2005 Nissan Armada Owners Manual

the load (passengers and cargo) for the vehicle. 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 included as part of the cargo load. This information is located on the Tire and Loading Information label (if so equipped).

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

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6.

If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle.

Before driving a loaded vehicle, confirm the you do not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for your vehicle. See (cid:147)Measurement of Weights(cid:148) later in this section. Also check tires for proper inflation pressures. See the Tire and Loading label.

Steps for determining correct load limit 1. Locate the statement (cid:147)The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never ex- ceed XXX pounds(cid:148) on your vehicle(cid:146)s tire 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 kilograms or XXX pounds.

WTI0091
4. The resulting figure equals the available 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 available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1400-750 (5 * 150) = 650 lbs.)

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.

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c 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 occur, or it can change the way your vehicle handles. This could result in loss of control and cause personal injury.

LOADING TIPS c The GVW must not exceed GVWR or GAWR as specified on the F.M.V.S.S. certi- fication label.

c Do not load the front and rear axle to the

GAWR. Doing so will exceed the GVWR.

WARNING

c Properly secure all cargo with ropes or straps to help prevent it from sliding or shifting. Do not place cargo higher than the seatbacks. In a sudden stop or col- lision, unsecured cargo could cause personal injury.

Cargo area ceiling tie-down hooks

Cargo area floor tie-down hooks

LTI0089

LTI0090

WARNING

c Properly secure all cargo with ropes or straps to help prevent it from sliding or shifting. Do not place cargo higher than the seatbacks. In a sudden stop or col- lision, unsecured cargo could cause personal injury.

SECURING THE LOAD There are tie down hooks located in the cargo area as shown. The tie down hooks can be used to secure cargo with ropes or other types of straps. Do not apply a total load of more than 55
lbs. (245 N) to a single sA plastic hook or 44
lbs. (196 N) to a single sB plastic hook when securing cargo. Do not apply a total load of more than 110
lbs. (490 N) to a single metal floor tie-down hook when securing cargo.

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c 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 occur, or it can change the way your vehicle handles. This could result in loss of control and cause personal injury.

c Overloading not only can shorten the life of your vehicle and the tire, but can also cause unsafe vehicle handling and longer braking 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 by the ve- hicle(cid:146)s warranty.

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 exceed either of the gross axle weight ratings (GAWR). The total of the axle loads should not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). These rat- ings are given on the vehicle certification label. If weight ratings are exceeded, move or remove items to bring all weights below the ratings.

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

c 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.

c 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(cid:146)s engine, drive train, steering, brak- ing and other systems.

specified in

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

the

The maximum GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) should not exceed the value specified in the following Towing Load/ Specification Chart.

The 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 adversely affect vehicle handling, braking and performance. 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 on very steep grades or in low traction situations (for example, on slippery boat ramps). Temperature conditions can also affect towing. For example, towing a heavy trailer in high outside Technical and consumer information 9-15

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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. Pull to the side of the road to a safe area. Allow the engine to cool and return to normal operation. See (cid:147)If your vehicle overheats(cid:148) in the (cid:147)In case of emergency(cid:148) section of this manual.

CAUTION

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

9-16 Technical and consumer information

CA0009

ATI1025

Tongue load When using a weight carrying or a weight distrib- uting hitch, keep the tongue load between 10 - 15 percent of the total trailer load within the maximum tongue load limits shown in the follow- ing Towing Load/Specification Chart. the tongue load becomes excessive, rearrange cargo to allow for proper tongue load.

If

Maximum gross vehicle weight/ maximum gross axle weight The gross vehicle weight of the towing vehicle must not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) shown on the F. M. V. S. S. certification label. The gross vehicle weight equals the com- bined weight of the unloaded vehicle, passen- gers, luggage, hitch, trailer tongue load and any other optional equipment. In addition, front or rear gross axle weight must not exceed the gross axle weight rating (GAWR) shown on the F. M. V. S. S. certification label.

