.

Refill the reservoir more frequently when driving conditions require an increased amount of win- dow washer fluid.

CAUTION

c Do not substitute engine anti-freeze coolant for window washer solution. This may result in damage to the paint. c Do not fill the window washer reservoir tank with washer fluid concentrates at full strength. Some methyl alcohol based washer fluid concentrates may permanently stain the grille if spilled while filling the window washer reser- voir tank.

c Pre-mix washer fluid concentrates with water to the manufacturer(cid:146)s recom- mended levels before pouring the fluid into the window washer reservoir tank. Do not use the window washer reservoir tank to mix the washer fluid concen- trate and water.

8-18 Maintenance and do-it-yourself

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

Vehicles operated in high temperatures or under severe conditions require frequent checks of the battery fluid level. JUMP STARTING If jump starting is necessary, see (cid:147)Jump starting(cid:148) in the (cid:147)In case of emergency(cid:148) section of this manual. If the engine does not start by jump starting, the battery may have to be replaced. Contact a NISSAN dealer.

WDI0224
1. Remove the battery caps with a screwdriver as shown. Use a cloth to protect the battery case.

2. Check the fluid level

LDI0302
If it is necessary to add fluid, add only distilled water to bring the level up to the bottom of the filler opening. Do not overfill.

in each cell

Maintenance and do-it-yourself 8-19

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

DRIVE BELTS

1. Visually inspect each belt for signs of un- usual wear, cuts, fraying or looseness. If the belt is in poor condition or is loose, have it replaced or adjusted by a NISSAN dealer.

2. Have the belts checked regularly for condi- tion and tension in accordance with the maintenance the (cid:147)NISSAN Service and Maintenance Guide(cid:148).

schedule

found

in

WDI0225

WDI0226

QR25DE engine Power steering fluid pump

1. 2. Water pump 3. Generator 4. 5. Crankshaft 6.

Auto tensioner

Air conditioner (if so equipped)

VQ35DE engine Power steering fluid pump

1. 2. Crankshaft 3. Generator 4.

Air conditioner

WARNING

Be sure the ignition key is in the OFF or LOCK position. The engine could rotate unexpectedly.

8-20 Maintenance and do-it-yourself

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

SPARK PLUGS

WDI0005

REPLACING SPARK PLUGS Platinum-tipped spark plugs It is not necessary to replace platinum-tipped spark plugs as frequently as conventional type spark plugs because they last much longer. Fol- low the maintenance schedule, but do not reuse the spark plugs by cleaning or regapping. c Always replace spark plugs with rec-

ommended or equivalent ones.

WARNING

Be sure the engine and ignition switch are off and that the parking brake is engaged securely.

CAUTION

Be sure to use the correct socket to re- move the spark plugs. An incorrect socket can damage the spark plugs.

QR25DE 1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

2. Remove the coil pack bolt.

5. Fit the new plugs, one at a time, into the spark plug socket and install them. Use only the specified spark plugs. Turn each plug several full turns by hand, then tighten with the spark plug socket to the correct torque. Do not overtighten. Spark plug tightening torque: 14 - 22 ft-lb (20 - 29 N•m)

6.

7.

Install the coil pack/spark plug boot on the spark plug by pushing it on until you feel a snap. Install the coil pack bolt. Coil pack tightening torque:

3. Remove the coil pack/spark plug boot from

48 - 65 in-lb (5.4 - 7.3 N•m)

the spark plug.

4. Remove the spark plugs with a spark plug

socket.

The plug socket has a rubber seal that holds the spark plug so it does not fall when it is pulled out. Make sure each spark plug is snugly fitted into the spark plug socket.

8. Connect the negative battery cable. VQ35DE If NISSAN dealer for assistance.

replacement

is required, please see your

Maintenance and do-it-yourself 8-21

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Altima (l30) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 04/21/03—debbie X

AIR CLEANER

WDI0227
The air cleaner filter should not be cleaned and reused. Replace it according to the maintenance intervals shown in the (cid:147)NISSAN Service and Maintenance Guide.(cid:148) When replacing the filter, wipe the inside of the air cleaner filter housing and the cover with a damp cloth.

To remove the air cleaner filter: s1
s2 Push down on the clips.

Loosen the screws.

8-22 Maintenance and do-it-yourself

WARNING

c Operating the engine with the air cleaner removed can cause you or oth- ers to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops the flame if the engine backfires. If it isn(cid:146)t there, and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Do not drive with the air cleaner removed, and be careful when working on the engine with the air cleaner removed.

c Never pour fuel into the throttle body or attempt to start the engine with the air cleaner removed. Doing so could result in serious injury.

IN-CABIN MICROFILTER (if so equipped) The in-cabin microfilter restricts the entry of air- borne dust and pollen particles and reduces some objectionable outside odors. The filter is located behind the glove box. Refer to the (cid:147)NISSAN Service and Maintenance Guide(cid:148) for change intervals. To replace the filter, perform the following proce- dure: