1998 NISSAN PATHFINDER brake

If you wax the surface of the hood, be
careful not to let wax get into the washer
nozzle. This may cause clogging or im-
proper windshield washer operation. If wax
gets into the nozzle, remove it with a needle
or small pin.
CHECKING PARKING BRAKEPull the parking brake lever up. If the number
of clicks is out of the range as listed above, see
your NISSAN dealer.
CHECKING BRAKE PEDALWith the engine running, check distance A
between the upper surface of the pedal and
the dash lower panel.
Distance A
M/T models
2-1/2 in (65 mm) or more
A/T models
2-3/4 in (70 mm) or more
If it is out of the range shown above, see your
NISSAN dealer.
SDI0425
DI1010-C
DI0453
PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE
PEDAL
8-18
Do-it-yourself
Z
01.1.31/R50-D
X

Self-adjusting brakesYour vehicle is equipped with self-adjusting
brakes.
The front disc-type brakes self-adjust every
time the brake pedal is applied. The rear
drum-type brakes self-adjust every time the
parking brake is applied. If the brake pedal
goes down farther than normal, it may be due
to a lack of adjustment of the rear drum
brakes. Apply the parking brake several times.See your NISSAN dealer and have it
checked if the brake pedal height does
not return to normal.Brake pad wear indicatorsThe disc brake pads on your vehicle have
audible wear indicators. When a brake pad
requires replacement, it will make a high
pitched scraping or screeching sound when
the vehicle is in motion whether or not the
brake pedal is depressed. Have the brakes
checked as soon as possible if the wear indi-
cator sound is heard.
Under some driving or climate conditions, oc-casional brake squeak, squeal or other noise
may be heard. Occasional brake noise during
light to moderate stops is normal and does not
affect the function or performance of the brake
system.
The rear drum brakes (if so equipped) do not
have audible wear indicators. Should you ever
hear an unusually loud noise from the rear
drum brakes, have them inspected as soon as
possible by your NISSAN dealer.
Proper brake inspection intervals should
be followed.For additional information, see
ªPeriodic maintenanceº in the ª9. Mainte-
nanceº section for maintenance intervals.
BRAKE BOOSTERCheck the brake booster function with the
following steps:
1. With the engine off, press and release the
brake pedal several times. When brake
pedal movement (distance of travel) re-
mains the same from one pedal application
to the next, continue on to the next step.
2. While depressing the brake pedal, start the
engine. The pedal height should drop a
little.
3. With the brake pedal depressed, stop the
engine. Keeping the pedal depressed forabout 30 seconds, the pedal height should
not change.
4. Run the engine for one minute without
depressing the brake pedal, then turn it off.
Depress the brake pedal several times. The
pedal travel distance will decrease gradu-
ally with each depression as the vacuum is
released from the booster.
If the brakes do not operate properly, have the
brake checked by your NISSAN dealer.
Do-it-yourself
8-19
Z
01.1.31/R50-D
X

Tire wear and damageITires should be periodically in-
spected for wear, cracking, bulging
or objects caught in the tread. If ex-
cessive wear, cracks, bulging or deep
cuts are found, the tire should be
replaced.
IThe original tires have a built-in tread
wear indicator. When the wear indica-
tor is visible, the tire should bereplaced.
Replacing tires and wheelsWhen replacing a tire, use the same size,
speed rating and load carrying capacity as
originally equipped. See ªSpecificationsº in the
ª10. Technical and consumer informationº sec-
tion for tires and wheels.IThe use of tires other than those
recommended or the mixed use of
tires of different brands, construction
(bias, bias-belted or radial), or tread
patterns can adversely affect the ride,
braking, handling, ground clearance,
body-to-tire clearance, snow chain
clearance, speedometer calibration,
headlight aim and bumper height.
Some of these effects may lead to
accidents and could result in serious
personal injury.
IIf the wheels are changed for any
reason, always replace with wheels
which have the same offset dimen-
sion. Wheels of a different offset
could cause early tire wear, possiblydegraded vehicle handling character-
istics and/or interference with the
brake discs/drums. Such interference
can lead to decreased braking effi-
ciency and/or early brake pad/shoe
wear.
IDo not install a deformed wheel or
tire even if it has been repaired. Such
wheels or tires could have structural
damage and could fail without warn-
ing.
IThe use of retread tire is not rec-
ommended.
Four wheel drive modelsAlways use tires of the same size, brand,
construction (bias, bias-belted or ra-
dial), and tread pattern on all four
wheels. Failure to do so may result in a
circumference difference between tires
on the front and rear axles which will
cause excessive tire wear and may dam-
age the transmission, transfer case and
differential gears.
MDI0004
Do-it-yourself
8-29
Z
01.1.31/R50-D
X

sure no nuts are missing, and check for any
loose nuts. Tighten if necessary.
Tire rotation*Tires should be rotated every
7,500 miles (12,000 km) for 2WD vehicles and
3,750 miles (6,000 km) for 4WD vehicles.
However, the timing for tire rotation may vary
according to your driving habits and road sur-
face conditions.
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 othercorrosive materials, check lubrication fre-
quently.
Inside the vehicleThe 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 asseat 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 smoothly
and 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.
Maintenance
9-3
Z
01.1.31/R50-D
X

