2012 Nissan Altima Owners Manual

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) . Manual transmission .

Shift lock release. Shoulder belt height adjustment . Spark plug replacement . Speedometer . Spotlights (See map light) SRS warning label . Starting

..5-13
..5-18
..5-16
..1-18
..8-19
..2-4
..2-50
..1-56

Before starting the engine. Jump starting . Precautions when starting and driving . Push starting . Starting the engine .

Steering

Power steering fluid . Power steering system .

Stop light . Storage . Sunglasses case. Sunglasses holder .

..5-10
..6-8
.5-2
..6-10
..5-11

..8-14
..5-24
..8-30
..2-37
..2-38
..2-38
10-5

.

Sunroof . Sunroof (see Moonroof) . Sun visors . Supplemental air bag warning light . Supplemental front impact air bag system . Supplemental restraint system

..2-46
..2-46
..3-28
.1-56, 2-14
.1-50

Information and warning labels . Precautions on supplemental restraint system .

Supplemental restraint system (Supplemental air bag system) . Switch

..1-56

..1-41

..1-41

..2-31
Autolight switch . ..2-45
Automatic power window switch . ..2-34
Fog light switch . ..2-34
Hazard warning flasher switch . ..2-29
Headlight and turn signal switch . ..2-31
Headlight control switch . Power door lock switch . ..3-5
Rear window and outside mirror defroster switch. Turn signal switch . Vehicle dynamic control (VDC) off switch. Windshield wiper and washer switch .

..2-29
..2-34

..2-36
.2-28

..2-5

Tachometer Temperature gauge

Engine coolant temperature gauge .

Theft (NISSAN vehicle immobilizer system), engine start Three-way catalyst

..2-27, 3-3, 5-10
..5-2

..2-5

10-6

Tire

Flat tire . Spare tire . Tire and Loading Information label . Tire chains . Tire placard. Tire pressure . Tire rotation. Types of tires . Uniform tire quality grading . Wheels and tires. Wheel/tire size.

..6-2
..6-4, 8-49
..9-11
..8-46
..9-11
..8-38
..8-47
..8-45
..9-24
..8-38
..9-8

Tire pressure

Low tire pressure warning light .

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) . Towing

Flat towing . Towing load/specification . Tow truck towing. Trailer towing .

HomeLink姞 Universal Transceiver.

Transceiver

Transmission

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) fluid . Driving with Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) . Driving with manual transmission . Shift selector lock release.

..2-12
.5-3

..9-23
..9-19
..6-11
..9-16

..2-51

..8-13

..5-12
..5-17
..5-16

Travel (See registering your vehicle in another country) Trip odometer . Trunk access through the rear seat Trunk lid lock opener lever. Trunk light Turn signal switch .

..9-9
..2-4
..1-8
..3-23
..2-50
..2-34

Uniform tire quality grading . USB interface

Audio file operation . Video file operation .

..9-24

..4-67, 4-69
..4-70

..3-29
..8-18
..9-8
.2-36
..5-26
..9-9

..9-9
.9-9
..9-12
..6-14
..2-26

Vanity mirror . Variable voltage control system . Vehicle dimensions and weights . Vehicle dynamic control (VDC) off switch . Vehicle dynamic control (VDC) system. Vehicle identification . Vehicle identification number (VIN) (Chassis number) . Vehicle identification number (VIN) plate . Vehicle loading information . Vehicle recovery . Vehicle security system . Vehicle security system (NISSAN vehicle immobilizer system), engine start Ventilators . Visors . Voice recognition system .

..2-27, 3-3, 5-10
..4-18
..3-28
..4-117

Warning

Air bag warning light . Anti-lock brake warning light . Battery charge warning light

..1-56, 2-14
..2-11
..2-11

.

Brake warning light Engine oil pressure warning light . Hazard warning flasher switch . Low fuel warning light Low tire pressure warning light . Low windshield-washer fluid warning light . Passenger air bag and status light . Seat belt warning light. Vehicle security system . Warning/indicator lights and audible reminders. Warning labels (for SRS) .

..2-11
..2-12
..2-34
..2-13, 2-24
..2-12

..2-24
..1-51
..2-14
..2-26

..2-10
..1-56
..2-10

Warning lights . Washer switch

Windshield wiper and washer switch .

.2-28
..9-8
Weights (See dimensions and weights) . ..8-38
Wheels and tires. Wheel/tire size. ..9-8
When traveling or registering your vehicle in another country . Windows

..9-9

Locking passengers’ windows . Power rear windows . Power windows . Rear power windows .

Windshield-washer fluid. Windshield wiper and washer switch . Wiper

..2-45
..2-45
..2-43
..2-45
..8-15
..2-28

Windshield wiper and washer switch . Wiper blades.

.2-28
..8-21

10-7

GAS STATION INFORMATION

RECOMMENDED FUEL: Use unleaded regular gasoline with an octane rating of at least 87 AKI (Anti-Knock Index) num- ber (Research octane number 91).