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TOWING LOAD/SPECIFICATION CHART

Towing

Capacity*1

Tongue Load

Gross

Combined

Weight Rating

w/o tow package with tow package*2
w/o tow package with tow package*2
w/o tow package with tow package*2

US & CAN

2WD 6,500 lb. (2,948 kg) 9,100 lb. (4,128 kg) 650 lb. (295 kg) 910 lb. (413 kg) 12,800 lb. (5,806 kg) 14,600 lb. (6,622 kg)

4WD 6,500 lb. (2,948 kg) 9,100 lb. (4,128 kg) 650 lb.

(295 kg)

910 lb.

(413 kg) 13,000 lb. (5,897 kg) 14,822 lb. (6,722 kg)

*1: The towing capacity values are calculated assuming a base vehicle with driver and any options required to achieve the rating. Additional passengers, cargo and/or optional equipment will add weight to the vehicle and reduce your vehicle(cid:146)s maximum towing capacity. *2: Requires weight distribution hitch.

TOWING SAFETY Trailer hitch Your vehicle may be equipped with an optional trailer tow package. The trailer tow package in- cludes a receiver-type frame mounted hitch. This hitch is rated for the maximum towing capacity of this vehicle when the proper towing equipment is used. Choose a proper ball mount and hitch ball that is rated for the trailer to be towed. Genuine Nissan ball mounts and hitch balls are available from your NISSAN dealer.

If your vehicle is not equipped with the optional trailer tow package, check the towing capacity of your bumper hitch or receiver-type frame mounted hitch. Choose a proper hitch for your vehicle and trailer. A genuine Nissan trailer hitch is available from your NISSAN dealer. Make sure the trailer hitch is securely attached to the vehicle to help avoid personal injury or property damage due to sway caused by crosswinds, rough road surfaces or passing trucks.

WARNING

c 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 compo- nents. Never exceed the weight rating of the hitch components. Doing so can cause serious personal injury or prop- erty damage

Hitch ball Choose a hitch ball of the proper size and weight rating for your trailer: c 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. c Choose the proper class hitch ball based on

the trailer weight.

c 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(cid:148) smaller than the hole in the ball mount.

c 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.

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lbs. gross weight, 1,000 lbs. tongue weight. This means that without using a weight distributing ballmount, the receiver is only designed to carry 5,000 lbs.

When hooking up a trailer using a weight distrib- uting hitch, always refer to the hitch manufactur- er(cid:146)s instructions.

1. Park unloaded vehicle on a level surface. With the ignition on and the doors closed, allow the vehicle to stand for several minutes so that it can level.

2. Measure the height of a reference point on the front and rear bumpers at the center of the vehicle.

3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle and adjust the hitch equalizers so that the front bumper height is within 0 - .5 inches (0 (cid:150) 13 mm) of the reference height measured in step 2. The rear bumper should be no higher than the reference height measured in step 2.

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. Weight carrying hitches A weight carrying or 9dead weight9 ball mount is one that is designed to carry the whole amount of tongue weight and gross weight directly on the ball mount and on the receiver. Weight distribution hitch This type of hitch is also called a (cid:147)load-leveling(cid:148) or (cid:147)equalizing(cid:148) hitch. A set of bars attach to the ball mount and to the trailer to distribute the tongue weight (hitch weight) of your trailer. Many ve- hicles can(cid:146)t carry the full tongue weight of a given trailer, and need some of the tongue weight transferred through the frame and pushing down on the front wheels. This gives stability to the tow vehicle. Another reason to have a weight distributing ball mount is to comply with the rating on your re- ceiver. Most receivers have a weight carrying rating of 5,000 lbs. gross weight, 500 lbs. tongue weight and a weight distribution rating of 10,000
9-18 Technical and consumer information

WARNING

Properly adjust the weight distributing hitch so the rear of the bumper is no higher than the measured reference height when the trailer is attached. If the rear bumper is higher than the measured reference height when loaded, the vehicle may handle unpredictably which could cause a loss of vehicle control and cause serious personal injury or property damage.

Sway control device Sway control devices are used to help control the effects of sudden maneuvers, wind gusts, and buffeting caused by other vehicles. Make sure the sway control device is compatible with the trail- er(cid:146)s brake system. 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). Class II hitch Class II trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers of a maximum weight of 3,500 lb (1,510 kg).

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Class III hitch Class III trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers of a maximum weight of 5,000 lb (2,272 kg).

