
WARNING
cBe sure the parking brake is fully
released before driving. Failure to do
so can cause brake failure and lead
to an accident.
cDo not release the parking brake
from outside the vehicle.
cDo not use the gearshift in place of
the parking brake. When parking, be
sure the parking brake is fully en-
gaged.
c
Do not leave children unattended in a
vehicle. They could release the park-
ing brake and cause an accident.
To apply:Firmly depress the parking brake.
To release:
1. Firmly apply the foot brake.
2. Move the shift selector lever to the P
(Park) position.
3. Press and release the parking brake
pedal completely.
4. Before driving, be sure the brake warning
light goes out.
WARNING
Do not use the cruise control when
driving under the following conditions:
cit is not possible to keep the vehicle
at a set speed.
cin heavy traffic or in traffic that var-
ies in speed.
con winding or hilly roads.
con slippery roads (rain, snow, ice,
etc.).
cin very windy areas.
Doing so could cause a loss of vehicle
control and result in an accident.
ASD1017
PARKING BRAKE
OPERATIONCRUISE CONTROL (if so
equipped)
Starting and driving5-9
ZX

The power assisted steering is designed to
use a hydraulic pump, driven by the engine,
to aid steering.
If the engine stops or the drive belt breaks,
you still have control of the vehicle. How-
ever, much greater steering effort is
needed, especially in sharp turns and at low
speeds.
WARNING
If the engine is not running or is turned
off while driving, the power assist for
the steering will not work. Steering will
be much harder to operate.The brake system has two separate hydrau-
lic circuits. If one circuit develops a problem
you will still have braking at two wheels.
Vacuum assisted brake
The brake booster aids braking by using
engine vacuum. If the engine stops, you can
stop the vehicle by depressing the brake
pedal. However, greater foot pressure on
the brake pedal is required to stop the
vehicle, and stopping distance is longer.
Wet brakes
When the vehicle is washed or driven
through water, the brakes may get wet. As a
result, your braking distance is longer and
the vehicle may pull to one side during
braking.
To dry the brakes, drive the vehicle at a safe
speed while lightly pressing the brake pedal
to heat up the brakes. Do this until the
brakes return to normal. Avoid driving the
vehicle at high speeds until the brakes
function correctly.
Using the brakes
Avoid resting your foot on the brake pedal
while driving. This overheats the brakes,
wears out the brake linings and pads fasterand reduces fuel economy.
To help save the brakes and to prevent the
brakes from overheating, reduce speed and
downshift to a lower gear before going down
a slope or long grade. Overheated brakes
may reduce braking performance and could
result in loss of vehicle control.WARNING
cWhile driving on a slippery surface,
be careful when braking, accelerat-
ing or downshifting. Abrupt braking
actions or sudden acceleration
could cause the wheels to skid and
result in an accident.
cIf the engine is not running or is
turned off while driving, the power
assist for the brakes will not work.
Braking will be harder.
POWER STEERING SYSTEM BRAKE SYSTEM
5-14Starting and driving
ZX

The anti-lock brake system controls the
brakes at each wheel so the wheels do not
lock when braking abruptly or when braking
on slippery surfaces. The system detects the
rotation speed at each wheel and varies the
brake fluid pressure to prevent each wheel
from locking and sliding. By preventing wheel
lockup, the system helps the driver maintain
steering control and helps to minimize swerv-
ing and spinning on slippery surfaces.
Using the system
Depress the brake pedal and hold it down.
WARNING
Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so
may result in increased stopping dis-
tances.
Normal operation
The anti-lock brake system does not operate
at speeds below 3 to 6 MPH (5 to 10 km/h).
(The speeds vary according to road condi-
tions.) When the anti-lock system senses one
or more wheels are close to locking up, the
actuator (under the hood) rapidly applies and
releases hydraulic pressure (like pumping the
brakes very quickly). While the actuator isworking, you may feel a pulsation in the brake
pedal and hear a noise or vibration from the
actuator under the hood. This is normal and
indicates the anti-lock system is working prop-
erly. However, the pulsation may indicate road
conditions are hazardous and extra care is
required while driving.
Self-test feature
The anti-lock brake system consists of elec-
tronic sensors, electric pumps, and hydraulic
solenoids controlled by a computer.
The computer has a built-in diagnostic
feature that tests the system each time
you start the engine and move the ve-
hicle at a low speed in forward or reverse.
When the self-test occurs, you may hear a
``clunk'' noise and/or feel a pulsation in the
brake pedal. This is normal and is not an
indication of any malfunction. If the com-
puter senses any malfunction, it switches
the anti-lock brake system OFF and turns
on the ABS brake warning light in the dash-
board. The brake system then operates
normally, but without anti-lock assistance.
If the light comes on during the self-test, or
while driving, take the vehicle to an authorized
NISSAN dealer for repair.
WARNING
The anti-lock brake system is a sophis-
ticated device, but it cannot prevent
accidents resulting from careless or
dangerous driving techniques. It can
help maintain vehicle control during
braking on slippery surfaces, but re-
member that the stopping distance on
slippery surfaces will be longer than on
normal surfaces, even with the anti-
lock system. Stopping distances may
also be longer on rough, gravel or
snow covered roads, or if you are using
tire chains. Always maintain a safe dis-
tance from the vehicle in front of you.
Ultimately, the responsibility for safety
of self and others rests in the hands of
the driver.
Tire type and condition of tires may
also affect braking effectiveness.
cWhen replacing tires, install the
specified size of tires on all four
wheels.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM
(ABS) (if so equipped)
Starting and driving5-15
ZX

