2000 Nissan Xterra Owners Manual

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and

apply the parking brake.

2. Start the engine and let it idle until

it

reaches operating temperature.

3. Turn off the engine. Wait a few minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan.

4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean.

Reinsert it all the way.

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ADI1061

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level.

5. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil It should be between the H (High) and L (Low) marks. If the oil level is below the L (Low) mark, remove the oil filler cap and pour recommended oil through the opening. Do not overfill.

6. Recheck oil level with dipstick. It is normal to add some oil between oil maintenance intervals or during the break-in period, depending on the sever- ity of operating conditions.

CAUTION

Oil level should be checked regularly. Operating the engine with an insuffi- cient amount of oil can damage the engine, and such damage is not cov- ered by warranty.

8-10 Do-it-yourself

CHANGING ENGINE OIL 1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and

apply the parking brake.

2. Start

the engine and let

it reaches operating temperature, and then turn it off.

idle until

3. Remove the oil filler cap. 4. Place a large drain pan under the drain

plug.

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WARNING

O Prolonged and repeated contact with used engine oil may cause skin can- cer.

O Try to avoid direct skin contact with used oil. If skin contact is made, wash thoroughly with soap or hand cleaner as soon as possible.

O Keep used engine oil out of reach of

children.

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CAUTION

5. Remove the drain plug with a wrench and

completely drain the oil. If the oil filter is to be changed, remove and replace it at this time. See ‘‘Chang- ing engine oil filter’’ later in this section.

Be careful not to burn yourself. The engine oil is hot.

Waste oil must be disposed of properly. Check your local regulations. 6. Clean and reinstall the drain plug and a new washer. Securely tighten the drain plug with a wrench. Do not use excessive force. Drain plug tightening torque:

22 to 29 ft-lb (29 to 39 Nzm)

7. Refill engine with a recommended oil through the oil filler opening then install the oil filler cap securely. See ‘‘Capacities and recommended fuel/lubricants’’ in the ‘‘Technical and consumer information’’ section for drain and refill capacity. The drain and refill capacity depends on the oil temperature and drain time. Use these specifications for reference only. Always use the dipstick to determine when the proper amount of oil is in the engine.

8. Start

the engine. Check for

leakage around the drain plug and oil filter. Cor- rect as required.

9. Turn the engine off and wait several level with the

minutes. Check the oil dipstick. Add engine oil if necessary.

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8. Screw in the oil filter until a slight resis- tance is felt, then tighten an additional 2/3 turn.

9. Start the engine and check for leakage around the oil filter. Correct as required. 10.Turn the engine off and wait several minutes. Check the oil level. Add engine oil if necessary.

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CHANGING ENGINE OIL FILTER 1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and

apply the parking brake.

CAUTION

Be careful not to burn yourself. The engine oil may be hot.

2. Turn the engine off. 3. Remove the splash shield.

O Remove the six push pins. O Remove the six bolts and the splash

shield.

4. Place a large drain pan under the oil filter. filter 5. Loosen the oil filter by

filter with an oil

wrench. Then remove the oil turning it by hand. 8-12 Do-it-yourself

6. Wipe the engine oil filter mounting sur-

face with a clean rag. Be sure to remove any old rubber gasket remaining on the mounting surface of the engine.

7. Coat the rubber gasket on the new filter

with engine oil.

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AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID (ATF)

WARNING

O When the engine is running, keep hands, jewelry and clothing away from any moving parts such as the cooling fan and drive belts.

O Automatic transmission fluid is poi- sonous and should be stored care- fully in marked containers out of the reach of children.

TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS FOR CHECKING ATF O The fluid level should be checked using the HOT range on the dipstick after the following conditions have been met:

— The engine should be warmed up to

operating temperature.

— The vehicle should be driven at least 5

minutes.

— The ATF should be warmed to between

122 and 176°F (50 and 80°C).

O The ATF can be checked at fluid tem- peratures of 86 to 122°F (30 to 50°C) using the COLD range on the dipstick

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after the engine is warmed up and before driving. However, the fluid should be re-checked using the HOT range.

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and

set the parking brake.

2. Start the engine and then move the se- lector lever through each gear range, ending in P (Park).

3. Check the fluid level with the engine

idling.

4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean

with lint-free paper.

5. Re-insert the dipstick into the charging

pipe as far as it will go.

6. Remove the dipstick and note the read- ing. If the level is on the low side of either range, add fluid through the charging pipe.

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POWER STEERING FLUID

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CAUTION

DO NOT OVERFILL. Use ONLY NIS- SAN Matic ‘D’ (Continental U.S. and Alaska) or Canada NISSAN Automatic Transmission Fluid. DexronTM III/ Mer- conTM or equivalent may also be used. Outside the continental United States and Alaska contact an autho- rized NISSAN dealership for more in- formation regarding suitable fluids, including recommended brand(s) of DexronTM automatic transmission fluid.

III/MerconTM

8-14 Do-it-yourself

NOTE: If the vehicle has been driven for a long time at high speeds, or in city traffic in hot weather, or if it is being used to pull a trailer, the fluid level cannot be read accurately. You should wait until the fluid has cooled down (about 30 minutes).

The fluid level should be checked using the HOT MAX range on the power steering fluid reservoir at fluid temperatures of 122 to 176°F (50 to 80°C) or using the COLD MAX range on the power steering fluid reservoir at fluid temperatures of 32 to 86°F (0 to 30°C).

