2012 Nissan Altima Owners Manual

Spark plug gap (Nominal)

Camshaft operation This spark ignition system complies with the Canadian standard ICES-002.

Timing chain

QR25DE

Gasoline, 4-cycle, DOHC 4-cylinder in-line

in (mm) 3.5 x 3.9 (89.0 x 100.0)

cu in (cm3) 151.82 (2,488)

1–3–4–2

VQ35DE

Gasoline, 4-cycle, DOHC 6-cylinder, V-block, Slanted at 60° 3.760 x 3.205 (95.5 x 81.4) 213.45 (3,498) 1–2–3–4–5–6

No adjustment is necessary.

DILKAR6A-11

in (mm) 0.043 (1.1)

FXE22HR-11

0.043 (1.1)

Timing chain

Technical and consumer information 9-7

WHEELS AND TIRES

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS

Wheel type

Aluminum/Steel Aluminum Aluminum T type (Spare)

Tire size

Spare tire

Size 16 x 7J 17 x 7.5J 18 x 7.5JJ 16 x 4T

Alloy

Steel

Offset in (mm) 1.77 (45) 1.77 (45) 1.77 (45) 1.57 (40)

P215/60R16
P215/55R17
P235/45R18
T135/90R16
T135/90D16
T135/90R16
T135/90D16

Overall length Overall width Overall height Front track Rear track Wheelbase Gross vehicle weight rating Gross axle weight rating

Front Rear

in (mm) in (mm) in (mm) in (mm) in (mm) in (mm) lb (kg)

lb (kg) lb (kg)

Coupe 180.9 (4,595) 70.7 (1,795) 56.0 (1,423) 61.0 (1,550) 61.2 (1,554) 105.3 (2,675)

Sedan 190.7 (4,844) 70.7 (1,795) 58.0 (1,473) 61.0 (1,550) 61.1 (1,551) 109.3 (2,775)

See the “F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification la- bel” on the center pillar between the driver’s side front and rear doors.

9-8 Technical and consumer information

WHEN TRAVELING OR REGISTERING YOUR VEHICLE IN ANOTHER COUNTRY When planning to drive your NISSAN ve- hicle in another country, you should first find out if the fuel available is suitable for your vehi- cle’s engine. Using fuel with an octane rating that is too low may cause engine damage. All gasoline vehicles must be operated with unleaded gasoline. There- fore, avoid taking your vehicle to areas where appropriate fuel is not available. When transferring the registration of your vehicle to another country, state, province or district, it may be necessary to modify the vehicle to meet local laws and regulations. The laws and regulations for motor vehicle emis- sion control and safety standards vary according to the country, state, province or district; there- fore, vehicle specifications may differ. When any vehicle is to be taken into an- other country, state, province or district and registered, its modifications, transpor- tation, and registration are the responsibil- ity of the user. NISSAN is not responsible for any inconvenience that may result.

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION

LTI0025
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (VIN) PLATE The vehicle identification number (VIN) plate is attached as shown. This number is the identifica- tion for your vehicle and is used in the vehicle registration.

WTI0037
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (chassis number) The vehicle identification number is located as shown.

Technical and consumer information 9-9

QR25DE

VQ35DE

WTI0096

WTI0049

ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER The number is stamped on the engine as shown.

LTI0197

F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. CERTIFICATION LABEL The Federal/Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S.) certification la- bel is affixed as shown. This label contains valu- able vehicle information, such as: Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR), Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR), month and year of manufacture, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), etc. Review it carefully.

9-10 Technical and consumer information

WTI0189

LTI0224

LTI0225

EMISSION CONTROL INFORMATION LABEL The emission control tached to the underside of the hood as shown.

information label

is at-

Sedan

Coupe

TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION LABEL The cold tire pressure is shown on the Tire and Loading Information label. The label is located as shown.

Technical and consumer information 9-11

INSTALLING FRONT LICENSE PLATE

VEHICLE LOADING INFORMATION

WARNING

● It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area inside a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seri- ously injured or killed.

● Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and seat belts.

● Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a seat belt properly.

TERMS It is important to familiarize yourself with the following terms before loading your vehicle: ● Curb Weight (actual weight of your vehicle) - vehicle weight including: standard and optional equipment, flu- ids, emergency tools, and spare tire assembly. This weight does not in- clude passengers and cargo.

WTI0178
AIR CONDITIONER SPECIFICATION LABEL The air conditioner specification label is affixed to the underside of the hood as shown.

LTI2013

To mount the front license plate, attach the li- cense plate bracket 䊊1 to the plastic finisher at the location marks (small dimples) using the two 6 mm screws provided.

9-12 Technical and consumer information

● GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) - curb weight plus the combined weight of passengers and cargo.

● GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rat- ing) - maximum total combined weight of the unloaded vehicle, pas- sengers, trailer tongue load and any other optional equipment. This information is lo- cated on the F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label.

luggage,

hitch,

● GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) - maximum weight (load) limit specified for the front or rear axle. This informa- tion the located F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label.

on

is

● GCWR (Gross Combined Weight rating) - The maximum total weight rating of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and trailer.

To get “the combined weight of occu- pants and cargo”, add the weight of all occupants, then add the total luggage weight. Examples are shown in the follow- ing illustration.

limit specified of

● Vehicle Capacity Weight, Load limit, Total load capacity - maximum total weight the load (passengers and cargo) for the ve- hicle. This is the maximum combined weight of occupants and cargo that can be loaded into the vehicle. If the vehicle is used to tow a trailer, the trailer tongue weight must be in- cluded as part of the cargo load. This information is located on the Tire and Loading Information label (if so equipped).

● Cargo capacity - permissible weight of cargo, the subtracted weight of occupants from the load limit.

VEHICLE LOAD CAPACITY Do not exceed the load limit of your ve- hicle shown as “The combined weight of occupants and cargo” on the Tire and Loading Information label. Do not exceed the number of occupants shown as “Seating Capacity” on the Tire and Load- ing Information label.

Technical and consumer information 9-13

Steps for determining correct load limit 1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs” on your vehicle’s placard.

2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.

3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs.

4. The resulting figure equals the avail- able amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the XXX amount equals 1400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of avail- able cargo and luggage load capac- ity is 650 lbs. (1400-750 (5 X 150) = 650 lbs) or (640-340 (5 X 70) = 300 kg.)

9-14 Technical and consumer information

Example

LTI0152

5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be trans- ferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this re- duces the available cargo and lug- gage load capacity of your vehicle.

6.

Before driving a loaded vehicle, confirm that you do not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for your vehicle. See “Measurement of weights” later in this section. Also check tires for proper inflation pres- sures. See the Tire and Loading Informa- tion label.

LOADING TIPS ● The GVW must not exceed GVWR or GAWR as specified on the F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label.

● Do not load the front and rear axle to the GAWR. Doing so will exceed the GVWR.

WARNING

● Properly secure all cargo with ropes or straps to help prevent it from sliding or shifting. Do not place cargo higher than the seat- backs. In a sudden stop or colli- sion, unsecured cargo could cause personal injury.

● Do not

load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR or the maximum front and rear GAWRs. If you do, parts of your vehicle can break, tire damage could oc- cur, or it can change the way your vehicle handles. This could result in loss of control and cause per- sonal injury.

● Overloading not only can shorten the life of your vehicle and the tire, but can also cause unsafe vehicle handling and longer brak- ing distances. This may cause a premature tire failure which could result in a serious accident and personal injury. Failures caused by overloading are not covered vehicle’s warranty.

the

by

MEASUREMENT OF WEIGHTS Secure loose items to prevent weight shifts that could affect the balance of your vehicle. When the vehicle is loaded, drive to a scale and weigh the front and the rear wheels separately to determine axle loads. Individual axle loads should not ex- ceed either of the gross axle weight rat- ings (GAWR). The total of the axle loads should not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). These ratings are given on the vehicle certification label. If weight ratings are exceeded, move or re- move items to bring all weights below the ratings.

