1996 NISSAN PATHFINDER park light

7 Do-it-yourself operations
Precautions ............................................................ 7-2
Engine cooling system ........................................... 7-4
Engine oil ............................................................... 7-7
Automatic transmission fluid .................................. 7-9
Power steering fluid ............................................. 7-11
Brake and clutch fluid .......................................... 7-11
Window washer fluid ............................................ 7-12
Battery .................................................................. 7-13
Drive belts ............................................................ 7-14
Spark plug replacement ....................................... 7-14
Air cleaner filter .................................................... 7-16
Wiper blade .......................................................... 7-17
Parking brake ....................................................... 7-18
Brake pedal .......................................................... 7-19
Brake booster ....................................................... 7-20
Clutch pedal ......................................................... 7-20
Fuses ................................................................... 7-20
Light bulbs ............................................................ 7-22
Wheels and tires .................................................. 7-26
Clutch housing ........................................... 7-30
Z01.2.1/R50-DX

CHANGING OIL FILTER
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and
apply the parking brake.
2. Turn the engine off.
3. Loosen the oil filter with an oil filter wrench.
(A specialcap-typewrench will assist with
oil filter removal on models with the V6
engine. This tool can be purchased from
your NISSAN dealer.) Then remove the oil
filter by turning it by hand.
Be careful not to burn yourself, as the
engine oil may be hot.
4. Wipe the engine oil filter mounting surface
with a clean rag.
Be sure to remove any old rubber gasket
remaining on the mounting surface of the
engine.
5. Coat the rubber gasket on the new filter
with engine oil.
6. Screw in the oil filter until a slight resistance
is felt, then tighten an additional 2/3 turn.
7. Start the engine and check for leakage
around the oil filter. Correct as required.
8. Turn the engine off and wait several min-
utes. Check the oil level. Add engine oil if
necessary.
IWhen engine is running, keep hands
and clothing away from any moving
parts such as fan and drive belt.
IAutomatic transmission fluid is poi-
sonous and should be stored care-
fully in marked containers out of the
reach of children.
The fluid level should be checked using the
ªHOTº range (ªLº & ªHº marks) on the dipstick
SDI0417SDI0421
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID
7-9
Z01.2.1/R50-DX

7,500 miles (12,000 km) for 2WD vehicles and
3,750 miles (6,000 km) for 4WD vehicles.
Wheel alignment and balanceIf the vehicle
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 engine hoodCheck that all doors
and the engine 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 fre-
quently.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.
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.
Warning lights and buzzers/chimesMake
sure that all warning lights and buzzers/chimes
are operating properly.
Windshield wiper and washer*Check that
the wipers and washer operate properly and
that the wipers do not streak.
Windshield defrosterCheck that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly and
in sufficient quantity when operating the heater
or air conditioner.
Steering wheelCheck for changes in the
steering conditions, such as excessive free-
play, hard steering or strange noises.
SeatsCheck seat position controls such as
seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to en-
sure they operate smoothly and that all latches
lock securely in every position. Check that the
head restraints move up and down smoothlyand that the locks (if so equipped) hold se-
curely in all latched positions.
Seat beltsCheck that all parts of the seat belt
system (e.g. buckles, anchors, adjusters and
retractors) operate properly and smoothly, and
are installed securely. Check the belt webbing
for cuts, fraying, wear or damage.
Accelerator pedalCheck the pedal for
smooth operation and make sure the pedal
does not catch or require uneven effort. Keep
the floor mats away from the pedal.
Clutch pedal*Make sure the pedal operates
smoothly and check that it has the proper free
travel.
BrakesCheck 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 depressed fully.
Check the brake booster function. Be certain
to keep floormats away from the pedal.
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 ªPark positionº
mechanismOn a fairly steep hill check that
8-3
Z01.2.1/R50-DX

Using unleaded gasoline with an octane
rating lower than stated above can cause
persistent, heavy ªspark knockº. (ªSpark
knockº is a metallic rapping noise.) If se-
vere, this can lead to engine damage. If you
detect a persistent heavy spark knock even
when using gasoline of the stated octane
rating, or if you hear steady spark knock
while holding a steady speed on level
roads, have your dealer correct the condi-
tion. Failure to correct the condition is
misuse of the vehicle, for which NISSAN is
not responsible.
Incorrect ignition timing will result in knocking,
after-run or overheating. This in turn may
cause excessive fuel consumption or damage
to the engine. If any of the above symptoms
are encountered, have your vehicle checked at
a NISSAN dealer or other competent service
facility.
However, now and then you may notice
light spark knock for a short time while
accelerating or driving up hills. This is no
cause for concern, because you get the
greatest fuel benefit when there is light
spark knock for a short time.
9-5
Z01.2.1/R50-DX