CAUTION

O Do not overfill. O Recommended fluid is Genuine NIS-

SAN PSF II or equivalent.

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BRAKE AND CLUTCH FLUID

CAUTION

Do not spill the fluid on any painted surfaces. This will damage the paint. If fluid is spilled, immediately wash the surface with water.

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Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. If the fluid level is below the MIN line or the brake warning light comes on, add DOT 3
fluid up to the MAX line. Check the clutch fluid level in the reservoir (manual transmission only). If the fluid level is below the MIN line, add DOT 3 fluid up to the MAX line. If fluid must be added frequently, the system should be thoroughly checked by an autho- rized NISSAN dealer.

For further brake and clutch fluid specifica- tion information, refer to ‘‘Capacities and recommended fuel/lubricants’’ in the ‘‘Tech- nical and consumer information’’ section of this manual.

WARNING

Use only new fluid from a sealed con- tainer. Old, inferior or contaminated fluid may damage the brake and clutch systems. The use of improper fluids can affect the vehicle’s stopping ability.

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WINDOW WASHER FLUID

BATTERY

ADI1034

CAUTION

O Do not substitute engine anti-freeze coolant for windshield washer solu- tion. This may result in damage to the paint.

O Do not fill the window washer reser- voir tank with washer fluid concen- trates at full strength. Some methyl alcohol based washer fluid concen- trates may permanently stain the grille if spilled while filling the win- dow washer reservoir tank.

8-16 Do-it-yourself

O Pre-mix washer fluid concentrates with water to the manufacturer’s rec- ommended levels before pouring the fluid into the window washer reser- voir tank. Do not use the window washer reservoir tank to mix the washer fluid concentrate and water.

USA Only Check the window washer fluid level in the reservoir tank and add fluid if necessary. Add a washer solvent to the water for better cleaning. In the winter season, add a wind- shield washer anti-freeze. Follow the manu- facturer’s instructions for the mixture ratio. Canada Only Add fluid when the low washer fluid warning light comes on. Add windshield washer sol- vent to the water for better cleaning. In the winter season, add windshield washer anti- freeze.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the mixture ratio. O Keep the battery surface clean and dry. Any corrosion should be washed off with a solution of baking soda and water.

O Make certain the terminal connections

are clean and securely tightened.

O If the vehicle is not to be used for 30 days or longer, disconnect the negative (−) bat- tery terminal cable to prevent discharge.

WARNING

O Do not expose the battery to flames or electrical sparks. Hydrogen gas generated by the battery is explo- sive. Do not allow battery fluid to contact your skin, eyes, fabrics, or painted surfaces. After touching a battery or battery cap, do not touch or rub your eyes. Thoroughly wash your hands. If the acid contacts your eyes, skin or clothing, immediately flush with water for at least 15 min- utes and seek medical attention.

O When working on or near the battery, always wear suitable eye protection and remove all jewelry.

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O Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands after han- dling.

O Keep the battery out of the reach of

children.

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1. Gently pry between the battery cap and

cover as illustrated to remove the cap. Use a cloth to protect the battery case.

2. Check the fluid level in each cell.

If it is necessary to add fluid, add only distilled water to bring the level up to the level indicator in each filler opening. Do not overfill.

JUMP STARTING If jump starting is necessary, see ‘‘Jump starting’’ in the ‘‘In case of emergency’’ sec- tion. If the engine does not start by jump starting, the battery may have to be replaced. Contact an authorized NISSAN dealer.

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DRIVE BELTS

WARNING

Be sure the ignition key is OFF or LOCK position. The engine could rotate unex- pectedly.

1. Visually inspect each belt for signs of unusual wear, cuts, fraying or looseness. If the belt is in poor condition or loose, have it replaced or adjusted by an autho- rized NISSAN dealer.

2. Have the belts checked regularly for con- dition and tension in accordance with the maintenance schedule found in the ‘‘Maintenance’’ section of this manual.

8-18 Do-it-yourself

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SPARK PLUG REPLACEMENT

WARNING

Be sure the engine and ignition switch are off and that the parking brake is engaged securely.

CAUTION

Be sure to use the correct socket to remove the spark plugs. An incorrect socket can damage the spark plugs.

ADI1075

Platinum-tipped spark plugs It is not necessary to replace platinum- tipped spark plugs as frequently as conven- tional type spark plugs because they last much longer. Follow the maintenance schedule, but do not reuse the spark plugs by cleaning or regapping. O Always replace spark plugs with rec-

commended or equivalent ones.

1. Disconnect the spark plug cables.

ADI1076

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AIR CLEANER HOUSING FILTER

Spark plug tightening torque:

14 to 22 ft-lb (20 to 29 Nzm)

4. Reconnect the spark plug cables to their

original positions.

WDI0005

When disconnecting, always hold the boots — not the cables. Mark all cables to identify their original location. 2. Remove the spark plugs with a spark

plug socket.

3. Fit the new spark plugs, one at a time, into the spark plug socket and install them. Use only the specified spark plugs. Turn each plug several full turns by hand, then tighten with the spark plug socket to the correct torque. Do not over- tighten.

8-20 Do-it-yourself

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The filter element should not be cleaned and reused as it is given a special treat- ment. We recommend it be replaced ac- cording to the maintenance intervals shown in the ‘‘Maintenance’’ section of this manual. When replacing the filter, wipe the inside of the air cleaner housing and the cover with a damp cloth.

