2003 Nissan Sentra Owners Manual

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Sentra (b15) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 12/10/02—debbie X

the full hot or full cool position, the air between the vents and the floor outlets is the same tem- perature. 1. Push the

button (if so equipped) to

the off position. air

the

2. Turn the

position.

flow control

dial

to

3. Turn the fan control dial to the desired posi-

tion.

4. Turn the temperature control dial to the de-

sired position.

Heating and defogging This mode heats the interior and defogs the wind- shield. 1. Turn the air flow control dial to the

position.

c When

is

the

position

selected, the function automatically cancels. Outside air is drawn into the passenger com- partment to improve the defogging perfor- mance. 2. Turn the fan control dial to the desired posi-

tion.

3. Turn the temperature control dial to the de- sired position between the middle and the hot position.

c When the

position is selected, the air conditioner automatically turns on (however, the indicator light will not illuminate) if the outside temperature is more than 36 - 37(cid:176)F (2
- 3(cid:176)C). The air conditioning system will con- tinue to operate until the fan control dial is turned to OFF or the vehicle is shut off, even if the air flow control dial is turned to a position other than the position. This dehumidi- fies the air which helps defog the windshield. mode automatically turns off, allow- The ing outside air to be drawn into the passenger compartment to further improve the defogging performance.

Operating tips Clear snow and ice from the wiper blades and air inlet in front of the windshield. This improves heater operation. AIR CONDITIONER OPERATION (if so equipped) Start the engine, turn the fan control dial to the desired (1 - 4) position, and push in the button to activate the air conditioner. When the air conditioner is on, cooling and dehumidifying functions are added to the heater operation. The air conditioner cooling function oper- ates only when the engine is running.

Cooling This mode is used to cool and dehumidify the air.

1. Push the

button to the off position.

2. Turn the air flow control dial to the

position.

3. Turn the fan control dial to the desired posi-

tion.

4. Push the comes on.

button. The indicator light

5. Turn the temperature control dial to the de-

sired position.

c For quick cooling when the outside tempera- ture is high, push the button to the on position (indicator light on). Be sure to return the to the off position for normal cool- ing.

Dehumidified heating This mode is used to heat and dehumidify the air.

1. Push the

button to the off position.

2. Turn the air flow control dial to the

position.

3. Turn the fan control dial to the desired posi-

tion.

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4. Push the comes on.

button. The indicator light

5. Turn the temperature control dial to the de-

sired position.

Dehumidified defogging This mode is used to defog the windows and dehumidify the air.

1. Turn the air flow control dial to the

position.

2. Turn the fan control dial to the desired posi-

tion.

3. Push on the air conditioner button. The indi-

cator light comes on.

4. Turn the temperature control dial to the de-

sired position. Operating tips c Keep the windows and sunroof closed while

the air conditioner is in operation.

c After parking in the sun, drive for 2 or 3 min- utes with the windows open to vent hot air from the passenger compartment. Then, close the windows. This allows the air conditioner to cool the interior more quickly.

c The air conditioning system should be operated for approximately 10 minutes at least once a month. This helps prevent damage to the system due to lack of lubrication.

When the or positions in between are selected, the air conditioner automatically turns on (however, the indicator light will not illuminate) if the outside temperature is more than 45(cid:176)F (7(cid:176)C). The air conditioning system will con- tinue to operate until the vehicle is shut OFF, even if the air flow control dial is turned to a position position. This dehumidifies other than the the air which helps defog the windshield. The mode automatically turns off, allowing outside air to be drawn into the passenger com- partment to further improve the defogging perfor- mance. 4-6 Heater, air conditioner and audio systems

c If the engine coolant temperature gauge indicates engine coolant temperature over the normal range, turn the air con- ditioner off. See (cid:147)If your vehicle over- heats(cid:148) in the (cid:147)In case of emergency(cid:148) section of this manual.

AIR FLOW CHARTS The following charts show the button and dial positions for MAXIMUM AND QUICK heating, cooling or defrosting. The air recirculation button should always be in the OFF posi- tion for heating and defrosting.

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WHA0212

WHA0213

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4-8 Heater, air conditioner and audio systems

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SERVICING AIR CONDITIONER

The air conditioner system in your NISSAN ve- hicle is charged with a refrigerant designed with the environment in mind. This refrigerant does not harm the earth(cid:146)s ozone layer. Special charging equipment and lubricant is re- quired when servicing your NISSAN air condi- tioner. Using improper refrigerants or lubricants will cause severe damage to your air conditioner system. See (cid:147)Air conditioner system refrigerant and lubricant recommendations(cid:148) in the (cid:147)Techni- cal and consumer information(cid:148) section of this manual. A NISSAN dealer is able to service your (cid:147)environ- mentally friendly(cid:148) air conditioning system.

WARNING

The air conditioner system contains re- frigerant under high pressure. To avoid personal injury, any air conditioner ser- vice should be done only by an experi- enced technician with proper equipment.

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AUDIO SYSTEM

RADIO Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position and press the power on switch to turn the radio on. If you listen to the radio with the engine not running, the key should be turned to the ACC position.

Radio reception is affected by station signal strength, distance from radio transmitter, build- ings, bridges, mountains and other external influ- ences. Intermittent changes in reception quality normally are caused by these external influences. Using a cellular phone in or near the ve- hicle may influence radio reception quality. Radio reception Your NISSAN radio system is equipped with state-of-the-art electronic circuits to enhance ra- dio reception. These circuits are designed to extend reception range, and to enhance the qual- ity of that reception.

However there are some general characteristics of both FM and AM radio signals that can affect radio reception quality in a moving vehicle, even when the finest equipment is used. These char- acteristics are completely normal in a given re- ception area, and do not indicate any malfunction in your NISSAN radio system.

Reception conditions will constantly change be- cause of vehicle movement. Buildings, terrain, signal distance and interference from other ve- hicles can work against ideal reception. De- scribed below are some of the factors that can affect your radio reception. FM RADIO RECEPTION Range: FM range is normally limited to 25 - 30
miles (40 - 48 km), with monaural (single chan- nel) FM having slightly more range than stereo FM. External influences may sometimes interfere with FM station reception even if the FM station is within 25 miles (40 km). The strength of the FM signal is directly related to the distance between the transmitter and receiver. FM signals follow a line-of-sight path, exhibiting many of the same characteristics as light. For example they will reflect off objects.

