1997 Nissan Frontier Owners Manual

then

To resume the preset speed, push and release the RESUME switch. The vehicle returns to the last set cruising speed when the vehicle speed is over 30 MPH (48 km/h). Precautions c The cruise indicator light may blink when the cruise control main switch is turned ON while pushing the RESUME/ACCEL, COAST/SET, or CANCEL switch. To properly set the cruise control system, perform the preceding steps in the order indicated.

c If the cruise control system malfunctions, it cancels automatically. The CRUISE

CAUTION

On manual transmission models, do not shift into neutral without depress- ing the clutch pedal when the cruise control is on. Should this occur, de- press the clutch pedal and turn the main switch off immediately. Failure to do so may cause engine damage.

indicator in the instrument cluster then blinks to warn the driver.

c If

the cruise indicator blinks,

turn the cruise control main switch off and have the system checked by your NISSAN dealer.

WARNING

Don’t use the cruise control when driv- ing under the following conditions: c it is not possible to keep the vehicle

at a set speed.

c in heavy traffic or in traffic that var-

ies in speed.

c on winding or hilly roads. c on slippery roads (rain, snow, ice,

etc.).

c in very windy areas. Doing so could cause a loss of vehicle control and result in an accident.

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BREAK-IN SCHEDULE

INCREASING FUEL ECONOMY

During the first 1,000 miles (1,609 km), follow these recommendations for the future reliability and economy of your new vehicle. Failure to follow these recommendations may result in vehicle damage or shortened engine life. c Do not run the engine over 4,000 rpm. c Do not drive over the following speed

limits:

2-wheel drive models: 55 MPH (88 km/h) 4-wheel drive models (2H or 4H position):

55 MPH (88 km/h) 4-wheel drive models (4L position):

30 MPH (48 km/h)

c Do not accelerate at full throttle in any

gear.

c Avoid quick starts. c Avoid hard braking as much as possible. c Do not tow a trailer for the first 500 miles

(805 km).

For the first 300 miles (483 km), it is recommended that you drive in the 2-wheel drive (2H) position with the free- running hubs set in LOCK if your vehicle is equipped with manual-lock free- running hubs.

SD0001

c Accelerate slowly and smoothly. Maintain cruising speeds with a constant accelera- tor position.

c Drive at moderate speeds on the high- way. Driving at high speeds lowers fuel economy.

c Avoid unnecessary stopping and brak- ing. Maintain a safe distance behind other vehicles.

c Use a proper gear range which suits road conditions. On level roads, shift into high gear as soon as possible.

c Avoid unnecessary engine idling.

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c Keep your engine tuned up. c Follow the recommended periodic main-

tenance schedule.

c Keep the tires inflated to the correct pressure. Low pressure increases tire wear and wastes fuel.

c Keep the front wheels in correct align- ment. Improper alignment increases tire wear and lowers fuel economy.

c Air conditioner operation lowers fuel economy. Use the air conditioner only when necessary.

c When cruising at highway speeds, it is more economical to use the air condi- tioner and leave the windows closed to reduce drag.

Use 4H or 4L position only when neces- sary. 4-wheel drive operation lowers fuel economy.

TRANSFER CASE

SHIFTING PROCEDURES FOR 4-WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLES

SD0020

2H — (2WD, high range) Only the rear wheels are driven. Use when driving under the same conditions as standard 2WD ve- hicle. 4H — (4WD, high range) Four wheels are driven. Use when driving on roads where it is difficult to drive in the 2H position (i.e., driving at normal speeds on snow covered, icy, wet, muddy or sandy roads). 4L — (4WD, low range) Four wheels are driven. Use when climbing or descending steep hills, or during hard driving in sand, mud or deep snow. The 4L position pro- vides maximum power and traction. Avoid

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raising vehicle speed excessively, as the maximum speed in 5th gear is approxi- mately 30 MPH (48 km/h). N — No wheels are driven. Always keep the transfer lever out of the N position. Shift the lever quickly and smoothly when moving across the N position with the vehicle stopped.

CAUTION

c Do not drive on dry hard surface

roads in 4-wheel drive.

c Driving on dry hard surfaces in 4H or 4L may cause unnecessary noise and tire wear. We recommend driv- ing in the 2H position under these conditions.

WARNING

c When parking the vehicle, apply the parking brake and shift the transfer control lever in the 2H, 4H or 4L position.

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c Do not leave the transfer control le- ver in the N position. Otherwise, the vehicle could roll unexpectedly even if the manual transmission is in gear or the automatic transmission is in the P position.

c Failure to engage the transfer con- trol lever in 2H, 4H, or 4L could result in the vehicle moving unexpectedly, which in turn could result in serious personal injury or property damage.

Your NISSAN is equipped with one of two 4WD systems, auto-lock free-running hubs or manual-lock free-running hubs.

AUTO-LOCK

FREE-RUNNING HUBS

SD0021

The auto-lock free-running hub is designed to allow for automatic 4-wheel drive en- gagement when the shift lever is moved to the 4H or 4L position. If your vehicle is equipped with this system, follow these op- erational cautions:

CAUTION

c The auto-locking hubs will make a clicking noise when engaging and disengaging. This is normal.

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c Accelerating quickly from a stop af- ter shifting from 2-wheel drive to 4-wheel drive may not allow engage- ment of the auto-locking free- running hubs and may cause a clat- tering noise. Continued use of the vehicle with this noise may damage the hub lock. In such a case, release the accelerator pedal to reduce the engine speed or stop the vehicle.

c If the auto-locking hubs make a clat- tering noise after shifting from 4-wheel drive to 2-wheel drive, stop and move the vehicle about 7 to 10
feet (2 to 3 m) in reverse.

c Under extremely cold conditions [below 5°F (-15°C)], the front axle shafts may rotate even with the transfer lever in the 2H position. If this occurs, the auto-locking hubs may make a clattering noise. To avoid this, drive first in 4-wheel drive to warm up the vehicle and differen- tial gear oil. Then, shift to 2-wheel drive.