Technical and consumer information 9-15

specified

MAXIMUM LOAD LIMITS Maximum trailer loads Never allow the total trailer load to exceed the value “Towing Load/Specification” chart found later in this sec- tion. The total trailer load equals trailer weight plus its cargo weight. ● When towing a trailer load of 1,000 lbs. (454 kg) or more, trailers with a brake system must be used.

the

in

TOWING A TRAILER

WARNING

Overloading or improper loading of a trailer and its cargo can adversely affect vehicle handling, braking and perfor- mance and may lead to accidents.

CAUTION

● Do not tow a trailer or haul a heavy load for the first 500 miles (800 km). Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged.

● For the first 500 miles (800 km) that you tow a trailer, do not drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and do not make starts at full throttle. This helps the engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the heavier loads.

Your new vehicle was designed to be used pri- marily to carry passengers and cargo. Remember that towing a trailer places additional loads on your vehicle’s engine, drive train, steering, brak- ing and other systems. A NISSAN Towing Guide (U.S. only) is available on the website at www.nissanusa.com. This guide includes information on trailer towing ca- pability and the special equipment required for proper towing.

9-16 Technical and consumer information

LTI0164
The Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) equals the combined weight of the towing vehicle (including passengers and cargo) plus the total trailer load. Towing loads greater than these or using improper towing equipment could ad- versely affect vehicle handling, braking and per- formance.

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

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

WARNING

Overheating can result in reduced engine power and vehicle speed. The reduced speed may be lower than other traffic, which could increase the chance of a col- lision. Be especially careful when driving. If the vehicle cannot maintain a safe driv- ing speed, pull to the side of the road in a safe area. Allow the engine to cool and return to normal operation. See “If your vehicle overheats” in the “In case of emer- gency” section of this manual.

CAUTION

Vehicle damage resulting from improper towing procedures is not covered by NISSAN warranties.

WTI0160

TI1012M

Tongue load Keep the tongue load between 10 - 15 percent of the total trailer load or use the trailer tongue load specified by the trailer manufacturer. The tongue load must be within the maximum tongue load limits “Towing Load/Specification” chart. If the tongue load be- comes excessive, rearrange cargo to allow for proper tongue load.

following

shown

the

in

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

Technical and consumer information 9-17

Towing capacities are calculated assuming a base vehicle with driver and any options required to achieve the rating. Additional passengers, cargo and/or optional equipment, such as the trailer hitch, will add weight to the vehicle and reduce your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity and trailer tongue load. The vehicle and trailer need to be weighed to confirm the vehicle is within the GVWR, Front GAWR, Rear GAWR, Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and Towing capacity. All vehicle and trailer weights can be measured using platform type scales commonly found at truck stops, highway weigh stations, building supply centers or salvage yards. To determine the available payload capacity for tongue load, use the following procedure. 1. Locate

GVWR

the

the

on

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

2. Weigh your vehicle on the scale with all of the passengers and cargo that are normally in the vehicle when towing a trailer.

3. Subtract the actual vehicle weight from the GVWR. The remaining amount is the avail- able maximum tongue load.

9-18 Technical and consumer information

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

Also weigh the front and rear axles on the scale to make sure the Front Gross Axle Weight and Rear Gross Axle Weight are not more than Front Gross Axle Weight and Rear Gross Axle Weight on the F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label. The cargo in the trailer and vehicle may need to be moved or removed to meet the specified rat- ings.

Example: ● Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) as weighed on a scale - including passengers, cargo and hitch - 4,103 lb. (1861 kg).

● Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) from F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label - 4,203 lb. (1906 kg).

● Maximum Towing Load from “Towing Load/Specification⬙ chart - 1,000 lb. (454
kg).