Fade and drift: As your vehicle moves away from a station transmitter, the signals will tend to fade and/or drift.

Static and flutter: During signal interference from buildings, large hills or due to antenna position (usually in conjunction with increased distance from the station transmitter) static or flutter can be heard. This can be reduced by adjusting the treble control to reduce treble response.

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Multipath reception: Because of the reflective characteristics of FM signals, direct and reflected signals reach the receiver at the same time. The signals may cancel each other, resulting in mo- mentary flutter or loss of sound. AM RADIO RECEPTION AM signals, because of their low frequency, can bend around objects and skip along the ground. In addition, the signals can be bounced off the ionosphere and bent back to earth. Because of these characteristics, AM signals are also sub- ject to interference as they travel from transmitter to receiver. Fading: Occurs while the vehicle is passing through freeway underpasses or in areas with many tall buildings. It can also occur for several seconds during ionospheric turbulence even in areas where no obstacles exist. Static: Caused by thunderstorms, electrical power lines, electric signs and even traffic lights.

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disc DIGITAL AUDIO(cid:148) logo on the disc or packaging.

c Do not use the following CDs as they may cause the CD player to malfunction:

c 3.1 in (8 cm) discs with an adapter c CDs that are not round c CDs with a paper label c CDs that are warped, scratched, or

have abnormal edges

c During cold weather or rainy days, the player may malfunction due to the hu- midity. If this occurs, remove the CD and dehumidify or ventilate the player com- pletely.

c The player may skip while driving on

rough roads.

c The CD player sometimes cannot func- tion when the compartment temperature is extremely high. Decrease the tempera- ture before use.

c Do not expose the CD to direct sunlight. c CDs that are of poor quality, dirty, scratched, covered with fingerprints, or that have pin holes may not work prop- erly.

c The following CDs may not work prop-

erly:

c Copy control compact discs (CCCD) c Recordable compact discs (CD-R) c Rewritable compact discs (CD-RW)

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LHA0099
AUDIO OPERATION PRECAUTIONS Compact disc (CD) player c Only use high quality 4.7 inches (12 cm) round discs that have the (cid:147)COMPACT

11. REW APS button 12. Seek/Scan button 13. Clock button 14. Band select button FM-AM RADIO WITH COMPACT DISC (CD) PLAYER (if so equipped) ON•OFF/VOL control knob Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position, then push the ON•OFF/VOL control knob. If you listen to the radio with the engine not running, turn the key to the ACC position. The mode (radio or CD) that was playing immediately before the system was turned off resumes playing. When no CD is loaded, the radio comes on. Pushing the ON•OFF/VOL control knob again turns the system off. Turn the ON•OFF/VOL control knob to the right to increase volume or to the left to decrease volume

WHA0202

1. CD button 2. ON•OFF/Volume control knob 3. CD insert slot 4. Audio button 5. CD eject button

6.

Radio manual tuning button/clock set buttons FF button REW button FF APS button

7. 8. 9. 10. RPT button

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Adjusting tone quality and speaker balance

or

To adjust BAS/TRE or FAD/BAL (Bass/Treble or Fader/Balance), press the AUDIO button until the desired mode (BAS, TRE, FAD, or BAL) ap- pears in the display. Press the button to adjust Bass (BAS) and Treble (TRE) to the desired level. Use the button also to adjust Fader (FAD) or Balance (BAL) modes. Fader (FAD) adjusts the sound level be- tween the front and rear speakers and Balance (BAL) adjusts the sound between the right and left speakers. Clock operation

or

Pressing the clock button alternates the clock and the radio/CD player options in the display. Clock set

buttons to- sets hours. Depressing the clock

buttons together sets minutes.

Depressing the clock and gether and Clock priority mode

In this mode the clock is shown in the display. If any radio or CD functions are activated, the radio or CD display illuminates for 10 seconds then returns to the clock mode.

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NOTE: After clock adjustment, the radio is in the clock priority mode. FM-AM radio operation FM/AM band select Push the button to change from AM to FM recep- tion. The FM stereo indicator, ST, illuminates during FM stereo reception. When the stereo broadcast signal is weak, the radio automatically changes from stereo to monaural reception. TUNE buttons

WARNING

The radio should not be tuned while driv- ing so full attention may be given to ve- hicle operation.

and

Use the buttons for manual tun- ing. To move quickly through the channels, hold either of the tune buttons down for more than 0.5
seconds.

SEEK/SCAN button

SEEK tuning Push the SEEK/SCAN tuning button for less than 1.5 seconds. SEEK tuning begins from low to high frequencies or high to low frequen- cies, depending on which button is pressed, and stops at the next broadcasting station. Once the highest broadcasting station is reached, the ra- dio continues in the SEEK mode at the lowest broadcasting station. SCAN tuning Push the SEEK/SCAN tuning button for more than 1.5 seconds. SCAN illuminates in the display. SCAN tuning begins from low to high frequencies or high to low frequencies, depend- ing on which button is pressed. SCAN tuning stops at each broadcasting station for 5 sec- onds. Pushing the button again during this 5
second period stops SCAN tuning and the radio remains tuned to that station.

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LHA0034

Station memory operations

6 stations can be set for the AM band. Twelve stations can be set for the FM band (6 for FM1, 6
for FM2).

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1. Push to select AM, FM1, or FM2. The se-

lected band illuminates in the display.

2. Tune to the desired station.

3. Push the desired station select button for more than 1.5 seconds. For example, in the illustrations, ch2 is to be memorized. The radio mutes when the select button is pushed.

4. When the indicator illuminates in the display and the sound resumes, memorizing is com- plete.

5. Other station select buttons can be set in

the same manner.

If the battery cable is disconnected, or if the radio fuse opens, the radio memory is canceled. In that case, reset the desired stations. Compact disc (CD) player operation Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position, and carefully insert the compact disc into the slot with the label side up. The compact disc is auto- matically pulled into the slot and starts to play.

If the radio is already operating, it automatically turns off and the compact disc begins to play.

CAUTION

Do not force a compact disc into the CD insert slot. This could damage the CD and/or CD changer/player.

CD button

When the CD button is pushed with a compact disc loaded and the radio playing, the radio turns off and the compact disc starts to play.