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 P position mecha-
nismOn a fairly steep hill check that your
vehicle is held securely with the selector lever
in the P position without applying any brakes.Under the hood and vehicleThe 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, rot or
loose connections.
Brake and clutch fluid levels*Make sure that
the brake and clutch fluid level is between the
MAX and MIN lines on the reservoir.
Battery*Check the fluid level in each cell. Itshould be between the MAX and MIN lines.
Engine drive belts*Make sure that no belt is
frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*Check the level 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 when the fluid is cold and the engine
is turned off. Check the lines for proper attach-
ment, leaks, cracks, etc.
Automatic transmission fluid level*Check
the level after putting the selector lever in P
(Park) 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 ªPrecautions when
starting and drivingº in the ª5. Starting and
drivingº section for exhaust gas (carbon mon-
oxide).
UnderbodyThe underbody is frequently ex-
posed to corrosive substances such as those
used on icy roads or to control dust. It is veryimportant 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. For additional information, see
ªCleaning exteriorº in the ª7. Appearance and
careº section.
Fluid leaksCheck 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.9-4
Maintenance
Z
01.1.31/R50-D
X

To ensure smooth, trouble-free, safe and eco-
nomical driving, NISSAN provides two differ-
ent maintenance schedules that may be used,
depending upon the conditions in which you
usually drive. These schedules contain both
distance and time intervals, up to 60,000 miles
(96,000 km)/48 months. For most people, the
odometer reading will indicate when service is
needed. However, if you drive very little, your
vehicle should be serviced at the regular time
intervals shown in the schedule.
After 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48
months, continue periodic maintenance at
the same mileage/time intervals.SCHEDULE 1Follow Periodic Maintenance Schedule 1 if
your driving habits frequently include one or
more of the following driving conditions:
IRepeated short trips of less than 5 miles
(8 km).
IRepeated short trips of less than 10
miles (16 km) with outside temperatures
remaining below freezing.
IOperating in hot weather in stop-and-go
rush hour traffic.
IExtensive idling and/or low speed driv-ing for long distances, such as police,
taxi or door-to-door delivery use.
IDriving in dusty conditions.
IDriving on rough, muddy, or salt spread
roads.
ITowing a trailer, using a camper or a
car-top carrier.
SCHEDULE 2Follow Periodic Maintenance Schedule 2 if
none of the driving conditions shown in Sched-
ule 1 apply to your driving habits.
Maintenance for offroad drivingWhenever you drive offroad through sand,
mud or water as deep as the wheel hub, more
frequent maintenance may be required of the
following items:G
Brake pads and discs
G
Brake lining and drums
G
Brake lines and hoses
G
Wheel bearing grease
G
Differential, transmission and transfer oil
G
Steering linkage
G
Propeller shafts and front drive shafts
G
Air cleaner filter
G
Clutch housing (See ªClutch housing drainº
in the ª8. Do-it-yourselfº section for check-
ing water entry.)
These items should be checked frequently to
assure safe and proper operation of your ve-
hicle.
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULES
Maintenance
9-5
Z
01.1.31/R50-D
X

SCHEDULE 1Abbreviations: R = Replace I = Inspect. Correct or replace if necessary. L = Lubricate [ ]: At the mileage intervals onlyMAINTENANCE OPERATIONMAINTENANCE INTERVAL
Perform at number of miles, kilometers
or months, whichever comes first.Miles´1,000 3.75 7.5 11.25 15 18.75 22.5 26.25 30 33.75 37.5 41.25 45 48.75 52.5 56.25 60
(km´1,000) (6) (12) (18) (24) (30) (36) (42) (48) (54) (60) (66) (72) (78) (84) (90) (96)
Months 3 6 9 12 15 18 21 24 27 30 33 36 39 42 45 48
Chassis and body maintenance
Brake lines & cablesIIII
Brake pads, discs, drums & liningsIIIIIIII
Automatic transmission & transfer fluid,
manual transmission & differential gear oil
(exc. LSD)See NOTE (1)IIII
Limited-slip differential (LSD) gear oil See NOTE (1)IRIR
Steering gear & linkage, axle & suspension partsIIIIIIII
Drive shaft boots & propeller shaft (
) IIIIIIII
Propeller shaft grease See NOTE (2)LLLLLLLL
Front wheel bearing grease (4x2)II
Front wheel bearing grease (
) See NOTE (3)IRIR
Exhaust systemIIIIIIII
Supplemental air bag system See NOTE (4)
NOTE: (1) If towing a trailer, using a camper or a car-top carrier, or driving on rough or muddy roads, change (not just inspect) oil at every 30,000 miles(48,000 km)
or 24 months except for LSD. Change LSD gear oil every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
(2) The propeller shaft should be re-greased daily if it is immersed in water.
(3) If operating frequently in water, replace grease every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months.
(4) Inspect the supplemental air bag system 10 years after the date of manufacture noted on the F.M.V.S.S. certification label.
Maintenance
9-7
Z
01.1.31/R50-D
X

SCHEDULE 2Abbreviations: R = Replace I = Inspect. Correct or replace if necessary. L = Lubricate [ ]: At the mileage intervals onlyMAINTENANCE OPERATIONMAINTENANCE INTERVAL
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.Miles´1,000 7.5 15 22.5 30 37.5 45 52.5 60
(km´1,000) (12) (24) (36) (48) (60) (72) (84) (96)
Months 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 48
Chassis and body maintenance
Brake lines & cablesIIII
Brake pads, discs, drums & liningsIIII
Automatic transmission & transfer fluid, manual transmission & dif-
ferential gear oil (exc. LSD)IIII
Limited-slip differential (LSD) gear oilIRIR
Steering gear & linkage, axle & suspension parts I I
Drive shaft boots (
) IIII
Propeller shaft grease See NOTE (1)LLLL
Front wheel bearing grease (4x2)II
Front wheel bearing grease (
) IRIR
Exhaust systemII
Supplemental air bag system See NOTE (2)
NOTE: (1) The propeller shaft should be re-greased daily if it is immersed in water.
(2) Inspect the supplemental air bag system 10 years after the date of manufacture noted on the F.M.V.S.S. certification label.
Maintenance
9-9
Z
01.1.31/R50-D
X