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O Never pour fuel into the throttle body or attempt to start the engine with the air cleaner removed. Doing so could result in serious injury.

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WARNING

O Operating the engine with the air cleaner removed can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine backfires. If it isn’t there and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Do not drive with the air cleaner removed, and be careful when working on the engine with the air cleaner removed.

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WIPER BLADES

CAUTION

O After wiper blade replacement, return the wiper arm to its original position; otherwise it may be damaged when the hood is opened.

O Make sure the wiper blades contact the glass; otherwise the arms may be damaged from wind pressure.

If your windshield is not clear after using the windshield washer or if a wiper blade chat- ters when running, wax or another material may be on the blade or windshield.

Clean the outside of the windshield with a washer solution or a mild detergent. Your windshield is clean if beads do not form when rinsing with clear water. Clean the blade by wiping it with a cloth soaked in a washer solution or a mild deter- gent. Then rinse the blade with clear water. If your windshield is still not clear after cleaning the blades and using the wiper, replace the blades. 1. Lift the wiper arm away from the wind-

shield.

8-22 Do-it-yourself

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2. Push the release tab,

then move the wiper blade down the wiper arm to re- move.

3. Remove the wiper blade. 4. Insert the new wiper blade onto the wiper

arm until it clicks into place.

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Rear wiper blade replacement 1. Lift the wiper arm away from the wind-

shield.

2. Push the tab, then slide the wiper blade

down the wiper arm to remove.

3. Insert a new wiper blade onto the wiper arm and press down until the blade clicks into place.

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PARKING BRAKE CHECK

BRAKE PEDAL

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DI0453

Pull the parking brake lever up. If the num- ber of clicks is out of the range listed above, see an authorized NISSAN dealer.

With the engine running, check distance A between the upper surface of the pedal and the metal floor. Distance A:

Manual Transmission

Automatic Transmission

Four Wheel ABS

4 in. (100mm)

4 1/4 in. (110mm)

If it is out of the range shown above, see an authorized NISSAN dealer.

MDI0005

If you wax the surface of the hood, be careful not to let wax get into the washer nozzle. This may cause clogging or im- proper windshield washer operation. If wax gets into the nozzle, remove it with a needle or small pin.

8-24 Do-it-yourself

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checked as soon as possible if the wear indicator sound is heard. Under some driving or climate conditions, occasional brake squeak, squeal or other noise may be heard. Occasional brake noise during light to moderate stops is nor- mal and does not affect the function or performance of the brake system. The rear drum brakes (if so equipped) do not have audible wear indicators. Should you ever hear an unusually loud noise from the rear drum brakes, have them inspected as soon as possible by an authorized NIS- SAN dealer. Proper brake inspection intervals should be followed. For more information regard- ing brake inspections, see the appropriate maintenance schedule information in the ‘‘Maintenance Schedule’’ section of this manual.

Self-adjusting brakes Your vehicle is equipped with self-adjusting brakes. The front disc-type brakes self-adjust every time the brake pedal is applied. The rear drum-type brakes on two-wheel drive trucks self-adjust every time the parking brake is applied. The rear drum-type brakes on four- wheel drive trucks self-adjust every time the brake pedal is applied. If the brake pedal goes down farther than normal, it may be due to a lack of adjustment of the rear drum brakes. Apply the parking brake several times.

WARNING

If the brake pedal height does not re- turn to normal, see an authorized NIS- SAN dealer and have it checked.

Brake pad wear indicators The disc brake pads on your vehicle have audible wear indicators. When a brake pad requires replacement, it will make a high pitched scraping or screeching sound when the vehicle is in motion whether or not the brake pedal is depressed. Have the brakes

BRAKE BOOSTER

Check the brake booster function with the following steps: 1. With the engine off, press and release times. When the brake pedal several brake pedal movement (distance of travel) remains the same from one pedal application to the next, continue on to next step.

2. While depressing the brake pedal, start the engine. The pedal height should drop a little.

3. With the brake pedal depressed, stop the engine. Keeping the pedal depressed for about 30 seconds, the pedal height should not change.

4. Run the engine for one minute without depressing the brake pedal, then turn it off. Depress the brake pedal several times. The pedal travel distance will de- crease gradually with each depression as the vacuum is released from the booster.

If the brakes do not operate properly, have the brakes checked by an authorized NISSAN dealer.

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CLUTCH PEDAL

ADI0528

Press the pedal by hand and be sure the free travel is within the above limit. If free travel is out of the range shown above, see an authorized NISSAN dealer.

8-26 Do-it-yourself

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FUSES

3. Remove the fuse with the fuse puller. 4. If the fuse is open, replace it with a new

fuse.

5. If a new fuse opens again, have the electrical system checked and repaired by an authorized NISSAN dealer.

Passenger compartment

CAUTION

Never use a fuse of a higher amperage rating than specified on the fuse box cover. This could damage the electrical system or cause a fire.

If the electrical equipment does not operate, check for an open fuse. 1. Be sure the ignition key and the headlight

switch are OFF.

2. Remove the fuse box cover.

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MULTI-REMOTE CONTROLLER BATTERY REPLACEMENT

Replace the battery in the multi-remote con- troller as follows: 1. Open the lid using a coin. 2. Replace the battery with a new one. Recommended battery: Sanyo CR2025
or equivalent.