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c In cold weather, it may be necessary to reduce speed or stop the vehicle in order to shift from 2-wheel drive to 4-wheel drive.

c When shifting into or out of 4-wheel drive while driving, do not stop shift lever movement midway. An incom- plete shift may cause a clattering noise from the auto-locking hubs. Continued use of the vehicle with this noise may damage the hub lock. Drive in 4-wheel drive to stop the noise. Shift to 2-wheel drive as de- scribed.

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TO SHIFT

TRANSFER CASE:

From 2H to 4H

From 4H to 2H

SHIFT PROCEDURE FOR AUTO-LOCK FREE-RUNNING HUBS

Move the transfer lever to 4H at speeds below 25 MPH (40 km/h). It is not necessary to depress the clutch pedal. Perform this operation when driving straight.

Move the transfer lever to 2H. This can be done at any speed, and it is not necessary to depress the clutch pedal. Per- form this operation when driving straight. NOTE: For 2-wheel drive operation, set the free-running hubs in the disengaged position. AUTO-LOCK hubs will not disen- gage until the vehicle is moved about 3 feet (1 m) in the opposite direction of travel: c When driving forward, stop and move 3 feet (1 m) in reverse. c When backing up, stop and move 3 feet (1 m) forward, then move the vehicle about 3 feet (1 m) in reverse. This will allow for better fuel economy, quieter ride and less component wear.

From 4H to 4L or 4L to 4H

1. Stop the vehicle. 2. Depress the clutch pedal. 3. Depress the transfer lever and move it to the desired 4L or 4H position.

From 2H to 4L

From 4L to 2H

1. Stop the vehicle. 2. Depress the clutch pedal. 3. Depress the transfer lever and move it to 4L. Change gears quickly and smoothly.

1. Stop the vehicle. 2. Depress the clutch pedal. 3. Depress the transfer lever and move it to 2H. NOTE: Follow the NOTE shown in shifting from 4H to 2H.

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CAUTION

c Never drive in 4-wheel drive (4H or 4L) with the free-running hubs in the FREE position.

c Do not drive your vehicle with the left and right free-running hub set to different positions.

c For the first 300 miles (483 km) it is recommended that you drive in the 2H position with the free-running hubs set in the LOCK position.

c To ensure proper lubrication of front drive components, drive in the LOCK position for at least 10 miles (16 km) each month.

MANUAL-LOCK

FREE-RUNNING HUBS

SD0022

The manual-lock free-running hubs are de- signed to allow you to engage or disengage the front drive shaft to the front wheels. Before driving, set the free-running hub to the desired position: c 2-wheel operation — Turn the knob to

the FREE position.

c 4-wheel operation — Turn the knob to

the LOCK position.

Be certain to align the S mark on the knob with the c mark on the wheel hub.

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TO SHIFT TRANSFER

CASE:

From 2H to 4H

From 4H to 2H

SHIFT PROCEDURE FOR MANUAL-LOCK FREE-RUNNING HUBS

1. Stop the vehicle. 2. Set free-running hubs in the LOCK position. 3. Move the transfer lever to 4H. It is not necessary to depress the clutch pedal.

Move the transfer lever to 2H. This can be done at any speed, and it is not necessary to depress the clutch pedal. Per- form this operation when driving straight. NOTE: For 2-wheel drive operation, set the free-running hubs in the FREE position. This will allow for better fuel economy, quieter ride and less component wear.

From 4H to 4L or 4L to 4H

1. Stop the vehicle. 2. Depress the clutch pedal. 3. Depress the transfer lever and move it to the desired 4L or 4H position.

From 2H to 4L

From 4L to 2H

1. Stop the vehicle. 2. Set free-running hubs in the LOCK position. 3. Depress the clutch pedal. 4. Depress the transfer lever and move it to 4L. Change gears quickly and smoothly.

1. Stop the vehicle. 2. Depress the clutch pedal. 3. Depress the transfer lever and move it to 2H. NOTE: Follow the NOTE shown in shifting from 4H to 2H.

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DRIVING YOUR

4-WHEEL DRIVE SAFELY

Your NISSAN is designed for both normal and off-road use. It has a higher ground clearance and a narrower track to make it suitable for off-road use. These characteris- tics give the vehicle a higher center of gravity than ordinary passenger cars. An advantage of the higher ground clearance is a better view of your surroundings, allowing you to anticipate problems. However, avoid driving in deep water or mud as your NISSAN is mainly designed for leisure use, unlike a conventional off-road vehicle. Please observe the following precautions:

WARNING

c Drive carefully when off the road and avoid dangerous areas. Always wear your seat belts to help keep you and your passengers in position when driving over rough terrain.

c Do not drive across steep slopes. Instead drive either straight up or straight down the slopes. Off-road vehicles can tip over sideways much more easily than they can forward or backward.

c Many hills are too steep for any ve- hicle. If you drive up them, you may stall. If you drive down them, you may not be able to control your speed. If you drive across them, you may roll over.

c Stay alert when driving to the top of a hill. At the top there could be a drop-off or other hazard that could cause an accident.

c If your engine stalls or you cannot make it to the top of a steep hill, never attempt to turn around. Your vehicle could tip or roll over. Always back straight down in reverse gear. Never back down in neutral (N) or with the clutch depressed, using only the brake, as this could cause loss of control.

c Heavy braking going down a hill could cause your brakes to overheat and fade, resulting in loss of control and an accident. Apply brakes lightly and use a low gear to control your speed. c If at all possible, avoid sharp turning maneuvers, particularly at high speeds. Your NISSAN 4-wheel drive vehicle has a higher center of gravity

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as

speeds

than a 2-wheel drive vehicle and can tip over more easily. The vehicle is not designed for cornering at the same conventional 2-wheel drive vehicles any more than low-slung sports cars are de- signed to perform satisfactorily un- der off-road conditions. Failure to operate this vehicle correctly could result in loss of control and/or a rollover accident.

c Unsecured cargo can be thrown around when driving over rough ter- rain. Properly secure it so that it will not be thrown forward and cause injury to you or your passengers.

c Avoid raising the center of gravity by loading things on the roof or equip- ping the vehicle with tires larger than specified in this manual. This could cause your vehicle to roll over. Put heavy loads in the cargo area as far forward and as low as possible.

c Do not grip the inside or spokes of the steering wheel when driving off- road. The steering wheel could jerk and injure your hands. Instead drive with your fingers and thumbs on the outside of the rim.