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 an authorized NISSAN dealer.
For further brake fluid specification informa-
tion, refer to the ``Technical and Consumer
Information'' section in this manual.
WARNING
Use only new fluid. Old, inferior, or
contaminated fluid may damage the
brake system. The use of improper flu-
ids can damage the brake system and
affect the vehicle's stopping ability.
CAUTION
Do not spill the fluid on painted sur-
faces. This will damage the paint. If
fluid is spilled, wash with water.
Add fluid when the low washer fluid warning
light comes on. To check the fluid level, look
down the fill tube of the washer fluid reser-
voir in the engine compartment.
To add fluid, remove the reservoir cap and
refill the reservoir.
This reservoir serves both the front and rear
washer systems.
CAUTION
Do not substitute engine anti-freeze
coolant for window washer solution.
This may result in damage to the paint.
ADI1087ADI1088
BRAKE FLUID WINDOW WASHER FLUID
8-10Do-it-yourself
ZX

From the released position, push the park-
ing brake foot lever down. If the number of
clicks is out of the range listed above, see
an authorized NISSAN dealer.With the engine running, check the distance
between the upper surface of the pedal and
the floor. If it is out of the range shown
above, see an authorized NISSAN dealer.
Self-adjusting brakes
Your 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 also self-adjust every
time the brake pedal is applied. If the brake
pedal goes down farther than normal, see
an authorized NISSAN dealer.
WARNING
See an authorized NISSAN dealer and
have it checked if the brake pedal
height does not return to normal.
Brake pad wear indicators
The disc pads on your vehicle have audible
wear indicators. When a brake pad requires
replacement, it makes a high pitched scrap-
ing 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 indicator sound
is heard.
Under some driving or climate conditions,
occasional brake squeak, squeal or other
noise may be heard. Occasional brake
noise during light to moderate stops is nor-
mal 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. If you ever
hear an unusually loud noise from the rear
drum brakes, have them inspected as soon
as possible by an authorized NISSAN
dealer.
ADI1089ADI0027
PARKING BRAKE CHECK BRAKE PEDAL
Do-it-yourself8-19
ZX

Tire wear and damage
WARNING
cTires should be periodically in-
spected for wear, cracking, bulging,
or objects caught in the tread. If
excessive wear, cracks, bulging, or
deep cuts are found, the tire should
be replaced.
cThe original tires have a built-in
tread wear indicator. When the wear
indicator is visible, the tire should be
replaced.cImproper service for a T-type spare
tire may result in serious personal
injury. If it is necessary to repair the
T-type spare tire, contact an autho-
rized NISSAN dealer.
Changing tires and wheels
When replacing a tire, use the same size,
tread design, speed rating and load carrying
capacity as originally equipped. Recom-
mended types and sizes are shown in
``Wheels and tires'' in the ``Technical and
consumer information'' section of this manual.
WARNING
c
The 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.cIf 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, possibly
degraded 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.
cDo 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.
cThe use of retread tires is not recom-
mended.
Wheel balance
Unbalanced wheels may affect vehicle han-
dling and tire life. Even with regular use,
wheels can get out of balance. Therefore,
they should be balanced as required.
Wheel balance service should be performed
with the wheels off the vehicle. Spin balanc-
ing the front wheels on the vehicle could
lead to transmission damage.
DI1035M
8-30Do-it-yourself
ZX