The genuine NISSAN step bumper is considered a Class III ball mount. Class IV hitch Class IV trailer hitch equipment (receiver, ball mount and hitch ball) can be used to tow trailers of a maximum weight of 10,000 lb (4,545 kg). A weight distributing hitch should be used to tow trailers that weigh over 5,000 lb (2,272 kg). Your vehicle may be equipped with Class IV trailer hitch equipment that has a 10,000 lb (4,545 kg) maximum weight rating, but your ve- hicle is only capable of towing the maximum trailer weights Towing Load/Specification Chart earlier in this section.

shown

the

in

CAUTION

c Special hitches which include frame re- inforcements are required for towing above 2,000 lb (907 kg). Suitable genu- ine NISSAN hitches, ball mounts and hitch balls for pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles are available at a NISSAN dealer.

c Trailer tire condition, size,

load rating and proper inflation pressure should be in accor- dance with the trailer and tire manufacturer(cid:146)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. The safety chains can be attached to the bumper if the hitch ball is mounted to the bumper. Be sure to leave enough slack in the chains to permit turning corners.

c The hitch should not be attached to or the impact-

the operation of

affect absorbing bumper.

c Do not use axle-mounted hitches. c Do not modify the vehicle exhaust sys- tem, brake system, etc. to install a trailer hitch.

c To reduce the possibility of additional damage if your vehicle is struck from the rear, where practical, remove the hitch and/or receiver when not in use. c After the hitch is removed, seal the bolt holes to prevent exhaust fumes, water or dust from entering the passenger compartment.

c Regularly check that all trailer hitch mounting bolts are securely mounted. c When towing with the hitch ball mounted to the rear bumper, do not make sharp turns. The trailer may con- tact the bumper and cause damage to the bumper or trailer.

Tire pressures c When towing a trailer, inflate the vehicle tires to the recommended cold tire pressure indi- cated on the tire placard.

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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. Electric trailer brake controller

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(cid:146)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. Vehicles equipped with the optional trailer tow package are equipped with a 7-pin trailer harness connector. If your trailer is equipped with a flat 4-pin connector, an adapter will be needed to connect the trailer lights to the vehicle. Adapters are available at auto parts stores and hitch retailers.

9-20 Technical and consumer information

example

LTI0117

Trailers equipped with electric brakes may re- quire the installation of an aftermarket trailer brake controller. Your vehicle is equipped with a connector and jumper harness that is specifically designed to be used when installing an aftermarket brake con- troller. To install the electric trailer brake controller jumper harness, perform the following proce- dure: 1. Open the driver door. Move the seat to the

rearmost position.

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Wire color designation for electric trailer brake controller jumper harness.

WIRE COLOR RED/GREEN

BLACK

BROWN/WHITE

RED/BLUE

RED

NOTE Vehicle stop lamp switch to trailer brake controller. Brake controller ground (-). Trailer brake controller switched output. Trailer brake controller illumination. Fused trailer brake controller battery feed (B+).

LTI0122
2. Apply the parking brake to access the

jumper harness connector.

LTI0115
3. Locate the jumper harness connector under the lower portion of the instrument panel. The connector is taped to the wiring harness s1 as indicated.

c The connector is marked with a white tag

with (cid:147)electric brake connector(cid:148).

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c Always secure items in the trailer to prevent

load shift while driving.

c Load the trailer so approximately 60% of the trailer load is in the front half and 40% is in the back half.

c 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.

c 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. Trailer towing tips In order to gain skill and an understanding of the vehicle(cid:146)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. c Always secure items in the trailer to prevent

load shift while driving.

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

speed.

c 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.

c Always block the wheels on both vehicle and trailer when parking. Parking on a slope is not recommended; however, if you must do so, first block the wheels and apply the park- ing brake, and then move the transmission shift selector lever into the P (Park) position. If you move the shift selector lever to the P (Park) position before blocking the wheels and applying the parking brake, transmission damage could occur.

c When going down a hill, shift into a lower gear and use the engine braking effect. When going up a long grade, downshift the transmission to a lower gear and reduce speed to reduce chances of engine over- loading and/or overheating. However, for long steep grades, do not stay in 1st gear when driving above 35 MPH (56 km/h) or 2nd gear when driving above 58 MPH (93
km/h).

c If the engine coolant rises to an extremely high temperature when the air conditioner system is on, turn off the air conditioner.

