1997 NISSAN MAXIMA washer fluid

orwarning lightSeat belt warning lightEngine oil pressure warning light
Turn signal/hazard indicator lightLow washer fluid warning lightCRUISE indicator light
High beam indicator light (blue)orAnti-lock brake warning lightSupplemental air bag warning light
Charge warning lightOverdrive off indicator light
Door open warning lightorMalfunction indicator light
(MIL)
Checking bulbs
Apply the parking brake and turn the ignition
key to ªONº without starting the engine. The
following lights will come on:
,or,,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 the elec-
trical 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.
The oil pressure warning light is not de-
signed to indicate a low oil level. Use the
dipstick to check the oil level.See ªEngine
oilº in the ªDo-it-yourself operationsº section.Running the engine with the oil pressure
warning light on could cause serious
damage to the engine almost immedi-
ately. Turn off the engine as soon as it is
safe to do so.
Charge warning light
If the light comes on while the engine is
running, it may indicate that there is something
wrong with the charging system. Turn the
engine off and check the alternator belt. If the
WARNING/INDICATOR LIGHT
AND BUZZER
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Z01.2.1/A32-DX

belt is loose, broken, missing or if the light
remains on, see your NISSAN dealer immedi-
ately.
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
ªONº.
Seat belt warning light and
buzzer
The light and buzzer remind you to fasten seat
belts. The light illuminates whenever the igni-
tion key is turned to ªONº, and will remain
illuminated until the driver's seat belt is fas-
tened. At the same time, the buzzer will sound
for about six seconds unless the driver's seat
belt is securely fastened.
Refer to ªSeat beltsº in the ªPre-driving checks
and adjustmentsº section for precautions on
seat belt usage.
Supplemental air bag warning
light
When the ignition key is in the ªONº or
ªSTARTº position, the supplemental air bag
light will illuminate for about 7 seconds and
then turn off. This means the system is opera-
tional.
If any of the following conditions occur, the
supplemental air bag needs servicing and your
vehicle must be taken to your nearest autho-
rized NISSAN dealer.
1. The supplemental air bag light goes off
within 7 seconds.
2. The supplemental air bag light flashes in-
termittently or remains on (after 7 seconds).
3. The supplemental air bag light does not
come on at all.
Unless checked and repaired, the Supplemen-
tal Restraint System may not function properly.
For additional details on the Supplemental Air
Bag System, see Section 2.
If the supplemental air bag warning light
is on, it could mean that the supplemen-
tal air bag will not operate in anaccident.
Low washer fluid warning
light (If so equipped)
This light comes on when the washer tank fluid
is at a low level. Add washer fluid as neces-
sary. See the ªDo-it-yourself operationsº sec-
tion.
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 ªBrake and clutch fluidº
in the ªDo-it-yourself operationsº section.
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Tire equipment
1. SUMMER tires are of a tread design to
provide superior performance on dry pave-
ment. However, the performance of these
tires will be substantially reduced in snowy
and icy conditions. If you operate your
vehicle on snowy or icy roads, Nissan rec-
ommends the use on all four wheels of
MUD & SNOW or ALL SEASON tires.
Please consult your Nissan dealer for the
tire type, size, speed rating and availability
information.
2. For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tires may be used. However, some prov-
inces and states prohibit their use. Check
local, state and provincial laws before in-
stalling 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. Tire 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 according
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 in-stalled according to the chain manufactur-
er's suggestions.Use only SAE Class ªSº
chains.Other types may damage your
vehicle. Use chain tensioners when recom-
mended by the tire chain manufacturer to
ensure a tight fit. Loose end links of the tire
chain must be secured or removed to pre-
vent the possibility of whipping action dam-
age to the fenders or underbody. If pos-
sible, avoid fully loading your vehicle when
using tire chains. In addition, drive at a
reduced speed. Otherwise, your vehicle
may be damaged and/or vehicle handling
and performance may be adversely af-
fected.
Never install tire chains on a T-type spare
tire. Do not use tire chains on dry roads.
Special winter equipment
It is recommended that the following items be
carried in the vehicle during winter:
1. A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove
ice and snow from the windows and wiper
blades.
2. A sturdy, flat board to be placed under the
jack to give it firm support.
3. A shovel to dig the vehicle out of snow-
drifts.4. Extra window washer fluid to refill the res-
ervoir tank.
Driving on snow or ice
IWet ice (32ÉF, 0ÉC and freezing rain),
very cold snow or ice can be slick and
very hard to drive on. The vehicle will
have a lot less traction or ªgripº un-
der these conditions. Try to avoid
driving on wet ice until the road is
salted or sanded.
IWhatever the condition, drive with
caution. Accelerate and slow down
with care gently. If accelerating or
downshifting too fast, the drive
wheels will lose even more traction.
IAllow more stopping distance under
these conditions. Braking should be
started sooner than on dry pavement.
IAllow greater following distances on
slippery roads.
IWatch for slippery spots (glare ice).
These may appear on an otherwise
clear road in shaded areas. If a patch
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Z01.2.1/A32-DX