3. Close the lid securely.

4. Press the

button, then the

button two or three times to check the multi- remote controller operation.

8-28 Do-it-yourself

If the battery is removed for any reason other than replacement, perform step 4
above. O An improperly disposed battery can hurt the environment. Always confirm local regulations for battery disposal. O The multi-remote controller is water- resistant; however, if it does get wet, immediately wipe completely dry.

O The operational range of the multi- remote controller extends to approxi- mately 33 ft (10 m) from the vehicle. This range may vary with conditions.

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LIGHT BULBS

HEADLIGHTS

FCC Notice: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer for com- pliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules and RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference re- ceived including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

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The headlight is a semi-sealed beam type which uses a replaceable headlight (halo- gen) bulb.

CAUTION

O High pressure halogen gas is sealed inside the halogen bulb. The bulb may break if the glass envelope is scratched or the bulb is dropped.

O When handling the bulb, do not

touch the glass envelope.

Replacing the headlight bulb 1. Open the engine hood. 2. Disconnect

the negative (2) battery

cable.

3. Disconnect the electrical connector from

the rear end of the bulb.

4. Push down the spring retainer. 5. Remove the headlight bulb. Do not shake

or rotate the bulb when removing it.

6. Install the new bulb in the reverse order

of removal.

O Be sure the lip of the bulb socket

contacts the headlight body.

DO NOT TOUCH THE BULB.

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O Use the same number and wattage

CAUTION

as originally installed: Wattage 65/45
Bulb No. HB1/9004*

*: Always check with the Parts Depart- ment at an authorized NISSAN dealer for the latest parts information.

O Aiming is not necessary after replac-

ing the bulb.

O Do not leave the bulb out of the headlight reflector for a long period of time as dust, moisture, and smoke may enter the headlight body and affect the performance of the head- light.

O When aiming adjustment

is neces- sary, contact an authorized NISSAN dealer.

8-30 Do-it-yourself

BULB REPLACEMENT

Item

Wattage (W)

Bulb No.*

Front combination light:

Turn signal light

Parking light

Rear combination light:

Turn signal

Stop/Tail

Back-up

License plate light

Fog light

Dome light

Map light

High-mounted stop light

27

3.8

27

27/7

16

3.8

35

10

12.8

1156NA

194

3157NAk

3057k

921

168

H3

68

578

912

*: Always check with the Parts Department at an authorized NISSAN dealer for the latest parts information.

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ADI1131

Replacing procedures All other lights are either type A, B, C or D. When replacing a bulb, first remove the lens and/or cover.

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8-32 Do-it-yourself

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FRONT FOG LIGHT BULB RE- PLACEMENT (if so equipped)

CAUTION

O High pressure halogen gas is sealed inside the halogen bulb. The bulb may break if the glass envelope is scratched or the bulb is dropped.

O When handling the bulb, do not

touch the glass envelope.

1. Unclip the two metal clips on the side of

the fog lamp.

2. Pull out and support the fog lamp assem-

bly.

3. Disconnect the fog lamp bulb connector. 4. Lift the spring retainer. 5. Remove the fog lamp bulb. O The fog lamp bulb can not be separated from the wire and is serviced as an assembly.

6. Install the new bulb in the reverse order of removal. DO NOT TOUCH THE BULB.

ADI1110

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WHEELS AND TIRES

DI0047

If you have a flat tire, see the ‘‘In case of emergency’’ section of this manual. Maximum inflation pressure Do not exceed the maximum inflation pres- sures shown on the side wall of the tire. Tire inflation pressure Periodically check the tire pressure (includ- ing the spare). Tire pressure should be checked when tires are COLD. COLD tire pressures are shown on the tire placard affixed to the inside of the glove box lid. Incorrect tire pressure may adversely 8-34 Do-it-yourself

affect tire life and vehicle handling. COLD pressure:

After vehicle has been parked for three hours or more or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km).

O Do not drive your vehicle over 85
MPH (137 km/h) unless it is equipped with high speed rated tires. Driving faster than 85 MPH (137 km/h) may result in tire failure, loss of control and possible injury.

WARNING

O Improperly inflated tires can fail sud-

denly and cause an accident

O The vehicle weight capacity is indi- cated on the F.M.V.S.S. certification label. Do not load your vehicle be- yond this capacity. Overloading your vehicle may result in reduced tire life, unsafe operating conditions due to premature tire failure, or unfavorable handling characteristics and could also lead to a serious accident. Load- ing beyond the specified capacity may also result in failure of other vehicle components.

O Before taking a long trip, or when- ever you have loaded your vehicle heavily, use a tire pressure gauge to ensure that the tire pressure is at the specified level.

Types of tires

WARNING

When changing or replacing tires, be sure all four tires are of the same type (i.e., Summer, All Season or Snow) and construction. An authorized NISSAN dealer may be able to help you with information about tire type, size, speed rating and availability. Replacement tires may have a lower speed rating than the factory equipped tires, and may not match the potential maximum vehicle speed. Never exceed the maxi- mum speed rating of the tire.