When this button is pushed while the compact disc is playing, the compact disc stops playing. FF (Fast Forward), REW (Rewind) buttons

or

When the button is pushed while the compact disc is playing, the compact disc plays at an increased speed while fast forwarding or rewinding. When the button is released, the compact disc returns to normal play speed.

APS (Automatic Program Search) FF, APS REW

When the button is pushed while the com- pact disc is playing, the selection following the present one starts to play from the beginning. Push the button several times to skip sev- eral selections. Each time the button is pushed,

the CD advances one selection. (When the last selection on the compact disc is skipped, the first selection is played.) button is pushed, the selection When the being played returns to the beginning. Push the button several times to skip back sev- eral selections. Each time the button is pushed, the CD moves back one selection.

Repeat/Random button

When the button is pushed while the compact disc is playing, the play pattern changes as follows: 1: The current selection is repeated. RANDOM: Selections are played at random, not following the sequence on the compact disc. The same program may be repeated twice. Normal (no symbol): All selections are played in sequence. When a new compact disc is inserted, the play pattern automatically changes to the (cid:147)Normal(cid:148) play pattern.

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CD EJECT button

button is pushed with a com-

When the pact disc loaded, the compact disc ejects. When the button is pushed while the com- pact disc is playing, the compact disc ejects and the system turns off. If the compact disc ejects and is not re- moved within 10 seconds, it is pulled back into the slot. DISC indicator light CD IN appears in the display when a CD is loaded with the system ON.

1. APS (Automatic Program Search) FF,

APS REW buttons

FF (Fast Forward), REW (Rewind) buttons

2. Display 3. 4. Repeat button 5. Disc eject button

Load indicator light

6. 7. Door 8. Disc selection button 9. Disc indication light 10. Load indicator light 11. Play/stop button

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COMPACT DISC (CD) CHANGER (if so equipped) To use the CD changer, turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position. Disc loading (cid:151) single

CAUTION

Trying to load a CD with the CD door closed could damage the CD and/or CD changer.

When a disc selection button is pressed for less than 1.5 seconds, the CD changer enters the One Disc Loading Mode. The disc selection but- ton starts flashing green and both WAIT and the disc selection button number flash in the display until the door is opened. When the door has opened, the display changes from WAIT to LOAD and the load indicator lights flash green. Load only one CD at a time. After the CD is loaded, the door closes, the load indicator lights turn off and the disc selection button turns a solid green. The CD that was loaded starts to play automatically. Disc loading (cid:151) all When a disc selection button is pressed for longer than 1.5 seconds, the CD changer auto- matically changes to All Disc Loading Mode. All disc selection buttons start flashing orange, ex-

cept the disc selection button that was pushed initially. This button flashes green and both WAIT and the disc selection button number flash in the display until the door is opened. When the door opens, the display changes from WAIT to LOAD and the load indicator lights flash green. Load only one CD at a time. After the CD is loaded, the door closes, the load indicator lights turn off and the disc selection button turns a solid green. After all the CDs have been loaded, the CD that was loaded first starts to play. Play/Stop button

Press the button while a CD is playing, the CD stops playing and the CD changer turns off. Press the button while the CD changer is off, the last CD that was loaded starts to play. Press the button with no CDs loaded, the CD changer enters the One Disc Loading Mode. FF (fast forward) REV (re- verse) buttons

or

When the button is pushed while the CD is playing, the CD plays at an increased speed while fast forwarding or reversing. When the button is released, the CD returns to normal play speed.

APS (Automatic Program Search), FF, APS REV

When the button is pushed while the CD is playing, the selection following the current one starts to play from the beginning. Push the button several times to skip several selections. Each time the button is pushed, the CD advances one selection. When the last selection on the CD is skipped, the first selection is played. When the button is pushed, the current to the beginning. Push selection returns the button several times to skip back sev- eral selections. Each time the button is pushed, the CD moves back one selection. Went the first selection on the CD is skipped, the last selection is played.

Repeat Button

When the button is pushed while a CD is playing, the play pattern will change as follows. ALL (cid:151) All disc repeat: All CDs are played repeatedly in sequence. BLANK (no symbol) (cid:151) One disc repeat: The current CD is repeated. 1 (cid:151) One track repeat: The current selection is repeated.

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pear in the display until a CD is loaded. One Disc Loading Mode cancels if another disc selection button is pushed or by waiting longer than 15
seconds to load a CD. CD Eject (cid:151) ALL When the button is pressed for longer than 1.5 seconds, the CD changer automatically changes to All Disc Eject Mode. The disc indica- tor light for the current CD (or the last CD that was played) starts flashing orange and both WAIT and the disc selection button number flash in the display until the CD ejects. When the CD ejects, the disc indicator light turns off and the display turns from WAIT to EJECT. When the CD is removed from the unit, the next CD starts to eject. After all the CDs are ejected, the CD changer turns off. If a CD is ejected and is not removed within 10 seconds, it will be pulled back into the slot.

ALL RANDOM (cid:151) All disc random: Selections from all the CDs that are stored are played at random. The same program may be repeated twice. Pressing the button will select the next random selection. RANDOM (cid:151) One disc random: Selections from the current CD are played at random. The same program may be repeated twice. Pressing button will select the next random se- the lection. When a new CD is inserted, the play pattern automatically changes to the (cid:147)ALL(cid:148) play pattern.

CD Eject (cid:151) Single

When the button is pressed for less than 1.5 seconds, then the current CD that is playing (or if the CD changer is off, the last CD that was played) ejects. The disc indicator light starts flashing orange and both WAIT and the disc selection button number flash in the display until the CD is ejected. When the CD is ejected, the disc indicator light turns off and the display turns from WAIT to EJECT. When the CD is removed from the unit, the CD changer automatically changes to One Disc Loading Mode so a new CD can be loaded into the empty holder. The disc indicator light starts flashing green and both LOAD and the disc selection button number ap- 4-18 Heater, air conditioner and audio systems

LHA0049

CD CARE AND CLEANING c Handle a CD by its edges. Do not bend the

disc. Never touch the surface of the disc.

c Always place the discs in the storage case

when they are not being used.

c To clean a disc, wipe the surface from the center to the outer edge using a clean, soft cloth. Do not wipe the disc using a circular motion.

c Do not use a conventional record cleaner or

alcohol intended for industrial use.

