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checked by a NISSAN dealer.


the


or


After the child restraint is removed and the seat belt is fully retracted, the ALR mode (child re- straint mode) is canceled.


1-32 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system


Rear-facing Follow these steps to install a rear-facing child restraint using the vehicle seat belt in the rear seats: 1. Child restraints for infants must be used in the rear-facing direction and therefore must not be used in the front seat. Position the child restraint on the seat. Always follow the restraint manufacturer’s instructions.


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Rear-facing – step 2


Rear-facing – step 3


Rear-facing – step 4


WRS0761


LRS0669


LRS0670


2. Route the seat belt tongue through the child restraint and insert it into the buckle until you hear and feel the latch engage. Be sure to follow the child restraint manufacturer’s in- structions for belt routing.


3. Pull the shoulder belt until the belt is fully extended. At this time, the seat belt retractor is in the Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode (child restraint mode). It reverts to the Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) mode when the seat belt is fully retracted.


4. Allow the seat belt to retract. Pull up on the shoulder belt to remove any slack in the belt.


Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-33


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7. Check that the retractor is in the ALR mode by trying to pull more seat belt out of the retractor. If you cannot pull any more seat belt webbing out of the retractor, the retrac- tor is in the ALR mode.


8. Check to make sure that the child restraint is properly secured prior to each use. If the seat belt locked, repeat steps 3
through 7.


is not


After the child restraint is removed and the seat belt fully retracted, the ALR mode (child restraint mode) is canceled.


Rear-facing – step 5


Rear-facing – step 6


WRS0762


WRS0763


5. Remove any additional slack from the child restraint; press downward and rearward firmly in the center of the child restraint to compress the vehicle seat cushion and seat- back while pulling up on the seat belt.


6. After attaching the child restraint, test it be- fore you place the child in it. Push it from side to side while holding the seat near the seat belt path. The child restraint should not move more than 1 inch (25 mm), from side to side. Try to tug it forward and check to see if the belt holds the restraint in place. If the restraint is not secure, tighten the belt as necessary, or put the restraint in another seat and test it again. You may need to try a different child restraint. Not all child re- straints fit in all types of vehicles.


1-34 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system


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BOOSTER SEATS


PRECAUTIONS ON BOOSTER SEATS


ARS1098


WARNING


● Infants and small children should al- ways be placed in an appropriate child restraint while riding in the vehicle. Failure to use a child restraint or booster seat can result in serious injury or death.


● Infants and small children should never be carried on your lap. It is not possible for even the strongest adult to resist the forces of a severe accident. The child could be crushed between the adult and parts of the vehicle. Also, do not put the same seat belt around both your child and yourself.


● NISSAN recommends that the booster seat be installed in the rear seat. Ac- cording to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seat than in the front seat. If you must install a booster seat in the front seat, see “Booster seat installa- tion” in this section.


seating


position


● A booster seat must only be installed in lap/shoulder belt. Failure to use a three-point type seat belt with a booster seat can result in a serious in- jury in sudden stop or collision.


that


has


● Improper use or improper installation of a booster seat can increase the risk or severity of injury for both the child and other occupants of the vehicle and can lead to serious injury or death in an accident.


● Do not use towels, books, pillows or other items in place of a booster seat. Items such as these may move during normal driving or a collision and result in serious injury or death. Booster seats are designed to be used with a lap/shoulder belt. Booster seats are de- signed to properly route the lap and shoulder portions of the seat belt over the strongest portions of a child’s body to provide the maximum protection dur- ing a collision.


● Follow all of the booster seat manufac- turer’s instructions for installation and use. When purchasing a booster seat, be sure to select one which will fit your child and vehicle. It may not be possible to properly install some types of booster seats in your vehicle.


● If the booster seat and seat belt is not used properly, the risk of a child being injured in a collision or a sudden stop greatly increases.


● Adjustable seatbacks should be posi- tioned to fit the booster seat, but as upright as possible.


Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-35


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● After placing the child in the booster seat and fastening the seat belt, make sure the shoulder portion of the belt is away from the child’s face and neck and the lap portion of the belt does not cross the abdomen.


● Do not put the shoulder belt behind the child or under the child’s arm. If you must install a booster seat in the front seat, see “Booster seat installation” later in this section.


● When your booster seat is not in use, keep it secured with a seat belt to pre- vent it from being thrown around in case of a sudden stop or accident.


CAUTION


Remember that a booster seat left in a closed vehicle can become very hot. Check the seating surface and buckles before placing your child in the booster seat.


LRS0455
Booster seats of various sizes are offered by several manufacturers. When selecting any booster seat, keep the following points in mind: ● Choose only a booster seat with a label certifying that it complies with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213.


● Check the booster seat in your vehicle to be sure it is compatible with the vehicle’s seat and seat belt system.


LRS0453
● Make sure the child’s head will be properly supported by the booster seat or vehicle seat. The seatback must be at or above the center of the child’s ears. For example, if a low back booster seat 䊊1 is chosen, the vehicle seatback must be at or above the center of the child’s ears. If the seatback is lower than the center of the child’s ears, a high back booster seat 䊊2 should be used. ● If the booster seat is compatible with your vehicle, place your child in the booster seat and check the various adjustments to be sure the booster seat is compatible with your child. Always follow all recommended pro- cedures.


1-36 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system


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BOOSTER SEAT INSTALLATION


WARNING


NISSAN recommends that booster seats be installed in the rear seat. However, if you must install a booster seat in the front passenger seat, move the passenger’s seat to the rearmost position.


CAUTION


Do not use the lap/shoulder belt Auto- matic Locking Retractor mode when using a booster seat with the seat belts.


Follow these steps to install a booster seat in the rear seat or in the front passenger seat:


WRS0699
1. If you must install a booster seat in the front seat, move the seat to the rear- most position.


2. Position the booster seat on the seat. Only place it in a front-facing direction. Always follow the booster seat manufacturer’s in- structions.


LRS0464
All U.S. states and Canadian provinces or territories require that infants and small children be restrained in an approved child restraint at all times while the vehicle is being operated. The instructions in this section apply to booster seat installation in the rear seats or the front passenger seat.


Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-37


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4. Position the lap portion of the seat belt low and snug on the child’s hips. Be sure to follow the booster seat manufacturer’s in- structions for adjusting the seat belt routing. 5. Pull the shoulder belt portion of the seat belt toward the retractor to take up extra slack. Be sure the shoulder belt is positioned across the top, middle portion of the child’s shoulder. Be sure to follow the booster seat manufacturer’s instructions for adjusting the seat belt routing.


