
7Do-it-yourself operations
Maintenance precautions .......................................7-2
Engine compartment check locations ....................7-3
Engine cooling system ...........................................7-4
Checking engine coolant level ...............................7-4
Changing engine coolant .......................................7-5
Engine oil ...............................................................7-5
Checking engine oil level .......................................7-5
Changing engine oil ...............................................7-6
Changing engine oil filter .......................................7-7
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) ........................7-8
Temperature conditions for checking ATF .............7-8
Power steering fluid................................................7-9
Brake fluid ............................................................7-10
Window washer fluid ............................................7-10
Battery ..................................................................7-11
Jump starting ........................................................7-12Drive belts ............................................................7-12
Spark 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
Headlights ............................................................7-19
Bulb replacement .................................................7-21
Wheels and tires ..................................................7-25
Types of tires........................................................7-26
Tire chains ............................................................7-26
ZX

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.
CAUTION
DO NOT OVERFILL.
Use ONLY Nissan Matic `D' (Continen-
tal U.S. and Alaska) or Genuine Nissan
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 suitable
fluids, including recommended
brand(s) of Dexronž III/Merconž or
Dexronž IIE/Merconž Automatic Trans-
mission Fluid.
NOTE:
If the vehicle has been driven for a longtime at high speeds, or in city traffic in
hot weather, or if it is being used to pull
a 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 the 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 auto-
matic transmission fluid type F up 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
ZX

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

The following are approximate capacities. The actual refill capacities may be a little
different. When refilling, follow the procedure instructed in the ``Do-it-yourself''
section to determine the proper refill capacity.
Capacity (Approximate)
Recommended Fluids & Lubricants
US
measureImp
measureLiter
Fuel 20 gal 16-5/8 gal 75.7Unleaded gasoline with an octane rat-
ing of at least 87 AKI (RON 91)(1)
Engine oil (Refill)
With oil filter 4-1/4 qt 3-1/2 qt 4.0
API SG or SH and Energy Conserving II (2)
API Certification Mark (2)Without oil filter 3-7/8 qt 3-1/8 qt 3.6
Cooling system
With reservoir tank
With rear heater 12-3/4 qt 10-5/8 qt 12.1
Anti-freeze coolant
(Ethylene glycol base)
Without rear heater 11-3/8 qt 9-3/8 qt 10.7
Reservoir 3/4 qt 5/8 qt 0.7
Automatic transaxle fluidNISSAN matic `D' (Continental U.S. and
Alaska) or Genuine Nissan Automatic
Transmission Fluid (Canada).(3)
Power steering fluid
Refill to the proper oil level
according to the instructions in the
``Do-it-yourself'' section.Type F automatic transmission fluid or
equivalent
Brake fluidGenuine NISSAN Brake Fluid(4) or
equivalent
DOT 3 (US FMVSS No. 116)
Multi-purpose grease Ð Ð Ð NLGI No. 2 (Lithium complex)
Air conditioning system refrigerantÐ Ð Ð HFC-134a (R-134a)(5)(1): For further details, see ``Fuel recommendation''.
(2): For further details, see ``Recommended SAE engine oil viscosity''.
(3):
DexronTIII/MerconTor equivalent may also be used. Outside the Continental United States and Alaska
contact a NISSAN dealership for more information regarding suitable fluids, including recommended
brand(s) of DexronTIII/MerconTAutomatic Transmission Fluid.
(4): Available in mainland U.S.A. through an authorized NISSAN dealer.
(5): For further details, see ``Air conditioner specification label''.
FUEL RECOMMENDATION
All models are designed to operate on
unleaded gasoline with an octane rating
of at least 87 AKI (Anti-Knock Index)
number (Research octane number 91).
CAUTION
cUsing a fuel other than that specified
could adversely affect the emission
control devices and systems, and
could also affect warranty coverage.
cUnder no circumstances should a
leaded gasoline be used, since this
will damage the three way catalyst.
Reformulated gasoline
Some fuel suppliers are now producing re-
formulated gasolines. These gasolines are
specially designed to reduce vehicle emis-
sions. NISSAN supports efforts towards
cleaner air and suggests that you use refor-
mulated gasoline when available.
CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED
FUEL/LUBRICANTS
9-2
ZX

