1996 NISSAN QUEST check transmission fluid

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.
cPressing the brake pedal with the
engine stopped and/or low brake
fluid level may increase your stop-
ping distance and braking will re-
quire greater pedal effort as well as
pedal travel.
orABSAnti-lock brake
warning light
If the light comes on while the engine is
running, it may indicate something wrong
with the anti-lock portion of the brake sys-
tem. Have the system checked by your
NISSAN dealer.
If an abnormality occurs in the system, the
anti-lock function ceases, but the brakes
continue to operate normally.
If the light comes on while you are driv-
ing, contact your NISSAN dealer for re-
pair.
Overdrive off indicator light
This light comes on during driving when the
overdrive switch is pressed to prevent over-
drive operation.
The O/D OFF indicator light comes on for
two seconds each time the ignition key is
turned ON. This shows the light is function-
ing properly.
If the O/D OFF indicator light blinks for
approximately 8 seconds after coming on
for 2 seconds, have your NISSAN dealer
check the transmission and repair it if nec-
essary.
The automatic transmission is equipped
with an electronic Fail-Safe mode. This sys-
tem allows the vehicle to be driven even in
the event of damage to the electrical cir-
cuits. If this occurs, the gears automatically
engage and lock into 3rd gear.
NOTE: See the ``Fail-safe'' section in the
``Starting and driving'' section before visiting
your NISSAN dealer.
Turn signal/hazard indicator
lights
The appropriate light flashes when the turn
signal lever is activated.
Both lights flash when the hazard switch is
turned on.
High beam indicator light
This light comes on when the headlight high
beam is on and goes out when the low
beam is selected.
Cruise indicator light
The 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.
Key reminder chime
The chime sounds 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 sounds when the driver side door is
opened if the headlight control switch is
1-8
ZX

7 Do-it-yourself operations
Maintenance precautions ..................................... 7-2
Engine compartment check locations .................. 7-3
Engine cooling system ......................................... 7-4
Engine oil ............................................................ 7-5
Automatic transmission fluid ................................ 7-8
Power steering fluid.............................................. 7-9
Brake fluid .......................................................... 7-10
Window washer fluid .......................................... 7-10
Battery ................................................................ 7-11
Drive belts .......................................................... 7-12Spark plug replacement ..................................... 7-12
Air cleaner housing filter .................................... 7-13
Wiper blades ...................................................... 7-14
Parking brake check........................................... 7-16
Brake pedal ........................................................ 7-16
Brake booster ..................................................... 7-17
Fuses .................................................................. 7-17
Fusible links........................................................ 7-18
Light bulbs .......................................................... 7-19
Wheels and tires ................................................ 7-24
ZX

WARNING
cWhen engine is running, keep hands
and clothing away from any moving
parts such as cooling fan and drive
belt.
cAutomatic transmission fluid is poi-
sonous and should be stored care-
fully in marked containers out of the
reach of children.TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS
FOR CHECKING
cCheck the fluid level using the HOT
range on the dipstick after the following
conditions have been met:
Ð The engine is warmed up to operating
temperature.
Ð The vehicle is driven at least 15 minutes.
Ð The automatic transmission fluid is
warmed to between 150ÉF and 170ÉF
(66ÉC to 77ÉC).
cThe fluid can be checked at fluid tem-peratures of 70ÉF to 95ÉF (21ÉC to 35ÉC)
using the COLD range on the dipstick
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 gear-
shift lever through each gear range, end-
ing in P (Park) after you have moved it
through all ranges.
ADI0582ADI0572ADI0573
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID
7-8
ZB13-DX

3. Check the fluid level with the engine
idling.
4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean
with lint-free paper.
5. Reinsert the dipstick into the charging
pipe as far as it goes.
6. Remove the dipstick and note the read-
ing. If the level is at the low side of either
range, add fluid to the charging pipe.
DO NOT OVERFILL.
Use ONLY Nissan Matic `D' (Continen-
tal U.S. and Alaska) or Genuine Nis-
san Automatic Transmission Fluid
(Canada). Dexronž III/Merconž or
equivalent may also be used. Outside
the continental United States and
Alaska contact a Nissan dealership
for more information regarding suit-
able fluids, including recommended
brand(s) of Dexronž III/Merconž or
Dexronž IIE/Merconž Automatic
Transmission Fluid.
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 pulla trailer, the accurate fluid level cannot
be read. You should wait until the fluid
has cooled down (about 30 minutes).
Check the fluid level in reservoir.
The fluid level should be checked by looking
at the MAX and MIN lines at fluid tempera-
tures of 32ÉF to 86ÉF (0ÉC to 30ÉC).
If the fluid is below the MIN line, add fluid
type Dexron II
TMup to the MAX line.
CAUTION
cDo not overfill.
cThe recommended fluid is type F
automatic transmission fluid or
equivalent.
ADI0017
POWER STEERING FLUID
7-9
ZB13-DX