Rear center position


Rear outboard position


LRS0451


LRS0452


3. The booster seat should be positioned on the vehicle seat so that it is stable. If neces- sary, adjust or remove the head restraint to obtain the correct booster seat fit. See “Head restraint adjustment” earlier in this section.


If the head restraint is removed, store it in a secure place. Be sure to reinstall the head restraint when the booster seat is removed.


If the seating position does not have an adjustable head restraint and it is interfering with the proper booster seat fit, try another seating position or a different booster seat.


1-38 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system


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LRS0454


LRS0351


LRS0316


Front passenger position


6. Follow the warnings, cautions and instruc- tions for properly fastening a seat belt shown in the “Three-point type seat belt with retractor” earlier in this section.


Type A


Type B


7.


If the booster seat is installed in the front passenger seat, turn the ignition switch to the ON position. The front passenger air bag status light may or may not illuminate, depending on the size of the child and the type of booster seat being used. See “Front passenger air bag and status light” later in this section.


or


Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-39


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SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM


PRECAUTIONS ON SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM This Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) sec- tion contains important information concerning the following systems: ● Driver and passenger supplemental front- impact air bag (NISSAN Advanced Air Bag System)


● Front seat-mounted side-impact supple-


mental air bag


● Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supple-


mental air bag


● Seat belt with pretensioner Supplemental front-impact air bag system: The NISSAN Advanced Air Bag System can help cushion the impact force to the head and chest of the driver and front passenger in certain frontal collisions. Front seat-mounted side-impact supple- mental air bag system: This system can help cushion the impact force to the chest and pelvic area of the driver and front passenger in certain side impact collisions. The side air bags are de- signed to inflate on the side where the vehicle is impacted. 1-40 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system


Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supple- mental air bag system: This system can help cushion the impact force to the head of occu- pants in front and rear outboard seating positions in certain side-impact collisions. The curtain air bags are designed to inflate on the side where the vehicle is impacted. These supplemental restraint systems are de- signed to supplement the crash protection pro- vided by the driver and front passenger seat belts and are not a substitute for them. Seat belts should always be correctly worn and the occu- pant seated a suitable distance away from the steering wheel, instrument panel and door finish- ers. (See “Seat belts” earlier in this section for instructions and precautions on seat belt usage.) The supplemental air bags operate only when the ignition switch is in the ON or START position. After placing the ignition switch in the ON position, the supplemental air bag warning light illuminates. The supplemental air bag warning light will turn off after about 7
seconds if the system is operational.


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● The driver and front passenger seat belt buckles are equipped with sensors that detect if the seat belts are fastened. The Advanced Air Bag System monitors the severity of a collision and seat belt us- age then inflates the air bags. Failure to properly wear seat belts can increase the risk or severity of injury in an accident.


● The front passenger seat is equipped with an occupant classification sensor (pressure sensor) that turns the front passenger air bag OFF under some conditions. This sensor is only used in this seat. Failure to be properly seated and wearing the seat belt can increase the risk or severity of injury in an acci- dent. See “Front Passenger air bag and status light” later in this section.


● Keep hands on the outside of the steer- ing wheel. Placing them inside the steering wheel rim could increase the risk that they are injured when the front air bag inflates.


WARNING


● The front air bags ordinarily will not inflate in the event of a side impact, rear impact, rollover, or lower severity fron- tal collision. Always wear your seat belts to help reduce the risk or severity of injury in various kinds of accidents. ● The front passenger air bag will not inflate if the passenger air bag status light is lit or if the front passenger seat is unoccupied. See “Front passenger air bag and status light” later in this section.


WRS0031


● The seat belts and the front air bags are most effective when you are sitting well back and upright in the seat. The front air bags inflate with great force. Even with the NISSAN Advanced Air Bag Sys- tem, if you are unrestrained, leaning forward, sitting sideways or out of posi- tion in any way, you are at greater risk of injury or death in a crash. You may also receive serious or fatal injuries from the front air bag if you are up against it when it inflates. Always sit back against the seatback and as far away as practi- cal from the steering wheel or instru- ment panel. Always use the seat belts.


Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-41


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ARS1133


ARS1041


WARNING


● Never let children ride unrestrained or extend their hands or face out of the window. Do not attempt to hold them in your lap or arms. Some examples of dangerous riding positions are shown in the illustrations.


1-42 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system


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ARS1042


ARS1043


ARS1044


Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-43


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ARS1045


WRS0256


SSS0101


WARNING


WARNING


● Children may be severely injured or killed when the front air bags, side air bags or curtain air bags inflate if they are not properly restrained. Pre-teens and children should be properly re- strained in the rear seat, if possible.


● Even with the NISSAN Advanced Air Bag System, never install a rear-facing child restraint in the front seat. An in- flating front air bag could seriously in- jure or kill your child. See “Child re- straints” earlier in this section for details.


Front seat-mounted side-impact supple- mental air bags and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags: ● The side air bags and curtain air bags ordinarily will not inflate in the event of a frontal impact, rear impact, rollover or lower severity side collision. Always wear your seat belts to help reduce the risk or severity of injury in various kinds of accidents.


1-44 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system


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WARNING


● The seat belts, the side air bags and curtain air bags are most effective when you are sitting well back and upright in the seat with both feet on the floor. The side air bag and curtain air bag inflate with great force. Do not allow anyone to place their hand, leg or face near the side air bag on the side of the seatback of the front seat or near the side roof rails. Do not allow anyone sitting in the front seats or rear outboard seats to extend their hand out of the window or lean against the door. Some examples of dangerous riding positions are shown in the previous illustrations.


SSS0188


WRS0032


WARNING


● When sitting in the rear seat, do not hold onto the seatback of the front seat. If the side air bag inflates, you may be seriously injured. Be especially careful with children, who should always be properly restrained. Some examples of dangerous riding positions are shown in the illustrations.


● Do not use seat covers on the front seatbacks. They may interfere with side air bag inflation.


Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-45


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SSS0159


SSS0162


1-46 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system


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1.


2.


3.


Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bag inflators Front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bag modules Supplemental front-impact air bag modules


4. Crash zone sensor 5. 6. Occupant classification sensor


Air Bag Control Unit (ACU)


(pressure sensor) Pretensioner Side satellite sensor


7. 8. NISSAN Advanced Air Bag System (front seats) This vehicle is equipped with the NISSAN Ad- vanced Air Bag System for the driver and front passenger seats. This system is designed to meet certification requirements under U.S. regu- lations. It is also permitted in Canada. However, all of the information, cautions and warn- ings in this manual still apply and must be followed. The driver supplemental front-impact air bag is located in the center of the steering wheel. The passenger supplemental front-impact air bag is mounted in the dashboard above the glove box. The front air bags are designed to inflate in higher severity frontal collisions, although they may in- Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-47


LRS0725


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force of the front air bag inflating can increase the risk of injury if the occupant is too close to, or is against, the front air bag module during inflation. The front air bags deflate quickly after a collision. The front air bags operate only when the ignition switch is in the ON or START posi- tion. After placing the ignition switch in the ON position, the supplemental air bag warning light illuminates. The supplemental air bag warning light will turn off after about 7
seconds if the system is operational.


flate if the forces in another type of collision are similar to those of a higher severity frontal impact. They may not inflate in certain frontal collisions. Vehicle damage (or lack of it) is not always an indication of proper front air bag system opera- tion.