Tire pressures
IWhen towing a trailer, inflate the vehicle
tires to the recommended cold tire pressure
indicated on the tire placard (affixed to the
glove box lid).
ITrailer tire condition, size, load rating and
proper inflation pressure should be in ac-
cordance with the trailer and tire manufac-
turers' specifications.
Safety chain
Always use a suitable chain between your
vehicle and the trailer. The chain should be
crossed and should be attached to the hitch,
not to the vehicle bumper or axle. Be sure to
leave enough slack in the chain to permit
turning corners.
Trailer lights
Trailer lights should comply with Federal
and/or local regulations.
When wiring vehicle for towing connection,
connect stop and tail light pickup into the
vehicle electrical circuit at point between
the sensor and stop light switch or light
switch.
Trailer brakes
If your trailer is equipped with a braking sys-
tem, make sure it conforms to Federal and/or
local regulations and that it is properly in-
stalled.
Never connect a trailer brake system
directly to the vehicle brake system.
Trailer towing tips
In order to gain skill and an understanding of
the vehicle's behavior, you should practice
turning, stopping and backing up in an area
which is free from traffic. Steering stability and
braking performance will be somewhat differ-
ent than under normal driving conditions.
IAlways secure items in the trailer to prevent
load shift while driving.
IAvoid abrupt starts, acceleration or stops.
IAvoid sharp turns or lane changes.
IAlways drive your vehicle at a moderate
speed.
IAlways block the wheels on both vehicle
and trailer when parking. Parking on aslope is not recommended; however, if you
must do so, and if your vehicle is equipped
with automatic transmission, first block the
wheels and apply the parking brake, and
then move the transmission shift lever into
the ªPº position. If you move the shift lever
to the ªPº position before blocking the
wheels and applying the parking brake,
transmission damage could occur.
IWhen going down a hill, shift into a lower
gear and use the engine braking effect.
When ascending a long grade, downshift
the transmission to a lower gear and reduce
speed to reduce chances of engine over-
loading and/or overheating.
However, for long steep grades, do not stay in
1st or 2nd gear when driving above 35 MPH
(56 km/h).
IIf the engine coolant rises to an extremely
high temperature when the air conditioning
system is on, turn off the air conditioner.
Coolant heat can be additionally vented by
opening the windows, switching the fan
control to high and setting the temperature
control to the ªHOTº position.
ITrailer towing requires more fuel than nor-
mal circumstances.
9-19
Z01.2.1/R50-DX