LTI0116
4. Peel off the tape and connect the jumper

harness to the connector s2 .

5. Release the parking brake. 6.

Install the aftermarket electric trailer brake controller according to the manufacturer(cid:146)s instructions.

Pre-towing tips c 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.

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Coolant heat can be additionally vented by opening the windows, switching the fan control to high and setting the temperature control to the HOT position.

c Trailer towing requires more fuel than normal

circumstances.

c Avoid towing a trailer for your vehicle(cid:146)s first

500 miles (805 km).

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

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

c Have your vehicle serviced more often than at intervals specified in the recommended Maintenance Schedule in the (cid:147)NISSAN Ser- vice and Maintenance Guide(cid:148).

c 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.

c 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. If swaying does occur, firmly grip the steering wheel, steer straight ahead, and immediately (but gradually) reduce ve- hicle speed. This combination will help sta- bilize the vehicle. Never increase speed.

c 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.

c To maintain engine braking efficiency and electrical charging performance, do not use overdrive.

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

c Increase your following distance to allow for greater stopping distances while towing a trailer. Anticipate stops and brake gradually c Do not use cruise control while towing a

trailer.

c Some states or provinces have specific speed limits for vehicles that are towing trail- ers. Obey the local speed limits.

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

c When stopped in traffic for long periods of time in hot weather, put the vehicle in the P (Park) position.

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 (cid:147)Maintenance and do-it-yourself(cid:148) section earlier in this manual. Tow mode Tow mode should be used when pulling a heavy trailer or hauling a heavy load. Press the tow button to activate the tow mode. The tow indica- tor in the instrument panel illuminates when the tow mode is selected. Press the Tow button again to turn the tow mode OFF. The Tow mode is automatically cancelled when the key is turned OFF. The Tow mode does the following: c Reduces transmissions shifts when pulling a

trailer or hauling a load.

c Provides similar shift feel to driver when the

vehicle is towing.

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SNOW PLOW

CAUTION

WARNING

Do not use this vehicle for snowplowing. Installing a snowplow may affect vehicle handling. This may cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle and could result in serious vehicle damage or personal injury.

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

ways tow forward, never backward.

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

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

The Tow mode should be used when the vehicle and trailer weight is at least 75% of the vehicle(cid:146)s GCWR. Tow mode is most useful in the following driving conditions when towing a heavy trailer or hauling a heavy load: c Rolling terrain. c Stop and go traffic. c Busy parking lots. Driving the vehicle in the Tow mode with no trailer/load or light trailer/light load will not cause any damage. However, fuel economy may be reduced and the transmission/engine driving characteristics may feel unusual. 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 (cid:147)Maintenance and do-it-yourself(cid:148) 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.

9-24 Technical and consumer information

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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

Treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on tire wear rate when tested under controlled conditions on specified government test courses. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1-1/2) times as well on the govern- ment course as a tire graded 100. However, relative tire performance depends on actual driv- ing conditions, and may vary significantly 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(cid:146)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.

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 your ve- hicle tires is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests and does not in- clude acceleration, cornering, hydroplan- ing or peak traction characteristics.

Temperature A, B and C

Temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C. They represent a tire(cid:146)s resistance to heat build-up, and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high tem- perature can cause tire material to degenerate, reducing tire life. Excessive temperatures can lead to sudden tire failure. Grade C corresponds to a performance level which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades A and B rep- resent higher levels of performance on laboratory test wheels than the minimum required by law.

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EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (US only)

READINESS FOR INSPECTION/ MAINTENANCE (I/M) TEST

Your NISSAN vehicle is covered by the following emission warranties: For USA 1. Emission Defects Warranty 2. Emissions Performance Warranty Details of these warranties may be found with other vehicle warranties in your Warranty Infor- mation Booklet which comes with your NISSAN vehicle. If you did not receive a Warranty Informa- tion Booklet, or it is lost, you may obtain a re- placement by writing to: c Nissan North America, Inc.