The NISSAN Advanced Air Bag System has dual stage inflators. It also monitors information from the crash zone sensor, the Air bag Control Unit (ACU), seat belt buckle sensors, occupant clas- sification sensor (pressure sensor) and passen- ger seat belt tension sensor. Inflator operation is based on the severity of a collision and seat belt usage for the driver. For the front passenger, it additionally monitors the weight of an occupant or object on the seat and seat belt tension. Based on information from the sensors, only one front air bag may inflate in a crash, depending on the crash severity and whether the front occupants are belted or unbelted. Additionally, the front passenger air bag may be automatically turned OFF under some conditions, depending on the weight detected on the passenger seat and how the seat belt is used. If the front passenger air bag is OFF, the passenger air bag status light will be illuminated (if the seat is unoccupied, the light will not be illuminated, but the air bag will be off). See “Front passenger air bag and status light” later in


this section for further details. One front air bag inflating does not indicate improper performance of the system.


If you have any questions about your air bag system, please contact NISSAN or your NISSAN dealer. If you are considering modification of your vehicle due to a disability, you may also contact NISSAN. Contact information is contained in the front of this Owner’s Manual. When a front air bag inflates, a fairly loud noise may be heard, followed by the release of smoke. This smoke is not harmful and does not indicate a fire. Care should be taken to not inhale it, as it may cause irritation and choking. Those with a history of a breathing condition should get fresh air promptly. Front air bags, along with the use of seat belts, help to cushion the impact force on the face and chest of the front occupants. They can help save lives and reduce serious injuries. However, an inflating front air bag may cause facial abrasions or other injuries. Front air bags do not provide restraint to the lower body. Even with NISSAN advanced air bags, seat belts should be correctly worn and the driver and pas- senger seated upright as far as practical away from the steering wheel or instrument panel. The front air bags inflate quickly in order to help protect the front occupants. Because of this, the


1-48 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system


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● Occupied passenger seat and the passen- ger meet the conditions outlined in this sec- tion: The light is OFF to in- dicate that the front passenger air bag is operational.


or


Type A


LRS0351


Front passenger air bag and status light


Status light


WARNING


The front passenger air bag is designed to automatically turn OFF under some con- ditions. Read this section carefully to learn how it operates. Proper use of the seat, seat belt and child restraints is nec- essary for most effective protection. Fail- ure to follow all instructions in this manual concerning the use of seats, seat belts and child restraints can increase the risk or severity of injury in an accident.


LRS0316


Type B


Front passenger air bag The front passenger air bag is designed to auto- matically turn OFF when the vehicle is operated under some conditions as described below in accordance with U.S. regulations. If the front passenger air bag is OFF, it will not inflate in a crash. The driver air bag and other air bags in your vehicle are not part of this system. The purpose of the regulation is to help reduce the risk of injury or death from an inflating air bag to certain front passenger seat occupants, such as children, by requiring the air bag to be auto- matically turned OFF. Certain sensors are used to meet the requirements. One sensor used is the occupant classification sensor (pressure sensor). It is in the bottom of the front passenger seat cushion and is designed to detect an occupant and objects on the seat by weight. It works together with seat belt sensors described later. For example, if a child is in the front passenger seat, the Advanced Air Bag Sys- tem is designed to turn the passenger air bag OFF in accordance with the regulations. Also, if a child restraint of the type specified in the regula- Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-49


The front passenger air bag status light or light operates as follows:


is located near the climate controls. The


● Unoccupied passenger’s seat: The


or bag is OFF and will not inflate in a crash.


is OFF and the front passenger air


● Passenger’s seat occupied by a small adult, child or child restraint as outlined in this illuminates to section: The indicate that the front passenger air bag is OFF and will not inflate in a crash.


or


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tions is on the seat, its weight and the child’s weight can be detected and cause the air bag to turn OFF. Occupant classification sensor opera- tion can vary depending on the front passenger seat belt sensors.


The front passenger seat belt sensors are de- signed to detect if the seat belt is buckled and the amount of tension on the seat belt, such as when it is in the Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode (child restraint mode). Based on the weight on the seat detected by the occupant classification sensor and the belt tension de- tected on the seat belt, the Advanced Air Bag System determines whether the front passenger air bag should be automatically turned OFF as required by the regulations.


Front passenger seat adult occupants who are properly seated and using the seat belt as out- lined in this manual should not cause the passen- ger air bag to be automatically turned OFF. For small adults it may be turned OFF, however if the occupant takes his/her weight off the seat cush- ion (for example, by not sitting upright, by sitting on an edge of the seat, or by otherwise being out of position), this could cause the sensor to turn the air bag OFF. if the occupant improperly uses the seat belt in the ALR mode (child restraint mode), this could cause the air bag to be turned OFF. Always be sure to be 1-50 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system


In addition,


seated and wearing the seat belt properly for the most effective protection by the seat belt and supplemental air bag.


NISSAN recommends that pre-teens and chil- dren be properly restrained in a rear seat. NISSAN also recommends that appropriate child restraints and booster seats be properly installed in a rear seat. If this is not possible, the occupant classification sensor and seat belt sensors are designed to operate as described above to turn the front passenger air bag OFF for specified child restraints as required by the regulations. Failing to properly secure child restraints and to use the ALR mode (child restraint mode) may allow the restraint to tip or move in an accident or sudden stop. This can also result in the passen- ger air bag inflating in a crash instead of being OFF. See “Child restraints” earlier in this section for proper use and installation. If the front passenger seat is not occupied the passenger air bag is designed not to inflate in a crash. However, heavy objects placed on the seat could result in air bag inflation, because of the object’s weight detected by the occupant classification sensor. Other conditions could also result in air bag inflation, such as if a child is standing on the seat, or if two children are on the seat, contrary to the instructions in this manual. Always be sure that you and all vehicle occupants are seated and restrained properly.


Using the passenger air bag status light, you can monitor when the front passenger air bag is au- tomatically turned OFF with the seat occupied. The light will not illuminate when the front pas- senger seat is unoccupied.


