2008 Nissan Altima Owners Manual

Children who are too large for child restraints should be seated and restrained by the seat belts which are provided. The seat belt may not fit properly if the child is less than 4 feet 9 inches (142.5 cm) tall and weighs between 40 lbs (18
kg) and 80 lbs (36 kg). A booster seat should be used to obtain proper seat belt fit. NISSAN recommends that a child be placed in a commercially available booster seat if the shoul- der belt in the child(cid:146)s seating position fits close to the face or neck or if the lap portion of the seat belt goes across the abdomen. The booster seat should raise the child so that the shoulder belt is properly positioned across the top, middle por-

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tion of the shoulder and the lap belt is low on the hips. A booster seat can only be used in seating positions that have a three-point type seat belt. The booster seat should fit the vehicle seat and have a label certifying that it complies with Fed- eral Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Once the child has grown so the shoulder belt is no longer on or near the face and neck, use the shoulder belt without the booster seat.

WARNING

Never let a child stand or kneel on any seat and do not allow a child in the cargo areas while the vehicle is moving. The child could be seriously injured or killed in an accident or sudden stop. PREGNANT WOMEN NISSAN recommends that pregnant women use seat belts. The seat belt should be worn snug, and always position the lap belt as low as pos- sible around the hips, not the waist. Place the shoulder belt over your shoulder and across your chest. Never run the lap/shoulder belt over your abdominal area. Contact your doctor for specific recommendations.

INJURED PERSONS NISSAN recommends that injured persons use seat belts. Check with your doctor for specific recommendations. THREE-POINT TYPE SEAT BELT WITH RETRACTOR

WARNING

c Every person who drives or rides in this vehicle should use a seat belt at all times.

c Do not ride in a moving vehicle when the seatback is reclined. This can be dangerous. The shoulder belt will not be against your body. In an accident, you could be thrown into it and receive neck or other serious injuries. You could also slide under the lap belt and receive serious internal injuries.

c For the most effective protection when the vehicle is in motion, the seat should be upright. Always sit well back in the seat with both feet on the floor and adjust the seat belt properly.

WRS0738

Manual front seat shown

Fastening the seat belts 1. Adjust the seat. See (cid:147)Seats(cid:148) earlier in this

section.

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The Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) mode allows the seat belt to extend and retract to allow the driver and passengers some freedom of movement in the seat. The ELR locks the seat belt when the vehicle slows down rapidly or during certain impacts. The Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode (child restraint mode) locks the seat belt for child restraint installation. When the ALR mode is activated, the seat belt cannot be extended again until the seat belt tongue is detached from the buckle and fully retracted. The seat belt returns to the ELR mode after the seat belt fully retracts. See (cid:147)Child re- straints(cid:148) later in this section for more information. The ALR mode should be used only for child restraint installation. During normal seat belt use by a passenger, the ALR mode should not be activated. If it is activated it may cause uncomfortable seat belt ten- sion.

WARNING

When fastening the seat belts, be certain that the seatbacks are completely se- cured in the latched position. If they are not completely secured, passengers may be injured in an accident or sudden stop.

WRS0137
s2 Slowly pull the seat belt out of the retractor and insert the tongue into the buckle until you hear and feel the latch engage.

c The retractor is designed to lock during a sudden stop or on impact. A slow pulling motion permits the seat belt to move, and allows you some freedom of movement in the seat.

c If the seat belt cannot be pulled from its fully retracted position, firmly pull the belt and release it. Then smoothly pull the belt out of the retractor.

WRS0138
s3 Position the lap belt portion low and snug

on the hips as shown.

s4 Pull the shoulder belt portion toward the retractor to take up extra slack. Be sure the shoulder belt is routed over your shoulder and across your chest.

The front passenger seat and the rear seating positions three-point seat belts have two modes of operation: c Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) c Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR)

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To increase your confidence in the seat belts, check the operation as follows. c Grasp the shoulder belt and pull forward quickly. The retractor should lock and re- strict further belt movement.

If the retractor does not lock during this check or if you have any questions about seat belt opera- tion, see a NISSAN dealer.

WRS0139

Unfastening the seat belts s1 To unfasten the seat belt, press the button on the buckle. The seat belt automatically re- tracts.

Checking seat belt operation Seat belt retractors are designed to lock seat belt movement by two separate methods: c When the seat belt is pulled quickly from the

retractor.

c When the vehicle slows down rapidly.

LRS0242

Shoulder belt height adjustment (Sedan, front seats) The shoulder belt anchor height should be ad- justed to the position best for you. (See (cid:147)Precau- tions on seat belt usage(cid:148) earlier in this section.) To adjust, pull out the adjustment button s1 and move the shoulder belt anchor to the desired position s2 , so the belt passes over the center of the shoulder. The belt should be away from your face and neck, but not falling off your shoulder. Release the adjustment button to lock the shoul- der belt anchor into position.

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The shoulder belt comfort assist arm can be adjusted to the position best for you. (See (cid:147)Pre- cautions on seat belt usage(cid:148) earlier in this sec- tion.) To adjust, move the arm up as indicated.

WARNING

c After adjustment, release the adjust- ment button and try to move the shoul- der belt anchor up and down to make sure it is securely fixed in position.

c The shoulder belt anchor height should be adjusted to the position best for you. Failure to do so may reduce the effec- tiveness of the entire restraint system and increase the chance or severity of injury in an accident.

WARNING

c Only NISSAN seat belt extenders, made by the same company which made the original equipment seat belts, should be used with NISSAN seat belts.

c Adults and children who can use the standard seat belt should not use an extender. Such unnecessary use could result in serious personal injury in the event of an accident.

c Never use seat belt extenders to install child restraints. If the child restraint is not secured properly, the child could be seriously injured in a collision or a sud- den stop.

SEAT BELT MAINTENANCE c To clean the seat belt webbing, apply a mild soap solution or any solution recom- mended for cleaning upholstery or carpet. Then wipe with a cloth and allow the seat belts to dry in the shade. Do not allow the seat belts to retract until they are completely dry.

c If dirt builds up in the shoulder belt guide of the seat belt anchors, the seat belts may retract slowly. Wipe the shoulder belt guide with a clean, dry cloth.

LRS0821

Shoulder belt guide (Coupe) The shoulder arm can be adjusted to allow easier access to the shoulder belt. The arm can also be folded down to allow rear seat passengers easier access. SEAT BELT EXTENDERS If, because of body size or driving position, it is not possible to properly fit the lap-shoulder belt and fasten it, an extender is available which is compatible with the installed seat belts. The ex- tender adds approximately 8 in (200 mm) of length and may be used for either the driver or front passenger seating position. See a NISSAN dealer for assistance if an extender is required.

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CHILD RESTRAINTS

c Periodically check to see that the seat belt and the metal components, such as buckles, tongues, retractors, flexible wires and anchors, work properly. If loose parts, deterioration, cuts or other damage on the webbing is found, the entire seat belt as- sembly should be replaced.