steep hill with only the parking brake ap-
plied.
Automatic transmission ``Park'' mecha-
nismÐ On a fairly steep hill check that your
vehicle is held securely with the selector
lever in the P (Park) position without apply-
ing any brakes.
UNDER THE HOOD AND
VEHICLE
The maintenance items listed here should
be checked periodically, for example, each
time you check the engine oil or refuel.
Windshield washer fluid* ÐCheck that
there is adequate fluid in the tank.
Engine coolant level*Ð Check the cool-
ant level when the engine is cold.
Radiator and hosesÐ Check the front of
the radiator and clean off any dirt, insects,
leaves, etc., that may have accumulated.
Make sure the hoses have no cracks, de-
formation, rot, or loose connections.
Brake fluid level*Ð Make sure the brake
fluid level is between the MAX and MIN
lines on the reservoir.
Battery*Ð Check the fluid level in eachcell. It should be between the MAX and MIN
lines.
Engine drive belts*Ð Make sure no belts
are frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*Ð Check the level after
parking the vehicle on a level surface and
turning off the engine.
Power steering fluid level* and linesÐ
Check the level when the fluid is cold and
the engine is turned off. Check the lines for
proper attachment, leaks, cracks, etc.
Automatic transmission fluid level*Ð
Check the level after putting the selector
lever in P (Park) with the engine idling.
Exhaust systemÐ Make sure there are no
cracks, holes, loose joints or supports. If the
sound of the exhaust seems unusual or
there is a smell of exhaust fumes, immedi-
ately have the exhaust system inspected by
a qualified individual. (See the carbon mon-
oxide warning in the ``Starting and driving''
section.)
UnderbodyÐ 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, otherwise rust forms on the floor
pan, frame, fuel lines and around the ex-
haust system. At the end of winter, the
underbody should be thoroughly flushed
with plain water, being careful to clean
those areas where mud and dirt may accu-
mulate. See the ``Appearance and interior
care'' section for additional information.
Fluid leaksÐ 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.
8-4
ZX

EXPLANATION OF
MAINTENANCE ITEMS
Additional information on the following
items with ``*'' is found in the ``Do-it-
yourself operations'' section.
Emission control system mainte-
nance
Drive belts* ÐCheck drive belts for wear,
fraying or cracking and also for proper ten-
sion. Replace the drive belts if found dam-
aged.
Air cleaner filter ÐUnder normal driving
conditions, the air cleaner filter should be
replaced in accordance with the mainte-
nance schedule. However, driving the ve-
hicle in dusty areas may cause more rapid
clogging of the element. Consequently, the
element may have to be replaced more
frequently.
Vapor lines ÐCheck vapor lines and con-
nections for failure or looseness. If leaks are
found, replace them.
Fuel lines ÐCheck the fuel hoses, piping
and connections for leaks, looseness or
deterioration. Replace any parts if they are
damaged.Fuel filter ÐIf the vehicle is operated
under extremely adverse weather condi-
tions or in areas where ambient tempera-
tures are either extremely low or extremely
high, the filter might become clogged. In
such an event, replace the filter immedi-
ately.
Engine coolant* ÐChanging engine cool-
ant can be performed by your NISSAN
dealer or procedures can be found in the
Service Manual. Improper air relief after
changing coolant can result in reduced
heater performance and overheating.
Engine oil & oil filter* ÐUnder normal
driving conditions, the engine oil and oil filter
should be replaced in accordance with the
maintenance schedule. However, under se-
vere driving conditions, they may have to be
replaced more frequently.
Spark plugs* ÐReplace with new plugs
having the correct heat range.
Timing belt ÐReplace the timing belt for
driving the camshaft.
Chassis and body maintenance
Brake lines & cables ÐCheck the brake
lines and hoses (including brake boostervacuum hoses, connections & check valve)
and parking brake cables for proper attach-
ment, leaks, cracks, chafing, abrasion, de-
terioration, etc.
Brake pads, discs, drums & linings Ð
Check these and the other neighboring
brake components for wear, deterioration
and leaks. Under severe driving conditions,
they may have to be inspected more fre-
quently.
Automatic transmission fluid* ÐCheck
the fluid level and visually inspect for signs
of leakage.
Under severe driving conditions, the fluid
should be replaced at the specified interval.
Steering gear & linkage, axle & suspen-
sion parts, and drive shaft boots Ð
Check for damage, looseness and leakage
of oil or grease. Under severe driving con-
ditions, more frequent inspection should be
performed.
Steering linkage ball joints & front sus-
pension ball joints ÐCheck the ball joints
for damage, looseness and grease leakage.
8-10
ZX