If an adult occupant is in the seat but the passen- ger air bag status light is illuminated (indicating that the air bag is OFF), it could be that the person is a small adult, or is not sitting on the seat properly or not using the seat belt properly.


If a child restraint must be used in the front seat, the passenger air bag status light may or may not be illuminated, depending on the size of the child and the type of child restraint being used. If the air bag status light is not illuminated (indicating that the air bag might inflate in a crash), it could be that the child restraint or seat belt is not being used properly. Make sure that the child restraint is installed properly, the seat belt is used properly and the occupant is positioned properly. If the air bag status light is not illuminated, reposition the occupant or child restraint in a rear seat. If the passenger air bag status light will not illu- minate even though you believe that the child restraint, the seat belts and the occupant are properly positioned, the system may be sensing an unoccupied seat (in which case the air bag is OFF). Your NISSAN dealer can check that the system is OFF by using a special tool. However,


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until you have confirmed with your dealer that your air bag is working properly, reposition the occupant or child restraint in a rear seat.


The air bag system and passenger air bag status light will take a few seconds to register a change in the passenger seat status. For example, if a large adult who is sitting in the front passenger seat exits the vehicle, the passenger air bag status light will go from OFF to ON for a few seconds and then to OFF. This is normal system operation and does not indicate a malfunction.


If a malfunction occurs in the front passenger air bag system, the supplemental air bag warning , located in the meter and gauges area light in the center of the instrument panel, will blink. Have the system checked by a NISSAN dealer. Other supplemental front-impact air bag precautions


WARNING


● Do not place any objects on the steer- ing wheel pad or on the instrument panel. Also, do not place any objects between any occupant and the steering wheel or instrument panel. Such ob- jects may become dangerous projec- tiles and cause injury if the front air bags inflate.


● Immediately after


inflation, several front air bag system components will be hot. Do not touch them; you may se- verely burn yourself.


● No unauthorized changes should be made to any components or wiring of the supplemental air bag system. This is to prevent accidental inflation of the supplemental air bag or damage to the supplemental air bag system.


● Do not make unauthorized changes to your vehicle’s electrical system, sus- pension system or front end structure. This could affect proper operation of the front air bag system.


● Tampering with the front air bag system may result in serious personal injury. Tampering includes changes to the steering wheel and the instrument panel assembly by placing material over the steering wheel pad and above the instrument panel or by installing additional trim material around the air bag system.


● Modifying or tampering with the front passenger seat may result in serious personal injury. For example, do not change the front seats by placing mate- rial on the seat cushion or by installing additional trim material, such as seat covers, on the seat that are not specifi- cally designed to assure proper air bag operation. Additionally, do not stow any objects under the front passenger seat or the seat cushion and seatback. Such objects may interfere with the proper operation of the occupant classifica- tion sensor (pressure sensor).


● No unauthorized changes should be made to any components or wiring of the seat belt system. This may affect the front air bag system. Tampering with the seat belt system may result in seri- ous personal injury.


Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-51


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● Work on and around the front air bag system should be done by a NISSAN dealer. Installation of electrical equip- ment should also be done by a NISSAN dealer. The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) wiring should not be modified or disconnected. Unautho- rized electrical test equipment and probing devices should not be used on the air bag system.


● A cracked windshield should be re- placed immediately by a qualified re- pair facility. A cracked windshield could affect the function of the supplemental air bag system.


*The SRS wiring harness connectors are yellow and orange for easy identification. When selling your vehicle, we request that you inform the buyer about the supplemental front air bag system and guide the buyer to the appropri- ate sections in this Owner’s Manual.


inflate if the forces in another type of collision are similar to those of a higher severity side impact. They are designed to inflate on the side where the vehicle is impacted. They may not inflate in cer- tain side collisions.


Vehicle damage (or lack of it) is not always an indication of proper side air bag and curtain air bag operation. When the side air bags and curtain air bags inflate, a fairly loud noise may be heard, followed by release of smoke. This smoke is not harmful and does not indicate a fire. Care should be taken not to inhale it, as it may cause irritation and choking. Those with a history of a breathing con- dition should get fresh air promptly. Side air bags, along with the use of seat belts, help to cushion the impact force on the chest of the front occupants. Curtain air bags help to cushion the impact force to the head of occu- pants in the front and rear outboard seating po- sitions. They can help save lives and reduce serious injuries. However, an inflating side air bag and curtain air bag may cause abrasions or other injuries. Side air bags and curtain air bags do not provide restraint to the lower body. The seat belts should be correctly worn and the driver and passenger seated upright as far as practical away from the side air bag. Rear seat passengers should be seated as far away as


LRS0259


Front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bag and roof- mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bag systems The side air bags are located in the outside of the seatback of the front seats. The curtain air bags are located in the side roof rails. These systems are designed to meet voluntary guidelines to help reduce the risk of injury to out-of-position occu- pants. However, all of the information, cau- tions and warnings in this manual still ap- ply and must be followed. The side air bags and curtain air bags are designed to inflate in higher severity side collisions, although they may


1-52 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system


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practical from the door finishers and side roof rails. The side air bags and curtain air bags inflate quickly in order to help protect the front and rear outboard occupants. Because of this, the force of the side air bag and curtain air bag inflating can increase the risk of injury if the occupant is too close to, or is against, these air bag modules during inflation. The side air bags and curtain air bags will deflate quickly after the collision is over. The side air bags and curtain air bags op- erate only when the ignition switch is in the ON or START position.


After placing the ignition switch in the ON position, the supplemental air bag warning light illuminates. The supplemental air bag warning light will turn off after about 7
seconds if the system is operational.


WARNING


● Do not place any objects near the seat- back of the front seats. Also, do not place any objects (an umbrella, bag, etc.) between the front door finisher and the front seat. Such objects may become dangerous projectiles and cause injury if a side air bag inflates.


● Right after inflation, several side air bag and curtain air bag system components will be hot. Do not touch them; you may severely burn yourself.


● No unauthorized changes should be made to any components or wiring of the side air bag and curtain air bag systems. This is to prevent damage to or accidental inflation of the side air bag and curtain air bag or damage to the side air bag and curtain air bag systems. ● Do not make unauthorized changes to your vehicle’s electrical system, sus- pension system or side panel. This could affect proper operation of the side air bag and curtain air bag systems. ● Tampering with the side air bag system may result in serious personal injury. For example, do not change the front seats by placing material near the seat- backs or by installing additional trim material, such as seat covers, around the side air bag.


● Work around and on the side air bag and curtain air bag systems should be done by a NISSAN dealer. Installation of electrical equipment should also be done by a NISSAN dealer. The SRS wir- ing harnesses* should not be modified or disconnected. Unauthorized electri- cal test equipment and probing devices should not be used on the side air bag system.