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c A new disc may be rough on the inner and outer edges. Remove the rough edges by rub- bing the inner and outer edges with the side of a pen or pencil as illustrated.

ANTENNA The antenna cannot be shortened, but can be removed. When you need to remove the antenna, turn the antenna rod counterclockwise. To install the antenna rod, turn the antenna clock- wise. Tighten the antenna rod to specification using a suitable tool such as an open-end wrench. The antenna rod tightening specification is 3.4 - 3.6 N•m (30 - 32 in-lb). Do not use pliers to tighten the antenna as they can leave marks on the antenna surface. The antenna rod cannot be hand tightened to the proper specification.

CAUTION

Always properly tighten the antenna rod during installation or the antenna rod may break during vehicle operation.

CAR PHONE OR CB RADIO

When installing a CB, ham radio or car phone in your NISSAN, be sure to observe the following cautions, otherwise the new equipment may ad- versely affect the MFI (Multiport Fuel Injection) system and other electronic parts.

WARNING

c A cellular telephone should not be used while driving so full attention may be given to vehicle operation. Some juris- dictions prohibit the use of cellular tele- phones while driving.

c If you must make a call while your ve- hicle is in motion, the hands free cellu- lar phone operational mode (if so equipped) is highly recommended. Ex- ercise extreme caution at all times so full attention may be given to vehicle operation.

c If a conversation in a moving vehicle requires you to take notes, pull off the road to a safe location and stop your vehicle before doing so.

CAUTION

c Keep the antenna as far away as pos- sible from the Engine Control Module (ECM).

c Keep the antenna wire more than 8 in (20 cm) away from the Multiport Fuel Injection harness. Do not route the an- tenna wire next to any harness.

c Adjust the antenna standing-wave ratio as recommended by the manufacturer. c Connect the ground wire from the CB

radio chassis to the body.

c For details, consult a NISSAN dealer.

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MEMO

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5 Starting and driving

Precautions when starting and driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Exhaust gas (carbon monoxide) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Three-way catalyst. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Avoiding collision and rollover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Ignition switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Automatic transmission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Manual transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Key positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System (NVIS) (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Before starting the engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Starting the engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Driving the vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Automatic transmission (if so equipped). . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Manual transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10
Parking brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13
Cruise control (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13
Precautions on cruise control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13

Cruise control operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14
Break-in schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15
Increasing fuel economy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15
Parking/parking on hills. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-16
Power steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17
Brake system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-18
Brake precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-18
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-18
Cold weather driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20
Freeing a frozen door lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20
Anti-freeze. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20
Draining of coolant water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20
Tire equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20
Special winter equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21
Driving on snow or ice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21
Engine block heater (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Sentra (b15) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 12/20/02—cathy X

PRECAUTIONS WHEN STARTING AND DRIVING

WARNING

c Do not leave children, impaired adults, or pets alone in your vehicle. They could accidentally injure themselves or oth- ers through inadvertent operation of the vehicle. Also, on hot, sunny days, temperatures in a closed vehicle could quickly become high enough to cause severe or possibly fatal injuries to people or animals.

c Closely supervise children when they are around cars to prevent them from playing and becoming locked in the trunk where they could be seriously in- jured. Keep the car locked, with the rear seatback and trunk lid securely latched when not in use, and prevent children(cid:146)s access to car keys.

EXHAUST GAS (carbon monoxide)

WARNING

c Do not breathe exhaust gases; they contain colorless and odorless carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is danger- ous. It can cause unconsciousness or death.

5-2 Starting and driving

c If you suspect that exhaust fumes are entering the vehicle, drive with all win- dows fully open, and have the vehicle inspected immediately.

c Do not run the engine in closed spaces

such as a garage.

c Do not park the vehicle with the engine running for any extended length of time. c Keep the trunk lid closed while driving, otherwise exhaust gases could be drawn into the passenger compart- ment. If you must drive with the trunk lid open, follow these precautions: 1. Open all the windows. 2. Set the

air recirculation but- ton (if so equipped) to off and the fan control dial to 4 (high) to circulate the air.

c If electrical wiring or other cable con- nections must pass to a trailer through the seal on the trunk lid or the body, follow the manufacturer(cid:146)s recommen- dation to prevent carbon monoxide en- try into the vehicle.

c The exhaust system and body should be inspected by a qualified mechanic whenever:

a. The vehicle is raised for service. b. You suspect that exhaust fumes are passenger

into

the

entering compartment.

c. You notice a change in the sound of

the exhaust system.

d. You have had an accident involving damage to the exhaust system, un- derbody, or rear of the vehicle.

THREE-WAY CATALYST The three-way catalyst is an emission control device installed in the exhaust system. Exhaust gases in the three-way catalyst are burned at high temperatures to help reduce pollutants.

WARNING

c The exhaust gas and the exhaust sys- tem are very hot. Keep people, animals or flammable materials away from the exhaust system components.

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

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CAUTION

c Do not use leaded gasoline. Deposits from leaded gasoline will seriously re- duce the three-way catalyst(cid:146)s ability to help reduce exhaust pollutants.

c Keep your engine tuned up. Malfunc- tions in the ignition, fuel injection, or electrical systems can cause overrich fuel flow into the three-way catalyst, causing it to overheat. Do not keep driv- ing if the engine misfires, or if notice- able loss of performance or other un- usual are detected. Have the vehicle inspected promptly by a NISSAN dealer.

conditions

operating

c Avoid driving with an extremely low fuel level. Running out of fuel could cause the engine to misfire, damaging the three-way catalyst.

c Do not race the engine while warming it

up.

c Do not push or tow your vehicle to start

the engine.

AVOIDING COLLISION AND ROLLOVER

DRINKING ALCOHOL/DRUGS AND DRIVING

WARNING

WARNING

Failure to operate this vehicle in a safe and prudent manner may result in loss of control or an accident.