10 Index
A
Adjustable shock absorber control (If so
equipped) ........................................................ 1-31
Air bag (See ªSupplemental restraint systemº)
Air bag warning light (See ªSupplemental air bag
warning lightº or ªWarningº)
Air cleaner filter ............................................... 7-16
Air conditioner
Air conditioner operation ...................... 3-5, 3-9
Air conditioner specification label.............. 9-15
Heater and air conditioner........................... 3-3
Semiautomatic air conditioner ..................... 3-7
Air conditioning system refrigerant and lubricant
recommendations ............................................. 9-9
Air flow charts ................................................. 3-11
AM-FM radio with cassette player .................. 3-15
AM-FM radio with compact disc player .......... 3-20
Anti-lock brake system ................................... 4-24
Automatic
Automatic transmission fluid ....................... 7-9
Driving with automatic transmission............ 4-6
Semiautomatic air conditioner ..................... 3-7
Avoiding collision and rollover .......................... 4-4
B
Back door locks ................................................ 2-8
Battery............................................................. 7-13Battery replacement.......................................... 2-6
Before starting the engine ................................ 4-6
Belt hook ......................................................... 2-28
Brake
Anti-lock brake system .............................. 4-24
Brake and clutch fluid................................ 7-11
Brake booster ............................................ 7-20
Brake pedal ............................................... 7-19
Brake wear indicators ...................... 1-12, 7-19
Parking brake ................................... 4-12, 7-18
Break-in schedule ........................................... 4-15
C
Capacities and recommended fuel/lubricants... 9-2
CB radio or car phone .................................... 3-24
Center and side vent ........................................ 3-2
Changing
Changing engine coolant ............................ 7-5
Changing engine oil .................................... 7-8
Changing oil filter ........................................ 7-9
Checking coolant level ...................................... 7-4
Checking engine oil level .................................. 7-7
Child restraints for infants and small children .... 2-
30
Child safety ..................................................... 2-24
Child safety rear door lock................................ 2-3
Cigarette lighter and ash trays ....................... 1-21
Cleaning exterior and interior ........................... 6-2
Clearing the programming information ........... 1-33Clock ................................................................. 1-8
Clutch housing................................... 7-30
Clutch pedal .................................................... 7-20
Coin tray ......................................................... 1-22
Cold weather driving cautions ........................ 4-25
Compact disc player operation ....................... 3-22
Compass and outside temperature
display ............................................................... 1-5
Console box .................................................... 1-24
Coolant
Changing engine coolant ............................ 7-5
Checking coolant level ................................ 7-4
Engine coolant temperature gauge ............. 1-4
Corrosion protection ....................................... 4-27
Cruise control.................................................. 4-13
Cup holder ...................................................... 1-23
D
Defogger switch
Rear window defogger switch ................... 1-18
Dimensions and weights ................................. 9-12
Door locks ......................................................... 2-2
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving ................... 4-4
Drive belts ....................................................... 7-14
Driving
Cold weather driving cautions ................... 4-25
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving .............. 4-4
Driving safety precautions ......................... 4-20
Driving with automatic transmission............ 4-6
Z01.2.1/R50-DX

Warning/indicator light and buzzer.............. 1-9
Lock
Anti-lock brake system .............................. 4-24
Back door locks ........................................... 2-8
Child safety rear door lock .......................... 2-3
Clock............................................................ 1-8
Door locks ................................................... 2-2
Fuel filler lid lock ....................................... 2-10
Glove box lock........................................... 2-10
Power door lock .......................................... 2-3
Rear window locks ...................................... 2-8
Luggage board and box ................................. 1-25
Luggage hooks ............................................... 2-40
Luggage net .................................................... 2-39
Luggage rack .................................................. 2-41
Luggage side finisher hook ............................ 2-39
M
Maintenance
Explanation of maintenance items ............ 8-10
General maintenance .................................. 8-2
Periodic maintenance .................................. 8-5
Seat belt maintenance .............................. 2-30
Manual antenna .............................................. 3-24
Meters and gauges ........................................... 1-3
Mirror
Inside mirror .............................................. 2-38
Outside mirror control................................ 2-37
Outside mirror defogger (If so
equipped)................................................... 1-18
Outside mirrors .......................................... 2-38
Vanity mirror light ...................................... 1-30Multi-remote control system (If so equipped) ... 2-4
O
Oil
Changing engine oil .................................... 7-8
Changing oil filter ........................................ 7-9
Checking engine oil level ............................ 7-7
Engine oil..................................................... 7-7
Engine oil and oil filter
recommendation .......................................... 9-6
On-pavement and off-road driving precautions .. 4-
3
Operating the transmitter ................................ 1-33
Outside mirror control ..................................... 2-37
Outside mirror defogger (If so equipped) ....... 1-18
Outside mirrors ............................................... 2-38
Overheat
If your vehicle overheats ............................. 5-9
P
Parking ............................................................ 4-22
Parking brake ................................... 4-12, 7-18
Periodic maintenance ....................................... 8-5
Power
Power antenna (If so equipped)................ 3-24
Power door lock .......................................... 2-3
Power socket ............................................. 1-22
Power steering fluid................................... 7-11
Power support seat ................................... 2-13
Power window ........................................... 1-26
Precautions ....................................................... 7-2
Driving safety precautions ......................... 4-20On-pavement and off-road driving
precautions .................................................. 4-3
Precautions on seat belt usage ................ 2-24
Precautions when driving .......................... 4-23
Precautions when starting and driving ........ 4-2
Programming problem diagnosis .................... 1-33
Programming the HomeLink
TM
transmitter ....................................................... 1-32
Protecting against corrosion ............................. 6-5
Push starting ..................................................... 5-8
R
Radio............................................................... 3-14
AM-FM radio with cassette player ............ 3-15
AM-FM radio with compact disc
player ......................................................... 3-20
CB radio or car phone............................... 3-24
Rear seats ...................................................... 2-15
Rear window defogger switch......................... 1-18
Rear window locks ............................................ 2-8
Rear window wiper and washer switch .......... 1-17
Recommended sae viscosity number............... 9-8
Refrigerant recommendation ............................ 9-9
Reporting safety defects (U.S.A.) ................... 9-21
S
Safety
Child safety................................................ 2-24
Child safety rear door lock .......................... 2-3
Driving safety precautions ......................... 4-20
Reporting safety defects (U.S.A.) ............. 9-21
Seat adjustment .............................................. 2-12
10-3
Z01.2.1/R50-DX