* The SRS wiring harness connectors are yellow and orange for easy identification. When selling your vehicle, we request that you inform the buyer about the side air bag and curtain air bag systems and guide the buyer to the appropriate sections in this Owner’s Manual.


Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-53


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the


supplemental


If any abnormality occurs in the pretensioner sys- tem, air bag warning light will not come on, will flash intermit- tently or will turn on for 7 seconds and remain on after the ignition switch has been placed in the ON or START position. In this case, the preten- sioner system may not function properly. They must be checked and repaired. Take your vehicle to the nearest NISSAN dealer. When selling your vehicle, we request that you inform the buyer about the pretensioner system and guide the buyer to the appropriate sections in this Owner’s Manual.


Seat belts with pretensioners (front seats)


WARNING


● The pretensioners cannot be reused af- ter activation. They must be replaced together with the retractor and buckle as a unit.


● If the vehicle becomes involved in a frontal collision but a pretensioner is not activated, be sure to have the pre- tensioner system checked and, if nec- essary, your NISSAN dealer.


replaced by


● No unauthorized changes should be made to any components or wiring of the pretensioner system. This is to pre- vent damage to or accidental activation of the pretensioners. Tampering with the pretensioner system may result in serious personal injury.


● Work around and on the pretensioner system should be done by a NISSAN dealer. Installation of electrical equip- ment should also be done by a NISSAN dealer. Unauthorized electrical test equipment and probing devices should not be used on the pretensioner system.


● If you need to dispose of a pretensioner or scrap the vehicle, contact a NISSAN dealer. Correct pretensioner disposal procedures are set forth in the appropri- ate NISSAN Service Manual. Incorrect disposal procedures could cause per- sonal injury.


The pretensioner system activates in conjunction with the front air bag system. Working with the seat belt retractor, it helps tighten the seat belt when the vehicle becomes involved in certain types of collisions, helping to restrain front seat occupants. The pretensioner is encased within the seat belt retractor. These seat belts are used the same way as conventional seat belts. When a pretensioner activates, smoke is re- leased and a loud noise may be heard. This smoke is not harmful and does not indicate a fire. Care should be taken not to inhale it, as it may cause irritation and choking. Those with a history of a breathing condition should get fresh air promptly. After pretensioner activation, load limiters allow the seat belt to release webbing (if necessary) to reduce forces against the chest.


1-54 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system


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When the ignition switch is placed in the ON or START position, the supplemental air bag warn- ing light illuminates for about 7 seconds and then turns off. This means the system is operational.


If any of the following conditions occur, the front air bag, side air bag, curtain air bag and preten- sioner systems need servicing: ● The supplemental air bag warning light re-


mains on after approximately 7 seconds.


● The supplemental air bag warning light


flashes intermittently.


● The supplemental air bag warning light does


not come on at all.


Under these conditions, the front air bag, side air bag, curtain air bag or pretensioner systems may not operate properly. They must be checked and repaired. Take your vehicle to the nearest NISSAN dealer.


WARNING


If the supplemental air bag warning light is on, it could mean that the front air bag, side air bag, curtain air bag and/or preten- sioner systems will not operate in an ac- cident. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have your vehicle checked by a NISSAN dealer as soon as possible.


LRS0695


LRS0100


SRS Front Air Bag Warning Labels SRS Side Air Bag Warning Label


1. 2. SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG WARNING LABELS Warning labels about the supplemental front- impact air bag, front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bag and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bag systems are placed in the vehicle as shown in the illustration.


SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT air bag warning light, The supplemental displaying in the instrument panel, moni- tors the circuits of the supplemental front-impact air bag, front seat-mounted side-impact supple- mental air bag, roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bag and seat belt pretensioner systems. The monitored circuits include the Air bag Control Unit (ACU), crash zone sensor, sat- ellite sensors, occupant classification system, front air bag modules, side air bag modules, curtain air bag modules, pretensioners and all related wiring.


Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-55


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● The front air bag, side air bag, curtain air bag systems and the pretensioner system should be inspected by a NISSAN dealer if there is any damage to the front end or side portion of the vehicle.


● If you need to dispose of the supple- mental air bag or pretensioner systems or scrap the vehicle, contact a NISSAN dealer. Correct air bag and pretensioner system disposal procedures are set forth in the appropriate NISSAN Service Manual. Incorrect disposal procedures could cause personal injury.


Repair and replacement procedure The front air bags, side air bags, curtain air bags and pretensioners are designed to inflate on a one-time-only basis. As a reminder, unless it is damaged, the supplemental air bag warning light remains illuminated after inflation has occurred. Repair and replacement of these supplemental air bag systems should be done only by a NISSAN dealer.


When maintenance work is required on the ve- hicle, the front air bags, side air bags, curtain air bags, pretensioners and related parts should be pointed out to the person performing the mainte- nance. The ignition switch should always be placed in the LOCK position when working under the hood or inside the vehicle.


WARNING


● Once a front air bag, side air bag, or curtain air bag has inflated, the air bag module will not function again and must be replaced. Additionally, if any of the front air bags inflate, the activated pretensioner must also be replaced. The air bag module and pretensioner should be replaced by a NISSAN dealer. The air bag module and pretensioner cannot be repaired.


1-56 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system


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MEMO


Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-57


2 Instruments and controls


Instrument panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Meters and gauges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Speedometer and odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
g (gravity)-force gauge (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Engine coolant temperature gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Engine oil pressure gauge (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . 2-6
Warning/indicator lights and audible reminders . . . . . . . 2-8
Checking bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Warning lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Indicator lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Audible reminders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Security systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Vehicle security system (if so equipped). . . . . . . . . . 2-16
NISSAN vehicle immobilizer system . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Windshield wiper and washer switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
Switch operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18


Rear window and outside mirror (if so equipped) defroster switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19
Headlight and turn signal switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
Headlight control switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
Daytime running light system (Canada only) . . . . . . 2-21


Instrument brightness control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21
Turn signal switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22
Fog light switch (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22
Hazard warning flasher switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-23
Heated seat (if so equipped). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-23
Power outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-25
Map pockets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-25
Storage bin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-25
Storage trays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-26
Instrument panel storage (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . 2-26
Seatback pockets (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27
Cup holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27
Glove box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28
Console box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-29
Compact disc holder (if so equipped). . . . . . . . . . . . 2-29
Trunk divider (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-29
Cargo net (if so equipped). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-30
Grocery hooks (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-31
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32
Power windows (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32
Manual windows (if so equipped). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35


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Moonroof (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35
Electric moonroof. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35
Interior light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-37


Map lights (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-38
Trunk light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-39


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INSTRUMENT PANEL


1. Headlight/fog light (if so equipped) /turn signal switch (P. 2-20); Manual shift paddles (if so equipped) (P.5-14 ) Steering wheel switch for audio control and Bluetooth姞 Hands-Free Phone System (if so equipped) (P. 4-37, 4-39)


2.