Consumer Affairs Department P.O. Box 191
Gardena, CA 90248-0191

For Canada Emission Control System Warranty Details of these warranties may be found with other vehicle warranties in your Warranty Infor- mation Booklet which comes with your NISSAN vehicle. If you did not receive a Warranty Informa- tion Booklet, or it is lost, you may obtain a re- placement by writing to: c Nissan Canada Inc. 5290 Orbitor Drive Mississauga, Ontario, L4W 4Z5

9-26 Technical and consumer information

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 Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327- 4236. You may also write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor ve- hicle safety from the Hotline. You may notify NISSAN by contacting our Consumer Affairs Department, toll-free, at 1-800-NISSAN-1.

of

Due to legal requirements in some states and Canadian Provinces, your vehicle may be re- quired to be in what is called the (cid:147)ready condi- tion(cid:148) for an Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) test of the emission control system.

The vehicle is set to the (cid:147)ready condition(cid:148) when it is driven through certain driving patterns. Usually, the ready condition can be obtained by ordinary usage of the vehicle.

test,

check

If a powertrain system component is repaired or the battery is disconnected, the vehicle may be reset to a (cid:147)not ready(cid:148) condition. Before taking the the I/M vehicle(cid:146)s inspection/maintenance test readiness condi- tion. Turn the ignition switch ON without starting the engine. If the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) comes on steady for 20 seconds and then blinks for 10 seconds , the I/M test condition is 9not ready9. If the MIL does not blink after 20
seconds, the I/M test condition is 9ready.9 If the MIL indicates the vehicle is in a 9not ready9 con- dition, drive the vehicle through the following pattern to set the vehicle to the ready condition. If you cannot or do not want to perform the driving pattern, a NISSAN dealer can conduct it for you.

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8. Stop the vehicle. Place the transmission se- lector lever in the P (Park) or N (Neutral) position.

9. Turn the engine off. 10. Repeat steps 1 - 8 at least one more time. If steps 1 through 7 are interrupted, repeat the preceding step. Any safe driving mode is accept- able between steps. Do not stop the engine until step 7 is completed.

WARNING

Always drive the vehicle in a safe and prudent manner according to traffic con- ditions and obey all traffic laws.

1. Start the engine when the engine coolant temperature gauge needle points to C. Al- low the engine to idle until the gauge needle points between the C and H (normal oper- ating temperature).

2. Accelerate the vehicle to 55 MPH (88
km/h), then quickly release the accelerator pedal completely and keep it released for at least 10 seconds.

3. Quickly depress the accelerator pedal for a moment, then drive the vehicle at a speed of 53 - 60 MPH (86 - 96 km/h) for at least 9
minutes.

4. Stop the vehicle.

5. Accelerate the vehicle to 35 MPH (55 km/h)

and maintain the speed for 20 seconds.

6. Repeat steps 4 through 5 at least 10 times.

7. Accelerate the vehicle to 55 MPH (88 km/h) and maintain the speed for at least 3 min- utes.

EVENT DATA RECORDERS

Your vehicle is equipped with a variety of comput- ers that monitor and control a number of systems to optimize performance and help service techni- cians with diagnosis and repair. Depending on the equipment on your vehicle, some of the com- puters monitor emission control systems, braking systems and air bag systems, just to name a few. Some data about vehicle operation may be stored in the computers for use during servicing. Other data may be stored if a crash event occurs. For example, air bag readiness, air bag perfor- mance, and seat belt use by the driver or passen- ger may be recorded, depending on vehicle equipment. These types of systems are some- times called Event Data Recorders. Special equipment can be used to access the electronic data that may be stored in the vehicle(cid:146)s computers (sounds are not recorded). NISSAN and NISSAN dealers have equipment to access some of this data; others may also have this equipment. The data may be retrieved during routine vehicle servicing or for special research. It might also be accessed with the consent of the vehicle owner or lessee, in response to a request by law enforcement, or as otherwise required or permitted by law.

