1996 NISSAN ALTIMA check engine

Welcome To The World Of NISSAN
Your new Nissan is the result of our dedication to
produce the finest in safe, reliable and economi-
cal transportation. Your vehicle is the product of
a successful worldwide company that manufac-
tures cars and trucks in over 20 countries and
distributes them in 150 nations.
Nissan vehicles are designed and manufactured
by Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. which was founded in
Tokyo, Japan in 1933, and Nissan affiliates world
wide, collectively growing to become the fourth
largest automaker in the world. In addition to cars
and trucks, Nissan also makes textile machinery,
forklift trucks, marine engines, boats and other
products.
Nissan has made a substantial and growing
investment in North America, starting with the
opening of Nissan Motor Corporation in U.S.A. in
1960, continuing with the production of some
cars and trucks at one of the world's mostmodern manufacturing facilities in Smyrna, Ten-
nessee, vehicle styling at Nissan Design Interna-
tional in San Diego, California, and engineering
at Nissan Research and Development in Farm-
ington Hills, Michigan.
Nissan Motor Corporation in U.S.A. and its deal-
ers employ about 50,000 Americans.
Nissan is also a substantial contributor to the
Canadian economy. Nissan Canada Inc. and its
200 dealers and suppliers employ approximately
4,000 people. These include company employ-
ees and the staffs of Nissan dealers all across
Canada. In addition, many Canadians work for
companies that supply Nissan and Nissan deal-
ers with materials and services ranging from the
operation of port facilities and transportation ser-
vices, to the supply of lubricants, parts and
accessories.Nissan pioneered the use of electronics and
computers in automobiles, and has led the indus-
try in improving both performance and fuel effi-
ciency through new engine designs and the use
of synthetic materials to reduce vehicle weight.
The company has also developed ways to build
quality into its vehicles at each stage of the
production process, both through extensive use
of automation and Ð most importantly Ð
through an awareness thatpeopleare the cen-
tral element in quality control.
From the time the parts arrived from our suppli-
ers until you took delivery of your new Nissan,
dozens of checks were made to ensure that only
the best job was being done in producing and
delivering your vehicle. Nissan also takes great
care to ensure that when you take your Nissan to
your dealer for maintenance, the service techni-
cian will perform his work according to the quality
standards that have been established by the
factory.
Safety has also been built into your Nissan. As
you know, seat belts are an integral part of the
safety systems that will help protect you and your
passengers in the event of a sudden stop or an
accident. We urge you to use the belts every time
you drive the vehicle.
The Nissan story of growth and achievement
reflects our major goal: to provide you, our
customer, with a vehicle that is built with quality
and craftsmanship Ð a product that we can be
proud to build and you can be proud to own.
AFW0001
The inside pages of this manual contain
a minimum of 50% recycled fibers,
including 10% post-consumer fibers.
ZX

Checking bulbs
Apply the parking brake and turn the ignition
key to ``ON'' without starting the engine. The
following lights will come on:
,or,,,
The following lights come on briefly and
then go off:
or,,
If any light fails to come on, it may indicate
a burned-out bulb or an open circuit in theelectrical system. Have the system repaired
promptly.
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 engineimmediatelyand call a NISSAN
dealer or other authorized repair shop.Run-
ning the engine with the oil pressure
warning light on could cause serious
damage to the engine.The 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 ``Do-it-yourself opera-
tions'' section.Charge warning light
If this light comes on while the engine is
running, it may indicate that there is some-
thing wrong with the charging system. Turn
the engine off and check the generator belt.
If the belt is loose, broken, missing or if the
light remains on, see your NISSAN dealer
immediately.
orBrake warning lightSeat belt warning lightEngine oil pressure warning light
Turn signal/hazard indicator lightsLow washer fluid warning light
(Canada only)CRUISE indicator light
High beam indicator lightorAnti-lock brake warning lightAir bag warning light
Charge warning lightOverdrive off indicator lightRear window defogger indicator light
Door open warning lightMalfunction indicator light (emission
system)Theft warning light (If so equipped)
WARNING/INDICATOR
LIGHTS AND CHIMES
1-5
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CAUTION
Do not continue driving if the 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
key is ``ON''.