4,203 lb. (1906 kg) – 4,103 lb. (1861 kg)

GVWR GVW

= 100 lb. (45 kg)

Available for tongue

weight

1,000 lb. (454 kg) Capacity available for

towing

100 lb. (45 kg) Available tongue weight

/ 1,000 lb. (454 kg)

Available capacity

10 % tongue weight

The available towing capacity may be less than the maximum towing capacity due to the passen- ger and cargo load in the vehicle.

Remember to keep trailer tongue weight be- tween 10 - 15% of the trailer weight or within the trailer tongue load specification recommended by the trailer manufacturer. If the tongue load becomes excessive, rearrange the cargo to ob- tain the proper tongue load. Do not exceed the maximum tongue weight specification shown in the “Towing load/specification” chart even if the calculated available tongue weight is greater than 15%. If the calculated tongue weight is less than 10% , reduce the total trailer weight to match the available tongue weight.

Always verify that available capacities are within the required ratings. TOWING LOAD/SPECIFICATION

TOWING LOAD / SPECIFICATION UNIT: lb (kg)

MAXIMUM TOWING

LOAD

MAXIMUM TONGUE

LOAD

1,000 (454)

100 (45)

TOWING SAFETY Trailer hitch Choose a proper hitch for your vehicle and trailer. Make sure the trailer hitch is securely attached to the vehicle, to help avoid personal injury or prop- erty damage due to sway caused by crosswinds, rough road surfaces or passing trucks.

WARNING

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

Hitch ball Choose a hitch ball of the proper size and weight rating for your trailer: ● The required hitch ball size is stamped on most trailer couplers. Most hitch balls also have the size printed on the top of the ball. ● Choose the proper class hitch ball based on

the trailer weight.

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

● The threaded shank of the hitch ball must be long enough to be properly secured to the ball mount. There should be at least 2
threads showing beyond the lock washer and nut. Ball mount The hitch ball is attached to the ball mount and the ball mount is inserted into the hitch receiver. Choose a proper class ball mount based on the trailer weight. Additionally, the ball mount should be chosen to keep the trailer tongue level with the ground. Sway control device Sudden maneuvers, wind gusts, and buffeting caused by other vehicles can affect trailer han- dling. Sway control devices may be used to help control these affects. If you choose to use one, contact a reputable trailer hitch supplier to make sure the sway control device will work with the vehicle, hitch, trailer and the trailer’s brake sys- tem. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for installing and using the sway control device. Class I hitch Class I trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers of a maximum weight of 2,000 lb (909 kg).

Technical and consumer information 9-19

You may add Class I trailer hitch equipment that has a 2,000 lb (909 kg) maximum weight rating to the vehicle, but your vehicle is only capable of towing the maximum trailer weights shown in the Towing Load/Specification chart earlier in this section.

CAUTION

● Do not use axle-mounted hitches. ● The hitch should not be attached to or the impact-

the operation of

affect absorbing bumper.

● Do not modify the vehicle exhaust sys- tem, brake system, etc. to install a trailer hitch.

● To reduce the possibility of additional damage if your vehicle is struck from the rear, where practical, remove the receiver when not in use.

● After the hitch is removed, seal the bolt holes to prevent exhaust fumes, water or dust from entering the passenger compartment.

● Regularly check that all trailer hitch mounting bolts are securely mounted.

9-20 Technical and consumer information

Tire pressures ● When towing a trailer, inflate the ve- hicle tires to the recommended cold tire pressure indicated on the Tire and Loading Information label.

● Trailer tire condition, size, load rating and proper inflation pressure should be in accordance with the trailer and tire manufacturer’s specifications.

Safety chains Always use suitable safety chains between your vehicle and the trailer. The safety chains should be crossed and should be attached to the hitch, not to the vehicle bumper or axle. Be sure to leave enough slack in the chains to permit turning corners.