make sure no wheel nuts are missing, and
check for any loose wheel nuts. Tighten if
necessary.
Tire rotation*Ð Tires should be rotated
every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).
Wheel alignment and balanceÐIfthe
vehicle should pull to either side while driv-
ing on a straight and level road, or if you
detect uneven or abnormal tire wear, there
may be a need for a wheel alignment.
If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at
normal highway speeds, wheel balancing
may be needed.
Windshield wiper blades*Ð Check for
cracks or wear if they do not wipe properly.
Doors and hoodÐ Check that all doors
and the hood operate properly. Also ensure
that all latches lock securely. Lubricate
hinges, latches, rollers and links if neces-
sary. Make sure 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
frequently.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.
Additional information on the following
items with an ``*'' is found in the ``Do-it-
yourself'' section of this manual.
Lights*Ð Make sure 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/chimesÐ
Make sure all warning lights and
buzzers/chimes are operating properly.
Windshield wiper and washer*Ð Check
that the wipers and washer operate properly
and that the wipers do not streak.
Windshield defrosterÐ Check that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly
and in sufficient quantity when operating the
heater or air conditioner.
Steering wheelÐ Check for changes in
the steering conditions, such as excessive
freeplay, hard steering or strange noises.SeatsÐ Check seat position controls such
as seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to
ensure they operate smoothly and all
latches lock securely in every position.
Check that the head restraints move up and
down smoothly and the locks hold securely
in all latched positions. Check that the seat
leg latches lock securely in every anchor
position for the folding down rear seat and
detachable rear seat (if so equipped).
Seat beltsÐ Check that all parts of the seat
belt system (e.g. buckles, anchors, adjust-
ers and retractors) operate properly and
smoothly, and are installed securely. Check
the belt webbing for cuts, fraying, wear or
damage.
Accelerator pedalÐ Check the pedal for
smooth operation and make sure the pedal
does not catch or require uneven effort.
Keep the floor mat away from the pedal.
BrakesÐ Check that the brakes do not pull
the vehicle to one side when applied.
Brake pedal and booster*Ð Check the
pedal for smooth operation and make sure it
has the proper distance under it when de-
pressed fully. Check the brake booster func-
Maintenance
9-3
ZX

11 Index
A
After an accident........................................ 6-11
Air bag (See supplemental restraint
system) ...................................................... 1-19
Air bag warning light .................................. 1-24
Air cleaner housing filter ............................ 8-13
Air conditioner
Air conditioner operation ........................ 4-5
Air conditioner service .......................... 4-14
Air conditioner specification label ....... 10-11
Air conditioner system refrigerant and
lubrication recommendations ................ 10-6
Heater and air conditioner (automatic)
(if so equipped)..................................... 4-11
Heater and air conditioner (manual)....... 4-3
Rear seat air conditioner ...................... 4-14
Air filter
Cabin air filter ....................................... 8-14
Air flow charts .............................................. 4-7
Alarm system (See theft warning) ............. 2-10
Anchor point locations ............................... 1-57
Anti-lock brake system (ABS).................... 5-15
Anti-lock brake warning light ....................... 2-8
Armrests....................................................... 1-6
Ashtray (See cigarette lighter and
ashtray) ...................................................... 2-17Audio system
AM-FM radio with cassette player ........ 4-16
AM-FM radio with cassette player and
compact disc player.............................. 4-22
Compact disc (CD) player ........... 4-28, 4-30
Autolamp switch......................................... 2-14
Automatic
Automatic power window switch .......... 2-21
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) ........ 8-8
Driving with automatic transmission ....... 5-5
Transmission selector lever lock
release .................................................... 5-6
B
Battery........................................................ 8-11
Before starting the engine ........................... 5-5
Brake
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) .............. 5-15
Brake booster ....................................... 8-20
Brake fluid ................................... 10-2, 8-10
Brake light (See stop light) ................... 8-23
Brake pedal .......................................... 8-19
Brake system ........................................ 5-14
Brake warning light ................................. 2-7
Brake wear indicators ............................. 2-9
Parking brake check ............................. 8-19
Parking brake operation ......................... 5-9Self-adjusting brakes ............................ 8-19
Break-in schedule ...................................... 5-11
Bulb check/instrument panel ....................... 2-6
Bulb replacement ....................................... 8-23
C
Cabin air filter ............................................ 8-14
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants.................................................... 10-2
Cargo net ................................................... 3-16
Cargo (See vehicle loading
information) .............................................. 10-12
Cassette player (See audio system) ......... 4-16
CB radio or car phone ............................... 4-33
Check engine indicator light
(See malfunction indicator light) .................. 2-9
Child restraint with top tether strap ........... 1-51
Child restraints ........................................... 1-41
Child safety sliding door lock....................... 3-6
Cigarette lighter (accessory) and
ashtray ....................................................... 2-17
Cleaning exterior and interior ...................... 7-2
Clock................................................. 4-16, 4-22
Cold weather driving .................................. 5-16
Compact disc (CD) player ................ 4-28, 4-30
ZX