PRECAUTIONS ON CHILD RESTRAINTS

ARS1098

WRS0256

WARNING

c Infants and small children should al- ways be placed in an appropriate child restraint while riding in the vehicle. Failure to use a child restraint can re- sult in serious injury or death.

c Infants and small children should never be carried on your lap. It is not possible for even the strongest adult to resist the forces of a severe accident. The child could be crushed between the adult and parts of the vehicle. Also, do not put the same seat belt around both your child and yourself.

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c Even with the NISSAN Advanced Air Bag System, never install a rear-facing child restraint in the front seat. An in- flating front air bag could seriously in- jure or kill your child. A rear-facing child restraint must only be used in the rear seat.

c NISSAN recommends that the child re- straint be installed in the rear seat. Ac- cording to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seat than in the front seat. If you must install a front facing child re- straint in the front seat, see (cid:147)Child re- straint installation using the seat belts(cid:148) later in this section.

c Improper use or improper installation of a child restraint can increase the risk or severity of injury for both the child and other occupants of the vehicle and can lead to serious injury or death in an accident.

c Follow all of the child restraint manu- facturer(cid:146)s instructions for installation and use. When purchasing a child re- straint, be sure to select one which will fit your child and vehicle. It may not be possible to properly install some types of child restraints in your vehicle.

c If the child restraint is not anchored properly, the risk of a child being in- jured in a collision or a sudden stop greatly increases.

c Child restraint anchor points are de- signed to withstand only those loads imposed by correctly fitted child re- straints. Under no circumstances are they to be used for adult seat belts or harnesses.

c Adjustable seatbacks should be posi- tioned to fit the child restraint, but as upright as possible.

c After attaching the child restraint, test it before you place the child in it. Push it from side to side while holding the seat near the LATCH attachment or by the seat belt path. Try to tug it forward and check to see if the belt holds the re- straint in place. The child restraint should not move more than 1 inch (25
mm). If the restraint is not secure, tighten the belt as necessary, or put the restraint in another seat and test it again. You may need to try a different child restraint. Not all child restraints fit in all types of vehicles.

c When your child restraint is not in use, keep it secured with the LATCH system or a seat belt to prevent it from being thrown around in case of a sudden stop or accident.

CAUTION

Remember that a child restraint left in a closed vehicle can become very hot. Check the seating surface and buckles before placing your child in the child restraint.

This vehicle is equipped with a universal child restraint lower anchor system, referred to as the Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren System or LATCH. Some child restraints include two rigid or webbing-mounted attachments that can be connected to these lower anchors. For details, see the (cid:147)Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren System (LATCH)(cid:148) later in this section.

If you do not have a LATCH compatible child restraint, the vehicle seat belts can be used. See (cid:147)Child restraint installation using the seat belts(cid:148) later in this section. In general, child restraints are also designed to be installed with the lap portion of a lap/shoulder seat belt.

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Several manufacturers offer child restraints for infants and small children of various sizes. When selecting any child restraint, keep the following points in mind: c Choose only a restraint with a label certifying that it complies with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213.

c Check the child restraint in your vehicle to be sure it is compatible with the vehicle(cid:146)s seat and seat belt system.

c If the child restraint is compatible with your vehicle, place your child in the child restraint and check the various adjustments to be sure the child restraint is compatible with your child. Choose a child restraint that is designed for your child(cid:146)s height and weight. Always follow all recommended procedures. All U.S. states and Canadian provinces or territories require that infants and small children be restrained in an approved child restraint at all times while the vehicle is being operated.

LATCH system anchor locations

LATCH lower anchor location

WRS0795

WRS0796

LOWER ANCHORS AND TETHERS FOR CHILDREN SYSTEM (LATCH) Your vehicle is equipped with special anchor points that are used with Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren System (LATCH) compat- ible child restraints. This system may also be referred to as the ISOFIX or ISOFIX compatible system. With this system, you do not have to use a vehicle seat belt to secure the child restraint. The LATCH anchor points are provided to install child restraints in the rear outboard seating posi- tions only. Do not attempt to install a child restraint in the center position using the LATCH anchors.

LATCH lower anchor point locations The LATCH anchors are located at the rear of the seat cushion near the seatback. A label is at- tached to the seatback to help you locate the LATCH anchors.

WARNING

c Attach LATCH compatible child re- straints only at the locations shown in the illustration. If a child restraint is not secured properly, your child could be seriously injured or killed in an accident.

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(if so equipped)

LATCH webbing-mounted attachment

LATCH rigid-mounted attachment

WRS0829

LRS0661

LRS0662

c Do not secure a child restraint in the center rear seating position using the LATCH anchors. The child restraint will not be secured properly.

c Child restraint anchor points are de- signed to withstand only those loads imposed by correctly fitted child re- straints. Under no circumstance are they to be used for adult seat belts or harnesses.

Installing child restraint LATCH anchor attachments LATCH compatible child restraints include two rigid or webbing-mounted attachments that can be connected to two anchors located at certain seating positions in your vehicle. With this sys- tem, you do not have to use a vehicle seat belt to secure the child restraint. Check your child re- straint for a label stating that it is compatible with LATCH. This information may also be in the in- structions provided by the child restraint manu- facturer.

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LATCH child restraints generally require the use of a top tether strap. See (cid:147)Top tether strap child restraint(cid:148) later in this section for installation in- structions. When installing a child restraint, carefully read and follow the instructions in this manual and those supplied with the child restraint. See (cid:147)Child restraint installation using LATCH(cid:148) in this section.

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TOP TETHER STRAP CHILD RESTRAINT If the manufacturer of your child restraint requires the use of a top tether strap, it must be secured to the anchor point.

WARNING

c Child restraint anchor points are de- signed to withstand only those loads imposed by correctly fitted child re- straints. Under no circumstances are they to be used for adult seat belts or harnesses.

c Do not allow cargo to contact the top tether strap when it is attached to the top tether anchor. Properly secure the cargo so it does not contact the top tether strap. Cargo that is not properly secured or cargo that contacts the top tether strap may damage it during a collision. Your child could be seriously injured or killed in a collision if the top tether strap is damaged.

WRS0797

Top Tether Anchor Point Locations Anchor points s1 are located on the rear parcel shelf. Installing top tether strap

LRS0798
First, secure the child restraint with the LATCH System (rear outboard seating positions only) or the seat belt, as applicable. s1 Flip up the anchor cover from the anchor point which is located directly behind the child seat.

s2 Position the top tether strap over the top of

the seatback.

s3 Secure the tether strap to the tether anchor bracket that provides the straightest installa- tion.

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4. Tighten the tether strap according to the manufacturer(cid:146)s instructions to remove any slack.

If you have any questions when installing a top tether strap child restraint on the rear seat, consult your NISSAN dealer for de- tails.

