Proper brake inspection intervals should
be followed.For more information regard-
ing brake inspections, see the appropriate
maintenance schedule information in the
``Maintenance'' section of this manual.
BRAKE BOOSTER
Check the brake booster function as fol-
lows:
1. With the engine off, press and release
the brake pedal several times. When
brake pedal movement (distance of
travel) remains 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, turn the
engine off. Keep the pedal depressed for
about 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 de-
crease gradually with each depressionas the vacuum is released from the
booster.
If the brakes do not operate properly, see an
authorized NISSAN dealer.
ENGINE COMPARTMENT
CAUTION
Never use a fuse of a higher amperage
rating than that specified on the fuse
box cover. This could damage the elec-
trical system or cause a fire.
If a headlight does not come on, check for
an open fuse:
The left headlight (driver's side) and right
headlight (passenger side) fuses are lo-
ADI1090
FUSES
8-20Do-it-yourself
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(s)
should be replaced.
cThe original tires have a built-in
tread wear indicator. When the wear
indicator is visible, the tire(s) should
be replaced.cImproper service of the spare tire
may result in serious personal in-
jury. If it is necessary to repair the
spare tire, contact an authorized
NISSAN dealer.
Replacing wheels and tires
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 off-set dimen-
sion. Wheels of a different offset
could cause pre-mature tire wear, de-
grading vehicle handling characteris-
tics and/or interference with the
brake discs/drums. Such interference
can lead to decreased braking effi-
ciency and/or early brake pad/
shoe wear. Refer to ªWheel/tire sizeº
in the ªTechnical and consumer infor-
mationº section of this manual for
wheel off-set dimensions.
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.
DI1035M
Do-it-yourself8-31
ZX
cluding the spare, and adjust to the speci-
fied pressure if necessary. Check carefully
for damage, cuts or excessive wear.
Wheel nuts*Ð When checking the tires,
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.
INTERIOR MAINTENANCE
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
Maintenance
9-3
ZX
has the proper distance under it when de-
pressed fully. Check the brake booster func-
tion. Be certain to keep the floor mat away
from the pedal.
Parking brake*Ð Check that the pedal is
adjusted to specification and confirm that
your vehicle is held securely on a fairly
steep hill with only the parking brake ap-
plied.
Automatic transmission P mechanismÐ
On a fairly steep hill check that your vehicle
is held securely with the selector lever in the
P (Park) position without applying 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.
Additional information on the following
items with an ``*'' is found in the ``Do-it-
yourself section'' of this manual.
Windshield washer fluid* ÐCheck that
there is adequate fluid in the reservoir.
Engine oil level*Ð Check the level after
parking the vehicle on a level surface with
the engine off. Wait a few minutes for the oilto drain back into the oil pan.
Brake fluid level*Ð Make sure the brake
fluid level is between the MIN and MAX
lines on the reservoir.
Power steering fluid level* and linesÐ
Check the level when the fluid is cold with
the engine 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 at
operating temperature.
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.
Engine drive belts*Ð Make sure the drive
belts are not frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Battery*Ð Check the fluid level in each
cell. It should be between the MAX and MIN
lines.
Exhaust systemÐ Make sure there are nocracks, 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
an authorized NISSAN dealer. See the car-
bon monoxide warning in the ``Starting and
driving'' section of this manual.
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 from the underbody, otherwise rust
may form on the floor pan, frame, fuel lines
and exhaust system. At the end of winter,
the underbody should be thoroughly flushed
with plain water, in those areas where mud
and dirt may have accumulated. See the
``Appearance and care'' section of this
manual.
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 by
an authorized NISSAN dealer.
9-4Maintenance
ZX
Abbreviations: R = Replace I = Inspect. Correct or replace if necessary.
MAINTENANCE OPERATIONMAINTENANCE INTERVAL
Perform at number of miles,
kilometers or months, whichever
comes first.Miles ý 1,000 7.5 15 22.5 30 37.5 45 52.5 60
(km ý 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, rotors, drums & liningsIIIIIIII
Automatic transmission fluid See NOTE (1).IIII
Steering gear & linkage, axle & suspension partsIIIIIIII
Tire Rotation See NOTE (4).
Exhaust systemIIIIIIII
Drive shaft bootsIIIIIIII
Cabin air filter (if so equipped) See NOTE (3).RRRR
Supplemental air bag system See NOTE (2).
Automatic speed control device (ASCD) vacuum hosesIIII
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) fluid at every 30,000 miles
(48,000 km) or 24 months.
(2) Inspect the supplemental air bag system 10 years after the date of manufacture noted on the F.M.V.S.S. certification label.
(3) If operating mainly in dusty conditions, more frequent maintenance may be required.
(4) Refer to ``Tire rotation'' under the ``General Maintenance'' heading earlier in this section.
Maintenance9-7
ZX
Abbreviations: R = Replace I = Inspect. Correct or replace if necessary.