Seat belt warning light and
chime
This light and chime remind you to fasten
seat belts. The light illuminates whenever
the ignition key is turned to ``ON'', and will
remain illuminated until the driver's seat belt
is fastened. At the same time, the chime will
sound for about seven seconds unless the
driver's seat belt is securely fastened.
Refer to ``Seat belts'' in the ``Pre-driving
checks and adjustments'' section for pre-
cautions on seat belt usage.
Air bag warning light
When the ignition key is in the ``ON'' or
``START'' position, the air bag light will
illuminate for about 7 seconds and then turnoff. This means the Air Bag Supplemental
Restraint System is operational.
If any of the following conditions occur, the air
bag system needs servicing and your vehicle
should be taken to your nearest authorized
NISSAN dealer as soon as practical.
1. The air bag light does not come on for 7
seconds and then go off as described
above.
2. The air bag light flashes intermittently or
remains on.
3. The air bag light does not come on at all.
Unless checked and repaired, the Supple-
mental Restraint System may not function
properly. For additional details, see ``Supple-
mental Restraint System'' in the ``Pre-driving
checks and adjustments'' section.
Low washer fluid warning
light (Canada only)
This light comes on when the washer tank
fluid is at a low level. Add washer fluid as
necessary. See the ``Do-it-yourself opera-
tions'' section.
orBrake warning light
This light functions for both the parking
brake and the foot brake systems.
Parking brake indicator:
The light comes on when the parking brake
is applied.
Low brake fluid warning:
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 vehicle and perform the following:
1. Check the brake fluid level. Add brake
fluid as necessary. See ``Brake and
clutch fluid'' in the ``Do-it-yourself opera-
tions'' section.
2. If the brake fluid level is correct, check
the warning system.
WARNING
cIf you judge it to be safe, drive care-
fully to the nearest service station
for repairs. Otherwise, have your ve-
hicle towed because driving it could
be dangerous.
1-6
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cPressing the brake pedal with the
engine stopped and/or low brake
fluid level may increase your stop-
ping distance and require greater
pedal effort as well as greater pedal
travel.
Brake pad wear warning
The disc brake pads have audible wear
warnings. When a brake pad requires re-
placement, it will make a high pitched scrap-
ing sound when the vehicle is in motion
whether or not the brake pedal is de-
pressed. Have the brakes checked as soon
as possible if the warning sound is heard.
orAnti-lock brake
warning light
If this light comes on while the engine is
running, it may indicate there is something
wrong with the anti-lock portion of the brake
system. Have the system checked by your
NISSAN dealer.
If an abnormality occurs in the system, the
anti-lock function will cease but the regular
braking system will continue to operate nor-
mally.
If the light comes on while you are driving,contact your NISSAN dealer for repair.
Overdrive off indicator light
This light comes on when the overdrive
switch is pushed to the OFF position.
Turn signal/hazard indicator
lights
This light flashes when the turn signal
switch lever or hazard switch is turned on.
High beam indicator light
(Blue)
This light comes on when the headlight high
beam is on and goes out when the low
beam is selected.
Rear window defogger indi-
cator light
This light comes on when the rear defogger
switch is activated.
Indicator light
This light comes on while the vehicle speed
is controlled by the cruise control system. If
the CRUISE indicator blinks, have the sys-
tem checked by your NISSAN dealer.
Theft warning light (If so
equipped)
This light is used to verify theft warning
system activation. For further info, see
``Theft Warning'' later in this chapter.
Key reminder chime
The chime will sound if the driver side door
is opened while the key is left in the ignition
switch. Remove the key and take it with you
when leaving the vehicle.
Light reminder chime
A chime will sound when the driver side
door is opened if the light switch is turned on
(ignition switch is turned off).
Turn the light switch off when you leave the
vehicle.
Malfunction indicator light
(MIL)
If the MIL comes on or blinks while the
engine is running, it may indicate a potential
emission control problem.
1-7
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1) Move the shift lever into the ``P'' (Park)
position.
2) Turn the ignition key slightly in the ``ON''
direction.