CHILD RESTRAINT INSTALLATION USING LATCH

WARNING

c Attach LATCH compatible child re- straints only at the locations shown. For the LATCH lower anchor locations, see (cid:147)Lower Anchors and Tethers for Chil- dren System (LATCH)(cid:148) in this section. If a child restraint is not secured properly, your child could be seriously injured or killed in an accident.

c The LATCH anchors are designed to withstand only those loads imposed by correctly fitted child restraints. Under no circumstance are they to be used for adult seat belts or harnesses.

c Inspect the lower anchors by inserting your fingers into the lower anchor area and feeling to make sure there are no obstructions over the LATCH anchors, such as seat belt webbing or seat cush- ion material. The child restraint will not be secured properly if the LATCH an- chors are obstructed.

Front-facing Follow these steps to install a front-facing child restraint using LATCH:

LRS0824

(if so equipped)

1.

If the rear seat cushion has a flap s1 , pull the flap down to allow access to the anchors s2 . 2. Position the child restraint on the seat. Al- ways follow the child restraint manufactur- er(cid:146)s instructions.

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Front facing web-mounted (cid:150) step 3

Front facing rigid-mounted (cid:150) step 3

Front facing (cid:150) step 5

WRS0799

WRS0800

LRS0671

3. Secure the child restraint anchor attach- ments to the LATCH lower anchors. Check to make sure the LATCH attachment is prop- erly attached to the lower anchors.

4. The back of the child restraint should be

secured against the vehicle seatback.

If the seating position does not have an adjust- able head restraint and it is interfering with the proper child restraint fit, try another seating posi- tion or a different child restraint.

5. For child restraints that are equipped with webbing mounted attachments, remove any additional slack from the anchor attach- ments. Press downward and rearward firmly in the center of the child restraint with your knee to compress the vehicle seat cushion and seatback while tightening the webbing of the anchor attachments. If the child restraint is equipped with a top tether strap, route the top tether strap and secure the tether strap to the tether anchor point. See (cid:147)Top tether strap child restraint(cid:148) in this section.

6.

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is loose,

8. Check to make sure the child restraint is properly secured prior to each use. If the child restraint repeat steps 4
through 7. Rear-facing Follow these steps to install a rear-facing child restraint using LATCH System:

WRS0697

Front facing (cid:150) step 7

7. Before placing the child in the child restraint, hold the child restraint near the LATCH at- tachment and use force to push the child restraint from side to side, and tug it forward to make sure that it is securely held in place. It should not move more than 1 in (25 mm). If it does move more than 1 in (25 mm), pull again on the anchor attachments to further tighten the child restraint. If you are unable to properly secure the restraint, move the re- straint to another seating position and try again, or try a different child restraint. Not all child restraints fit in all types of vehicles.

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LRS0824

(if so equipped)

1.

If the rear seat cushion has a flap s1 , pull the flap down to allow access to the anchors s2 . 2. Position the child restraint on the seat. Al- ways follow the child restraint manufactur- er(cid:146)s instructions. Check to make sure the LATCH attachment is properly attached to the lower anchors.

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Rear facing web-mounted (cid:150) step 3

Rear facing rigid-mounted (cid:150) step 3

Rear facing (cid:150) step 4

WRS0801

WRS0802

LRS0673

3. Secure the child restraint anchor attach- ments to the LATCH lower anchors. Check to make sure the LATCH attachment is prop- erly attached to the lower anchors.

4. For child restraints that are equipped with webbing mounted attachments, remove any additional slack from the anchor attach- ments. Press downward and rearward firmly in the center of the child restraint with your hand to compress the vehicle seat cushion and seatback while tightening the webbing of the anchor attachments.

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6. Check to make sure the child restraint is properly secured prior to each use. If the child restraint repeat steps 3
through 5.

is loose,

LRS0674

Rear facing (cid:150) step 5

5. Before placing the child in the child restraint, hold the child restraint near the LATCH at- tachment and use force to push the child restraint from side to side, and tug it forward to make sure that it is securely held in place. It should not move more than 1 in (25 mm). If it does move more than 1 in (25 mm), pull again on the anchor attachments to further tighten the child restraint. If you are unable to properly secure the restraint, move the re- straint to another seating position and try again, or try a different child restraint. Not all child restraints fit in all types of vehicles.

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WRS0256

CHILD RESTRAINT INSTALLATION USING THE SEAT BELTS

WARNING

c Even with the NISSAN Advanced Air Bag System, never install a rear-facing child restraint in the front passenger seat. Front air bags inflate with great force. A rear-facing child restraint could be struck by the front air bag in a crash and could seriously injure or kill your child.

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c NISSAN recommends that child re- straints be installed in the rear seat. However, if you must install a forward facing child restraint in the front pas- senger seat, move the passenger seat to the rearmost position. Also, be sure the front passenger air bag status light is illuminated to indicate the passenger air bag is OFF. See (cid:147)Front passenger air bag and status light(cid:148) later in this sec- tion for details.

c The three-point seat belt in your vehicle is equipped with an Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) which must be used when installing a child restraint.

c Failure to use the ALR mode will result in the child restraint not being properly secured. The restraint could tip over or otherwise be unsecured and cause in- jury to the child in a sudden stop or collision. Also, it can change the opera- tion of the front passenger air bag. See (cid:147)Front passenger air bag and status light(cid:148) later in this section.

c A child restraint with a top tether strap should not be used in the front passen- ger seat.

The instructions in this section apply to child restraint installation using the vehicle seat belts in the rear seat or the front passenger seat.

WRS0699
Front-facing (front passenger seat) (cid:150) step 1
Front-facing Follow these steps to install a front-facing child restraint using the vehicle seat belt in the rear seats or in the front passenger seat: 1. If you must install a child restraint in the front seat, it should be placed in a front-facing direction only. Move the seat to the rearmost position. Child restraints for infants must be used in the rear-facing direction and therefore must not be used in the front seat.

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2. Position the child restraint on the seat. Al- ways follow the child restraint manufactur- er(cid:146)s instructions

The back of the child restraint should be secured against the vehicle seatback. If necessary, adjust or remove the head restraint to obtain the correct child restraint fit. See (cid:147)Head restraint adjust- ment(cid:148) in this section. If the head restraint is removed, store it in a secure place. Be sure to install the head restraint when the child restraint is removed. If the seating position does not have an adjustable head re- straint and it is interfering with the proper child restraint fit, try another seating position or a dif- ferent child restraint.

Front facing (cid:150) step 3

Front facing (cid:150) step 4

WRS0680

LRS0667

3. Route the seat belt tongue through the child restraint and insert it into the buckle until you hear and feel the latch engage. Be sure to follow the child restraint manufacturer(cid:146)s in- structions for belt routing.

4. Pull the shoulder belt until the belt is fully extended. At this time, the seat belt retractor is in the Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode (child restraint mode). It reverts to Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) mode when the seat belt is fully retracted.