Audio controls (steering wheel) ............ 3-23
Heater and air conditioner controls
(automatic) ............................................ 3-10
Heater and air conditioner controls
(manual).................................................. 3-3
Rear seat heater and air conditioner
controls ................................................. 3-13
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 ........................................... 1-15
Corrosion protection .................................... 6-4
Cruise control............................................. 4-10
Cup holder ................................................. 1-18
D
Daytime running light system
(Canada only) ............................................ 1-13
Defogger switch
Rear window defogger switch .............. 1-12
Dimensions and weights.............................. 9-8
Door ajar warning light ................................ 1-7
Door locks .................................................... 2-2
Drive belts .................................................. 7-12
Driving
Cold weather driving............................. 4-16
Driving with automatic transmission ....... 4-5Precautions when starting and
driving ..................................................... 4-2
E
Economy - fuel........................................... 4-12
Emission control information label............. 9-10
Emission control system warranty ............. 9-19
Engine
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 ........................... 7-4
Engine oil ................................................ 7-5
Engine oil and oil filter
recommendation ..................................... 9-4
Engine oil pressure warning light ........... 1-6
Engine oil viscosity ................................. 9-5
Engine serial number ............................. 9-9
Starting the engine ................................. 4-8
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) ................. 4-2F
Five passenger seating ............................. 2-18
Five passenger seating with cargo
room ........................................................... 2-18
Flashers (See hazard warning flasher
switch) ........................................................ 1-15
Flat tire ......................................................... 5-2
Flexible seating .......................................... 2-32
Floor mat positioning ........................ 2-17, 2-20
Floor mat positioning aid ........................... 2-20
Fluid
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) ........ 7-8
Brake fluid ..................................... 7-10, 9-2
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................ 9-2
Engine coolant ........................................ 7-4
Engine oil ................................................ 7-5
Power steering fluid ........................ 7-9, 9-2
Window washer fluid ............................ 7-10
F.M.V.S.S. certification label ..................... 9-10
Fuel
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................ 9-2
Fuel economy ....................................... 4-12
Fuel filler lid and cap ............................ 2-15
Fuel filler lid lock opener lever ............. 2-15
Fuel gauge.............................................. 1-5
Fuel octane rating................................... 9-3
Fuel recommendation ............................. 9-2
Fuses ......................................................... 7-17
Fusible links ............................................... 7-18
10-2
ZX

Seat belt maintenance.......................... 2-60
Under the hood and vehicle ................... 8-4
Malfunction indicator light ............................ 1-9
Manual antenna ......................................... 3-20
Manual front seat adjustment .................... 2-26
Manual rear windows................................. 1-22
Map light (See spot light) .......................... 1-25
Mirror
Inside mirror.......................................... 2-80
Outside mirror control ........................... 2-79
Outside mirrors ..................................... 2-80
Vanity mirror ......................................... 2-80
Multi-remote control system ........................ 2-7
O
Odometer ..................................................... 1-4
Oil
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................ 9-2
Changing engine oil................................ 7-6
Changing engine oil filter........................ 7-7
Checking engine oil level ....................... 7-5
Engine oil ................................................ 7-5
Engine oil and oil filter
recommendation ..................................... 9-4
Engine oil viscosity ................................. 9-5
Outside mirror control ................................ 2-79
Outside mirrors .......................................... 2-80
Overdrive switch .......................................... 4-7
Overheat
If your vehicle overheats ...................... 5-10Owner's manual order form ....................... 9-21
P
Parking
Parking brake check ............................. 7-16
Parking brake operation ......................... 4-9
Parking/parking on hills ........................ 4-13
Periodic maintenance schedules ................. 8-5
Personal reading light ................................ 1-24
Power
Power antenna ..................................... 3-20
Power door lock...................................... 2-5
Power rear windows ............................. 1-22
Power steering fluid ........................ 7-9, 9-2
Power support front seat ...................... 2-28
Power windows..................................... 1-19
Precautions
Maintenance precautions ....................... 7-2
Precautions on seat belt usage............ 2-49
Precautions when starting and
driving ..................................................... 4-2
Push starting .............................................. 5-10
R
Radio
AM-FM radio with cassette player ........ 3-14
CB radio or car phone .......................... 3-25
Readiness for inspection maintenance (I/M)
test ............................................................. 9-20Rear door ................................................... 2-11
Rear door lock ........................................... 2-11
Rear power point ....................................... 1-17
Rear seat heater and air conditioner......... 3-13
Rear window defogger switch ................... 1-12
Rear window wiper and washer
switches ..................................................... 1-12
Refrigerant recommendation ....................... 9-6
Registering your vehicle in another
country ......................................................... 9-9
Remote keyless entry system (See
multi-remote control system) ....................... 2-7
Removing and installing the second row bench
seat ............................................................ 2-32
Reporting safety defects (USA) ................. 9-19
S
Safety
Child safety sliding door lock ................. 2-4
Reporting safety defects (USA) ............ 9-19
Seat belt
2-point type without retractor................ 2-58
3-point type with retractor ........... 2-51, 2-53
Precautions on seat belt usage............ 2-49
Seat belt extenders .............................. 2-60
Seat belt maintenance.......................... 2-60
Seat belts.............................................. 2-49
Seat belt warning light ................................. 1-7
Seat positions ............................................ 2-21
Seating arrangements ............................... 2-15
10-4
ZX