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heading ‘‘Brake system,’’ later in this section.

c Avoid parking your vehicle on steep hills. If you get out of the vehicle and it rolls forward, backward or side- ways, you could be injured.

c Whenever

you

drive

off-road through sand, mud or water as deep as the wheel hub, more frequent maintenance may be required. For details, refer to ‘‘Maintenance for off- road driving’’ in the ‘‘Maintenance schedule’’ section.

c Before operating the vehicle, ensure that the driver and all passengers have their seat belts fastened.

c Always drive with the floor mats in place as the floor may become very hot. Particular care should be taken if you are barefoot.

c Lower your speed when encounter- ing strong crosswinds. With its higher your NISSAN is more affected by gusty side winds. Slower speeds ensure better vehicle control.

center of gravity,

c Do not drive beyond the perfor-

mance of the tires even with 4WD. Accelerating quickly, steering or braking may cause loss of control or the vehicle to stick in the road.

c Install the same size of winter tires on all four (4) wheels (such as stud- less tires) or install tire chains to the rear wheels when driving on slippery roads (e.g., after a snow) and drive carefully using 4WD.

c Be sure to check the brakes immedi- ately after driving in mud or water as specified in ‘‘Wet brakes’’ under the

TIRES OF 4-WHEEL

DRIVE

CAUTION

Always use tires of the same size, brand, construction (bias, bias-belted or radial), and tread pattern on all four wheels. Failure to do so may result in a circumference difference between tires on the front and rear axles which will cause excessive tire wear and may damage the transmission, transfer case and differential gears.

If excessive tire wear is found, it is recom- mended that all four tires be replaced with tires of the same size, brand, construction and tread pattern. The tire pressure and wheel alignment should also be checked and corrected as necessary. Contact your NISSAN dealer. Snow tires If you install snow tires, they must also be the same size, brand, construction and tread pattern on all four wheels.

CAUTION

ONLY use spare tires specified for each 4-wheel drive model.

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Tire inflation pressure Periodically check the pressure in all tires, including the spare, with a gauge. Adjust to the specified pressure if necessary. Tire pressures are shown on the tire placard affixed to the glove box. Tire chain Tire chains must be installed only on the rear wheels and not on the front wheels. Do not drive with tire chains on paved roads which are clear of snow. Driving with chains in such conditions can cause damage to the various mechanisms of the vehicle due to some overstress. When driving on clear paved roads, be sure to change to 2WD.

PARKING/PARKING ON HILLS

WARNING

c Do not park the vehicle over flam- mable materials such as dry grass, waste paper or rags. They may ignite and cause a fire.

The transfer control

lever must be in the 2H, 4H or 4L position and the parking brake set to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

c Never place the transfer control le- ver in the N position. Otherwise, the vehicle could roll unexpectedly even

4-23

MSD0002

if the manual transmission is in gear or the automatic transmission is in the P position. This could result in serious personal injury or property damage.

1. Firmly apply the parking brake. 2. Manual transmission models:

Place the gearshift lever in the R (Re- verse) position. When parking on an up- hill grade, place the gearshift lever in the 1st position.

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POWER STEERING SYSTEM

The power assisted steering is designed to use a hydraulic pump, driven by the engine, to assist steering. If the engine stops or drive belt breaks, you will still have control of the vehicle. How- ever, much greater steering effort is needed, especially in sharp turns or at low speeds.

c HEADED UPHILL WITH CURB: s2

Turn the wheels away from the curb and move the vehicle back until the curb side wheel gently touches the curb.

c HEADED UPHILL OR DOWNHILL, NO

CURB: s3
Turn the wheels toward the side of the road so the vehicle will move away from the center of the road if it moves.

4. Turn the ignition key to the LOCK posi-

tion and remove the key.

WARNING

c Never leave children unattended in

the vehicle.

c Never leave the engine running while

the vehicle is unattended.

Automatic transmission models: Move the gearshift lever to the P (Park) position.

WARNING

Safe parking procedures require that both the parking brake be set and the transmission placed into P position (automatic) or in the appropriate gear (manual). Failure to do so could cause the vehicle to move unexpectedly or roll away and result in an accident. Make sure the gear lever has been pushed as far forward as it can go and cannot be moved without depressing the button at the end of the lever.

3. To help prevent the vehicle from rolling into the street when parked on an incline, it is a good practice to turn the wheels as illustrated.

c HEADED DOWNHILL WITH CURB: s1
Turn the wheels into the curb and move the vehicle forward until the curb side wheel gently touches the curb.

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BRAKE SYSTEM

The brake system has two separate hydrau- lic circuits. If one circuit develops a problem, you will still have braking at two wheels. Vacuum assisted brakes The brake booster aids braking by using engine vacuum. If the engine stops, you can stop the vehicle by depressing the brake pedal. However, greater foot pressure on the brake pedal will be required to stop the vehicle and the stopping distance will be longer. Wet brakes When the vehicle is washed or driven through water, the brakes may get wet. As a result, your braking distance will be longer and the vehicle may pull to one side during braking. To dry brakes, drive the vehicle at a safe speed while lightly pressing the brake pedal to heat the brakes. Do this until the brakes return to normal. Avoid driving the vehicle at high speeds until the brakes function cor- rectly.

Using the brakes Avoid resting your foot on the brake pedal while driving. This will overheat the brakes, wear out the brake linings and pads faster, and reduce gas mileage. To help reduce brake wear, and to prevent the brakes from overheating, reduce speed and downshift to a lower gear before going down a slope or long grade.

WARNING

While driving on a slippery surface, be careful when braking, accelerating or downshifting. Abrupt braking actions or sudden acceleration could cause the wheels to skid and result in an acci- dent.