Trailer lights

CAUTION

When splicing into the vehicle electrical system, a commercially available power- type module/converter must be used to provide power for all trailer lighting. This unit uses the vehicle battery as a direct power source for all trailer lights while using the vehicle tail light, stoplight and turn signal circuits as a signal source. The module/converter must draw no more that 15 milliamps from the stop and tail lamp circuits. Using a module/converter that exceeds these power requirements may damage the vehicle’s electrical sys- tem. See a reputable trailer dealer to ob- tain the proper equipment and to have it installed.

Trailer lights should comply with federal and/or local regulations. For assistance in hooking up trailer lights, contact a NISSAN dealer or repu- table trailer dealer. Trailer brakes If your trailer is equipped with a braking system, make sure it conforms to federal and/or local regulations and that it is properly installed.

WARNING

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

Pre-towing tips ● Be certain your vehicle maintains a level position when a loaded and/or unloaded trailer is hitched. Do not drive the vehicle if it has an abnormal nose-up or nose-down condition; check for improper tongue load, overload, worn suspension or other possible causes of either condition.

● Always secure items in the trailer to prevent

load shift while driving.

● Keep the cargo load as low as possible in the trailer to keep the trailer center of gravity low.

● Load the trailer so approximately 60% of the trailer load is in the front half and 40% is in the back half. Also make sure the load is balanced side to side.

● Check your hitch, trailer tire pressure, ve- hicle tire pressure, trailer light operation, and trailer wheel lug nuts every time you attach a trailer to the vehicle.

● Be certain your rearview mirrors conform to all federal, state or local regulations. If not, install any mirrors required for towing before driving the vehicle.

● Determine the overall height of the vehicle and trailer so the required clearance is known.

Trailer towing tips In order to gain skill and an understanding of the vehicle’s behavior, you should practice turning, stopping and backing up in an area which is free from traffic. Steering stability and braking perfor- mance will be somewhat different than under normal driving conditions. ● Always secure items in the trailer to prevent

load shift while driving.

● Lock the trailer hitch coupler with a pin or lock to prevent the coupler from inadver- tently becoming unlatched.

● Avoid abrupt starts, acceleration or stops. ● Avoid sharp turns or lane changes. ● Always drive your vehicle at a moderate

speed.

● When backing up, hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Move your hand in the direction in which you want the trailer to go. Make small corrections and back up slowly. If possible, have someone guide you when you are backing up.

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

CAUTION

If you move the shift selector to the P (Park) position before blocking the wheels and applying the parking brake, transmission damage could occur.

1. Apply and hold the brake pedal. 2. Have someone place blocks on the downhill

side of the vehicle and trailer wheels.

3. After the wheel blocks are in place, slowly release the brake pedal until the blocks ab- sorb the vehicle load.

4. Apply the parking brake. 5. Shift the transmission into P (Park). 6. Turn off the engine.

Technical and consumer information 9-21

To drive away:

1. Start the vehicle.

2. Apply and hold the brake pedal.

3. Shift the transmission into gear. 4. Release the parking brake. 5. Drive slowly until the vehicle and trailer are

clear from the blocks.

the weight of

6. Apply and hold the brake pedal. 7. Have someone retrieve and store the blocks. ● While going downhill, the trailer pushing on the tow vehicle may dete- riorate overall handling characteristics. Therefore, to maintain adequate control, re- duce your speed and shift to a lower gear. Avoid long or repeated use of the brakes when descending a hill, as this reduces their effectiveness and could cause overheating. Shifting to a lower gear instead provides “engine braking” and reduces the need to brake as frequently.

● If the engine coolant temperature rises to a high temperature, refer to “If your vehicle overheats” in the “In case of emergency” section of this owner’s manual.

● Trailer towing requires more fuel than normal

circumstances.

9-22 Technical and consumer information

● Avoid towing a trailer for your vehicle’s first

500 miles (805 km).

● For the first 500 miles (805 km) that you do

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

● Have your vehicle serviced more often than at intervals specified in the recommended Maintenance Schedule in the “NISSAN Ser- vice and Maintenance Guide”.