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LRS0668

WRS0681

WRS0698

Front facing (cid:150) step 5

Front facing (cid:150) step 6

5. Allow the seat belt to retract. Pull up on the shoulder belt to remove any slack in the belt.

6. Remove any additional slack from the seat belt; press downward and rearward firmly in the center of the child restraint with your knee to compress the vehicle seat cushion and seatback while pulling up on the seat belt.

Front facing (cid:150) step 7

7.

If the child restraint is equipped with a top tether strap, route the top tether strap and secure the tether strap to the tether anchor point (rear seat installation only). See (cid:147)Top tether strap child restraint(cid:148) in this section. Do not install child restraints that require the use of a top tether strap to seating positions that do not have a top tether anchor.

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8. Before placing the child in the child restraint, hold the child restraint near the seat belt path and use force to push the child restraint from side to side, and tug it forward to make sure that it is securely held in place. It should not move more than 1 in (25 mm). If it does move more than 1 in (25 mm), pull again on the shoulder belt to further tighten the child restraint. If you are unable to properly secure the restraint, move the restraint to another seating position and try again, or try a differ- ent child restraint. Not all child restraints fit in all types of vehicles.

9. Check that the retractor is in the ALR mode by trying to pull more seat belt out of the retractor. If you cannot pull any more belt webbing out of the retractor, the retractor is in the ALR mode.

10. Check to make sure the child restraint is properly secured prior to each use. If the seat belt locked, repeat steps 3
through 9.

is not

WRS0475

WRS0256

11.

Front facing (cid:150) step 11

If the child restraint is installed in the front passenger seat, push the ignition switch to the ON position. The front passenger air bag status light should illuminate. If this light is not illuminated see 9Front passenger air bag and status light9 in this section. Move the child restraint to another seating position. Have system checked by a NISSAN dealer.

the

After the child restraint is removed and the seat belt is fully retracted, the ALR mode (child re- straint mode) is canceled.

Rear-facing (cid:150) step 1

Rear-facing Follow these steps to install a rear-facing child restraint using the vehicle seat belt in the rear seats: 1. Child restraints for infants must be used in the rear-facing direction and therefore must not be used in the front seat. Position the child restraint on the seat. Always follow the restraint manufacturer(cid:146)s instructions.

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Rear facing (cid:150) step 2

Rear facing (cid:150) step 3

Rear facing (cid:150) step 4

WRS0761

LRS0669

LRS0670

2. Route the seat belt tongue through the child restraint and insert it into the buckle until you hear and feel the latch engage. Be sure to follow the child restraint manufacturer(cid:146)s in- structions for belt routing.

3. Pull the shoulder belt until the belt is fully extended. At this time, the seat belt retractor is in the Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode (child restraint mode). It reverts to the Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) mode when the seat belt is fully retracted.

4. Allow the seat belt to retract. Pull up on the shoulder belt to remove any slack in the belt.

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7. Check that the retractor is in the ALR mode by trying to pull more seat belt out of the retractor. If you cannot pull any more seat belt webbing out of the retractor, the retrac- tor is in the ALR mode.

8. Check to make sure that the child restraint is properly secured prior to each use. If the belt is not locked, repeat steps 3 through 7.

After the child restraint is removed and the seat belt fully retracted, the ALR mode (child restraint mode) is canceled.

Rear facing (cid:150) step 5

Rear facing (cid:150) step 6

WRS0762

WRS0763

5. Remove any additional slack from the child restraint; press downward and rearward firmly in the center of the child restraint to compress the vehicle seat cushion and seat- back while pulling up on the seat belt.

6. Before placing the child in the child restraint, hold the child restraint near the seat belt path and use force to push the child restraint from side to side, and tug it forward to make sure that it is securely held in place. It should not move more than 1 in (25 mm). If it does move more than 1 in (25 mm), pull again on the shoulder belt to further tighten the child restraint. If you are unable to properly secure the restraint, move the restraint to another rear seating position and try again, or try a different child restraint. Not all child re- straints fit in all types of vehicles.

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BOOSTER SEATS

ARS1098

PRECAUTIONS ON BOOSTER SEATS

WARNING

c Infants and small children should al- ways be placed in an appropriate child restraint while riding in the vehicle. Failure to use a child restraint or booster seat can result in serious injury or death.

c Infants and small children should never be carried on your lap. It is not possible for even the strongest adult to resist the forces of a severe accident. The child could be crushed between the adult and parts of the vehicle. Also, do not put the same seat belt around both your child and yourself.

c NISSAN recommends that the booster seat be installed in the rear seat. Ac- cording to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seat than in the front seat. If you must install a booster seat in the front seat, see (cid:147)Booster seat installa- tion(cid:148) in this section.

seating

position

c A booster seat must only be installed in lap/shoulder belt. Failure to use a three-point type seat belt with a booster seat can result in a serious in- jury in sudden stop or collision.

that

has

c Improper use or improper installation of a booster seat can increase the risk or severity of injury for both the child and other occupants of the vehicle and can lead to serious injury or death in an accident.

c Do not use towels, books, pillows or other items in place of a booster seat. Items such as these may move during normal driving or a collision and result in serious injury or death. Booster seats are designed to be used with a lap/shoulder belt. Booster seats are de- signed to properly route the lap and shoulder portions of the seat belt over the strongest portions of a child(cid:146)s body to provide the maximum protection dur- ing a collision.

c Follow all of the booster seat manufac- turer(cid:146)s instructions for installation and use. When purchasing a booster seat, be sure to select one which will fit your child and vehicle. It may not be possible to properly install some types of booster seats in your vehicle.

c If the booster seat and seat belt is not used properly, the risk of a child being injured in a collision or a sudden stop greatly increases.

c Adjustable seatbacks should be posi- tioned to fit the booster seat, but as upright as possible.

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c After placing the child in the booster seat and fastening the seat belt, make sure the shoulder portion of the belt is away from the child(cid:146)s face and neck and the lap portion of the belt does not cross the abdomen.

c Do not put the shoulder belt behind the child or under the child(cid:146)s arm. If you must install a booster seat in the front seat, see (cid:147)Booster seat installation(cid:148) later in this section.

c When your booster seat is not in use, keep it secured with a seat belt to pre- vent it from being thrown around in case of a sudden stop or accident.

CAUTION

Remember that a booster seat left in a closed vehicle can become very hot. Check the seating surface and buckles before placing your child in the booster seat.

LRS0455
Booster seats of various sizes are offered by several manufacturers. When selecting any booster seat, keep the following points in mind: c Choose only a booster seat with a label certifying that it complies with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213.

c Check the booster seat in your vehicle to be sure it is compatible with the vehicle(cid:146)s seat and seat belt system.

WRS0813
c Make sure the child(cid:146)s head will be properly supported by the booster seat or vehicle seat. The seat back must be at or above the center of the child(cid:146)s ears. For example, if a low back booster seat s1 is chosen, the vehicle seat back must be at or above the center of the child(cid:146)s ears. If the seat back is lower than the center of the child(cid:146)s ears, a high back booster seat s2 should be used. c If the booster seat is compatible with your vehicle, place your child in the booster seat and check the various adjustments to be sure the booster seat is compatible with your child. Always follow all recommended pro- cedures.