MAINTENANCE OPERATIONMAINTENANCE INTERVAL
Perform at number of miles, kilome-
ters or months, whichever comes
first.Miles ý 1,000
(km ý 1,000)
Months7.5
(12)
615
(24)
1222.5
(36)
1830
(48)
2437.5
(60)
3045
(72)
3652.5
(84)
4260
(96)
48
Chassis and body maintenance
Brake lines & cablesIIII
Brake pads, rotors, drums & liningsIIII
Automatic transmission fluidIIII
Steering gear & linkage, axle & suspension parts I I
Tire rotation See NOTE (4).
Exhaust system See NOTE (1). I I
Drive shaft bootsIIII
Cabin air filter (if so equipped) See NOTE (3).RRRR
Supplemental air bag system See NOTE (2).
Automatic speed control device (ASCD)
vacuum hosesIIII
NOTE: (1) After 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months, inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
(2) Inspect the supplemental air bag system 10 years after the date of manufacture as noted on the F.M.V.S.S. certification label.
(3) If operating mainly in dusty conditions, more frequent maintenance may be required.
(4) Refer to ``Tire rotation'' under the ``General Maintenance'' heading earlier in this section.
Maintenance9-9
ZX
Additional information on the following
items with an ``*'' is found in the ``Do-it-
yourself operations'' section of this
manual.
Emission control system
maintenance
Drive belts* ÐCheck drive belts for wear,
fraying or cracking and also for proper ten-
sion. Replace any damaged drive belts.
Air cleaner filter ÐUnder normal driving
conditions, the air cleaner filter should be
replaced in accordance with the maintenance
schedule. However, driving the vehicle in
dusty areas may cause rapid clogging of the
element. Consequently, the element may
have to be replaced more frequently.
EVAP vapor lines ÐCheck vapor lines
and connections for leaks, looseness or
deterioration. If leaks are found, replace
them.
Fuel lines ÐCheck the fuel hoses, piping
and connections for leaks, looseness or
deterioration. Replace any damaged parts.
Fuel filter ÐIf the vehicle is operated under
extremely adverse weather conditions or in
areas where ambient temperatures are ei-ther extremely low or extremely high, the
filter might become clogged. In such an
event, replace the filter immediately.
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 booster
vacuum hoses, connections & check valve)
and parking brake cables for proper attach-
ment, leaks, cracks, chafing, abrasion, de-
terioration, etc.Brake pads, rotors, drums & linings Ð
Check these and the other brake compo-
nents for wear, deterioration and leaks. Un-
der severe driving conditions, they may
have to be inspected more frequently.
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 axle shaft boots Ð
Check for damage, looseness and leakage of
oil or grease. Under severe driving condi-
tions, they may have to be inspected more
frequently.
Exhaust system ÐVisually check the ex-
haust pipes, muffler, and hangers for proper
attachment, leaks, cracks, chafing, abra-
sion, deterioration, etc. Under severe driv-
ing conditions, inspection should be per-
formed more frequently.
Supplemental air bag system ÐCheck
the supplemental air bag system compo-
nents for proper attachment, damage, de-
formities, cracks, rust, etc. Work around and
EXPLANATION OF
MAINTENANCE ITEMS
9-10Maintenance
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 gal16-5/8
gal75.7Unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of
at least 87 AKI (RON 91)(1)
Engine oil (7)
Drain and refill
With oil filter change 4 qt 3-3/8 qt 3.8
cAPI Certification Mark (2) (3)
cAPI grade SG/SH, Energy ConservingI&IIor
API grade SJ, Energy Conserving (2) (3)
cILSAC grade GF-I & GF-II (2) (3)
Without oil filter change 3-7/8 qt 3-1/8 qt 3.6
Cooling system
With reservoir tank 11-1/4 qt 9-3/8 qt 10.650% Genuine NISSAN Anti-freeze Coolant
or equivalent
50% Demineralized water or Distilled water Reservoir 1-1/8 qt 1 qt 1.1
Automatic transaxle fluid 10 qt 8-1/4 qt 9.4NISSAN matic `D' (Continental U.S. and
Alaska) or Canada NISSAN Automatic
Transmission Fluid.(4)
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 fluid
Genuine NISSAN Brake Fluid(5) or equivalent
DOT 3 (US FMVSS No. 116)
Multi-purpose grease Ð Ð Ð NLGI No. 2 (Lithium soap base)
Air conditioning system refrig-
erantÐ Ð Ð HFC-134a (R-134a)(6)
(1): For further details, see ``Fuel recommendation''.
(2): For further detail, see ``Engine oil and oil filter recomendations.''
(3): For further details, see ``Recommended SAE engine oil viscosity''.
(4): 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.
(5): Available in mainland U.S.A. through an authorized NISSAN dealer.
(6): For further details, see ``Air conditioner specification label''.
(7): For further details, see ``Changing engine oil.''
FUEL RECOMMENDATION
Your vehicle is 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 system, and may 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
10-2Technical and consumer information
ZX