Be alert and drive defensively at all times. Obey all traffic regulations. Avoid excessive speed, high speed cornering, or sudden steering ma- neuvers, because these driving practices could cause you to lose control of your vehicle. As with any vehicle, loss of control could result in a collision with other vehicles or objects, or cause the vehicle to roll over, particularly if the loss of control causes the vehicle to slide sideways. Be attentive at all times, and avoid driving when tired. Never drive when under the influence of alcohol or drugs (including pre- scription or over-the-counter drugs which may cause drowsiness). Always wear your seat belt as outlined in the (cid:147)Seats, restraints and supple- mental air bag systems(cid:148) section of this manual, and also instruct your passengers to do so. Seat belts help reduce the risk of injury in colli- sions and rollovers. In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt.

Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Alcohol in the bloodstream re- duces coordination, delays reaction time and impairs judgement. Driving after drinking alcohol increases the likelihood of being involved in an accident injuring yourself and others. Additionally, if you are injured in an accident, alcohol can increase the severity of the injury.

NISSAN is committed to safe driving. However, you must choose not to drive under the influence of alcohol. Every year thousands of people are injured or killed in alcohol-related accidents. Al- though the local laws vary on what is considered to be legally intoxicated, the fact is that alcohol affects all people differently and most people underestimate the effects of alcohol. Remember, drinking and driving don(cid:146)t mix! And that is true for drugs, too (over-the-counter, pre- scription, and illegal drugs). Don(cid:146)t drive if your ability to operate your vehicle is impaired by alco- hol, drugs, or some other physical condition.

Starting and driving 5-3

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IGNITION SWITCH

2. Turn the ignition key slightly toward the ON

position.

and turn it gently while rotating the steer- ing wheel slightly right and left.

WARNING

Never remove or turn the key to the LOCK position while driving. The steering wheel will lock. This may cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle and could result in serious vehicle damage or personal injury.

3. Turn the key to the LOCK position.

4. Remove the key.

The shift selector lever is designed so it cannot moved out of P (Park) and into any of the other gear positions if the ignition key is turned to OFF position or if the key is removed from the switch. The shift selector lever can be moved if the ignition switch is in the ACC position. This allows the vehicle to be moved if the bat- tery is discharged. The shift selector lever can also be moved if the ignition switch is in the ON position and the foot brake pedal is depressed.

There is an OFF position between the LOCK and ACC positions. The OFF position is indicated by a (cid:147)1(cid:148) on the key cylinder. When the ignition is in the OFF position, the steering wheel is not locked.

In order for the steering wheel to be locked, it must be turned about 1/8 of a turn clockwise from the straight up position. To lock the steering wheel, turn the key to the LOCK position. Remove the key. To unlock the steering wheel, insert the key

WSD0041

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION On automatic transmission models, the ignition lock is designed so the key cannot be turned to LOCK position and removed until the shift selec- tor lever is moved to the P (Park) position.

When removing the key from the ignition, make sure the shift selector lever is in the P (Park) position.

If the key cannot be turned to the LOCK position, proceed as follows to remove the key.

1. Move the shift selector lever into the P (Park)

position.

5-4 Starting and driving

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WSD0042

MANUAL TRANSMISSION The ignition switch includes an anti-theft steering lock device.

The key can only be removed when the ignition switch is in the LOCK position.

On manual transmission models, to turn the igni- tion key to LOCK position from ACC or ON position, turn the key to OFF, push the key in, then turn the key to LOCK.

In order for the steering wheel to be locked, it must be turned about 1/8 of a turn clockwise from the straight up position.

To lock the steering wheel, turn the key to the LOCK position. Remove the key. To unlock the steering wheel, insert the key and turn it gently while rotating the steer- ing wheel slightly right and left.

WARNING

Never remove or turn the key to the LOCK position while driving. The steering wheel will lock. This may cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle and could result in serious vehicle damage or personal injury.

KEY POSITIONS LOCK: Normal parking position (0)

OFF: (Manual transmission model) (1)

The engine can be turned off without locking the steering wheel.

ACC: (Accessories) (2)

This position activates electrical accessories such as the radio when the engine is not running.

ON: Normal operating position (3)

This position turns on the ignition system and the electrical accessories.

START: (4)

This position starts the engine. As soon as the engine has started, release the key. It automati- cally returns to the ON position. NISSAN VEHICLE IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM (NVIS) (if so equipped) The NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System (NVIS) will not allow the engine to start without the use of the registered NVIS key. If the engine fails to start using the registered NVIS key, it may be due to interference caused by another NVIS key, an automated toll road device or automated payment device on the key ring. Restart the engine using the following proce- dures: 1. Leave the ignition switch in the ON position

for approximately 5 seconds.

2. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF or LOCK position and wait approximately 5 seconds.

3. Repeat step 1 and 2 again. 4. Restart the engine while holding the device (which may have caused the interference) separate from the registered NVIS key.

If this procedure allows the engine to start, NISSAN recommends placing the registered NVIS key on a separate key ring to avoid interfer- ence from other devices.

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BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

STARTING THE ENGINE

c Make sure the area around the vehicle is clear. c Check fluid levels such as engine oil, coolant, brake and clutch fluid, and window washer fluid as frequently as possible, or at least whenever you refuel.

c Check that all windows and lights are clean. c Visually inspect tires for their appearance and condition. Also check tires for proper inflation.

c Lock all doors. c Position seat and adjust head restraints. c Adjust inside and outside mirrors. c Fasten seat belts and ask all passengers to do

likewise.

c Check the operation of warning lights when the key is turned to the ON (3) position. See (cid:147)Warning/indicator lights and audible remind- ers(cid:148) in the (cid:147)Instruments and controls(cid:148) section of this manual.

5-6 Starting and driving

1. Apply the parking brake. 2. Automatic transmission:

Move the shift selector lever to P (Park) or N (Neutral). P (Park) is recommended. The shift selector lever cannot be moved out of P (Park) and into any of the other gear positions if the ignition key is turned to the OFF position or if the key is removed from the ignition switch.

The starter is designed not to operate if the shift selector lever is in any of the driving positions.

Manual transmission:

Move the shift lever to N (Neutral). Depress the clutch pedal to the floor while cranking the engine. The starter is designed not to operate unless the clutch pedal is fully de- pressed.