REAR ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (R-ABS)

Normal Operation The rear anti-lock brake system does not operate at speeds below 3 to 6 MPH (5 to 10
km/h). (The speeds vary according to road conditions.) When driving in the 2-wheel drive mode, the rear anti-lock brake system controls the rear wheels so they will not lock when braking abruptly or when braking on a slippery road. Thus, difficult steering and swerving of the vehicle due to locked rear wheels is mini- mized. The system detects the rear wheel rotation rate and electronically controls the pressure applied to each rear brake. Slight vibration on the brake pedal accompanied by noise usually occurs while the ABS sys- tem is operating. Such vibration and noise encountered during abrupt braking is not a problem, but indicates that the system is functioning. Even with the rear anti-lock brake sys- tem, your front wheels can still lock. If this happens, release the brake pedal slightly and then reapply pressure. Self-test feature The rear anti-lock brake system consists of an electronic sensor and two hydraulic so-

4-25

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If

lenoids controlled by a computer. The com- puter has a built-in diagnostic feature that tests the system each time you start the engine and move the vehicle at a low speed in forward or reverse. When the self-test occurs, you may hear a ‘‘clunk’’ noise and/or feel a pulsation in the brake pedal. This is normal and is not an indication of any malfunction. the computer senses any malfunction, it switches the rear anti-lock brake system off and turns on the ABS brake warning light in the dashboard. The brake system then operates normally, but without anti-lock assistance. If an abnormality occurs in the system, the rear anti-lock function will cease but the ordinary brakes will continue to operate normally. The ABS brake warning light will then come on. If the light comes on while you are driving, contact your NISSAN dealer for repair.

The rear anti-lock brake system may only be effective when driving in the 2-wheel drive mode. When driving in the 4-wheel drive mode, the rear anti-lock brake system may not be effective in many cases because the front axle is connected with the rear axle through

the transfer gear. The rear wheels lock if the front wheels lock. If this happens, the rear anti-lock brake system may cease function- ing but the ordinary brakes will continue to operate normally. The ABS brake warning light will then come on. The above condition is not a malfunction and the rear anti-lock brake system recov- ers when the engine is started again. The ABS brake warning light then goes off. Using the System Depress the brake pedal and hold it down.

WARNING

Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so may result in increased stopping dis- tances.

WARNING

The rear anti-lock brake system is a sophisticated device. But it cannot pre- vent accidents resulting from careless or dangerous driving techniques. It can help maintain vehicle control under

4-26

some conditions, but remember that the stopping distance on slippery sur- faces will be longer than on normal surfaces even with rear wheel ABS. Stopping distances may also be longer on rough, gravel, or snow covered roads, or if you are using tire chains. Always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. Ultimately, the responsibility for safety of self and others rests in the hands of the driver. Tire type and condition may also affect braking effectiveness. c When replacing tires,

the specified size of tires on all four wheels.

install

c When installing a spare tire, make sure it is the proper size and type as specified on the tire placard. See ‘‘Tire placard’’ in the ‘‘Technical and consumer information’’ section.

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COLD WEATHER DRIVING

Freeing a frozen door lock To prevent a door lock from freezing, apply de-icer or glycerin through the key hole. If the lock becomes frozen, heat the key be- fore inserting it into the key hole. Anti-freeze In the winter when it is anticipated that the temperature will drop below 32°F (0°C), check anti-freeze (ethylene glycol base) to assure proper winter protection. For details, see ‘‘Engine cooling system’’ in the ‘‘Do-it- yourself operations’’ section. Battery If fully charged during extremely cold weather conditions, the bat- tery fluid may freeze and damage the bat- tery. To maintain maximum efficiency, the battery should be checked regularly. For details, see ‘‘Battery’’ in the ‘‘Do-it-yourself operations’’ section. Draining of coolant water If the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-freeze, drain the cooling system by opening the drain valves located under the radiator and on the engine block. Refill

the battery is not

before operating the vehicle. For details, see ‘‘Changing engine coolant’’ in the ‘‘Do- it-yourself operations’’ section. Tire equipment 1. SUMMER tires have a tread designed to provide superior performance on dry pavement. However, the performance of these tires will be substantially reduced in snowy and icy conditions. If you oper- ate your vehicle on snowy or icy roads, NISSAN recommends the use on all four wheels of MUD & SNOW or ALL SEA- SON tires. Please consult your NISSAN dealer for the tire type, size, speed rating and availability information.

2. For additional traction on icy roads, stud- ded tires may be used. However, some provinces and states prohibit their use. Check local, state and provincial laws before installing studded tires.

Skid and traction capabilities of studded snow tires on wet or dry surfaces may be poorer than that of non-studded snow tires. 3. Tire chains may be used if desired. Use of tire chains may be prohibited accord- ing to location. Check the local laws

4-27

before installing tire chains. When install- ing tire chains, make sure they are of proper size for the tires on your vehicle and are installed according to the chain manufacturer’s suggestions. Use only SAE Class ‘‘S’’ chains. Other types may damage your vehicle. Use chain tensioners when recommended by the tire chain manufacturer to ensure a tight fit. Loose end links of the tire chain must be secured or removed to prevent the possibility of whipping action damage to the fenders or undercarriage. If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle when using tire chains. In addition, drive at a reduced speed, otherwise, your vehicle may be damaged and/or vehicle handling and performance may be adversely af- fected. Never install tire chains on a TEMPORARY USE ONLY spare tire. Do not use tire chains on dry roads.

Special winter equipment It is recommended that the following items be carried in the vehicle during winter: 1. A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to re- move ice and snow from the windows and wiper blades.

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WARNING

Do not use your heater with an un- grounded electrical system or two- pronged (cheater) adapters. You can be injured by an electrical shock if you use an ungrounded connection.

c Watch for slippery spots (glare ice). These may appear on an otherwise clear road in shaded areas. If a patch of ice is seen ahead, brake before reaching it. Try not to brake while actually on the ice, and avoid any sudden steering maneuvers.

c Do not use the cruise control on

slippery roads.

c Snow can trap dangerous exhaust gases under your vehicle. Keep snow clear of the exhaust pipe and from around your vehicle.