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BOOSTER SEAT INSTALLATION

WARNING

NISSAN recommends that booster seats be installed in the rear seat. However, if you must install a booster seat in the front passenger seat, move the passenger(cid:146)s seat to the rearmost position.

CAUTION

Do not use the lap/shoulder belt Auto- matic Locking Retractor mode when using a booster seat with the seat belts.

Follow these steps to install a booster seat in the rear seat or in the front passenger seat:

WRS0699
1. If you must install a booster seat in the front seat, move the seat to the rear- most position.

2. Position the booster seat on the seat. Only place it in a front facing direction. Always follow the booster seat manufacturer(cid:146)s in- structions.

WRS0811
All U.S. states and Canadian provinces or territories require that infants and small children be restrained in an approved child restraint at all times while the vehicle is being operated. The instructions in this section apply to booster seat installation in the rear seats or the front passenger seat.

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4. Position the lap portion of the seat belt low and snug on the child(cid:146)s hips. Be sure to follow the booster seat manufacturer(cid:146)s in- structions for adjusting the belt routing.

5. Pull the shoulder belt portion of the seat belt toward the retractor to take up extra slack. Be sure the shoulder belt is positioned across the top, middle portion of the child(cid:146)s shoulder. Be sure to follow the booster seat manufacturer(cid:146)s instructions for adjusting the belt routing.

Rear center position

Rear outboard position

LRS0451

WRS0812

3. The booster seat should be positioned on the vehicle seat so that it is stable. If neces- sary, adjust or remove the head restraint to obtain the correct booster seat fit. See (cid:147)Head restraint adjustment(cid:148) earlier in this section. If the head restraint is removed, store it in a secure place. Be sure to install the head restraint when the booster seat is removed. If the seating position does not have an adjustable head restraint and it is interfering with the proper booster seat fit, try another seating position or a different booster seat.

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LRS0454

Front passenger position

6. Follow the warnings, cautions and instruc- tions for properly fastening a seat belt shown in the (cid:147)Three-point seat belt with retractor(cid:148) earlier in this section.

7.

WRS0475
If the booster seat is installed in the front passenger seat, push the ignition switch to the ON position. The front passenger air bag status light may or may not illuminate, depending on the size of the child and the type of booster seat being used. See (cid:147)Front passenger air bag and status light(cid:148) later in this section.

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM

PRECAUTIONS ON SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM This Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) sec- tion contains important information concerning the following systems: c Driver and passenger supplemental front- impact air bag (NISSAN Advanced Air Bag System)

c Front seat-mounted side-impact supple-

mental air bag

c Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supple-

mental air bag

c Seat belt with pretensioner Supplemental front-impact air bag system: The NISSAN Advanced Air Bag System can help cushion the impact force to the head and chest of the driver and front passenger in certain frontal collisions. Front seat-mounted side-impact supple- mental air bag system: This system can help cushion the impact force to the chest and pelvic area of the driver and front passenger in certain side impact collisions. The side air bags are de- signed to inflate on the side where the vehicle is impacted.

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Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supple- mental air bag system: This system can help cushion the impact force to the head of occu- pants in front and rear outboard seating positions in certain side impact collisions. The curtain air bags are designed to inflate on the side where the vehicle is impacted. These supplemental restraint systems are de- signed to supplement the crash protection pro- vided by the driver and front passenger seat belts and are not a substitute for them. Seat belts should always be correctly worn and the occu- pant seated a suitable distance away from the steering wheel, instrument panel and door finish- ers. (See (cid:147)Seat belts(cid:148) earlier in this section for instructions and precautions on seat belt usage.) The supplemental air bags operate only when the ignition switch is in the ON posi- tion. After turning the ignition key to the ON position, the supplemental air bag warning light illuminates. The supplemental air bag warning light will turn off after about 7
seconds if the system is operational.

WARNING

c The front air bags ordinarily will not inflate in the event of a side impact, rear impact, rollover, or lower severity fron- tal collision. Always wear your seat belts to help reduce the risk or severity of injury in various kinds of accidents. c The front passenger air bag will not inflate if the passenger air bag status light is lit or if the front passenger seat is unoccupied. See (cid:147)Front passenger air bag and status light(cid:148) later in this section.

WRS0031

c The seat belts and the front air bags are most effective when you are sitting well back and upright in the seat. The front air bags inflate with great force. Even with the NISSAN Advanced Air Bag Sys- tem, if you are unrestrained, leaning forward, sitting sideways or out of posi- tion in any way, you are at greater risk of injury or death in a crash. You may also receive serious or fatal injuries from the front air bag if you are up against it when it inflates. Always sit back against the seatback and as far away as practi- cal from the steering wheel or instru- ment panel. Always use the seat belts.

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c The driver and front passenger seat belt buckles are equipped with sensors that detect if the seat belts are fastened. The Advanced Air Bag System monitors the severity of a collision and seat belt us- age then inflates the air bags. Failure to properly wear seat belts can increase the risk or severity of injury in an accident.

c The front passenger seat is equipped with an occupant classification sensor (pressure sensor) that turns the front passenger air bag OFF under some conditions. This sensor is only used in this seat. Failure to be properly seated and wearing the seat belt can increase the risk or severity of injury in an acci- dent. See (cid:147)Front Passenger air bag and status light(cid:148) later in this section.

c Keep hands on the outside of the steer- ing wheel. Placing them inside the steering wheel rim could increase the risk that they are injured when the front air bag inflates.

ARS1133

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ARS1041

ARS1042

ARS1043

WARNING

c Never let children ride unrestrained or extend their hands or face out of the window. Do not attempt to hold them in your lap or arms. Some examples of dangerous riding positions are shown in the illustrations.

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ARS1044

ARS1045

ARS1046

WARNING

c Children may be severely injured or killed when the front air bags, side air bags or curtain air bags inflate if they are not properly restrained. Pre-teens and children should be properly re- strained in the rear seat, if possible.

c Even with the NISSAN Advanced Air Bag System, never install a rear-facing child restraint in the front seat. An in- flating front air bag could seriously in- jure or kill your child. See (cid:147)Child re- straints(cid:148) earlier in this section for details.

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WARNING

WARNING

c The seat belts, the side air bags and curtain air bags are most effective when you are sitting well back and upright in the seat with both feet on the floor. The side air bag and curtain air bag inflate with great force. Do not allow anyone to place their hand, leg or face near the side air bag on the side of the seatback of the front seat or near the side roof rails. Do not allow anyone sitting in the front seats or rear outboard seats to extend their hand out of the window or lean against the door. Some examples of dangerous riding positions are shown in the previous illustrations.

c When sitting in the rear seat, do not hold onto the seatback of the front seat. If the side air bag inflates, you may be seriously injured. Be especially careful with children, who should always be properly restrained. Some examples of dangerous riding positions are shown in the illustrations.

c Do not use seat covers on the front seatbacks. They may interfere with side air bag inflation.