Seat belt
2-point type with retractor (Center
position of rear seat) ................................. 2-28
3-point type with retractor ......................... 2-25
Precautions on seat belt usage ................ 2-24
Seat belt extenders ................................... 2-29
Seat belt maintenance .............................. 2-30
Seat belts ......................................... 2-24, 2-25
Semiautomatic air conditioner .......................... 3-7
Spare tire carrier ............................................... 2-7
Spark plug replacement .................................. 7-14
Speedometer and odometer ............................. 1-3
Spot light ......................................................... 1-30
Starting
Before starting the engine ........................... 4-6
Jump starting ..................................... 5-7, 7-13
Precautions when starting and driving ........ 4-2
Push starting ............................................... 5-8
Starting the engine .................................... 4-11
Steering
Power steering fluid................................... 7-11
Tilting steering wheel ................................ 2-36
Sun visor ......................................................... 2-37
Sunroof ........................................................... 1-28
Supplemental air bag warning light ................ 2-22
Supplemental restraint system (Supplemental air
bag system) .................................................... 2-18
Switch
Front fog light switch ................................. 1-19
Hazard warning flasher switch .................. 1-19
Headlight and turn signal switch ............... 1-15
Ignition switch .............................................. 4-4
Rear window defogger switch ................... 1-18Rear window wiper and washer
switch......................................................... 1-17
Windshield wiper and washer switch ........ 1-16
T
Tachometer ....................................................... 1-4
Theft warning (If so equipped)........................ 1-13
Three-way catalyst ............................................ 4-3
Tilting steering wheel ...................................... 2-36
Timing belt ...................................................... 9-10
Tire
Flat tire ........................................................ 5-2
Spare tire carrier ......................................... 2-7
Tire placard ............................................... 9-14
Wheels and tires .............................. 7-26, 9-11
Tonneau cover ................................................ 1-26
Tow truck towing ............................................. 5-10
Towing
2-wheel drive models ................................ 5-10
4-wheel drive models ................................ 5-11
Tow truck towing ....................................... 5-10
Towing load/specification chart ................. 9-18
Towing point .............................................. 5-12
Trailer towing ............................................. 9-16
Trailer towing .................................................. 9-16
Transfer case shifting procedures for
4-wheel drive vehicles .................................... 4-16
Transmission
Automatic transmission fluid ....................... 7-9
Driving with automatic transmission............ 4-6
Driving with manual transmission ............. 4-10V
Vanity mirror light ............................................ 1-30
Vehicle identification ....................................... 9-13
Vehicle identification number (Chassis
number) ..................................................... 9-13
Vehicle identification number plate ........... 9-13
Vehicle loading ............................................... 9-20
Vehicle loading information............................. 9-15
W
Warning
Hazard warning flasher switch .................. 1-19
Supplemental air bag warning light........... 2-22
Theft warning (If so equipped) .................. 1-13
Warning labels........................................... 2-22
Warning/indicator light and buzzer.............. 1-9
Wheels and tires ................................... 7-26, 9-11
When traveling or registering your vehicle in an-
other country ................................................... 9-12
Window washer fluid ....................................... 7-12
Windshield wiper and washer switch.............. 1-16
Wiper
Rear window wiper and washer
switch......................................................... 1-17
Windshield wiper and washer switch ........ 1-16
Wiper blade ............................................... 7-17
10-4
Z01.2.1/R50-DX