3) Turn the key toward the ``LOCK'' posi-
tion.
4) Remove the key.
If the key is removed from the ignition
switch, the shift lever cannot be moved from
``P'' (Park).The shift lever can be moved if
the ignition switch is in the ``ACC'' posi-
tion. The shift lever can also be moved if
the ignition switch is in the ``ON'' posi-
tion and the foot brake pedal is de-
pressed.
There is an ``OFF'' position in between
``LOCK'' and ``ACC'', although it does not
show on the key cylinder. When the ignition
is in ``OFF'' the steering wheel is not locked.
In order for the steering wheel to be locked,
it must be turned about 1/8 of a turn coun-
terclockwise from the straight up position,
and the key must be removed from the
ignition.WARNING
To lock the steering wheel, remove the
key. To unlock the steering wheel, in-
sert the key and turn it gently while
rotating the steering wheel slightly
right and left.
Never remove the key while driving. If
the key is removed, the steering wheel
will lock. This may cause the driver to
lose control of the vehicle and could
result in serious vehicle damage or
personal injury.
``OFF'' (Manual transmission model) (1)
The engine can be turned off without locking
the steering wheel.
``ACC'' (Accessories) (2)
This position activates electrical accesso-
ries such as the radio when the engine is
not running.
``ON'' Normal operating position (3)
This position turns on the ignition system
and the electrical accessories.``START'' (4)
This position activates the starter motor,
which starts the engine.
cMake sure the area around the vehicle is
clear.
cMaintenance items listed here should be
checked periodically, for example, each
time you check engine oil.
cCheck that all windows and lights are
clean.
cVisually inspect tires for their appearance
and condition. Also check tires for proper
inflation.
cLock all doors.
cPosition seat and adjust head restraints.
cAdjust inside and outside mirrors.
cFasten seat belts and ask all passengers
to do likewise.
cCheck the operation of warning lights
when key is turned to the ``ON'' (3) posi-
tion.
BEFORE STARTING THE
ENGINE
4-5
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a) Lightly tap the brake pedal. When the
vehicle attains the desired speed, push
the ``COAST/SET'' switch and release it.
b) Push and hold the ``COAST/SET'' switch.
Release the switch when the vehicle
slows down to the desired speed.
c) Push, then quickly release the
``COAST/SET'' switch. Each time you do
this, the set speed will decrease by about
1 MPH (1.6 km/h).
To resume the preset speed,push and re-
lease the ``RESUME'' switch. The vehicle will
resume the last set cruising speed when the
vehicle speed is over 30 MPH (48 km/h).
Precautions
cIf the cruise control system malfunctions,
it will cancel automatically. The cruise
indicator light in the instrument panel will
then blink to warn the driver.
cWhen the cruise indicator light blinks,
turn the cruise control main switch off
and have the system checked by your
NISSAN dealer.
cThe cruise indicator light may blink when
the cruise control main switch is turned
on while pushing the ªRES/ACCELº,ªCOAST/SETº, or ªCANCELº switch (lo-
cated on the steering wheel). To properly
set the cruise control system perform the
steps above in the order indicated.
Avoid using the cruise control when
driving under the following conditions:
cwhen it is not possible to keep the vehicle
at set speed.
cin heavy traffic or in traffic that varies in
speed.
con winding roads, or hilly roads.
con slippery roads (rain, snow, ice, etc.).
cin very windy areas.
CAUTION
On manual transmission models, do
not shift into neutral without depress-
ing the clutch pedal when the cruise
control is on. Should this occur, de-
press the clutch pedal and turn the
main switch off immediately. Failure to
do so may cause engine damage.During the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km),
follow these recommendations for the future
reliability and economy of your new vehicle.
Failure to follow these recommendations
may result in vehicle damage or shortened
engine life.
cDo not drive over 55 MPH (90 km/h) and
do not run the engine over 4,000 rpm.
Avoid driving for long periods at constant
speed, either fast or slow.
cDo not accelerate at full throttle in any
gear.
cAvoid quick starts.
cAvoid hard braking as much as possible.
cDo not tow a trailer for the first 500 miles
(800 km).