2-2 Instruments and controls


WIC1486


3.


Driver’s supplemental air bag/Horn (P. 1-40, 2-23)


4. Meters and gauges (P. 2-3) 5. 6. Cruise control main/set switches


Instrument brightness control (P. 2-21)


(if so equipped) (P. 5-19)


(P. 1-40)


(P. 4-2)


(P. 2-5)


Storage bin (if so equipped) (P. 2-25) Audio system (P. 4-16)


7. Windshield wiper/washer switch (P. 2-18) 8. 9. 10. Center ventilator (P. 4-7) 11. Passenger’s supplemental air bag


12. Side ventilator (P. 4-7) 13. Control panel display (if so equipped)


14. Engine oil pressure gauge


(if so equipped) (P. 2-6)


15. g (gravity)-force gauge (if so equipped)


16. Hazard warning flasher switch


(if so equipped) (P. 2-22)


17. Hazard warning flasher switch


(if so equipped) (P. 2-22); Manual shift mode switch (if so equipped) (P.5-14 )


18. Glove box (P. 2-28) 19. Front passenger air bag status light


(P. 1-40)


20. Climate control (P. 4-7) 21. Shift selector (P. 5-12) 22. Power outlet (P. 2-24) 23. Ignition switch (P. 5-7) 24. Tilt steering (P.3-26) 25. Storage bin (P. 2-25) 26. Hood release lever (P. 3-22) See the page number indicated in paren- theses for operating details.


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METERS AND GAUGES


LIC1015


SPEEDOMETER AND ODOMETER Speedometer The speedometer indicates the vehicle speed.


1. 2.


3.


Tachometer Fuel gauge/odometer/transmission po- sition indicator (if so equipped) /engine coolant temperature gauge/Instrument brightness level Speedometer


4.


Instrument brightness control/change button for twin trip odometer


LIC1014


Instruments and controls 2-3


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Changing the display Push the instrument brightness control/change button to change the display as follows: Odometer → Trip eter Resetting the trip odometer Push the instrument brightness control/change button for more than 1 second to reset the cur- rently displayed trip odometer to zero.


→ Odom-


→ Trip


LIC1017


Odometer/Twin trip odometer The odometer/twin trip odometer is displayed when the ignition switch is placed in the ON position.


The odometer records the total distance the ve- hicle has been driven.


The twin trip odometer records the distance of individual trips.


To switch between the odometer and the twin trip odometers press the instrument brightness control/change button.


2-4 Instruments and controls


LIC1021


TACHOMETER The tachometer indicates engine speed in revo- lutions per minute (rpm). Do not rev the engine into the red zone 䊊1 .


CAUTION


When engine speed approaches the red zone, shift to a higher gear or reduce en- gine speed. Operating the engine in the red zone may cause serious engine damage.


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The located on the passenger’s side of the vehicle.


indicates that the fuel-filler door is


CAUTION


● If


the vehicle runs out of


fuel, Malfunction Indicator Light the (MIL) may come on. Refuel as soon as possible. After a few driving trips, light should turn off. If the the light remains on after a few driving trips, have the vehicle inspected by a NISSAN dealer.


LIC1113


g (gravity)-FORCE GAUGE (if so equipped) This gauge shows the straight-line acceleration and deceleration g-forces while you are driving.


NOTE: The g-force gauge does not indicate cor- nering g-forces.


FUEL GAUGE


NOTE:


LIC1016


● For additional information, see “Mal- function Indicator Light (MIL)” later in this section.


The ignition switch must be placed in the ON position for the gauge to give a reading. The gauge indicates the approximate fuel level in the tank. The gauge may move slightly during braking, turning, acceleration, or going up or down hills. The low fuel warning light comes on when the amount of fuel in the tank is getting low. Refill the fuel tank before the gauge regis- ters E (Empty).


Instruments and controls 2-5


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CAUTION


If the gauge indicates a coolant tempera- ture near the hot (H) end of the normal range, reduce vehicle speed to decrease the temperature. If the gauge is over the normal range, stop the vehicle as soon as safely possible. If the engine is over- heated, continued operation of the ve- hicle may seriously damage the engine. See “If your vehicle overheats” in the “In case of emergency” section for immediate action required


LIC1020
ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE GAUGE


NOTE:


The ignition switch must be placed in the ON position for the gauge to give a reading.


The gauge indicates the engine coolant tempera- ture. The engine coolant temperature is within the normal range when the reading is within the zone 䊊1 shown in the illustration. The engine coolant temperature varies with the outside air temperature and driving conditions.


2-6 Instruments and controls


LIC1114
ENGINE OIL PRESSURE GAUGE (if so equipped) The gauge indicates the engine lubrication sys- tem oil pressure while the engine is running. When the engine speed is high, the engine oil pressure is also high. When the engine speed is low, the gauge indicates lower oil pressure.


Engine oil pressure also changes based on en- gine temperature. The oil pressure will be higher when the engine is cold and lower when the engine is warm.


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CAUTION


● This gauge is not designed to indicate low engine oil level. Use the dipstick to check the oil level. (See “Engine oil” in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.)


● If the gauge needle does not move with the proper amount of engine oil, have the vehicle checked by a NISSAN dealer. Continued vehicle operation in such a condition could cause serious damage to the engine.


Instruments and controls 2-7


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WARNING/INDICATOR LIGHTS AND AUDIBLE REMINDERS


or


or


Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light (if so equipped)


Brake warning light


Low windshield washer fluid warning light (if so equipped)


Cruise set switch indicator light (if so equipped)


NISSAN Intelligent Key™ warning light (if so equipped)


or


Front passenger air bag status light


Charge warning light


P position selecting warning light (CVT mod- els) (if so equipped)


High beam indicator light (Blue)


Door open warning light


Seat belt warning light and chime


Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)


Electric power steering warning light


Supplemental air bag warning light


Overdrive off indicator light (CVT models)


Engine oil pressure warning light


Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) po- sition indicator light (CVT models)


Security indicator light


Low fuel warning light (if so equipped)


Cruise main switch indicator light (if so equipped)


Turn signal/hazard indicator lights


Low tire pressure warning light


2-8 Instruments and controls


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CHECKING BULBS With all doors closed, apply the parking brake and place the ignition switch in the ON position without starting the engine. The following lights will come on:


or


If equipped, the following lights come on briefly and then go off:


or


If any light fails to come on, it may indicate an open circuit in the electrical system. Have the system repaired promptly. WARNING LIGHTS


or


Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light (if so equipped)


When the ignition switch is placed in the ON position, the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light illuminates and then turns off. This indicates the ABS is operational.