All season tires NISSAN specifies All Season tires on some models to provide good performance for use all year around, including snowy and icy road conditions. All Season Tires are iden-

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tified by ‘‘ALL SEASON’’ and/or ‘‘M&S’’ on the tire sidewall. Snow tires have better snow traction than All Season tires and may be more appropriate in some areas. Summer tires NISSAN specifies summer tires on some models to provide superior performance on dry roads. Summer tire performance in snow and ice will be substantially reduced. Summer tires do not have the tire traction rating ‘‘M&S’’ on the tire sidewall. If you plan to operate your vehicle in snowy or icy conditions, NISSAN recommends the use of ‘‘SNOW’’ or ‘‘ALL SEASON’’ tires on all four wheels. Snow tires If snow tires are needed, it is necessary to select tires equivalent in size and load rating to the original equipment tires. If you do not, it can adversely affect the safety and han- dling of your vehicle. If you install snow tires, they must be the same size, brand, construction and tread pattern on all four wheels. Generally, snow tires will have lower speed ratings than factory equipped tires and may

not match the potential maximum vehicle speed. Never exceed the maximum speed rating of the tire. For additional traction on icy roads, studded tires may be used. However, some U.S. States and Canadian provinces prohibit their use. Check local, state and provincial laws before installing studded tires. Skid and traction capabilities of studded snow tires on wet or dry surfaces may be poorer than that of non-studded snow tires. Tire chains Use of tire chains may be prohibited accord- ing to location. Check the local laws before installing tire chains. When installing tire chains, make sure they are the proper size for the tires on your vehicle and are installed according to the chain manufacturer’s sug- gestions. Use only SAE class ‘‘S’’ chains. Other types may damage your vehicle. Use chain tensioners when recommended by the tire chain manufacturer to ensure a tight fit. Loose end links of the tire chain must be secured or removed to prevent the possibil- ity of whipping action damage to the fenders or undercarriage. If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle when using tire chains. In addition, drive at a reduced speed. Oth-

erwise, your vehicle may be damaged and/or vehicle handling and performance may be adversely affected. Never install tire chains on a TEMPORARY USE ONLY spare tire. Tire chains must be installed only on the rear wheels and not on the front wheels. Do not use tire chains on dry roads. Driving with chains in such conditions can cause damage to the various mechanisms of the vehicle due to some overstress. When driv- ing on clear paved roads, be sure to change to 2WD.

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WARNING

O After rotating the tires, check and

adjust the tire pressure.

O Retighten the wheel nuts when the vehicle has been driven for 600 miles (1,000 km) (also in cases of a flat tire, etc.).

O Do not include the spare tire in the

tire rotation.

ADI1115

Tire rotation NISSAN recommends rotating the tires ev- ery 7,500 miles (12,000 km). See ‘‘Flat tire’’ in the ‘‘In case of emergency’’ section for tire replacing procedures.

Wheel nut tightening torque:

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

8-36 Do-it-yourself

MDI0004

Tire wear and damage

WARNING

O Tires should be periodically in- spected for wear, cracking, bulging or objects caught in the tread. If excessive wear, cracks, bulging or deep cuts are found, the tire(s) should be replaced.

O The original

tires have a built-in tread wear indicator. When the wear indicators are visible, the tire(s) should be replaced.

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O Improper service of the spare tire may result in serious personal in- jury. If it is necessary to repair the spare tire, contact an authorized NISSAN dealer.

Changing tires and wheels When replacing a tire, use the same size, tread design, speed rating and load carrying capacity as originally equipped. Recom- mended types and sizes are shown in ‘‘Wheel/tire size’’ in the ‘‘Technical and con- sumer information’’ section of this manual.

WARNING

O The use of tires other than those recommended or the mixed use of tires of different brands, construction (bias, bias-belted or radial), or tread patterns can adversely affect the ride, braking, handling, ground clearance, body-to-tire clearance, tire chain clearance, speedometer calibration, headlight aim and bumper height. Some of these effects may lead to accidents and could result in serious personal injury.

O If the wheels are changed for any reason, always replace with wheels which have the same offset dimen- sion. Wheels of a different offset could cause pre-mature tire wear, de- grade vehicle handling characteris- tics and/or interference with the brake discs/drums. Such interference can lead to decreased braking effi- ciency and/or early brake pad/shoe wear. Refer to “Wheel/tire size” in the “Technical and consumer informa- tion” section of this manual for wheel off-set dimensions.

O Do not install a deformed wheel or tire even if it has been repaired. Such wheels or tires could have unknown structural damage and could fail without warning.

O The use of retread tires is not recom-

mended.

FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE MODELS

CAUTION

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

If excessive tire wear is found, it is recom- mended that all four tires be replaced with tires of the same size, brand, construction and tread pattern. The tire pressure and wheel alignment should also be checked and corrected as necessary. Contact an authorized NISSAN dealer. Wheel balance Unbalanced wheels may affect vehicle han- dling and tire life. Even with regular use, wheels can get out of balance. Therefore, they should be balanced as required. Wheel balance service should be performed 8-37

Do-it-yourself

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with the wheels off the vehicle. Spin balanc- ing the front wheels on the vehicle could lead to transmission damage. Care of wheels O Wash the wheels when washing the ve-

hicle to maintain their appearance.

O Clean the inner side of the wheels when the wheel is changed or the underside of the vehicle is washed.

O Do not use abrasive cleaners when

washing the wheels.

O Inspect wheel rims regularly for dents or corrosion. This may cause loss of pres- sure or damage the tire bead.

O NISSAN recommends waxing the road in

wheels to protect against road salt areas where it is used during winter.