Seats
Five passenger seating ........................ 2-18
Five passenger seating with cargo
room...................................................... 2-18
Flexible seating..................................... 2-32
Integrated child safety seats ................ 2-71
Manual front seat adjustment ............... 2-26
Power support front seat ...................... 2-28
Seat positions ....................................... 2-21
Second row bench seat........................ 2-21
Second row bucket seats ..................... 2-24
Seven passenger seating ..................... 2-17
Sliding three-passenger seat................ 2-38
Three-passenger bench seat in fully
forward position .................................... 2-19
Three-passenger bench seat in storage
position ................................................. 2-17
Seats/floor mats ......................................... 2-15
Self-adjusting brakes ................................. 7-16
Service manual order form ........................ 9-21
Seven passenger seating .......................... 2-17
Shifting
Automatic transmission .......................... 4-6
Sliding three-passenger seat ..................... 2-38
Spark plug replacement............................. 7-12
Speedometer ............................................... 1-4
Spotlights ................................................... 1-25
SRS warning label ..................................... 2-47
Starting
Before starting the engine ...................... 4-5
Jump starting................................. 5-8, 7-12
Precautions when starting anddriving ..................................................... 4-2
Push starting......................................... 5-10
Starting the engine ................................. 4-8
Steering
Power steering fluid ........................ 7-9, 9-2
Tilting steering wheel............................ 2-78
Stop light .................................................... 7-21
Storage
Coin tray ............................................... 1-17
Compact disc storage........................... 1-18
Under seat storage tray........................ 2-31
Sun shade.................................................. 1-21
Sunroof ...................................................... 1-21
Supplemental restraint system
Information and warning labels ............ 2-47
Switch
Autolamp switch ................................... 1-13
Automatic power window switch .......... 1-20
Hazard warning flasher switch ............. 1-15
Headlight control switch ....................... 1-13
Ignition switch ......................................... 4-4
Overdrive switch ..................................... 4-7
Rear window defogger switch .............. 1-12
Rear window wiper and washer
switches ................................................ 1-12
Turn signal switch................................. 1-14
Windshield wiper and washer
switch .................................................... 1-11
T
Tabletop seats ........................................... 2-31Tachometer .................................................. 1-4
Theft warning ............................................. 1-10
Three way catalyst....................................... 4-2
Three-passenger bench seat..................... 2-57
Three-passenger bench seat in fully
forward position ......................................... 2-19
Three-passenger bench seat in storage
position....................................................... 2-17
Tilting steering wheel ................................. 2-78
Timing belt ................................................... 9-7
Timing chain ................................................ 9-7
Tire
Flat tire.................................................... 5-2
Spare tire .............................................. 7-29
Tire chains ............................................ 7-26
Tire placard........................................... 9-11
Tire pressure ........................................ 7-25
Tire rotation .......................................... 7-27
Tool kit .................................................... 5-2
Types of tires ........................................ 7-26
Uniform tire quality grading .................. 9-18
Wheels and tires ........................... 7-25, 9-8
Wheel/tire size ........................................ 9-8
Towing
Tow truck towing .................................. 5-12
Towing load/specification chart ............ 9-14
Trailer towing ........................................ 9-13
Transmission
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) ........ 7-8
Driving with automatic transmission ....... 4-5
Travel (See registering your vehicle in
another country)........................................... 9-9
10-5
ZX