7 Do-it-yourself operations
Maintenance precautions .......................................... 7-2
Engine cooling system .............................................. 7-5
Engine oil .................................................................. 7-7
Automatic transmission fluid ................................... 7-10
Power steering fluid ................................................ 7-11
Brake and clutch fluid ............................................. 7-12
Window washer fluid ............................................... 7-12
Battery ..................................................................... 7-13
Drive belts ............................................................... 7-15
Spark plug replacement .......................................... 7-15
Air cleaner filter ....................................................... 7-17
Wiper blades ........................................................... 7-18
Parking brake .......................................................... 7-19
Brake pedal ............................................................. 7-20
Brake booster .......................................................... 7-21
Clutch pedal ............................................................ 7-21
Fuses....................................................................... 7-21
Fusible links ............................................................ 7-23
Light bulbs ............................................................... 7-23
Wheels and tires ..................................................... 7-30
Z01.2.1/A32-DX

Check the fluid level in the reservoir. If the fluid
is below the Min. line or the brake warning light
comes on, addDOT 3fluid up to the Max. line.
If fluid must be added frequently, the system
should be thoroughly checked by your NIS-
SAN dealer.
Use only new fluid. Old, inferior, or con-
taminated fluid may damage the brake
and clutch systems. The use of im-
proper fluids can damage the brake sys-
tem and affect the vehicle's stoppingability.
Do not spill the fluid on painted sur-
faces. This will damage the paint. If fluid
is spilled, wash with water.
Type A
Add fluid when the low washer fluid warning
light comes on. Add a washer solvent to the
water for better cleaning. In the winter season,
add a windshield washer anti-freeze. Follow
the manufacturer's instructions for the mixture
ratio.
SDI0119SDI0189
BRAKE AND CLUTCH FLUID WINDOW WASHER FLUID
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Type B
To check the fluid level, use your finger to plug
the center hole of the cap (as shown above),
then remove it from the tank. If there is no fluid
in the tube, add fluid. Add a washer solvent to
the water for better cleaning. In the winter
season, add a windshield washer anti-freeze.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the
mixture ratio.
Anti-freeze is poisonous and should be
stored carefully in marked containers
out of the reach of children.
Do not substitute engine anti-freeze
coolant for window washer solution.
This may result in damage to the paint.
IKeep the battery surface clean and dry. Any
corrosion should be washed off with a
solution of baking soda and water.
IMake certain the terminal connections are
clean and securely tightened.
IIf the vehicle is not to be used for 30 days or
longer, disconnect the ªÐº negative battery
terminal cable to prevent discharge.
IDo not expose the battery to flames
or electrical sparks. Hydrogen gas
generated by battery action 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 minutes and
seek medical attention.
IWhen working on or near a battery,
always wear suitable eye protection
and remove all jewelry.
IKeep the battery out of the reach of
SDI0497
BATTERY
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Z01.2.1/A32-DX