Spare tire Your vehicle may be equipped with a TEM- PORARY USE ONLY spare tire. To avoid property damage or personal injury when using the TEMPORARY USE ONLY spare tire, observe the following cautions:

8-38 Do-it-yourself

WARNING

O The spare tire should be used for emergency use only. It should be replaced with the standard tire at the first opportunity to avoid possible tire or differential damage.

O Drive carefully while the TEMPO- RARY USE ONLY spare tire is in- stalled. Avoid sharp turns and abrupt braking while driving.

O Periodically check spare tire infla- tion pressure. Always keep the pres- sure of the TEMPORARY USE ONLY spare tire at 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 bar). Always keep the pressure of the full size spare tire (if so equipped) at the recommended pressure for standard tires, as indicated on the tire placard. For tire placard location, see “Tire placard” in the index of this manual. O With the TEMPORARY USE ONLY spare tire installed do not drive the vehicle at speeds faster than 50 MPH (80 km/h).

O When driving on roads covered with snow or ice, the TEMPORARY USE ONLY spare tire should be used on the front axle and the original tire used on the rear axle (drive wheels). Use tire chains only on the two rear original tires.

O Tire tread of the TEMPORARY USE ONLY spare tire will wear at a faster rate than the standard tire. Replace the spare tire as soon as the tread wear indicators appear.

O Do not use the spare tire on other

vehicles.

O Do not use more than one spare tire

at the same time.

O Do not tow a trailer when the TEM- PORARY USE ONLY spare tire is installed.

CAUTION

With the spare tire installed the transfer control lever must be in the 2H position to prevent the transfer case and differential gears from be- ing damaged.

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O Do not use tire chains on a TEMPO- RARY USE ONLY spare tire. Tire chains will not fit properly and may cause damage to the vehicle.

O Because the TEMPORARY USE ONLY spare tire is smaller than the original tire, ground clearance is reduced. To avoid damage to the vehicle, do not drive over obstacles. Also, do not drive the vehicle through an automatic car wash since it might get caught.

Do-it-yourself

8-39

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MEMO

8-40 Do-it-yourself

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9 Maintenance

General maintenance.............................................9-2
Outside the vehicle ................................................9-2
Inside the vehicle ...................................................9-3
Under the hood and vehicle...................................9-4

Periodic maintenance schedules ...........................9-5
Schedule one .........................................................9-5
Schedule two..........................................................9-5
Explanation of maintenance items.......................9-10

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Your new NISSAN has been designed to have minimum maintenance requirements with longer service intervals to save you both time and money. However, some day- to-day and regular maintenance is essential to maintain your NISSAN’s good mechani- cal condition, as well as its emission and engine performance. It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure that the specified maintenance, as well as general maintenance, is performed. As the vehicle owner, you are the only one who can ensure that your vehicle receives proper maintenance. You are a vital link in the maintenance chain. General maintenance General maintenance includes those items which should be checked during normal day-to-day operation of the vehicle. They are essential if your vehicle is to continue to operate properly. It is your responsibility to perform these maintenance procedures regularly as prescribed. These checks or inspections can be done by yourself, a qualified technician or, if you prefer, an authorized NISSAN dealer. 9-2 Maintenance

Periodic maintenance The maintenance items listed under peri- odic maintenance in this section are re- quired to be serviced at regular intervals. However, under severe driving conditions, additional or more frequent maintenance will be required. Where to go for service If maintenance service is required or your vehicle appears to malfunction, have the systems checked and tuned by an autho- rized NISSAN dealer. NISSAN technicians are well-trained spe- cialists who and are kept up to date with the latest service information through technical bulletins, service tips, and in-dealership training programs. They are completely qualified to work on NISSAN vehicles before they work on your vehicle, rather than after they have worked on it. You can be confident that an authorized NISSAN dealer’s service department per- forms the best job to meet the maintenance requirements on your vehicle — in a reliable and economic way.

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

During the normal day-to-day operation of the vehicle, general maintenance should be performed regularly as prescribed in this section. If you detect any unusual sounds, vibrations or smells, be sure to check for the cause or have an authorized NISSAN dealer do it promptly. In addition, you should notify an authorized NISSAN dealer if you think that repairs are required. When performing any checks or mainte- nance work, closely observe the precau- tions in the ‘‘Do-it-yourself’’ section of this manual. OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE The maintenance items listed here should be performed from time to time, unless otherwise specified. Additional information on the following items with ‘‘*’’ is found in the ‘‘Do-it- yourself’’ section of this manual. Tires* Check the pressure with a gauge periodically when at a service station, in- cluding the spare, and adjust to the speci- fied pressure if necessary. Check carefully for damage, cuts or excessive wear. Wheel nuts* When checking the tires, make