Engine block heater/Engine heater (if so equipped) An engine block heater/engine heater to assist extreme cold temperature starting is available through your NISSAN dealer.

2. A sturdy, flat board to be placed under

the jack to give it firm support.

3. A shovel to dig the vehicle out of snow-

drifts.

4. Extra window washer fluid to refill the

reservoir tank.

Driving on snow or ice

WARNING

c Wet ice (32°F, 0°C and freezing rain), very cold snow, or ice can be slick and very hard to drive on. The ve- hicle will have a lot less traction or ‘‘grip’’ under these conditions. Try to avoid driving on wet ice until the road is salted or sanded.

c Whatever the condition, drive with caution. Accelerate and slow down with care. If accelerating or down- shifting too fast, the drive wheels will lose even more traction.

c Allow more stopping distance under these conditions. Braking should be started sooner than on dry pavement. c Allow greater following distances on

slippery roads.

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5 In case of emergency

Flat tire ...................................................................5-2
Pantograph type jack .............................................5-5
Screw type jack......................................................5-6
Jump starting..........................................................5-8
Push starting ..........................................................5-9

If your vehicle overheats........................................5-9
Tow truck towing ..................................................5-10
2-Wheel drive models ..........................................5-11
4-Wheel drive models ..........................................5-12
Vehicle recovery (freeing a stuck vehicle)...........5-13

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FLAT TIRE

If you have a flat tire, follow the instructions below: Stopping the vehicle 1. Safely move the vehicle off the road and

away from traffic.

2. Turn on the hazard warning flashers. 3. Park on a level surface and apply the parking brake. Shift the manual transmis- sion into R (Reverse), or the automatic transmission into P (Park).

WARNING

The transfer control

lever must be in the 2H, 4H or 4L position. c Never place the transfer control le- ver in the N position. Otherwise, the vehicle could roll unexpectedly even if the manual transmission is in gear or the automatic transmission is in the P position. This could result in serious personal injury or property damage.

personnel that you require assistance.

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

WARNING

c Make sure that the parking brake is securely applied and the manual transmission is shifted into R (Re- verse), or the automatic transmis- sion into P (Park).

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

c Never change tires if oncoming traf- fic is close to your vehicle. Wait for professional road assistance.

4. Turn off the engine. 5. Raise the hood to warn other traffic and to signal professional road assistance

5-2

MCE0001

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

WARNING

Be sure to block the wheel as the ve- hicle may move and could cause per- sonal injury.

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ACE1008

SCE0043

CE0141-A

Getting the spare tire and tools 1. For King Cab models:

a. Move the driver’s seat back fully for-

ward.

b. Remove the jack and wheel nut wrench from the tool case from be- hind the driver’s seat.

c. Remove the jack rod from behind the

driver’s seat.

For standard cab models: a. Move the bench seat back fully for-

ward.

b. Remove the jack and jack rod from behind the driver’s side of the bench seat.

c. Remove the wheel nut wrench from the

behind the passenger’s side of bench seat.

2. Fit the square end of the jack rod into the square hole of the wheel nut wrench to form a handle.

3. Find the oval shaped opening under the middle of the tailgate. Pass the T-shaped end of the jack rod through the opening and direct it towards the spare tire winch, located directly above the spare tire.

4. Seat the T-shaped end of the jack rod into the T-shaped opening of the spare tire winch, and turn the jack rod counter- clockwise to lower the spare tire.

5. Once the spare tire is completely low- ered, reach under the vehicle, remove the retainer chain, and carefully slide the tire from under the rear of the vehicle.

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Removing wheel cover

CAUTION

Do not use your hands to pry off wheel covers. Doing so could result in per- sonal injury.

Use caution not to scratch the wheel cover or wheel surface.

CE0047M

ATI0702

ACE0706

ACE0707

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PANTOGRAPH TYPE JACK

Jacking up the vehicle and remov- ing the wheel Identify the type of jack supplied with your truck. jacks You will installed in your vehicle, a pantograph (scis- sor) type jack or a screw (bottle) type jack. Always refer to the proper illustrations for the correct placement and jack-up points for your specific vehicle model and jack type.

two types of

find one of

WARNING

c Never get under the vehicle while it

is supported only by the jack.

c Use the jack provided with your ve- hicle. Do not use the jack provided with your vehicle on other vehicles. c The jack is designed only for lifting

your vehicle during a tire change.

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

5-5

ACE0700

c Never jack up the vehicle more than

necessary.

c Never use blocks on or under the

jack.

c Do not allow passengers to stay in

the vehicle while it is on the jack.

c Never run the engine with the wheels off the ground. It may cause the vehicle to move. This is especially true for vehicles with limited slip differential carriers.

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SCREW TYPE JACK

CE0046MA

Carefully read the following instructions. 1. On 4-wheel drive models with a screw type jack, put the adapter stored in the tool bag on the jack when jacking up the front side. Do not use the jack adapter for the rear.

2. Place the jack directly under the jack-up

point. The jack should be used on level, firm ground.

3. Loosen each wheel nut on the flat tire

one or two turns by turning counterclock- wise with the wheel nut wrench.

Do not remove the wheel nuts until the tire is off the ground. 4. Carefully raise the vehicle until the flat tire clears the ground. Remove the wheel nuts, and then remove the wheel. Do not remove the brake drum with the wheel.

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CE0116

Installing wheel The spare tire is designed for emergency use. See specific instructions under the heading ‘‘Wheels and tires’’ in the ‘‘Do- it-yourself operations’’ section. 1. Clean any mud or dirt from the surface

between the wheel and hub.

2. Carefully put the spare tire on and tighten

the wheel nuts finger tight.

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

4. Lower the vehicle slowly until

the tire touches the ground. Then, with the wheel nut wrench, tighten the wheel nuts se- curely in the sequence as illustrated.