SSS0101

WARNING

Front seat-mounted side-impact supple- mental air bags and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags (if so equipped): c The side air bags and curtain air bags ordinarily will not inflate in the event of a frontal impact, rear impact, rollover or lower severity side collision. Always wear your seat belts to help reduce the risk or severity of injury in various kinds of accidents.

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SSS0159

SSS0162

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1-48 Safety(cid:151)Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

Coupe

WRS0845

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1.

2.

3.

4. 5.

Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bag inflators Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags Front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bag modules Air bag Control Unit (ACU) Supplemental front-impact air bag mod- ules

6. Crash zone sensor 7.

Seat belt buckle switches on driver(cid:146)s and passenger(cid:146)s side

8. Occupant classification sensor (pattern

sensor)

9. Occupant classification system control

unit

10. Seat belt with pretensioner 11. Side satellite sensor

Sedan

Safety(cid:151)Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-49

WRS0844

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the front passenger, the occupant classification sensor is also monitored. Based on information from the sensors, only one front air bag may inflate in a crash, depending on the crash severity and whether the front occupants are belted or unbelted. Additionally, the front passenger air bag may be automatically turned OFF under some conditions, depending on the information provided by the occupant classification sensor. If the front passenger air bag is OFF, the passenger air bag status light will be illuminated (if the seat is unoccupied, the light will not be illuminated, but the air bag will be off). See (cid:147)Front passenger air bag and status light(cid:148) later in this section for further details. One front air bag inflating does not indicate improper performance of the system.

NISSAN Advanced Air Bag System (front seats) This vehicle is equipped with the NISSAN Ad- vanced Air Bag System for the driver and front passenger seats. This system is designed to meet certification requirements under U.S. regu- lations. It is also permitted in Canada. However, all of the information, cautions and warn- ings in this manual still apply and must be followed. The driver supplemental front(cid:150)impact air bag is located in the center of the steering wheel. The passenger supplemental front-impact air bag is mounted in the dashboard above the glove box. The front air bags are designed to inflate in higher severity frontal collisions, although they may in- flate if the forces in another type of collision are similar to those of a higher severity frontal impact. They may not inflate in certain frontal collisions. Vehicle damage (or lack of it) is not always an indication of proper front air bag system opera- tion. The NISSAN Advanced Air Bag System has dual stage air bag inflators. It also monitors informa- tion from the crash zone sensor, the Air bag Control Unit (ACU), seat belt buckle sensors and the occupant classification sensor (pattern sen- sor). Inflator operation is based on the severity of a collision and seat belt usage for the driver. For 1-50 Safety(cid:151)Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

When a front air bag inflates, a fairly loud noise may be heard, followed by the release of smoke. This smoke is not harmful and does not indicate a fire. Care should be taken to not inhale it, as it may cause irritation and choking. Those with a history of a breathing condition should get fresh air promptly.

If you have any questions about your air bag system, please contact NISSAN or your NISSAN dealer. If you are considering modification of your vehicle due to a disability, you may also contact NISSAN. Contact information is contained in the front of this Owner(cid:146)s Manual.

Front air bags, along with the use of seat belts, help to cushion the impact force on the face and chest of the front occupants. They can help save lives and reduce serious injuries. However, an inflating front air bag may cause facial abrasions or other injuries. Front air bags do not provide restraint to the lower body. Even with NISSAN advanced air bags, seat belts should be correctly worn and the driver and pas- senger seated upright as far as practical away from the steering wheel or instrument panel. The front air bags inflate quickly in order to help protect the front occupants. Because of this, the force of the front air bag inflating can increase the risk of injury if the occupant is too close to, or is against, the front air bag module during inflation. The front air bags deflate quickly after a collision. The front air bags operate only when the ignition switch is in the ON position. After pushing the ignition switch to the ON position, the supplemental air bag warning light illuminates. The supplemental air bag warning light will turn off after about 7
seconds if the system is operational.

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Front passenger air bag and status light

WRS0475

WARNING

The front passenger air bag is designed to automatically turn OFF under some con- ditions. Read this section carefully to learn how it operates. Proper use of the seat, seat belt and child restraints is nec- essary for most effective protection. Fail- ure to follow all instructions in this manual concerning the use of seats, seat belts and child restraints can increase the risk or severity of injury in an accident.

Status light is The front passenger air bag status light located on the instrument panel above the radio controls. The light operates as follows: c Unoccupied passenger(cid:146)s seat: The

is OFF and the front passenger air bag is OFF and will not inflate in a crash.

c Passenger(cid:146)s seat occupied by a small adult, child or child restraint as outlined in this section: The illuminates to indicate that the front passenger air bag is OFF and will not inflate in a crash.

c Occupied passenger seat and the passen- ger meets the conditions outlined in this section: The light is OFF to indicate that the front passenger air bag is opera- tional.

Front passenger air bag The front passenger air bag is designed to auto- matically turn OFF when the vehicle is operated under some conditions as described below in accordance with U.S. regulations. If the front passenger air bag is OFF, it will not inflate in a crash. The driver air bag and other air bags in your vehicle are not part of this system.

The purpose of the regulation is to help reduce the risk of injury or death from an inflating air bag to certain front passenger seat occupants, such as children, by requiring the air bag to be auto- matically turned OFF. The occupant classification sensor (pattern sen- sor) is in the front passenger seat cushion and is designed to detect an occupant and objects on the seat. For example, if a child is in the front passenger seat, the Advanced Air Bag System is designed to turn the passenger air bag OFF in accordance with the regulations. Also, if a child restraint of the type specified in the regulations is on the seat, the occupant classification sensor can detect it and cause the air bag to turn OFF. Front passenger seat adult occupants who are properly seated and using the seat belt as out- lined in this manual should not cause the passen- ger air bag to be automatically turned OFF. For small adults it may be turned OFF, however if the occupant does not sit in the seat properly (for example, by not sitting upright, by sitting on an edge of the seat, or by otherwise being out of position), this could cause the sensor to turn the air bag OFF. Always be sure to be seated and wearing the seat belt properly for the most effec- tive protection by the seat belt and supplemental air bag.

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The light will not illuminate when the front pas- senger seat is unoccupied.

If an adult occupant is in the seat but the passen- ger air bag status light is illuminated (indicating that the air bag is OFF), it could be that the person is a small adult, or is not sitting on the seat properly.