CAUTION

● Using a fuel other than that specified could adversely affect the emission control system, and may also affect the warranty coverage.

● Under no circumstances should a leaded gasoline be used, because this will damage the three-way catalyst.

● Do not use E-85 fuel in your vehicle. Your vehicle is not designed to run on E-85 fuel. Using E-85 fuel can damage the fuel system components and is not covered by the NISSAN new vehicle lim- ited warranty.

For additional information, see “Capacities and recommended fuel/lubricants” in the “Technical and consumer information” section.

RECOMMENDED ENGINE OIL: ● Engine oil with API Certification Mark ● Viscosity SAE 5W-30
See “Engine oil and oil filter recommendations” in the “Technical and consumer information” sec- tion of this manual. COLD TIRE PRESSURE: See Tire and Loading Information label. The label is typically located on the driver side center pillar or on the driver’s door. For additional information, see “Wheels and tires” in the “Main- tenance and do-it-yourself” section of this manual. RECOMMENDED NEW VEHICLE BREAK-IN PROCEDURE: During the first 1,200 miles (2,000 km) of vehicle use, follow the recommendations outlined in the “Break-in schedule” information found in the “Starting and driving” section of this manual. Fol- low these recommendations for the future reli- ability and economy of your new vehicle. Failure to follow these recommendations may result in vehicle damage or shortened engine life.

Printing : April 2011 (18)

Publication No.: OM0E 0L32U2

OM2E 0L32U0

Printed in U.S.A.

L32-D

®

2012 ALTI MA

OWNER’S MANUAL

For your safety, read carefully and keep in this vehicle.

FOREWORD

READ FIRST—THEN DRIVE SAFELY

In addition to factory installed options, your ve- hicle may also be equipped with additional ac- cessories installed by Nissan or by your autho- rized Nissan dealer prior to delivery. It is important that you familiarize yourself with all disclosures, warnings, cautions and instructions concerning proper use of such accessories prior to operating the vehicle and/or accessory. Please see your dealer for details concerning the particular ac- cessories with which your vehicle is equipped.

Welcome to the growing family of new NISSAN owners. This vehicle is delivered to you with confidence. It was produced using the latest techniques and strict quality control. This manual was prepared to help you under- stand the operation and maintenance of your vehicle so that you may enjoy many miles (kilome- ters) of driving pleasure. Please read through this manual before operating your vehicle. A separate Warranty Information Booklet explains details about the warranties cov- ering your vehicle. The “NISSAN Service and Maintenance Guide” explains details about maintaining and servicing your ve- hicle. Additionally, a separate Customer Care/Lemon Law Booklet (U.S. only) will explain how to resolve any concerns you may have with your vehicle, as well as clarify your rights under your state’s lemon law. Your NISSAN dealership knows your vehicle best. When you require any service or have any questions, they will be glad to assist you with the extensive resources available to them.

Before driving your vehicle, please read this Own- er’s Manual carefully. This will ensure familiarity with controls and maintenance requirements, as- sisting you in the safe operation of your vehicle.

WARNING

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION RE- MINDERS FOR SAFETY! Follow these important driving rules to help ensure a safe and comfortable trip for you and your passengers! ● NEVER drive under the influence of al-

cohol or drugs.

● ALWAYS observe posted speed limits and never drive too fast for conditions. ● ALWAYS give your full attention to driving and avoid using vehicle features or taking other actions that could distract you.

● ALWAYS use your seat belts and appro- priate child restraint systems. Preteen children should be seated in the rear seat.

● ALWAYS provide information about the proper use of vehicle safety features to all occupants of the vehicle.

● ALWAYS review this Owner’s Manual

for important safety information.

could

affect

MODIFICATION OF YOUR VEHICLE This vehicle should not be modified. Modification its performance, safety or durability, and may governmental regulations. In addition, damage or per- formance problems resulting from modi- fications may not be covered under NISSAN warranties.

violate

even

WHEN READING THE MANUAL

This manual includes information for all options available on this model. Therefore, you may find some information that does not apply to your vehicle. All information, specifications and illustrations in this manual are those in effect at the time of printing. NISSAN reserves the right to change specifications or design without notice and with- out obligation. IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS MANUAL You will see various symbols in this manual. They are used in the following ways:

WARNING

This is used to indicate the presence of a hazard that could cause death or serious personal injury. To avoid or reduce the risk, the procedures must be followed precisely.

CAUTION

This is used to indicate the presence of a hazard that could cause minor or moder- ate personal injury or damage to your ve- hicle. To avoid or reduce the risk, the pro- cedures must be followed carefully.

APD1005
If you see this symbol, it means “Do not do this” or “Do not let this happen.”

If you see a symbol similar to these in an illustra- tion, it means the arrow points to the front of the vehicle.

Arrows in an illustration that are similar to these indicate movement or action.

Arrows in an illustration that are similar to these call attention to an item in the illustration.