WARNING

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

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

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

87 to 108 ft-lb (118 to 147 Nzm)

The wheel nuts must be kept tightened to specification at all times. It is recom- mended that wheel nuts be tightened to specification at each lubrication interval.

5-7

Adjust tire pressure to the COLD pres- sure. COLD pressure: After vehicle has been parked for three hours or more or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). COLD tire pressures are shown on the tire placard affixed to the inside of the glove box lid. c Retighten the wheel nuts when the vehicle has been run for 600 miles (965 km).

5. Securely store the flat tire and jacking

equipment in the vehicle.

WARNING

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

c The spare tire is designed for emer- gency use. See specific instructions under the heading ‘‘Wheels and tires’’ in the ‘‘Do-it-yourself opera- tions’’ section.

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JUMP STARTING

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

WARNING

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

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

c Do not allow battery fluid to come into contact with eyes, skin, cloth or painted surfaces. Battery fluid is a corrosive sulphuric acid solution which can cause severe burns. If the fluid should come into contact with anything, immediately flush the con- tacted area with water.

c Keep battery out of the reach of

children.

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

c Whenever working on or near a bat- tery, always wear suitable eye protec- tors (e.g., goggles or industrial safety spectacles) and remove rings, metal bands, or any other jewelry. Do not lean over the battery when jump starting.

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

c Your vehicle has an automatic en- gine cooling fan. It could come on at any time. Keep hands and other ob- jects away from it.

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

1. If the booster battery is in another ve- hicle, position the two vehicles to bring their batteries into close proximity to each other. Do not allow the two vehicles to touch. 2. Apply the parking brake. Move the shift lever to Neutral (N) (on automatic trans- mission models, move the lever to P).

5-8

ACE0021

Switch off all unnecessary electrical sys- tems (lights, heater, air conditioner, etc.). 3. Remove vent caps on the battery (if so equipped). Cover the battery with an old cloth to reduce explosion hazard.

4. Connect jumper cables in the sequence

as illustrated.

CAUTION

c Always connect positive (+) to posi- tive (+) and negative (−) to body ground (e.g., strut mounting bolt, etc.—not to the battery).

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c Make sure that cables do not touch moving parts in the engine compart- ment and that clamps do not contact any other metal.

5. Start the engine of the booster vehicle

and let it run for a few minutes.

6. Keep the engine speed of the booster vehicle at about 2,000 r/min, and start your engine in the normal manner.

CAUTION

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

7. After starting your engine, carefully dis- connect the negative cable and then the positive cable.

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

PUSH STARTING

CAUTION

c Automatic transmission models can- not be started by pushing. This may cause transmission damage.

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

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

IF YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS

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

WARNING

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

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

c Do not open the hood if steam is

coming out.

1. Move the vehicle safely off

the road, apply the parking brake and move the gearshift lever to Neutral, or the auto- matic transmission into P (Park). Do not stop the engine.

2. Turn off

the air conditioner

(if so equipped). Open all of the windows, move the heater or air conditioner tem-

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WARNING

c Be careful not to allow your hands, hair, jewelry or clothing to come into contact with, or to get caught in, the running fan or belts.

7. After the engine cools down, check the coolant level in the reservoir tank with the engine running. Add coolant to the res- ervoir tank if necessary. Have your ve- hicle repaired at the nearest NISSAN dealer.

perature control to maximum hot and fan control to high speed.

3. If engine overheating is caused by climb- ing a long hill on a hot day, run the engine at a fast idle (approximately 1,500 r/min) until the temperature gauge indicator re- turns to normal.

4. Get out of the vehicle. Look and listen for steam or coolant escaping from the ra- diator before opening the hood. Wait until no steam or coolant can be seen before proceeding.

5. Open the hood.

WARNING

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

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

TOW TRUCK TOWING

When towing your vehicle, all state (provin- cial in Canada) and local regulations for towing must be followed. Incorrect towing equipment could damage your vehicle. Tow- ing instructions are available from your NIS- SAN dealer. Local service operators are generally familiar with the applicable laws and procedures for towing. To assure proper towing and to prevent accidental damage to your vehicle, NISSAN recommends having a service operator tow your vehicle. It is advis- able to have the service operator carefully read the following precautions:

WARNING

c Never ride in a vehicle that is being

towed.

c Never get under your vehicle after it

has been lifted by a tow truck.

CAUTION

c When towing, make sure that the transmission, axles, steering system and powertrain are in working con- dition. If any unit is damaged, a dolly must be used.

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c When towing with the front wheels

on the ground: Turn the ignition key to the OFF position and secure the steering wheel in a straight-ahead position with a rope or similar device. Never place the ignition key in the LOCK position. This will result in damage to the steering lock mechanism.

c When towing with the rear wheels on

the ground: Release the parking brake and move the gearshift lever to the Neutral po- sition (N position). On automatic transmission models, to move the shift lever to Neutral (N position), turn the ignition key to the ACC position. After moving the shift lever to neutral (N position), be sure to turn the ignition key to the OFF position.

c For 4-wheel drive models:

Set the free-running hubs to the free position. See ‘‘ Auto-lock free- running hubs” or ‘‘ Manual-lock free-running hubs” as appropriate in the ‘‘Starting and driving’’ section.

Move the transfer case shift lever into the 2H position and the trans- mission shift lever into the Neutral (N) position.

c Attach safety chains for all towing.

ACE0705

2-WHEEL DRIVE MODELS NISSAN recommends that your vehicle be towed with the driving (rear) wheels off the ground as illustrated.

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CAUTION

If you have to tow your vehicle with four wheels on the ground or with front wheels raised (with rear wheels on the ground), observe the following re- stricted towing speeds and distances: Automatic transmission model: c Speed: Below 30 MPH (48 km/h) c Distance: Less than 40 miles (64 km) Manual transmission model: c Speed: Below 60 MPH (97 km/h) c Distance: Less than 500 miles (805

km)

If the speed or distance must necessarily be greater, remove the propeller shaft before- hand to prevent damage to the transmis- sion.