10 Index
A
After an accident........................................ 5-10
Air bag (See supplemental restraint system)
Air bag warning light .................................. 2-45
Air cleaner housing filter ............................ 7-13
Air conditioner
Air conditioner operation ........................ 3-5
Air conditioner service ............................ 3-6
Air conditioner specification label ......... 9-11
Air conditioning system refrigerant and
lubricant recommendations .................... 9-6
Air flow charts ......................................... 3-7
Heater and air conditioner (automatic)
(If so equipped) .................................... 3-11
Heater and air conditioner (manual)....... 3-3
Rear seat heater and air conditioner ... 3-14
Air conditioning system refrigerant and lubricant
recommendations ........................................ 9-6
Anchor point location ................................. 2-66
Antenna
Manual .................................................. 3-21
Power.................................................... 3-21
Anti-lock brake system .............................. 4-13
Armrests..................................................... 2-29
Ashtray (See cigarette lighter and ashtray)
Audio system
AM-FM radio with cassette player ........ 3-15Compact disc (CD) player .................... 3-22
Autolamp switch......................................... 1-13
Automatic
Automatic transmission fluid ................... 7-8
Driving with an automatic transmission .. 4-5
B
Battery........................................................ 7-11
Before starting the engine ........................... 4-5
Brake
Anti-lock brake system ......................... 4-13
Brake booster ....................................... 7-17
Brake fluid ..................................... 7-10, 9-2
Brake pedal .......................................... 7-16
Brake wear indicators ................... 1-9, 7-16
Parking brake check ............................. 7-16
Parking brake operation ......................... 4-8
Self-adjusting brakes ............................ 7-16
Break-in schedule ...................................... 4-11
Bulb check/instrument panel ....................... 1-6
Bulb replacement ....................................... 7-21
C
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants...................................................... 9-2
Cargo net ................................................... 2-13Cassette player (See audio system)
CB radio or car phone ............................... 3-26
Child restraints for infants and
small children ............................................. 2-58
Child restraint with top tether strap ........... 2-62
Child safety sliding door lock....................... 2-4
Cigarette lighter and ashtray ..................... 1-17
Cleaning exterior and interior ...................... 6-2
Clock .......................................................... 1-22
Coin tray .................................................... 1-18
Cold weather driving cautions ................... 4-15
Compact disc (CD) player ......................... 3-22
Controls
Audio controls (rear) ............................. 3-25
Heater and air conditioner controls ........ 3-3
Rear seat heater and air conditioner
controls ................................................. 3-14
Coolant
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................ 9-2
Changing engine coolant........................ 7-5
Checking engine coolant level ............... 7-4
Engine coolant temperature gauge ........ 1-4
Cornering light ........................................... 1-16
Corrosion protection .................................... 6-4
Cruise control............................................... 4-9
Cup holder ................................................. 2-31
ZX

D
Daytime running light system (Canada
only) ........................................................... 1-13
Defogger switch
Rear window defogger switch .............. 1-12
Dimensions and weights.............................. 9-8
Door locks .................................................... 2-2
Drive belts .................................................. 7-12
Driving
Cold weather driving cautions .............. 4-15
Driving with an automatic transmission .. 4-5
Precautions when driving ..................... 4-13
Precautions when starting and driving ... 4-2
E
Economy - fuel........................................... 4-11
Emission control information label............. 9-10
Emission control system warranty ............. 9-19
Engine .......................................................... 9-7
Before starting the engine ...................... 4-5
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................ 9-2
Changing engine coolant........................ 7-5
Changing engine oil................................ 7-6
Changing engine oil filter........................ 7-7
Checking engine coolant level ............... 7-4
Checking engine oil level ....................... 7-5
Engine compartment check locations .... 7-3
Engine coolant temperature gauge ........ 1-4
Engine cooling system ........................... 7-4Engine oil ................................................ 7-5Engine oil and oil filter recommendation... 9-4
Engine oil viscosity ................................. 9-5
Engine serial number ............................. 9-9
Starting the engine ................................. 4-8
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) ................. 4-2
F
Five passenger seating ............................. 2-18
Five passenger seating with cargo room .. 2-18
Flashers (See hazard warning flasher switch)
Flat tire ......................................................... 5-2
Flexible seating .......................................... 2-33
Floor mat positioning ................................. 2-17
Floor mat positioning pins ......................... 2-20
Fluid (checking)
Automatic transmission fluid ................... 7-8
Brake fluid............................................. 7-10
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................ 9-2
Engine coolant ........................................ 7-4
Engine oil ................................................ 7-5
Power steering fluid ................................ 7-9
Window washer fluid ............................ 7-10
F.M.V.S.S. certification label ..................... 9-10
Fuel
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................ 9-2
Fuel economy ....................................... 4-11
Fuel filler lid and cap ............................ 2-15
Fuel gauge.............................................. 1-5Fuel recommendation ............................. 9-2
Fuses ......................................................... 7-17
Fusible links ............................................... 7-18
G
Gas station information............................ 10-10
Gauge
Engine coolant temperature gauge ........ 1-4
Fuel gauge.............................................. 1-5
Odometer ................................................ 1-4
Speedometer .......................................... 1-4
Tachometer............................................. 1-4
Trip odometer ......................................... 1-4
Gear selection (See shifting)
General maintenance .................................. 8-2
H
Hazard warning flasher switch .................. 1-16
Head restraints .......................................... 2-29
Headlight control switch............................. 1-12
Headlights .................................................. 7-19
Heater
Heater and air conditioner controls ..... 3-11
Rear seat heater and air conditioner ... 3-14
Hood release ............................................. 2-10
I
If your vehicle overheats ............................. 5-9
10-2
ZX