head restraints move up and down smoothly
and that the locks (if equipped) hold securely
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
play.
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 sure to
keep floor mats away from the pedal.
Parking brake*Check that the lever has the
proper travel and make sure that the vehicle is
held securely on a fairly steep hill when only
the parking brake is applied.
Automatic transaxle ªParkº mechanismCheck that the brake pedal must be depressed
for the selector lever to be moved from the ªPº
position. On a fairly steep hill check that the
vehicle is held securely with the selector lever
in the ªPº 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).
Windshield washer fluid*Check that there is
adequate fluid in the tank.
Engine coolant level*Check the coolant level
when the engine is cold.
Radiator and hosesCheck the front of the
radiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves,
etc., that may have accumulated. Make sure
the hoses have no cracks, deformation, dete-
rioration or loose connections.
Brake and clutch fluid levels*Make sure that
the brake and clutch fluid levels are between
the ªMAXº and ªMINº lines on the reservoir.
Battery*Check the fluid level in each cell. It
should be between the ªMAXº and ªMINº lines.
Engine drive belts*Make sure that no belt is
frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*Check the level on thedipstick after parking the vehicle on a level
spot and turning off the engine. Be sure to wait
a few minutes to allow the oil to drain back into
the sump.
Power steering fluid level* and linesCheck
the level in the reservoir tank with the engine
off. Check the lines for proper attachment,
leaks, cracks, etc.
Automatic transaxle fluid level*Check the
level on the dipstick after putting the selector
lever in ªPº with the engine idling.
Exhaust systemMake 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 locate the
trouble and correct it. (See the carbon monox-
ide warning in the ªStarting and drivingº sec-
tion)
UnderbodyThe underbody is frequently ex-
posed to corrosive substances such as those
used on icy roads or to control dust. It is very
important to remove these substances, other-
wise rust will form on the floor pan, frame, fuel
lines and around the exhaust system. At the
end of winter, the underbody should be thor-
oughly flushed with plain water, being careful
to clean those areas where mud and dirt may
accumulate. See the ªAppearance and interior
careº section for additional information.
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Precautions when starting and driving ........ 4-2
E
Economy hints ................................................ 4-15
Emission control information label .................. 9-11
Emission control system warranty .................. 9-19
Engine ............................................................... 9-8
Before starting the engine ........................... 4-6
Changing engine coolant ............................ 7-6
Changing engine oil .................................... 7-8
Checking engine coolant level .................... 7-5
Checking engine oil level ............................ 7-7
Engine coolant temperature gauge ............. 1-4
Engine cooling system ................................ 7-5
Engine oil..................................................... 7-7
Engine oil and oil filter
recommendation .......................................... 9-4
Engine serial number ................................ 9-11
Starting the engine ...................................... 4-6
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) ...................... 4-2
Explanation of maintenance items.................. 8-10
F
Flat tire .............................................................. 5-2
Fluid
Automatic transmission fluid ..................... 7-10
Brake and clutch fluid................................ 7-12
Power steering fluid................................... 7-11
Window washer fluid ................................. 7-12
FM/AM radio with cassette player .................. 3-12
FM-AM radio with cassette player .................. 3-16FM-AM radio with cassette player and
compact disc player ........................................ 3-22
F.M.V.S.S. certification label........................... 9-11
Foldable outside mirrors ................................. 2-39
Front fog light switch (If so equipped) ............ 1-15
Front personal light ......................................... 1-23
Fuel
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants .............................................. 9-2
Fuel filler cap ............................................. 2-10
Fuel filler lid lock ....................................... 2-10
Fuel gauge .................................................. 1-5
Fuel recommendation.................................. 9-2
Fuses .............................................................. 7-21
Fusible links .................................................... 7-23
G
Gauge
Engine coolant temperature gauge ............. 1-4
Fuel gauge .................................................. 1-5
Meters and gauges ..................................... 1-3
General maintenance ....................................... 8-3
Glove box lock .................................................. 2-8
H
Hazard warning flasher switch........................ 1-16
Head restraint ................................................. 2-15
Headlight and turn signal switch..................... 1-14
Headlights ....................................................... 7-23
Heated seats (If so equipped) ........................ 1-16
Heater operation ............................................... 3-4Hood release .................................................... 2-8
I
If your vehicle is ever stolen ........................... 1-26
If your vehicle overheats .................................. 5-9
Ignition switch ................................................... 4-4
Injured persons ............................................... 2-26
Inside mirror .................................................... 2-40
Installing license plate .................................... 9-12
Instrument brightness control ......................... 1-15
Integrated HomeLink
transmitter
(If so equipped).......................................... 1-24
Interior light ..................................................... 1-22
J
Jump starting ........................................... 5-7, 7-14
K
Key .................................................................... 2-2
L
License plate
Installing license plate ............................... 9-12
Light
Front fog light switch (If so
equipped)................................................... 1-15
Front personal light ................................... 1-23
Headlight and turn signal switch ............... 1-14
Headlights.................................................. 7-23
Interior light................................................ 1-22
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Z01.2.1/A32-DX