CAUTION

Never tow your vehicle from the rear (i.e., backward) with four wheels on the ground, as this may cause serious and expensive damage to the transmission.

ACE0705

4-WHEEL DRIVE MODELS NISSAN recommends that a dolly be used as illustrated when towing your vehicle.

5-12

CAUTION

If you have to tow your vehicle with four wheels on the ground or with front or rear wheels raised, observe the follow- ing restricted towing speeds and distances: c Speed: Below 60 MPH (97 km/h) c Distance: Less than 500 miles (805

km)

If the speed or distance must necessarily be greater, remove the front and rear propeller shafts beforehand to prevent damage to the transmission.

CAUTION

c Never tow your vehicle from the rear (i.e., backward) with four wheels on the ground as this may cause seri- ous and expensive damage to the transmission.

c Be sure to place the transfer case shift lever into the 2H position and the transmission shift lever into the Neutral (N) position.

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VEHICLE RECOVERY (freeing a stuck vehicle) c Tow chains or cables must be attached only to the main structural members of the vehicle.

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

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

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

c Stand clear of a stuck vehicle.

WARNING

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

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6 Appearance and interior care

Cleaning exterior and interior.................................6-2

Corrosion protection...............................................6-4

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CLEANING EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR

MAI0001

In order to maintain the appearance of your vehicle, it is important to take proper care of it. In the following cases, please wash your vehicle as soon as possible to protect the paint surface: c after a rainfall to prevent possible dam-

age from acid rain.

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

c when dust or mud builds up on the

surface.

Whenever possible, store or park your ve- hicle inside a garage or in a covered area. When it is necessary to park outside, park in a shady area or protect the vehicle with a body cover. Be careful not to scratch the paint sur- face when putting on or removing the body cover. Washing Wash dirt off with a wet sponge and plenty of water. Clean the vehicle thoroughly using a mild soap, a special vehicle soap or general purpose dishwashing liquid mixed with clean, lukewarm (never hot) water.

CAUTION

c Do not use strong household soap, strong chemical detergents, gaso- line or solvents.

c Do not wash the vehicle in direct sunlight or while the vehicle body is hot, as the surface may become water-spotted.

6-2

c Avoid using tight-napped or rough cloths such as washing mitts. Care must be taken when removing caked-on dirt or other foreign sub- stances so the paint surface is not scratched or damaged.

Rinse the vehicle thoroughly with plenty of clean water. Inside flanges, seams and folds on the doors, hatches and hood are particularly vulnerable to the effects of road salt. There- fore, these areas must be regularly cleaned. Take care that the drain holes in the lower edge of the door are open. Spray water under the body and in the wheel wells to loosen the dirt and wash away road salt. A damp chamois can be used to dry the vehicle to avoid water spots. Waxing Regular waxing protects the paint surface and helps retain new vehicle appearance. After waxing, polishing is recommended to remove built-up residue and to avoid a ‘‘weathered’’ appearance. Your NISSAN dealer can assist you in

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choosing the proper product. c Wax your vehicle only after a thorough washing. Follow the instructions supplied with the wax.

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

c If the surface does not polish easily, use

a ‘‘road tar’’ remover and wax again.

or

black

urethane

Machine compounding or aggressive pol- ishing on a base coat/clear coat paint finish may dull the finish or leave swirl marks. Only apply black wax or black shoe polish to the polypropylene bumper. Removing spots Remove tar and oil spots, industrial dust, insects and tree sap as quickly as possible from the surface of the paint to avoid per- manent damage or staining. Special clean- ing products are available at your NISSAN dealer or any automotive accessories store. Underbody In areas where road salt is used in winter, it is necessary to clean the underbody regu-

Chrome parts Clean all chrome parts regularly with a non-abrasive chrome polish to maintain the finish. Cleaning interior Occasionally remove loose dust from the interior trim, plastic parts and seats using a vacuum cleaner or soft brush. Wipe the vinyl and leather surfaces with a clean, soft cloth dampened in mild soap solution, then wipe clean with a dry soft cloth. Before using any fabric protector, read the manu- facturer’s recommendations. Some fabric protectors contain chemicals that stain or bleach the seat material.

CAUTION

c Never use benzine, thinner or any

similar material.

c Never use fabric protectors unless recommended by the manufacturer.

larly in order to prevent dirt and salt from building up and causing corrosion on the underbody and suspension. Before the win- ter period and again in the spring, the underseal must be checked and, if neces- sary, retreated. Cleaning glass Use glass cleaner to remove smoke and dust film from the glass surfaces. It is nor- mal for glass to be coated with a film after the vehicle is parked in the hot sun. Glass cleaner and a soft cloth easily remove this film.

CAUTION

When cleaning the inside of the win- dow, do not use any sharp-edged tools or abrasive cleaners or chlorine-based disinfectant cleaners. They could dam- age the electrical conductors, radio an- tenna elements or rear window defog- ger elements.

Cleaning aluminum alloy wheels Wash regularly, especially during winter months in areas where road salt is used. Salt could discolor the wheel if not removed.

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AAI0500

Floor mat positioning aid (Driver side only) Some models include a floor mat pin to act as a floor mat positioning aid. NISSAN floor mats have been specially designed for your vehicle model. The driver’s side floor mat has a grommet hole incorporated in it. Sim- ply position the mat by placing the floor mat pin through the floor mat grommet hole while centering the mat in the floor pan contour. Periodically check to make certain that the mats are properly positioned.

Floor mats The use of genuine NISSAN floor mats can extend the life of your vehicle carpet and make it easier to clean the interior. No matter what mats are used, be sure they are fitted for your vehicle and are prop- erly positioned in the footwell to prevent interference with pedal operation. Mats should be maintained with regular cleaning and replaced if they become excessively worn. Seat belts The seat belts can be cleaned by wiping them with a sponge dampened in a mild soap solution. Allow the belts to dry com- pletely before using them.

WARNING

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

6-4

CORROSION PROTECTION

Most common factors contributing to vehicle corrosion: 1. The accumulation of moisture-retaining dirt and debris in body panel sections, cavities, and other areas.