Technical and consumer information 9-27

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OWNER(cid:146)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(cid:146)s Manuals, and genuine NISSAN Service and Owner(cid:146)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: Tweddle Litho Company 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: Resolve Corporation 20770 Westwood Road Strongsville, OH 44136
1-800-247-5321

9-28 Technical and consumer information

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Why should you take a chance? In over 40 states, the law says you must be advised if non-genuine parts are used to repair your vehicle. And some states have enacted laws that restrict insurance companies from authoriz- ing the use of non-genuine collision parts during the new vehicle warranty. These laws help pro- tect you, so you can take action to protect your- self. It(cid:146)s your right! If you should need further information visit us at: www.nissanusa.com.

For current pricing and availability of genuine NISSAN Owner(cid:146)s Manuals for the 2005 model year and prior, see a NISSAN dealer, or contact:

Resolve Corporation 20770 Westwood Road Strongsville, OH 44136
1-800-247-5321
For Canada

To purchase a copy of a genuine NISSAN Ser- vice Manual or Owner(cid:146)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(cid:146)s Manuals for older NISSAN models. IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION Unfortunately, accidents do occur. In this unlikely event, there is some important information you should know.

Many insurance companies routinely authorize the use of non-genuine collision parts in order to cut costs, among other reasons.

Insist on the use of genuine NISSAN collision parts! If you want your vehicle to be restored using parts made to NISSAN(cid:146)s original exacting specifica- tions (cid:150) if you want to help it to last and hold its resale value, the solution is simple. Tell your insurance agent and your repair shop to only use Genuine NISSAN Collision Parts. NISSAN does not warrant non-NISSAN parts, nor does NISSAN(cid:146)s warranty apply to damage caused by a non-genuine part. Using Genuine NISSAN Parts can help protect your personal safety, preserve your warranty pro- tection and maintain the resale value of your vehicle. And if your vehicle was leased, using Genuine NISSAN Parts may prevent or limit un- necessary excess wear and tear expenses at the end of your lease. NISSAN designs its hoods with crumple zones to minimize the risk that the hood will penetrate the windshield of your vehicle in an accident. Non- genuine (imitation) parts may not provide such built in safeguards. Also, non-genuine parts often show premature wear, rust and corrosion.

Technical and consumer information 9-29

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MEMO

9-30 Technical and consumer information

10 Index

4WD warning light .

.2-15

Active head restraint . Adjusting pedal position . Air bag (See supplemental restraint system) Air bag system

.1-9
.3-16

.1-56

Front (See supplemental front impact .1-63
air bag system) . .1-70
.1-71, 2-16
.8-16

Air bag warning labels . Air bag warning light. Air cleaner housing filter . Air conditioner

Air conditioner operation . Air conditioner service . Air conditioner specification label . Air conditioner system refrigerant and lubrication recommendations . Heater and air conditioner controls . Rear seat air conditioner . Servicing air conditioner .

.4-18
.4-27
.9-11

.9-6

.4-15, 4-24
.4-27
.4-27
.4-19

Air flow charts . Alarm system (See vehicle security system) . Anchor point locations . Antenna . Anti-lock brake system (ABS) . Anti-lock brake warning light .

.2-20
.1-45
.4-40
.5-25
.2-13

Audible reminders. Audio system .

.2-19
.4-28

Booster seats . Brake

AM-FM-SAT radio with compact disc (CD) changer . Compact Disc (CD) changer Radio . Rear audio controls . Steering wheel audio control switch.

.4-31
.4-34
.4-28
.4-39
.4-37
.2-25

Autolight switch . Automatic

Automatic drive positioner . Automatic power window switch . Automatic transmission position indicator light Driving with automatic transmission. Transmission selector lever lock release .

Automatic anti-glare inside mirror . Automatic transmission fluid temperature gauge . AUX jack.

.3-19
.2-46

.2-17
.5-9
.5-13
.3-18

.2-7
.4-36

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

Break-in schedule. Brightness control

Instrument panel

Brightness/Contrast button . Bulb check/instrument panel. Bulb replacement .

Control panel buttons .

.1-50

.5-25
.8-21
.8-11
.8-27
.8-20
.5-24
.2-13
.2-19, 8-20
.8-20
.5-14
.8-20
.5-16

.2-27
.4-12
.4-12
.2-12
.8-27

Back door . Back door release . Battery .

Charge warning light .

Battery replacement (See remote keyless entry system) Before starting the engine . Belts (See drive belts) .