NISSAN recommends that pre-teens and chil- dren be properly restrained in a rear seat. NISSAN also recommends that appropriate child restraints and booster seats be properly installed in a rear seat. If this is not possible, the occupant classification sensor is designed to operate as described above to turn the front passenger air bag OFF for specified child restraints as required by the regulations. Failing to properly secure child restraints and to use the Automatic Locking Retractor mode (child restraint mode) may allow the restraint to tip or move in an accident or sudden stop. This can also result in the passen- ger air bag inflating in a crash instead of being OFF. See (cid:147)Child restraints(cid:148) earlier in this section for proper use and installation. If the front passenger seat is not occupied, the passenger air bag is designed not to inflate in a crash. However, heavy objects placed on the seat could result in air bag inflation, because of the object being detected by the occupant clas- sification sensor. Other conditions could also result in air bag inflation, such as if a child is standing on the seat, or if two children are on the seat, contrary to the instructions in this manual. Always be sure that you and all vehicle occupants are seated and restrained properly. Using the passenger air bag status light, you can monitor when the front passenger air bag is au- tomatically turned OFF with the seat occupied. 1-52 Safety(cid:151)Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

If a child restraint must be used in the front seat, the passenger air bag status light may or may not be illuminated, depending on the size of the child and the type of child restraint being used. If the air bag status light is not illuminated (indicating that the air bag might inflate in a crash), it could be that the child restraint or seat belt is not being used properly. Make sure that the child restraint is installed properly, the seat belt is used properly and the occupant is positioned properly. If the air bag status light is not illuminated, reposition the occupant or child restraint in a rear seat. If the passenger air bag status light will not illu- minate even though you believe that the child restraint, the seat belts and the occupant are properly positioned, the system may be sensing an unoccupied seat (in which case the air bag is OFF). Your NISSAN dealer can check that the system is OFF by using a special tool. However, until you have confirmed with your dealer that your air bag is working properly, reposition the occupant or child restraint in a rear seat.

The air bag system and passenger air bag status light will take a few seconds to register a change in the passenger seat status. However, if the seat becomes unoccupied, the air bag status light will remain off.

If a malfunction occurs in the front passenger air bag system, the supplemental air bag warning light , located in the meter and gauges area in the center of the instrument panel, will blink. Have the system checked by a NISSAN dealer. Other supplemental front air bag precau- tions

WARNING

c Do not place any objects on the steer- ing wheel pad or on the instrument panel. Also, do not place any objects between any occupant and the steering wheel or instrument panel. Such ob- jects may become dangerous projec- tiles and cause injury if the front air bags inflate.

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c Do not place objects with sharp edges on the seat. Also, do not place heavy objects on the seat that will leave per- manent impressions in the seat. Such objects can damage the seat or occu- pant classification sensor (pattern sen- sor). This can affect the operation of the air bag system and result in serious personal injury.

c Do not use water or acidic cleaners (hot steam cleaners) on the seat. This can damage the seat or occupant classifica- tion sensor. This can also affect the operation of the air bag system and result in serious personal injury.

c Immediately after

inflation, several front air bag system components will be hot. Do not touch them; you may se- verely burn yourself.

c No unauthorized changes should be made to any components or wiring of the supplemental air bag system. This is to prevent accidental inflation of the supplemental air bag or damage to the supplemental air bag system.

c Do not place any objects on the steer- ing wheel pad or on the instrument panel. Also, do not place any objects between any occupant and the steering wheel or instrument panel. Such ob- jects may become dangerous projec- tiles and cause injury if the front air bags inflate.

c Tampering with the supplemental front air bag system may result in serious personal injury. Tampering includes changes to the steering wheel and the instrument panel assembly by placing material over the steering wheel pad and above the instrument panel or by installing trim material around the air bag system.

additional

c Modifying or tampering with the front passenger seat may result in serious personal injury. For example, do not change the front seats by placing mate- rial on the seat cushion or by installing additional trim material, such as seat covers, on the seat that are not specifi- cally designed to assure proper air bag operation. Additionally, do not stow any objects under the front passenger seat or the seat cushion and seatback. Such objects may interfere with the proper operation of the occupant classifica- tion sensor.

c No unauthorized changes should be made to any components or wiring of the seat belt system. This may affect the front air bag system. Tampering with the seat belt system may result in seri- ous personal injury.

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c Work on and around the front air bag system should be done by a NISSAN dealer. Installation of electrical equip- ment should also be done by a NISSAN dealer. The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) wiring should not be modified or disconnected. Unautho- rized electrical test equipment and probing devices should not be used on the air bag system.

c A cracked windshield should be re- placed immediately by a qualified re- pair facility. A cracked windshield could affect the function of the supplemental air bag system.

c The SRS wiring harness connectors are easy

orange

for

yellow and identification.

When selling your vehicle, we request that you inform the buyer about the front air bag system and guide the buyer to the appropriate sections in this Owner(cid:146)s Manual.

inflate if the forces in another type of collision are similar to those of a higher severity side impact. They are designed to inflate on the side where the vehicle is impacted. They may not inflate in cer- tain side collisions.

Vehicle damage (or lack of it) is not always an indication of proper side air bag and curtain air bag operation. When the side air bags and curtain air bags inflate, a fairly loud noise may be heard, followed by release of smoke. This smoke is not harmful and does not indicate a fire. Care should be taken not to inhale it, as it may cause irritation and choking. Those with a history of a breathing con- dition should get fresh air promptly. Side air bags, along with the use of seat belts, help to cushion the impact force on the chest and pelvic area of the front occupants. Curtain air bags help to cushion the impact force to the head of occupants in the front and rear outboard seat- ing positions. They can help save lives and re- duce serious injuries. However, an inflating side air bag and curtain air bag may cause abrasions or other injuries. Side air bags and curtain air bags do not provide restraint to the lower body. The seat belts should be correctly worn and the driver and passenger seated upright as far as practical away from the side air bag. Rear seat passengers should be seated as far away as

WRS0816

Front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bag and roof- mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bag systems The side air bags are located in the outside of the seatback of the front seats. The curtain air bags are located in the side roof rails. These systems are designed to meet voluntary guidelines to help reduce the risk of injury to out-of-position occu- pants. However, all of the information, cau- tions and warnings in this manual still ap- ply and must be followed. The side air bags and curtain air bags are designed to inflate in higher severity side collisions, although they may

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practical from the door finishers and side roof rails. The side air bags and curtain air bags inflate quickly in order to help protect the front occu- pants. Because of this, the force of the side air bag and curtain air bag inflating can increase the risk of injury if the occupant is too close to, or is against, these air bag modules during inflation. The side air bags and curtain air bag will deflate quickly after the collision is over. The side air bags and curtain air bags op- erate only when the ignition switch is in the ON position.

After pushing the ignition switch to the ON position, the supplemental air bag warning light illuminates. The supplemental air bag warning light will turn off after about 7
seconds if the system is operational.