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

Environmental factors influence the rate of corrosion: Moisture The accumulation of sand, dirt and water on the underside of the body accelerates cor- rosion. Floor sections which have snow and ice trapped under the floor matting will not dry. Relative humidity Corrosion will be accelerated: c in areas of high relative humidity. c especially in areas where the tempera-

tures stay above freezing.

c where atmospheric pollution exists. c where road salt is used.

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Temperature A temperature increase accelerates the rate of corrosion to those parts which are not well ventilated. Air pollution Industrial pollution, the presence of salt in the air in coastal areas, or heavy road salt use will accelerate the corrosion process. Road salt will also accelerate the disintegra- tion of paint surfaces. To protect your vehicle from corro- sion: c Wash and wax your vehicle often to keep

the vehicle clean.

c Always check for minor damage to the paint and repair it as soon as possible. c Keep drain holes at the bottom of the doors and tailgate open to avoid water accumulation.

c Check the underbody and inside the pick-up box. If any sand, dirt or salt is accumulated, wash it off with water as soon as possible.

CAUTION

c NEVER remove dirt, sand or other debris from the passenger compart- ment by washing with a hose. Re- move dirt with a vacuum cleaner or broom.

c Never allow water or other liquids to come in contact with electronic com- ponents inside the vehicle.

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

the underbody must be

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7 Do-it-yourself operations

Maintenance precautions .......................................7-2
Engine compartment check locations ....................7-3
Engine cooling system ...........................................7-4
Checking engine coolant level ...............................7-4
Changing engine coolant .......................................7-5
Engine oil ...............................................................7-6
Checking engine oil level .......................................7-6
Changing engine oil ...............................................7-7
Changing engine oil filter .......................................7-9
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF)........................7-9
Temperature conditions for checking ATF.............7-9
Power steering fluid..............................................7-11
Brake and clutch fluid...........................................7-11
Window washer fluid ............................................7-12
Battery ..................................................................7-13
Jump starting........................................................7-13

Drive belts ............................................................7-14
Spark plug replacement .......................................7-15
Air cleaner housing filter ......................................7-16
Wiper blades ........................................................7-17
Parking brake check.............................................7-18
Brake pedal ..........................................................7-18
Brake booster.......................................................7-19
Clutch pedal .........................................................7-20
Fuses....................................................................7-21
Light bulbs............................................................7-21
Headlights ............................................................7-21
Bulb replacement .................................................7-23
Wheels and tires ..................................................7-25
4-Wheel drive models ..........................................7-28
Clutch housing .....................................................7-30

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MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS

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

WARNING

c Park the vehicle on a level surface, apply the parking brake securely and block the wheels to prevent the ve- hicle from moving. For a manual transmission, move the shift lever to Neutral. For an automatic transmis- sion, move the shift lever to P (Park). c Be sure the ignition key is OFF when performing any parts replacement or repairs.

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

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

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

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

c Keep smoking materials, flame and

sparks away from fuel and battery.

c On gasoline engine models with the Injection (MFI) sys- Multiport Fuel tem, filter or lines the fuel should be serviced by a NISSAN dealer because the fuel lines are under high pressure even when the engine is off.

fuel

CAUTION

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

c Never connect or disconnect either the battery or any transistorized component connector while the igni- tion is on.

disposed motor

c Avoid contact with used motor oil. Improperly oil and/or other vehicle fluids can hurt the environment. Always conform to local regulations for disposal of ve- hicle fluid.

This ‘‘Do-it-yourself operations’’ section gives instructions regarding only those items which are relatively easy for an owner to perform. You should be aware that incomplete or improper servicing may result in operating difficulties or excessive emissions, and could affect your warranty coverage. If in doubt about any servicing, have it done by your NISSAN dealer.

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ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK LOCATIONS

7-3

ADI0715

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ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM

the The engine cooling system is filled at factory with a high-quality, year-round, anti- freeze coolant solution. The anti-freeze solu- tion contains rust and corrosion inhibitors, therefore additional cooling system additives are not necessary.

CAUTION

When adding or replacing coolant, be sure to use only an ethylene glycol anti-freeze with the proper mixture ratio of 50% anti-freeze and 50% distilled water. The use of other types of coolant solutions may damage your cooling system.

Outside tempera- ture down to

°C

−35

°F

−30

Anti- freeze

Distilled water

50%

50%

WARNING

c Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. Wait until the en- gine and radiator cool down. Serious

burns could be caused by high pres- sure fluid escaping from the radia- tor. See precautions in ‘‘If your ve- hicle overheats’’ found in the ‘‘In case of emergency’’ section.

c The radiator is equipped with a pres- sure cap. Use a genuine NISSAN cap or its equivalent when replacement is required.

ADI0702

CHECKING ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL Check the coolant level in the reservoir tank when the engine is cold. If the coolant level is below the MIN level, add coolant to the MAX level. If the reservoir tank is empty, check the coolant level in the radiator when the engine is cold. If there is insufficient coolant in the radiator, fill the radiator with coolant up to the filler opening and also add it to the reservoir tank up to the MAX level.

7-4

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If the cooling system frequently requires coolant, have it checked by your NISSAN dealer.

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

1. Move the heater or air conditioner tem- to the maximum hot

perature control position.

2. Open the radiator drain valve. Open the

drain plug on the engine block.

DI0054

3. Open the radiator cap to drain the cool-

ant.

CHANGING ENGINE COOLANT c Major cooling system repairs should be performed by your NISSAN dealer. The service procedures can be found in the appropriate NISSAN Service Manual.

c Improper servicing can result in reduced heater performance and engine over- heating.

WARNING

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

7-5

4. Flush the cooling system by running

fresh water through the radiator.

5. Close the radiator drain valve and drain

plug on the engine block securely.

6. See ‘‘Capacities and recommended fuel/lubricants’’ in the ‘‘Technical and consumer information’’ section for cool- ing system capacity. Fill the radiator slowly with the proper mixture of coolant and water. Fill the reservoir tank slowly up to the MAX level.