● When making a turn, your trailer wheels will be closer to the inside of the turn than your vehicle wheels. To compensate for this, make a larger than normal turning radius during the turn.

● Crosswinds and rough roads will adversely affect vehicle/trailer handling, possibly caus- ing vehicle sway. When being passed by larger vehicles, be prepared for possible changes in crosswinds that could affect ve- hicle handling.

Do the following if the trailer begins to sway: 1. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal to allow the vehicle to coast and steer as straight ahead as the road conditions allow. This combination will help stabilize the ve- hicle – Do not correct trailer sway by steering or

applying the brakes.

2. When the trailer sway stops, gently apply the brakes and pull to the side of the road in a safe area.

3. Try to rearrange the trailer load so it is bal-

anced as described earlier in this section.

● Be careful when passing other vehicles. Passing while towing a trailer requires con- siderably more distance than normal pass- ing. Remember, the length of the trailer must also pass the other vehicle before you can safely change lanes.

● Use the Tow Mode or downshift the trans- mission to a lower gear for engine braking when driving down steep or long hills. This will help slow the vehicle without applying the brakes.

● Avoid holding the brake pedal down too long or too frequently. This could cause the brakes to overheat, resulting in reduced braking efficiency.

● Increase your following distance to allow for greater stopping distances while towing a trailer. Anticipate stops and brake gradually. ● NISSAN recommends that the cruise con-

trol not be used while towing a trailer.

● After towing 500 miles (805 km), start and idle the engine with the transmission in Neu- tral for two minutes. Failure to idle the engine after every 500 miles (805 km) of towing may cause damage to internal transmission parts.

Continuously Variable Transmission (if so equipped) To tow a vehicle equipped with a continuously variable transmission, an appropriate vehicle dolly MUST be placed under the towed vehicle’s drive wheels. Always follow the dolly manufac- turer’s recommendations when using their prod- uct.

CAUTION

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

ways tow forward, never backward.

● DO NOT tow any continuously variable transmission vehicle with all four wheels on the ground (flat towing). Do- ing so WILL DAMAGE internal transmis- sion parts due to lack of transmission lubrication.

● For emergency towing procedures refer to “Towing recommended by NISSAN” in the “In case of emergency” section of this manual.

Manual Transmission (if so equipped) ● Always tow with the manual transmission in

Neutral.

● Some states or provinces have specific regulations and speed limits for vehicles that are towing trailers. Obey the local speed limits.

● Check your hitch, trailer wiring harness con- nections, and trailer wheel lug nuts after 50
miles (80 km) of travel and at every break.

● When launching a boat, don’t allow the wa- ter level to go over the exhaust tail pipe or rear bumper.

● Make sure you disconnect the trailer lights before backing the trailer into the water or the trailer lights may burn out.

When towing a trailer, final drive gear oil should be replaced and transmission oil/fluid should be changed more fre- quently. For additional information, see the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section earlier in this manual. 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.

Technical and consumer information 9-23

UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING

DOT (Department of Transportation) Quality Grades: All passenger car tires must conform to federal safety requirements in addition to these grades.

Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example: Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified gov- ernment test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate. Traction AA, A, B and C The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as mea- sured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and con- crete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance. 9-24 Technical and consumer information

WARNING

WARNING

The temperature grade for this tire is es- tablished for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, under-inflation, or excessive loading, ei- ther separately or in combination, can cause heat build-up and possible tire failure.

The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.

Temperature A, B and C

The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat, and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and exces- sive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of perfor- mance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS

Your NISSAN vehicle is covered by the following emission warranties: For USA 1. Emission Defects Warranty 2. Emissions Performance Warranty Details of this warranty may be found with other vehicle warranties in your Warranty Information Booklet which comes with your NISSAN vehicle. If you did not receive a Warranty Information Booklet, or it is lost, you may obtain a replace- ment by writing to: ● Nissan North America, Inc.