3. Crank the engine with your foot off the accelerator pedal by turning the ignition key to START. Release the key when the engine starts. If the engine starts, but fails to run, repeat the above procedure.

c When the engine is very hard to start in extremely cold weather or when restart- ing, depress the accelerator pedal a little (approximately 1/5 to the floor) and hold it and then crank the engine. Release the key and the accelerator pedal when the engine starts.

c When the engine is very hard to start because it is flooded, depress the accel- erator pedal all the way to the floor and hold it. Crank the engine for 5-6 seconds. After cranking the engine, release the ac- celerator pedal. Crank the engine with your foot off the accelerator pedal by turning the ignition key to START. Release the key when the engine starts. If the engine starts, but fails to run, repeat the above procedure.

CAUTION

Do not operate the starter for more than 15 seconds at a time. If the engine does not start, turn the key off and wait 10
seconds before cranking again, otherwise the starter could be damaged.

4. Allow the engine to idle for at least 30 sec- onds after starting. Drive at moderate speed for a short distance first, especially in cold weather.

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The shift selector lever can be moved if the ignition switch is in the ACC position. This allows the vehicle to be moved if the bat- tery is discharged. The shift selector lever can also be moved if the ignition switch is in the ON position and the foot brake pedal is depressed.

DRIVING THE VEHICLE

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (if so equipped)

WARNING

c Do not depress the accelerator pedal while shifting from P (Park) or N (Neu- tral) to R (Reverse), D (Drive), 2 or 1. Always depress the brake pedal until shifting is completed. Failure to do so could cause you to lose control and have an accident.

c Cold engine idle speed is high, so use caution when shifting into a forward or reverse gear before the engine has warmed up.

c Never shift to P (Park) or R (Reverse) while the vehicle is moving. This could cause an accident.

CAUTION

c When stopping the vehicle on an uphill grade, do not hold the vehicle by de- pressing the accelerator pedal. The foot brake should be used for this purpose. c Do not downshift abruptly on slippery roads. This may cause a loss of control.

The automatic transmission in your vehicle is electronically controlled to produce maximum power and smooth operation.

The recommended operating procedures for this transmission are shown on the following pages. Follow these procedures for maximum vehicle performance and driving enjoyment. Starting the vehicle 1. After starting the engine, fully depress the foot brake pedal before attempting to move the shift selector lever out of the P (Park) position.

2. Keep the foot brake pedal depressed and move the shift selector lever into a driving gear.

3. Release the foot brake, then gradually start

the vehicle in motion.

The automatic transmission is designed so the foot brake pedal MUST be depressed before shifting from P (Park) to any drive position while the ignition switch is in the ON position. The shift selector lever cannot be moved out of P (Park) and into any of the other gear positions if the ignition key is turned to the LOCK position or if the key is re- moved.

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WSD0043

To move the selector lever:

: Depress the button to shift

: Shift without depressing button

Shifting Push the shift selector lever button to shift into P (Park), R (Reverse) or from D (Drive) to 2. All other positions can be selected without pushing the button.

5-8 Starting and driving

WARNING

Apply the parking brake if the selector lever is in any position while the engine is not running. Failure to do so could cause the vehicle to move unexpectedly or roll away and result in serious personal injury or property damage.

P (Park):

Use this selector position when the vehicle is parked or when starting the engine. Make sure the vehicle is completely stopped. The brake pedal must be depressed and the selector lever button pushed in to move the selector lever from the N (Neutral) or any drive po- sition to P (Park). Apply the parking brake. When parking on a hill, apply the parking brake first, then shift the selector lever into the P (Park) position.

Shifting from P (Park)

If the ignition switch is in the ON position and the foot brake pedal is depressed, but the shift se- lector lever still cannot be moved out of P (Park), follow these instructions.

1. Turn the ignition key to the LOCK position.

2. Apply the parking brake.

3. Reinsert the key and turn it to the ACC

position.

4. Depress the foot brake pedal and move the

shift selector lever to N (Neutral).

5. Start the engine.

These instructions for starting the vehicle in N (Neutral) should only be used until service can be obtained at a NISSAN dealership. R (Reverse):

Use this position to back up. Make sure the vehicle is completely stopped before selecting R (Reverse) position. The brake pedal must be depressed and the selector lever button pushed in to move the selector lever from P (Park), N (Neutral) or any drive position to R (Reverse).

N (Neutral):

Neither forward nor reverse gear is engaged. The engine can be started in this position. You may shift to N (Neutral) and restart a stalled engine while the vehicle is moving. D (Drive):

Use this position for all normal forward driving.

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2 (Second gear): Use this position for hill climbing or engine brak- ing on downhill grades. Do not shift into the 2 position at speeds above 60 MPH (96 km/h). Do not exceed 60 MPH (96
km/h) in the 2 position. 1 (Low gear): Use this position when climbing steep hills slowly or driving slowing through deep snow, sand or mud, or for maximum engine braking on steep downhill grades. Do not shift into the 1 position at speeds above 31 MPH (50 km/h). Do not exceed 31 MPH (50
km/h) in the 1 position.

Shift lock release If the battery is discharged, the shift selector lever may not be moved from the P (Park) position even with the brake pedal depressed and the shift selector lever button pushed.

To move the shift selector lever, release the shift lock and push the shift selector lever button. The shift selector lever can be moved to N (Neutral). However, the steering wheel will be locked un- less the ignition switch is turned to the ON posi- tion. To release the shift lock, complete the following procedure: 1. Turn the ignition key to the LOCK position

and remove the key.

2. Apply the parking brake. 3. Remove the shift lock cover sA . 4.

Insert a small screwdriver in the shift lock slot, and push down sB .

5. Push the shift selector lever button sC and move the shift selector lever to N (Neutral) position sD while holding down the shift lock.

6. Turn the key to the ON position to unlock the steering wheel. Now the vehicle may be moved to the desired location.

Starting and driving 5-9

WSD0044

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If the shift selector lever cannot be moved out of P (Park), have a NISSAN dealer check the auto- matic transmission system as soon as possible. Accelerator downshift (cid:151) in D position (cid:151) For passing or hill climbing, depress the accel- erator pedal to the floor. This shifts the transmis- sion down into a lower gear, depending on the vehicle speed.

5-10 Starting and driving

OFF:

For driving up and down long slopes where engine braking is nec- essary push the Overdrive switch once. The O/D OFF indicator light in the instrument panel comes on at this time.