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sure no wheel nuts are missing, and check for any loose wheel nuts. Tighten if necessary. Tire rotation* Tires should be rotated every 7,500 miles (12,000 km). Wheel alignment and balance If the ve- hicle should pull to either side while driving on a straight and level road, or if you detect uneven or abnormal tire wear, there may be a need for wheel alignment. If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at normal highway speeds, wheel balancing may be needed. Windshield wiper blades* Check for cracks or wear if they do not wipe properly. Doors and hood Check that all doors and the hood operate properly. Also ensure that all latches lock securely. Lubricate hinges, latches, rollers and links if necessary. Make sure that the secondary latch keeps the hood from opening when the primary latch is released. When driving in areas using road salt or other corrosive materials, check lubrication frequently. Lights* Make sure that the headlights, stop lights, tail lights, turn signal lights, and other

lights are all operating properly and installed securely. Also check headlight aim. INSIDE THE VEHICLE The maintenance items listed here should be checked on a regular basis, such as when performing periodic maintenance, cleaning the vehicle, etc. Additional information on the following items with an ‘‘*’’ is found in the ‘‘Do-it- yourself’’ section of this manual. Warning lights and chimes Make sure all warning lights and chimes are operating properly. Windshield wiper and washer* Check that the wipers and washer operate properly and that the wipers do not streak. Windshield defroster Check that the air comes out of the defroster outlets properly and in sufficient quantity when operating the heater or air conditioner. Steering wheel Check for changes in the steering conditions, such as excessive free- play, hard steering or strange noises. Seats Check seat position controls such as seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to

ensure they operate smoothly and all latches lock securely in every position. Check that the head restraints move up and down smoothly and the locks (if so equipped) hold securely in all latched posi- tions. Seat belts Check that all parts of the seat belt system (e.g., buckles, anchors, adjust- ers and retractors) operate properly and smoothly, and are installed securely. Check the belt webbing for cuts, fraying, wear or damage. Accelerator pedal Check the pedal for smooth operation and make sure the pedal does not catch or require uneven effort. Keep the floor mat away from the pedal. Clutch pedal* Make sure the pedal oper- ates smoothly and check that it has the proper free travel. Brakes Check that the brakes do not pull the vehicle to one side when applied. Brake pedal and booster* Check the pedal for smooth operation and make sure it has the proper distance under it when de- pressed fully. Check the brake booster func- tion. Be certain to keep the floor mat away from the pedal.

Maintenance 9-3

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Parking brake* Check that the lever has the proper travel and confirm that your vehicle is held securely on a fairly steep hill with only the parking brake applied. Automatic transmission Park position mechanism Check that the lock release button on the selector lever operates prop- erly and smoothly. On a fairly steep hill check that your vehicle is held securely with the selector lever in the P position without applying any brakes. UNDER THE HOOD AND VEHICLE The maintenance items listed here should be checked periodically (e.g., each time you check the engine oil or refuel). Additional information on the following items with an ‘‘*’’ is found in the ‘‘Do-it- yourself operations’’ section. Windshield washer fluid* Check that there is adequate fluid in the reservoir. Engine coolant level* Check the coolant level when the engine is cold. Radiator and hoses Check the front of the radiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves, etc., that may have accumulated. 9-4 Maintenance

Make sure the hoses have no cracks, de- formation, rot or loose connections. Brake and clutch fluid levels* Make sure that the brake and clutch fluid level is be- tween the MIN and MAX lines on the reser- voir. Battery* Check the fluid level in each cell. It should be between the MAX and MIN lines. Engine drive belts* Make sure the drive belts are not frayed, worn, cracked or oily. Engine oil level* Check the level after parking the vehicle on a level surface with the engine off. Wait a few minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan. Power steering fluid level* and lines Check the level when the fluid is cold, with the engine off. Check the lines for proper attachment, leaks, cracks, etc. Automatic transmission fluid level* Check the level after putting the selector lever in P with the engine idling at operating temperature. Exhaust system Make sure there are no loose supports, cracks or holes. If the sound of the exhaust seems unusual or there is a smell of exhaust fumes, immediately have

the exhaust system inspected by an autho- rized NISSAN dealer. See the carbon mon- oxide warning in the ‘‘Starting and driving’’ section of this manual. Underbody The underbody is frequently exposed to corrosive substances such as those used on icy roads or to control dust. It is very important to remove these sub- stances from the underbody, otherwise rust may form on the floor pan, frame, fuel lines and exhaust system. At the end of winter, the underbody should be thoroughly flushed with plain water, in those areas where mud and dirt may have accumulated. See the ‘‘Appearance and care’’ section of this manual. Fluid leaks Check under the vehicle for fuel, oil, water or other fluid leaks after the vehicle has been parked for a while. Water dripping from the air conditioner after use is normal. If you should notice any leaks or if gasoline fumes are evident, check for the cause and have it corrected immediately.

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during stop-and-go ‘‘rush hour’’ traf- fic.

O Extensive idling and/or low speed driving for long distances, such as police, taxi or door-to-door delivery use.

O Driving in dusty conditions. O Driving on rough, muddy, or salt

spread roads.

O Towing a trailer, using a camper or a

car-top carrier.

SCHEDULE TWO Follow Periodic Maintenance Schedule two if none of the driving conditions shown in Schedule one apply to your driving habits.

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

To ensure smooth, trouble-free, safe and economical driving, NISSAN provides two periodic maintenance schedules that may be used, depending upon the conditions in which you usually drive. These schedules contain both distance and time intervals, up to 60,000 miles (96,000 km)/48 months. For most people, the odometer reading will in- dicate when service is needed. However, if you drive very little, your vehicle should be serviced at the regular time intervals shown in the schedule. After km)/48
months, continue periodic maintenance at the same mileage/time intervals. SCHEDULE ONE Follow Periodic Maintenance Schedule one if your driving habits frequently include one or more of the following driving conditions: O Repeated short trips of less than 5

60,000 miles

(96,000

miles (8 km).

O Repeated short trips of less than 10
miles (16 km) with outside tempera- tures below freezing.