Consumer Affairs Department P.O. Box 685003
Franklin, TN 37068-5003

For Canada Emission Control System Warranty Details of this warranty may be found with other vehicle warranties in your Warranty Information Booklet which comes with your NISSAN vehicle. If you did not receive a Warranty Information Booklet, or it is lost, you may obtain a replace- ment by writing to: ● Nissan Canada Inc. 5290 Orbitor Drive Mississauga, Ontario, L4W 4Z5

For USA If you believe that your vehicle has a de- fect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immedi- ately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addi- tion to notifying NISSAN. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot be- come involved in individual problems be- tween you, your dealer, or NISSAN. To contact NHTSA, you may call the Ve- hicle Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888- 327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go to http://www.safercar.gov; or write to: Administrator, NHTSA, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle from http://www.safercar.gov.

safety

You may notify NISSAN by contacting our Consumer Affairs Department, toll-free, at 1-800-NISSAN-1. For Canada If you believe that your vehicle has a de- fect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immedi- ately inform Transport Canada in addition to notifying NISSAN. If Transport Canada receives complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may request that NISSAN con- duct a recall campaign. However, Trans- port Canada cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or NISSAN. You may contact Transport Canada’s De- fect Investigations and Recalls Division toll free at 1-800-333-0510. You may also report safety defects online at: https://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec- Sur/7/PCDB-BDPP/Index.aspx.

Technical and consumer information 9-25

READINESS FOR INSPECTION/ MAINTENANCE (I/M) TEST

EVENT DATA RECORDERS (EDR)

Due to legal requirements in some states and Canadian Provinces, your vehicle may be re- quired to be in what is called the “ready condi- tion” for an Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) test of the emission control system. The vehicle is set to the “ready condition” when it is driven through certain driving patterns. Usually, the ready condition can be obtained by ordinary usage of the vehicle. If a powertrain system component is repaired or the battery is disconnected, the vehicle may be reset to a “not ready” condition. Before taking the the I/M vehicle’s inspection/maintenance test readiness condi- tion. Place the ignition switch in the ON position without starting the engine. If the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) comes on steady for 20
seconds and then blinks for 10 seconds , the I/M test condition is “not ready”. If the MIL does not blink after 20 seconds, the I/M test condition is “ready”. Contact a NISSAN dealer to set the “ready condition” or to prepare the vehicle for testing.

check

test,

Additional information concerning motor vehicle safety may be obtained from Transport Canada’s Road Safety Informa- tion Centre at 1-800-333-0371 or online (English at www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety or speakers) www.tc.gc.ca/securiteroutiere (French speakers). To notify NISSAN of any safety concerns please contact our Consumer Information Centre toll free at 1-800-387-0122.

9-26 Technical and consumer information

This vehicle is equipped with an Event Data Re- corder (EDR). The main purpose of an EDR is to record, in certain crash or near crash-like situa- tions, such as an air bag deployment or hitting a road obstacle, data that will assist in understand- ing how a vehicle’s systems performed. The EDR is designed to record data related to vehicle dynamics and safety systems for a short period of time, typically 30 seconds or less. The EDR in this vehicle is designed to record such data as: ● How various systems in your vehicle were

operating;

● Whether or not the driver and passenger

safety belts were buckled/fastened;

● How far (if at all) the driver was depressing

the accelerator and/or brake pedal; and,

● How fast the vehicle was traveling. ● Sounds are not recorded. These data can help provide a better understand- ing of the circumstances in which crashes and injuries occur. NOTE: EDR data are recorded by your vehicle only if a nontrivial crash situation occurs; no data are recorded by the EDR under normal driving conditions and no personal data (e.g. name, gender, age and crash location) are recorded. However, other parties, such as law enforcement, could combine the EDR data with

the type of personally identifying data routinely acquired during a crash investigation. To read data recorded by an EDR, special equip- ment is required and access to the vehicle or the EDR is needed. In addition to the vehicle manu- facturer and NISSAN dealer, other parties, such as law enforcement, that have the special equip- ment, can read the information if they have ac- cess to the vehicle or the EDR. EDR data will only be accessed with the consent of the vehicle owner or lessee or as otherwise required or per- mitted by law.