When cruising at a low speed or climbing a gentle slope, you may feel uncomfortable shift shocks as the transmission shifts between third gear and Overdrive repeatedly. In this case, de- press the Overdrive switch to turn the Overdrive off. The O/D OFF indicator light in the instrument panel comes on at this time.

When driving conditions change, depress the Overdrive switch to turn the Overdrive on.

Remember not to drive at high speeds for ex- tended periods of time with the Overdrive off. This reduces fuel economy. MANUAL TRANSMISSION

WARNING

c Do not downshift abruptly on slippery roads. This may cause a loss of control. c Do not over-rev the engine when shift- ing to a lower gear. This may cause a loss of control or engine damage.

WSD0045

Overdrive switch Each time your vehicle is started, the transmis- sion is automatically (cid:147)reset(cid:148) to overdrive ON. ON: With the engine running and the

shift selector lever in the D (Drive) position, the transmission upshifts into Overdrive as vehicle speed increases.

Overdrive does not engage until the engine has reached operating temperature.

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CAUTION

c Do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal while driving. This may cause clutch damage.

c Fully depress the clutch pedal before shifting to help prevent transmission damage.

c Stop your vehicle completely before

shifting into R (Reverse).

c When the vehicle is stopped with the engine running (for example, at a stop light), shift to N (Neutral) and release the clutch pedal with the foot brake applied.

5 - speed

6 - speed

WSD0046

WSD0047

Shifting To change gears, or when upshifting or down- shifting, depress the clutch pedal fully, shift into the appropriate gear, then release the clutch slowly and smoothly. To ensure smooth gear changes, fully depress the clutch pedal before operating the shift lever. If the clutch pedal is not fully depressed before the transmission is shifted, a gear noise may be heard. Transmission damage could occur. On the 5-speed manual transmission, you cannot shift directly from 5th gear into R (Reverse). First shift into N (Neutral), then into R (Reverse).

If it is difficult to move the shift lever into R (Reverse) or 1 (1st), shift into N (Neutral), then release the clutch pedal. Depress the clutch pedal again and shift into R (Reverse) or 1 (1st). Suggested upshift speeds The following are suggested vehicle speeds for shifting into a higher gear. These suggestions relate to fuel economy and vehicle performance. Actual upshift speeds will vary according to road conditions, the weather and individual driving habits.

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For quick acceleration in low altitude areas (less than 4,000 ft [1,219 m]) and normal accelera- tion in high altitude areas (over 4,000 ft [1,219 m]):

GEAR CHANGE

MPH (km/h)

1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th

15 (24) 25 (40) 40 (64) 45 (72)

For quick acceleration in high altitude areas (over 4,000 ft [1,219 m]): For QG18DE engine models:

Gear change 1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th

MPH (km/h)

15 (25) 35 (55) 45 (75) 50 (80)

For QR25DE engine models: 5-speed

GEAR CHANGE

MPH (km/h)

1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th

15 (24) 25 (40) 40 (65) 45 (75)

5-12 Starting and driving

For QR25DE engine models: 6-speed

QR25DE engine models: 5-speed

GEAR CHANGE

MPH (km/h)

GEAR CHANGE

MPH (km/h)

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th

35 (55) 60 (95) 85 (35)

(cid:151) (cid:151)

QR25DE engine models: 6-speed

GEAR CHANGE

MPH (km/h)

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th

25 (45) 50 (80) 80 (130)

(cid:151) (cid:151) (cid:151)

1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th 5th to 6th

15 (24) 25 (40) 40 (65) 45 (75) 50 (80)

Suggested maximum speed in each gear Downshift to a lower gear if the engine is not running smoothly, or if you need to accelerate. Do not exceed the maximum suggested speed (shown below) in any gear. For level road driving, use the highest gear suggested for that speed. Always observe posted speed limits, and drive according to the road conditions, which will en- sure safe operation. Do not over-rev the engine when shifting to a lower gear as it may cause engine damage or loss of vehicle control. QG18DE engine models:

GEAR

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th

MPH (km/h)

30 (50) 55 (90) 85 (135)

(cid:151) (cid:151)

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PARKING BRAKE

CRUISE CONTROL (if so equipped)

WARNING

c Be sure the parking brake is fully re- leased before driving. Failure to do so can cause brake failure and lead to an accident.

c Do not release the parking brake from

outside the vehicle.

c Do not use the gear shift in place of the parking brake. When parking, be sure the parking brake is fully engaged.

c Do not leave children unattended in a vehicle. They could release the parking brake and cause an accident.

WSD0048

WSD0049

To engage: Pull the lever up sA . To release: 1. Firmly apply the foot brake. 2. Manual transmission models:

Place the shift lever in the N (Neutral) position. Automatic transmission models: Move the shift selector lever to the P (Park) position.

3. While pulling up on the parking brake lever slightly, push the button and lower com- pletely sB .

4. Before driving, be sure the brake warning

light goes out.

RES/ACCEL switch

SET/COAST switch

1. Cruise control main switch 2. 3. CANCEL switch 4. PRECAUTIONS ON CRUISE CONTROL c If the cruise control system malfunctions,

it cancels automatically. The SET indicator light in the instrument panel then blinks to warn the driver.

c If the SET indicator light blinks, turn the cruise control main switch off and have the system checked by a NISSAN dealer.

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c The SET indicator light may blink when the cruise control main switch is turned ON while pushing the RES/ACCEL, SET/COAST, or CANCEL switch (located on the steering wheel). To properly set the cruise control sys- tem, use the following procedures.

WARNING

Do not use the cruise control when driving under the following conditions: c When it is not possible to keep the

vehicle at a set speed.

c In heavy traffic or in traffic that varies 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.

5-14 Starting and driving

CAUTION

On manual transmission models, do not shift into N (Neutral) without depressing the clutch pedal when the cruise control is set. Should this occur, depress the clutch pedal and turn the main switch off imme- diately. Failure to do so may cause engine damage. CRUISE CONTROL OPERATIONS The cruise control allows driving at a speed be- tween 25 - 90 MPH (40 - 144 km/h) without keeping your foot on the accelerator pedal. To turn on the cruise control, push the main switch. The CRUISE indicator light in the instru- ment panel comes on. To set cruising speed, accelerate the vehicle to the desired speed, push the SET/COAST switch and release it. The SET indicator light in the instrument panel comes on. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal. Your vehicle maintains the set speed. c To pass another vehicle, depress the ac- celerator pedal. When you release the pedal, the vehicle returns to the previously set speed. c The vehicle may not maintain the set speed If this

when going up or down steep hills. happens, drive without the cruise control.