O Operating the vehicle in hot weather

only)

Maintenance for off-road driving Whenever you drive off-road through sand, mud or water as deep as the wheel hub, more frequent maintenance may be re- quired of the following items: ¶ Brake pads and rotors ¶ Brake linings and drums ¶ Brake lines and hoses ¶ Wheel bearing grease and free-running

hub grease

¶ Differential, transmission and transfer oil ¶ Steering linkage ¶ Propeller shafts and front drive shafts ¶ Air cleaner filter These items should be checked frequently to assure safe and proper operation of your vehicle.

Maintenance 9-5

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Schedule One Abbreviations: R = Replace MAINTENANCE OPERATION

I = Inspect. Correct or replace if necessary.

]: At the mileage intervals only

MAINTENANCE INTERVAL

Perform at number of miles, kilometers or months, whichever comes first.

Miles × 1,000 3.75 7.5 11.25 15 18.75 22.526.25 30 33.75 37.541.25 45 48.75 52.556.25 60
(km × 1,000) (96) 48
Months

(24) 12

(30) 15

(36) 18

(42) 21

(54) 27

(60) 30

(84) 42

(48) 24

(72) 36

(78) 39

(66) 33

(90) 45

(6)

(12)

(18)

See NOTE (2)

See NOTE (1)

Emission control system maintenance Drive belts Air cleaner filter Positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) filter (KA24DE only) EVAP vapor lines Fuel lines Fuel filter Engine coolant Engine oil Engine oil filter Spark plugs (Use PLATINUM-TIPPED type) Intake and exhaust valve clearance (KA24DE only) See NOTE (4) Timing belt (VG33E only)

See NOTE (2)* See NOTE (3)

I* [R]

[R]

I* I*

I* [R]

[R]

I* I*

R*

Replace every 105,000 miles (168,000 km)

Replace every 105,000 miles (168,000 km)

NOTE: (1) If operating mainly in dusty conditions, more frequent maintenance may be required.

(2) If vehicle is operated under extremely adverse weather conditions or in areas where ambient temperatures are either extremely low or

extremely high, the filters might become clogged. In such an event, replace them immediately.

(3) After 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months, replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months. (4) If valve noise increases, inspect valve clearance. * Maintenance items and intervals with an ‘‘*’’ are recommended by NISSAN for reliable vehicle operation. The owner need not perform such maintenance in order to maintain the emission warranty or manufacturer recall liability. Other maintenance items and intervals are required.

9-6 Maintenance

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Schedule One Abbreviations: R = Replace

MAINTENANCE OPERATION

Perform at number of miles, kilometers or months, whichever comes first.

Chassis and body maintenance

Brake lines & cables

Brake pads, rotors, drums & linings

Automatic transmission, transfer & differen- tial gear oil (exc. LSD)

Limited-slip differential (LSD) gear oil

Manual transmission oil

See NOTE (1)

See NOTE (1)

See NOTE (1)

Steering gear (box) & linkage, axle & suspension parts

Tire rotation

See NOTE (4)

Drive shaft boots & propeller shaft (

Front wheel bearing grease (4x2)

Front wheel bearing grease & free-running hub grease (

See NOTE (2)

Exhaust system

Supplemental air bag system

See NOTE (3)

I = Inspect. Correct or replace if necessary.

]: At the mileage intervals only

Miles × 1,000

3.75

7.5 11.25

15 18.75 22.5 26.25

30 33.75 37.5 41.25

45 48.75 52.5 56.25

60

(km × 1,000)

Months

(6)

(12)

(18)

(24)

(30)

(36)

(42)

(48)

(54)

(60)

(66)

(72)

(78)

(84)

(90)

(96)

12

15

18

21

24

27

30

33

36

39

42

45

48

MAINTENANCE INTERVAL

[R]

NOTE: (1) If towing a trailer, using a camper or a car-top carrier, or driving on rough or muddy roads, change (not just inspect) oil at every 30,000

miles (48,000 km) or 24 months except for LSD. Change LSD gear oil every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

(2) If operating frequently in water, replace grease every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months. (3) Inspect the supplemental air bag system 10 years after the date of manufacture noted on the FMVSS certification label. (4) Refer to ‘‘Tire rotation’’ under the ‘‘General maintenance’’ heading earlier in this section.

Maintenance 9-7

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Schedule Two Abbreviations: R = Replace

MAINTENANCE OPERATION

I = Inspect. Correct or replace if necessary.

]: At the mileage intervals only

MAINTENANCE INTERVAL

Perform at number of miles, kilometers or months, whichever comes first.

Miles × 1,000
(km × 1,000) Months

7.5
(12)

15
(24) 12

22.5
(36) 18

30
(48) 24

37.5
(60) 30

45
(72) 36

52.5
(84) 42

60
(96) 48

I* [R]

See NOTE (1)

Emission control system maintenance Drive belts Air cleaner filter Positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) filter (KA24DE only) EVAP vapor lines Fuel lines Fuel filter Engine coolant Engine oil Engine oil filter Spark plugs (Use PLATINUM-TIPPED type) Intake and exhaust valve clearance (KA24DE only) See NOTE (3) Timing belt (VG33E only) NOTE: (1) If vehicle is operated under extremely adverse weather conditions or in areas where ambient temperatures are either extremely low

Replace every 105,000 miles (168,000 km)

Replace every 105,000 miles (168,000 km)

See NOTE (1)* See NOTE (2)

R*