OWNER’S MANUAL/SERVICE MANUAL ORDER INFORMATION

A genuine NISSAN Service Manual is the best source of service and repair information for your vehicle. Filled with wiring diagrams, illustrations and step-by-step diagnostic and adjustment pro- cedures, this manual is the same one used by the factory-trained technicians working at NISSAN dealerships. Also available are genuine NISSAN Owner’s Manuals, and genuine NISSAN Service and Owner’s Manuals for older NISSAN models. For USA For current pricing and availability of genuine NISSAN Service Manuals for the 2000 model year and later contact: 1-800-450-9491
www.nissan-techinfo.com For current pricing and availability of genuine NISSAN Service Manuals for the 1999 model year and prior, see a NISSAN dealer, or contact: 1-800-247-5321
For current pricing and availability of genuine NISSAN Owner’s Manuals for this model year and prior, see a NISSAN dealer, or contact: 1-800-247-5321

For Canada To purchase a copy of a genuine NISSAN Ser- vice Manual or Owner’s Manual please contact your nearest NISSAN dealer. For the phone num- ber and location of a NISSAN dealer in your area call the NISSAN Information Center at 1-800- 387-0122 and a bilingual NISSAN representa- tive will assist you. Also available are genuine NISSAN Service and Owner’s Manuals for older NISSAN models.

Technical and consumer information 9-27

MEMO

9-28 Technical and consumer information

10 Index

Air bag (See supplemental restraintsystem) . Air bag system

..1-41

Front (See supplemental front impact air bag system) . Air bag warning light. Air cleaner housing filter . Air conditioner

..1-50
..1-56, 2-14
..8-20

Air conditioner operation . Air conditioner service . Air conditioner specification label . Air conditioner system refrigerant and oil recommendations . Heater and air conditioner controls . Servicing air conditioner .

..4-21
..4-28
..9-12

..9-6

Air flow charts. Alarm system (See vehicle security system) . Anchor point locations . Antenna . Anti-lock brake warning light. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Armrests . Audible reminders . Audio system .

Bluetooth姞 audio . Compact disc (CD) player .

..4-19, 4-26
..4-28
..4-22

..2-26
..1-26
..4-91
..2-11
..5-25
..1-9
..2-16
..4-29
..4-84

..4-46, 4-52, 4-58, 4-64

FM-AM radio with compact disc (CD) player . FM/AM/SAT radio with CD/DVD player. FM/AM/SAT radio with compact disc (CD) player .

..4-44
.4-54

..4-48

Audio System

iPod姞 Player . Music Box姞 hard-disk drive audio system .

Radio .

Audio system Audio System Settings . Audio system

USB interface .

Autolight switch. Automatic

Automatic power window switch . Transmission shift selector lock release.

Automatic anti-glare inside mirror . Automatic door locks . AUX jack .

..4-72, 4-74

..4-77

..4-29

..4-55

..4-66, 4-68
..2-31

..2-45
.5-16
..3-30
..3-5
..4-47, 4-53

..4-84
.4-92, 4-106
..1-37

Bluetooth姞 audio . Bluetooth姞 hands-free phone system .

Booster seats . Brake

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Brake fluid . Brake light (See stop light). Brake system . Brake warning light . Brake wear indicators . Parking brake operation . Self-adjusting brakes .

Brakes . Break-in schedule . Brightness/contrast button. Brightness control

..5-25
..8-14
..8-30
..5-24
..2-11
..2-16, 8-23
..5-19
..8-23
..8-23
..5-22
..4-12

Instrument panel

Bulb check/instrument panel. Bulb replacement .

..2-33
..2-10
..8-30

Battery.

Charge warning light .

Before starting the engine .