To cancel the preset speed, use one of the following three methods. c Push the CANCEL button; the SET indicator

light in the instrument panel goes out.

c Tap the brake pedal; the SET indicator light

goes out.

c Turn the main switch off. Both the CRUISE indicator light and SET indicator light in the instrument panel go out.

The cruise control is automatically cancelled and the SET light in the instrument panel goes out if: c you depress the brake pedal while pushing the ACCEL/RES or SET/COAST switch. The pre- set speed is deleted from memory.

c the vehicle slows down more than 8 MPH (13

km/h) below the set speed.

c you depress the clutch pedal (manual trans- mission), or move the shift selector lever to N (Neutral) (automatic transmission).

To reset at a faster cruising speed, use one of the following three methods. c Depress the accelerator pedal. When the ve- hicle attains the desired speed, push and re- lease the SET/COAST switch.

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c Push and hold the RES/ACCEL switch. When the vehicle attains the speed you desire, re- lease the switch.

c Push and release the RES/ACCEL switch. Each time you do this, the set speed increases by about 1 MPH (1.6 km/h).

To reset at a slower cruising speed, use one of the following three methods. c Lightly tap the brake pedal. When the vehicle the

attains COAST/SET switch and release it.

desired

speed,

push

the

c Push and hold the SET/COAST switch. Re- lease the switch when the vehicle slows to the desired speed.

c Push and release the SET/COAST switch. Each time you do this, the set speed de- creases by about 1 MPH (1.6 km/h).

To resume the preset speed, push and re- lease the RES/ACCEL switch. The vehicle re- turns to the last set cruising speed when the vehicle speed is over 25 MPH (40 km/h).

BREAK-IN SCHEDULE

INCREASING FUEL ECONOMY

During the first 1,200 miles (2,000 km), follow these recommendations to obtain maximum en- gine performance and ensure the future reliability and economy of your new vehicle. Failure to follow these recommendations may result in shortened engine life and reduced engine perfor- mance. c Avoid driving for long periods at constant speed, either fast or slow, and do not run the engine over 4,000 rpm.

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 (800

km).

c Accelerate slowly and smoothly. Maintain cruising speeds with a constant accelerator position.

c Drive at moderate speeds on the highway.

Driving at high speed lowers fuel economy.

c Avoid unnecessary stopping and braking. 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. c Keep your engine tuned up. c Follow the recommended periodic mainte-

nance schedule.

c Keep the tires inflated to the correct pressure. Low tire pressure increases tire wear and low- ers fuel economy.

c Keep the front wheels in correct alignment. 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 conditioner and leave the windows closed to reduce drag.

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PARKING/PARKING ON HILLS

c Use the recommended viscosity engine oil. See (cid:147)Engine oil and oil filter recommendation(cid:148) in (cid:147)Technical and consumer information(cid:148) later in this manual.

WARNING

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

WSD0050

c Safe parking procedures require that both the parking brake be set and the transmission placed into P (Park) for automatic transmission models or in an appropriate gear for manual transmis- sion models. Failure to do so could cause the vehicle to move unexpectedly or roll away and result in an accident. Make sure the shift lever has been pushed as far forward as it can go and cannot be moved without depressing the foot brake pedal.

c Never leave the engine running while

the vehicle is unattended.

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5-16 Starting and driving

c HEADED UPHILL OR DOWNHILL, NO

CURB: sC 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 position

and remove the key.

POWER STEERING

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

WARNING

If the engine is not running or is turned off while driving, the power assist for the steering will not work. Steering will be much harder to operate.

c Do not leave children unattended inside the vehicle. They could unknowingly ac- tivate switches or controls. Unattended children could become involved in seri- ous accidents.

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

Place the shift lever in the R (Reverse) posi- tion. When parking on an uphill grade, place the shift lever in 1st gear. Automatic transmission models:

Move the shift selector lever to the P (Park) position.

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

c HEADED DOWNHILL WITH CURB: sA

Turn the wheels into the curb and move the vehicle forward until the curb side wheel gen- tly touches the curb.

c HEADED UPHILL WITH CURB: sB

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

Starting and driving 5-17

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Sentra (b15) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 12/20/02—cathy X

BRAKE SYSTEM

The brake system has two separate hydraulic circuits. If one circuit malfunctions, you will still have braking at two wheels. BRAKE PRECAUTIONS 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 stopping dis- tance will be longer. 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. Overheated brakes may reduce braking performance and could result in loss of vehicle control.

5-18 Starting and driving

WARNING

c While driving on a slippery surface, be careful when braking, accelerating or downshifting. Abrupt braking or accel- erating could cause the wheels to skid and result in an accident.

c If the engine is not running or is turned off while driving, the power assist for the brakes will not work. Braking will be harder.

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 the brakes, drive the vehicle at a safe speed while lightly pressing the brake pedal to heat up the brakes. Do this until the brakes return to normal. Avoid driving the vehicle at high speeds until the brakes function correctly. ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) (if so equipped) The anti-lock brake system controls the brakes at each wheel so the wheels do not lock when braking abruptly or when braking on slippery sur- faces. The system detects the rotation speed at

each wheel and varies the brake fluid pressure to prevent each wheel from locking and sliding. By preventing wheel lockup, the system helps the driver maintain steering control and helps to mini- mize swerving and spinning on slippery surfaces. Using the system Depress the brake pedal and hold it down.

WARNING

Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so may stopping distances.

increased

result

in

Normal operation The anti-lock brake system does not operate at speeds below 3 - 6 MPH (5 - 10 km/h). (The speeds vary according to road conditions.)

When driving, the anti-lock brake system con- trols the wheels so they will not lock when brak- ing abruptly or when braking on a slippery road. Thus, difficult steering and swerving of the ve- hicle due to locked wheels is minimized. The system detects the wheel rotation rate and elec- tronically controls the pressure applied to each brake. Slight vibration on the brake pedal accom- panied by noise usually occurs while the ABS system is operating. Such vibration and noise encountered during abrupt braking is not a prob-

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Sentra (b15) Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna) 12/20/02—cathy X