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65
WARNING

WARNING

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth de- fects or other reproductive harm. In addi- tion, certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain products of component wear contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

CALIFORNIA PERCHLORATE ADVISORY Some vehicle parts, such as lithium batteries, may contain perchlorate material. The fol- lowing advisory is provided: “Perchlorate Material – special handling may apply, See www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate/”.

BLUETOOTH威 is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., U.S.A. and licensed to Visteon and Clarion.

XM Radio威 requires subscription, sold separately. Not avail- able in Alaska, Hawaii or Guam. For more information, visit www.xmradio.com.

© 2011 NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC. All rights reserved. No part of this Owner’s Manual may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Nissan North America, Inc.

NISSAN CUSTOMER CARE PROGRAM

NISSAN CARES . . . Both NISSAN and your NISSAN dealer are dedicated to serving all your automotive needs. Your satisfaction with your vehicle and your NISSAN dealer are our primary concerns. Your NISSAN dealer is always available to assist you with all your automobile sales and service needs. However, if there is something that your NISSAN dealer cannot assist you with or you would like to provide NISSAN directly with comments or questions, please contact the NISSAN Con- sumer Affairs Department using our toll-free number: For U.S. customers 1-800-NISSAN-1
(1-800-647-7261)

OR You can write to NISSAN with the information at: For U.S. customers

– Vehicle identification number (attached to the top of the instrument panel on the driver’s side)

Nissan North America, Inc. Consumer Affairs Department P.O. Box 685003
Franklin, TN 37068-5003

The Consumer Affairs Department will ask for the following information:

– Your name, address, and telephone number

For Canadian customers

– Date of purchase

For Canadian customers

1-800-387-0122

– Current odometer reading

– Your NISSAN dealer’s name

– Your comments or questions

Nissan Canada Inc. 5290 Orbitor Drive Mississauga, Ontario L4W 4Z5

or via e-mail at: For U.S. customers

[email protected]

For Canadian customers

[email protected]

We appreciate your interest in NISSAN and thank you for buying a quality NISSAN vehicle.

Table of Contents

Illustrated table of contents

Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

Instruments and controls

Pre-driving checks and adjustments

Monitor, climate, audio, phone and voice recognition systems

Starting and driving

In case of emergency

Appearance and care

Maintenance and do-it-yourself

Technical and consumer information

Index

10

0 Illustrated table of contents

Air bags, seat belts and child restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-2
Exterior front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-3
Exterior rear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-5
Passenger compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-7

Instrument panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-8
Engine compartment check locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-10
Warning/indicator lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-12

AIR BAGS, SEAT BELTS AND CHILD RESTRAINTS

Top tether strap anchor (P. 1-26)

1. 2. Rear seat belts (P. 1-13) 3. Roof-mounted curtain side-impact

4.

supplemental air bag (P. 1-41) Front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bag (P. 1-41)

5. Head Restraints (P. 1-9) 6. Front seat belts (P. 1-13) 7. Side-impact pressure sensor (driver’s side shown; passenger’s side similar) (P. 1-57)

8. Supplemental front-impact air bags

(P. 1-41)

9. Seats (P. 1-2) 10. Occupant classification sensor

(pattern sensor) (P. 1-51)

11. Seat belt with pretensioner (P. 1-56) 12. LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for

CHildren) system (P. 1-24)

See the page number indicated in paren- theses for operating details.

0-2 Illustrated table of contents

LII2001

EXTERIOR FRONT

Power windows (P. 2-43)

Coupe 1. 2. Windshield (P. 8-21) 3. Windshield wiper and washer switch

4. 5. 6.

(P. 2-28) Engine hood (P. 3-23) Tie down (P. 6-14) Fog light switch (if so equipped) (P. 2-34)

7. Headlight and turn signal switch

(P. 2-29) Replacing bulbs (P. 8-29) Tire pressure (P. 8-38)

8. 9. 10. Flat tire (P. 6-2) 11. Tire chains (P. 8-46) 12. Mirrors (P. 3-29) 13. Door locks, NISSAN Intelligent Key ™ ,

keys (P. 3-4, 3-6, 3-2)

LII0114

Illustrated table of contents 0-3

Power windows (P. 2-43)

Sedan 1. 2. Windshield (P. 8-21) 3. Windshield wiper and washer switch

4. 5. 6.

(P. 2-28) Engine hood (P. 3-23) Tie down (P. 6-14) Fog light switch (if so equipped) (P. 2-34)

7. Headlight and turn signal switch

(P. 2-29) Replacing bulbs (P. 8-29) Tire pressure (P. 8-38)

8. 9. 10. Flat tire (P. 6-2) 11. Tire chains (P. 8-46) 12. Mirrors (P. 3-29) 13. Door locks, NISSAN Intelligent Key ™ ,

keys (P. 3-4, 3-6, 3-2)

See the page number indicated in paren- theses for operating details.

0-4 Illustrated table of contents