WARNING

c Do not place any objects near the seat- back of the front seats. Also, do not place any objects (an umbrella, bag, etc.) between the front door finisher and the front seat. Such objects may become dangerous projectiles and cause injury if a side air bag inflates.

c Right after inflation, several side air bag and curtain air bag system components will be hot. Do not touch them; you may severely burn yourself.

c No unauthorized changes should be made to any components or wiring of the side air bag and curtain air bag systems. This is to prevent damage to or accidental inflation of the side air bag and curtain air bag systems.

c Do not make unauthorized changes to your vehicle(cid:146)s electrical system, sus- pension system or side panel. This could affect proper operation of the side air bag and curtain air bag systems. c Tampering with the side air bag system may result in serious personal injury. For example, do not change the front seats by placing material near the seat- backs or by installing additional trim material, such as seat covers, around the side air bag..

c Work around and on the side air bag and curtain air bag system should be done by a NISSAN dealer. Installation of electrical equipment should also be done by a NISSAN dealer. The SRS wir- ing harnesses* should not be modified or disconnected. Unauthorized electri- cal test equipment and probing devices should not be used on the side air bag or curtain air bag system.

* The SRS wiring harness connectors are yellow and orange for easy identification.

When selling your vehicle, we request that you inform the buyer about the side air bag and curtain air bag systems and guide the buyer to the appropriate sections in this Owner(cid:146)s Manual. Seat belts with pretensioners (Front seats)

WARNING

c The pretensioners cannot be reused af- ter activation. They must be replaced together with the retractor and buckle as a unit.

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When selling your vehicle, we request that you inform the buyer about the pretensioner system and guide the buyer to the appropriate sections in this Owner(cid:146)s Manual.

c If the vehicle becomes involved in a frontal collision but a pretensioner is not activated, be sure to have the pre- tensioner system checked and, if nec- essary, your NISSAN dealer.

replaced by

c No unauthorized changes should be made to any components or wiring of the pretensioner system. This is to pre- vent damage to or accidental activation of the pretensioners. Tampering with the pretensioner system may result in serious personal injury.

c Work around and on the pretensioner system should be done by a NISSAN dealer. Installation of electrical equip- ment should also be done by a NISSAN dealer. Unauthorized electrical test equipment and probing devices should not be used on the pretensioner system. c If you need to dispose of a pretensioner or scrap the vehicle, contact a NISSAN dealer. Correct pretensioner disposal procedures are set forth in the appropri- ate NISSAN Service Manual. Incorrect disposal procedures could cause per- sonal injury.

The pretensioner system activates in conjunction with the front air bag system. Working with the seat belt retractor, it helps tighten the seat belt when the vehicle becomes involved in certain types of collisions, helping to restrain front seat occupants.

The pretensioner is encased with the seat belt retractor. These seat belts are used the same way as conventional seat belts.

When a pretensioner activates, smoke is re- leased and a loud noise may be heard. This smoke is not harmful and does not indicate a fire. Care should be taken not to inhale it, as it may cause irritation and choking. Those with a history of a breathing condition should get fresh air promptly.

After pretensioner activation, load limiters allow the seat belt to release webbing (if necessary) to reduce forces against the chest.

If any abnormality occurs in the pretensioner, the supplemental air bag warning light will not come on, will flash intermittently or will turn on for 7 seconds and remain on after the ignition key has been turned to the ON or START position. In this case, the pretensioner system may not func- tion properly. They must be checked and re- paired. Take your vehicle to the nearest NISSAN dealer.

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When the ignition is in the ON position, the supplemental air bag warning light illuminates for about 7 seconds and then turns off. This means the system is operational.

If any of the following conditions occur, the front air bag, side air bag and curtain air bag and pretensioner systems need servicing: c The supplemental air bag warning light re-

mains on after approximately 7 seconds.

c The supplemental air bag warning light

flashes intermittently.

c The supplemental air bag warning light does

not come on at all.

Under these conditions, the front air bag, side air bag and curtain air bag or pretensioner systems may not operate properly. They must be checked and repaired. Take your vehicle to the nearest NISSAN dealer.

WARNING

If the supplemental air bag warning light is on, it could mean that the front air bag, side air bags, curtain air bag and/or pre- tensioner systems will not operate in an accident. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have your vehicle checked by a NISSAN dealer as soon as possible.

WRS0169

LRS0100

1. 2.

SRS air bag warning labels Front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bag warning label

SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG WARNING LABELS Warning labels about the supplemental front- impact air bag, front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bag and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bag systems are placed in the vehicle as shown in the illustration.

SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT air bag warning light, The supplemental displaying in the instrument panel, moni- tors the circuits of the supplemental front-impact air bag, front seat-mounted side-impact supple- mental air bag, roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bag and seat belt pretensioner systems. The monitored circuits include the Air bag Control Unit (ACU), crash zone sensor, sat- ellite sensors, front air bag modules, side air bag modules, curtain air bag modules, pretensioners and all related wiring.

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c The front air bag, side air bag, curtain air bag systems and the pretensioner should be inspected by a NISSAN dealer if there is any damage to the front end or side portion of the vehicle. c If you need to dispose of a supplemen- tal air bag or pretensioners or scrap the vehicle, contact a NISSAN dealer. Cor- rect supplemental air bag and preten- sioner system disposal procedures are set forth in the appropriate NISSAN Service Manual. Incorrect disposal pro- cedures could cause personal injury.

Repair and replacement procedure The front air bags, side air bags, curtain air bags and pretensioners are designed to inflate on a one-time-only basis. As a reminder, unless it is damaged, the supplemental air bag warning light remains illuminated after inflation has occurred. Repair and replacement of these supplemental air bag systems should be done only by a NISSAN dealer.

When maintenance work is required on the ve- hicle, the front air bags, side air bags, curtain air bags, pretensioners and related parts should be pointed out to the person performing the mainte- nance. The ignition should always be in the LOCK position when working under the hood or inside the vehicle.

WARNING

c Once a front air bag, side air bag, or curtain air bag has inflated, the air bag module will not function again and must be replaced. Additionally, if any of the front air bags inflate, the activated pretensioners must also be replaced. The air bag module and pretensioners should be replaced by a NISSAN dealer. The air bag module and pretensioners cannot be repaired.

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MEMO

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2 Instruments and controls

Instrument panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Meters and gauges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Engine coolant temperature gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Compass display (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Compass display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Warning/indicator lights and audible reminders . . . . . . 2-10
Checking bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Warning lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Indicator lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Audible reminders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Vehicle information display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
How to use the Vehicle Information Display . . . . . . . 2-17
Security systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24
Vehicle security system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24
NISSAN vehicle immobilizer system . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-25
Windshield wiper and washer switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-26
Switch operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-26

Rear window and outside mirror (if so equipped) defroster switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27
Headlight and turn signal switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27

Xenon headlights (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27
Headlight control switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28
Daytime running light system (Canada only) . . . . . . 2-30
Instrument brightness control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-31
Turn signal switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-31
Fog light switch (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32
Hazard warning flasher switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-33
Heated seat (if so equipped). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-33
Traction Control System (TCS) off switch (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) off switch (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34
Power outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35