BREAK-IN SCHEDULE
4-12
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Freeing a frozen door lock
To prevent a door lock from freezing, apply
de-icer or glycerin to it through the key hole.
If the lock becomes frozen, heat the key
before inserting it into the key hole.
Anti-freeze
In the winter when it is anticipated that the
temperature will drop below 32ÉF (0ÉC),
check anti-freeze (ethylene glycol base) to
assure proper winter protection. For details,
see ``Engine Cooling System'' in the ``Do-it-
yourself operations'' section.
Battery
If the battery is not fully charged during
extremely cold weather conditions, the bat-
tery fluid may freeze and damage the bat-
tery. To maintain maximum efficiency, the
battery should be checked regularly. For
details, see ``Battery'' in the ``Do-it-yourself
operations'' section.
Draining of coolant water
If the vehicle is to be left outside without
anti-freeze, drain the cooling system by
opening the drain valves located under the
radiator and on the engine block. Refillbefore operating the vehicle. See ``Chang-
ing Engine Coolant'' in the ``Do-it-yourself
operations'' section.
Tire equipment
1. The SUMMER tires are of a tread design
to provide superior performance on dry
pavement. However, the performance of
these tires will be substantially reduced
in snowy and icy conditions. If you oper-
ate your vehicle on snowy or icy roads,
NISSAN recommends the use of MUD &
SNOW or ALL SEASON tires on all four
wheels. Please consult your NISSAN
dealer for the tire type, size, speed rating
and availability information.
2. For additional traction on icy roads, stud-
ded tires may be used. However, some
provinces and states prohibit their use.
Check local, state and provincial laws
before installing studded tires.
Skid and traction capabilities of studded
snow tires, on wet or dry surfaces, may
be poorer than that of non-studded snow
tires.3. Snow chains may be used if desired.
Make sure they are of proper size for the
tires on your vehicle and are installed
according to the chain manufacturer's
suggestions.
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 of 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 underbody. If possible, avoid fully loading
your vehicle when using tire chains. In ad-
dition, drive at a reduced speed. Otherwise,
your vehicle may be damaged and/or ve-
hicle handling and performance may be
adversely affected.
Never install tire chains on T-type and small
size spare tires. Do not use the chains on
dry roads.
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
CAUTIONS
4-17
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If your vehicle is overheating (indicated by
an extremely high temperature gauge read-
ing), or if you feel a lack of engine power,
detect abnormal noise, etc., take the follow-
ing steps:
WARNING
To avoid the danger of being scalded,
never remove the radiator cap while the
engine is still hot. When the radiator
cap is removed, pressurized hot water
will spurt out, possibly causing serious
injury.
1. Move the vehicle safely off the road,
apply the parking brake and move the
shift lever to Neutral (automatic transmis-
sion to ``P'').
Do not stop the engine.
2. Turn off the air conditioning. Open all the
windows, move the heater or air condi-
tioner temperature control to maximum
hot and fan control to high speed.
3. Get out of the vehicle. Look and listen for
steam or coolant escaping from the ra-
diator before opening the hood. Wait untilno steam or coolant can be seen before
proceeding.
4. Open the engine hood.
WARNING
If steam or water is coming from the
engine, stand clear to prevent getting
burned.
5. If engine overheating is caused by climb-
ing a long hill on a hot day, run the engine
at a fast idle (approximately 1,500 rpm)
until the temperature gauge indication
returns to normal.
6. Visually check drive belts for damage or
looseness. Also check if the cooling fan
is running. The radiator hoses and radia-
tor should not leak water.
WARNING
Be careful not to allow your hands, hair
or clothing to come into contact with,
or to get caught in, the running fan,
belts, or motor fan.
The fan motor can start at any time
when the coolant temperature is high.If coolant is leaking, the water pump
belt is missing or loose, or the cooling
fan does not run, stop the engine.
7. After the engine cools down, check the
coolant level in the reservoir tank with the
engine running. Add coolant to the res-
ervoir tank if necessary. Have your ve-
hicle repaired at the nearest NISSAN
dealer.
IF YOUR VEHICLE
OVERHEATS
5-9
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