If the ABS warning light illuminates while the engine is running, or while driving, it may indicate the ABS is not functioning properly. Have the system checked by a NISSAN dealer. If an ABS malfunction occurs, the anti-lock func- tion is turned off. The brake system then operates normally, but without anti-lock assistance. See ⬙Brake system⬙ in the ⬙Starting and driving⬙ sec- tion.


or


Brake warning light


This light functions for both the parking brake and the foot brake systems.


Brake warning light


This light functions for both the parking brake and the foot brake systems. Parking brake indicator When the ignition switch is placed in the ON position, the light comes on when the parking brake is applied. Low brake fluid warning light When the ignition switch is placed in the ON position, the light warns of a low brake fluid level. If the light comes on while the engine is running with the parking brake not applied, stop the ve- hicle and perform the following:


1. Check the brake fluid level. Add brake fluid as necessary. See “Brake fluid” in the “Main- tenance and do-it-yourself” section of this manual.


2.


If the brake fluid level is correct, have the warning system checked by a NISSAN dealer.


WARNING


● Your brake system may not be working properly if the warning light is on. Driv- ing could be dangerous. If you judge it to be safe, drive carefully to the nearest service station for repairs. Otherwise, have your vehicle towed because driv- ing it could be dangerous.


● Pressing the brake pedal with the en- gine stopped and/or a low brake fluid level may increase your stopping dis- tance and braking will require greater pedal effort as well as pedal travel.


● If the brake fluid level


is below the MINIMUM or MIN mark on the brake fluid reservoir, do not drive until the brake system has been checked at a NISSAN dealer.


Instruments and controls 2-9


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Charge warning light


If this light comes on while the engine is running, it may indicate the charging system is not func- tioning properly. Turn the engine off and check the generator belt. If the belt is loose, broken, missing, or if the light remains on, see a NISSAN dealer immediately.


CAUTION


Do not continue driving if the generator belt is loose, broken or missing.


Door open warning light


This light comes on when any of the doors are not closed securely while the ignition switch is placed in the ON position.


Electric power steering warning light


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 harder to operate.


2-10 Instruments and controls


● When the power steering warning light illuminates with the engine running, there will be no power assist for the steering. You will still have control of the vehicle but the steering will be harder to operate. Have the power steering system checked by a NISSAN dealer.


When the ignition switch is placed in the ON position, the power steering warning light illumi- nates. After starting the engine, the power steer- ing warning light turns off. This indicates the power steering system is operational.


If the power steering warning light illuminates while the engine is running, it may indicate the power steering system is not functioning properly and may need servicing. Have the power steering system checked by a NISSAN dealer.


When the power steering warning light illumi- nates with the engine running, there will be no power assist for the steering but you will still have control of the vehicle. At this time, greater steer- ing effort is required to operate the steering wheel, especially in sharp turns and at low speeds.


See “Power steering” in the “Starting and driving” section.


Engine oil pressure warning light


This light warns of low engine oil pressure. If the light flickers or comes on during normal driving, pull off the road in a safe area, stop the engine immediately and call a NISSAN dealer or other authorized repair shop. The engine oil pressure warning light is not designed to indicate a low oil level. Use the dipstick to check the oil level. See “Engine oil” in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section of this manual.


CAUTION


Running the engine with the engine oil pressure warning light on could cause se- rious damage to the engine almost imme- diately. Such damage is not covered by warranty. Turn off the engine as soon as it is safe to do so.


Low fuel warning light


This light comes on when the fuel level in the fuel tank is getting low. Refuel as soon as it is conve- nient, preferably before the fuel gauge reaches E (Empty). There will be a small reserve of fuel in the tank when the fuel gauge reaches E (Empty), showing no more fuel bars.


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information, see “Tire Pressure For additional Monitoring System (TPMS)” in the “Starting and driving” section and in the “In case of emergency” section. TPMS malfunction:


If the TPMS is not functioning properly, the low tire pressure warning light will flash for approxi- mately 1 minute when the ignition switch is placed in the ON position. The light will remain on after the 1 minute. Have the system checked by a NISSAN dealer.


For additional information, see “Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)” in the “Starting and driving” section and “Tire pressure” in the “Main- tenance and do-it-yourself” section.


WARNING


● If the light does not illuminate with the ignition switch placed in the ON posi- tion, have the vehicle checked by a NISSAN dealer as soon as possible.


● If the light illuminates while driving, avoid sudden steering maneuvers or abrupt braking, reduce vehicle speed, pull off the road to a safe location and stop the vehicle as soon as possible. Driving with under-inflated tires may permanently damage the tires and in- crease the likelihood of tire failure. Se- rious vehicle damage could occur and may lead to an accident and could re- sult in serious personal injury. Check the tire pressure for all four tires. Adjust the tire pressure to the recommended COLD tire pressure shown on the Tire and Loading Information label located in the driver’s door opening to turn the low tire pressure warning light OFF. If the light still illuminates while driving after adjusting the tire pressure, a tire may be flat. If you have a flat tire, re- place it with a spare tire as soon as possible.


Low tire pressure warning light


Your vehicle is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that monitors the tire pressure of all tires except the spare.


The low tire pressure warning light warns of low tire pressure or indicates that the TPMS is not functioning properly. After the ignition switch is placed in the ON position, this light illuminates for about 1 second and turns off. Low tire pressure warning: If the vehicle is being driven with low tire pressure, the warning light will illuminate. When the low tire pressure warning light illuminates, you should stop and adjust the tire pressure of all 4 tires to the recom- mended COLD tire pressure shown on the Tire and Loading Information label located in the driver’s door opening. The low tire pressure warning light does not automati- cally turn off when the tire pressure is ad- justed. After the tire is inflated to the rec- ommended pressure, the vehicle must be driven at speeds above 16 MPH (25 km/h) to activate the TPMS and turn off the low tire pressure warning light. Use a tire pres- sure gauge to check the tire pressure.


Instruments and controls 2-11


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● When a spare tire is mounted or a wheel is replaced tire pressure will not be in- dicated, the TPMS will not function and the low tire pressure warning light will flash for approximately 1 minute. The light will remain on after 1 minute. Con- tact your NISSAN dealer as soon as possible for tire replacement and/or system resetting.


● Replacing tires with those not originally specified by NISSAN could affect the proper operation of the TPMS.


CAUTION


● The TPMS is not a substitute for the regular tire pressure check. Be sure to check the tire pressure regularly.


● If the vehicle is being driven at speeds of less than 16 MPH (25 km/h), the TPMS may not operate correctly.


● Be sure to install the specified size of


tires to the 4 wheels correctly.


Low windshield washer fluid warning light (if so equipped)


This light comes on when the windshield washer fluid is at a low level. Add windshield washer fluid


2-12 Instruments and controls


as necessary. See “Window washer fluid” in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section of this manual.


NISSAN Intelligent Key™ warning light (if so equipped)


The Intelligent Key warning light illuminates green when the ignition switch can be turned. The Intelligent Key warning light illuminates red when the ignition switch cannot be turned. The Intelligent Key warning light blinks red if the Intelligent Key is taken outside of the vehicle while the ignition switch is placed in the ACC or ON position. ● If the Intelligent Key warning light blinks, make sure of the location of the Intelligent Key as soon as possible. The Intelligent Key should be carried by the driver while operat- ing the vehicle.


● The Intelligent Key warning light turns off about 10 seconds after the Intelligent Key is brought inside the vehicle.


The Intelligent Key warning light blinks green indicating that the Intelligent Key battery is almost discharged. See “NISSAN Intelligent Key™ (if so equipped)” in the “Pre-driving checks and adjustments” sec- tion.


P position selecting warning light (CVT models) (if so equipped)


The light blinks red and the warning buzzer sounds if you are outside of the vehicle with the Intelligent Key and the engine is off, but the shift selector is not in the P (Park) position.


When the warning light blinks, place the ignition switch in the ON position, move the shift selector to the P position, then place the ignition switch in the LOCK position.


Seat belt warning light and chime


The light and chime remind you to fasten your seat belts. The light illuminates whenever the ignition switch is placed in the ON or START position and remains illuminated until the driver’s seat belt is fastened. At the same time, the chime sounds for about 6 seconds unless the driver’s seat belt is securely fastened. The seat belt warning light may also illuminate if the front passenger’s seat belt is not fastened when the front passenger’s seat is occupied . For 7 seconds after the ignition switch is placed in the ON position, the system does not activate the warning light for the front passenger.


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Refer to “Seat belts” in the “Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system” section for precautions on seat belt usage.


Supplemental air bag warning light


When the ignition switch is placed in the ON or START position, the supplemental air bag warn- ing light illuminates for about 7 seconds and then turns off. This means the system is operational.


If any of the following conditions occur, the front air bag, side air bag, curtain air bag, and preten- sioner systems need servicing and your vehicle must be taken to a NISSAN dealer: ● The supplemental air bag warning light re-


mains on after approximately 7 seconds.


● The supplemental air bag warning light


flashes intermittently.


● The supplemental air bag warning light does


not come on at all.


Unless checked and repaired, the supplemental restraint system (air bag system) and/or the pre- tensioners may not function properly. For addi- tional details see “Supplemental restraint sys- tem” in the “Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system” section of this manual.


WARNING


If the supplemental air bag warning light is on, it could mean that the front air bag, side air bag, curtain air bag systems and/or pretensioner systems will not op- erate in an accident. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have your vehicle checked by a NISSAN dealer as soon as possible.


INDICATOR LIGHTS


Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) position indicator light (CVT models)


When the ignition switch is placed in the ON position, this indicator light shows the shift selec- tor position. See “Driving the vehicle” in the “Starting and driving” section of this manual. Cruise main switch indicator light (if so equipped)


The light comes on when the cruise control main switch is pushed. The light goes out when the main switch is pushed again. When the cruise main switch indicator light comes on, the cruise control system is operational.


Cruise set switch indicator light (if so equipped)


The light comes on while the vehicle speed is controlled by the cruise control system. If the light blinks while the engine is running, it may indicate the cruise control system is not functioning prop- erly. Have the system checked by a NISSAN dealer.


or


Front passenger air bag status light


The front passenger air bag status light ( or ) will be lit and the passenger front air bag will be OFF depending on how the front passenger seat is being used.


For front passenger air bag status light operation, see “Front passenger air bag and status light” in the “Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system” section of this manual. High beam indicator light (blue)


This blue light comes on when the headlight high beams are on and goes out when the low beams are selected.


Instruments and controls 2-13


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The high beam indicator light also comes on when the passing signal is activated.


Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)


If this indicator light comes on steady or blinks while the engine is running, it may indicate a potential emission control malfunction.


The Malfunction Indicator Light may also come on steady if the fuel-filler cap is loose or missing, or if the vehicle runs out of fuel. Check to make sure the fuel-filler cap is installed and closed tightly, and that the vehicle has at least 3 gallons (11.4 liters) of fuel in the fuel tank.


light should After a few driving trips, the turn off if no other potential emission control system malfunction exists.


If this indicator light comes on steady for 20
seconds and then blinks for 10 seconds when the engine is not running, it indicates that the vehicle is not ready for an emission control sys- tem inspection/maintenance test. See “Readi- ness for inspection/maintenance (I/M) test” in the “Technical and consumer information” section of this manual.


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Operation


The Malfunction Indicator Light will come on in one of two ways: ● Malfunction Indicator Light on steady — An emission control system malfunction has been detected. Check the fuel-filler cap. If the fuel-filler cap is loose or missing, tighten or install the cap and continue to drive the light should turn off after vehicle. The a few driving trips. If the light does not turn off after a few driving trips, have the vehicle inspected by a NISSAN dealer. You do not need to have your vehicle towed to the dealer.


● Malfunction Indicator Light blinking — An engine misfire has been detected which may damage the emission control system. To re- duce or avoid emission control system dam- age:


– do not drive at speeds above 45 MPH


(72 km/h).


– avoid hard acceleration or deceleration.


– avoid steep uphill grades.


– if possible, reduce the amount of cargo


being hauled or towed.


The Malfunction Indicator Light may stop blinking and come on steady. Have the vehicle inspected by a NISSAN dealer. You do not need to have your vehicle towed to the dealer.


CAUTION


Continued vehicle operation without hav- ing the emission control system checked and repaired as necessary could lead to poor driveability, reduced fuel economy, and possible damage to the emission con- trol system.


Overdrive off indicator light (CVT models)


The overdrive off indicator light illuminates when the overdrive off mode is selected.


For additional information, see “Continuous Vari- able Transmission (CVT)” in the “Starting and driving” section of this manual.


Security indicator light


For vehicles without Intelligent Key: This light blinks whenever the ignition switch is placed in the LOCK, OFF or ACC position.


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Light reminder chime With the ignition switch placed in the OFF posi-

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