
VANITY MIRROR
(if so equipped)
A vanity mirror is located on the rear side of
the passenger sunvisor.
INSIDE MIRROR
The night position reduces glare from the
headlights of vehicles behind the vehicle.
WARNING
Use the night position only when nec-
essary because it reduces rear view
clarity.
OUTSIDE MIRRORS
The outside mirror can be moved in any
direction for a better rear view.
AIC0710AIC0703APD1090
SUN VISORS MIRRORS
Pre-driving checks and adjustments3-13
ZX

cMake sure the area around the vehicle is
clear.
cCheck fluid levels such as engine oil,
coolant, brake and clutch fluid, and win-
dow washer fluid as frequently as pos-
sible, at least whenever you refuel.
cCheck that all windows and lights are
clean.
cVisually inspect tires for their appearance
and condition. Also check tires for proper
inflation.
cLock all doors.
cPosition seat and adjust head restraints.
cAdjust inside and outside mirrors.
cFasten seat belts and ask all passengers
to do likewise.
cCheck the operation of warning lights
when key is turned to the ON (3) position.
See9Warning/Indicator lights and au-
dible reminders9in the9Instruments and
controls9section.1. Apply the parking brake.
2.Automatic transmission:
Move the selector lever to P (Park) or N
(Neutral). P (Park) is preferred.
The selector lever cannot be moved
out of P (Park) and into any of the
other gear positions if the ignition key
is turned to OFF or if the key is re-
moved from the ignition switch.
The starter is designed not to operate
if the selector lever is in one of the
driving positions.
Manual transmission:
Move the shift lever to N (Neutral), and
fully depress the clutch pedal to the floor
while starting the engine.
The starter is designed not to operate
unless the clutch pedal is fully de-
pressed.
3.With your foot off the accelerator
pedal,turn the ignition key to START.
Release the key when the engine starts.
If the engine starts, but fails to run, repeat
the above procedure.cIf the engine is very hard to start in
extremely cold or hot weather, depress
the accelerator pedal fully and hold it
to help start the engine.
cIn the summer, when restarting the
engine within 30 minutes after it has
been stopped, keep the accelerator
pedal fully depressed while starting.
CAUTION
Do not operate the starter for more than
15 seconds at a time. If the engine does
not start, turn the key off and wait 10
seconds before cranking again, other-
wise the starter could be damaged.
4.Warm-up
Always allow the engine to idle for at
least 30 seconds after starting. Drive at a
moderate speed for a short distance first,
especially in cold weather.
BEFORE STARTING THE
ENGINESTARTING THE ENGINE
5-8Starting and driving
ZX

Additional information on the following
items with an ``*'' is found later in this
section.
Warning lights and chimesMake sure all
warning lights and 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 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 (if so
equipped) hold securely in all latched posi-
tions.
Seat beltsCheck 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 pedalCheck 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.
Clutch pedal*Make sure the pedal oper-
ates 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 de-
pressed fully. Check the brake booster func-
tion. Be certain to keep the floor mat away
from the pedal.
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 (Park) posi-
tion mechanismCheck that the lock re-
lease button on the selector lever operatesproperly and smoothly. On 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 vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should
be checked periodically (e.g., each time you
check the engine oil or refuel).
Additional information on the following
items with an ``*'' is found later in this
section.
Windshield washer fluid*Check that there
is adequate fluid in the reservoir.
Engine oil level*Check the level after
parking the vehicle on a level surface with
the engine off. Wait a few minutes for the oil
to drain back into the oil pan.
Brake and clutch fluid levels*Make sure
that the brake and clutch fluid level is be-
tween the MIN and MAX lines on the reser-
voir.
Power steering fluid level* and lines
Check the level when the fluid is cold, with
the engine off. Check the lines for proper
attachment, leaks, cracks, etc.
8-4Maintenance and do-it-yourself
ZX

TOWING SAFETY
Trailer hitch
Check the towing capacity of your bumper
hitch or receiver-type frame mounted hitch.
Choose a proper hitch for your vehicle and
trailer. A genuine Nissan trailer hitch is
available from your NISSAN dealer. Make
sure the trailer hitch is securely attached to
the vehicle to help avoid personal injury or
property damage due to sway caused by
crosswinds, rough road surfaces or passing
trucks.
CAUTION
cSpecial hitches which include frame
reinforcements are required for tow-
ing above 2,000 lb (907 kg). Suitable
genuine NISSAN hitches for pickup
trucks and sport utility vehicles are
available at an authorized NISSAN
dealer.
cThe hitch should not be attached to
or affect the operation of the impact-
absorbing bumper.
cDo not use axle-mounted hitches.cDo not modify the vehicle exhaust
system, brake system, etc. to install
a trailer hitch.
cTo reduce the possibility of addi-
tional damage if your vehicle is
struck from the rear, where practical,
remove the hitch and/or receiver
when not in use. Remove receiver
when not in use. After the hitch is
removed, seal the bolt holes to pre-
vent exhaust fumes, water or dust
from entering the passenger com-
partment.
cRegularly check that all trailer hitch
mounting bolts are securely
mounted.
Tire pressures
cWhen towing a trailer, inflate the vehicle
tires to the recommended cold tire pres-
sure indicated on the tire placard (af-
fixed to the inside of the glove box lid).
cTrailer tire condition, size, load rating
and proper inflation pressure should be
in accordance with the trailer and tire
manufacturers' specifications.
Safety chain
Always use suitable safety chains between
your vehicle and the trailer. Safety chains
should be crossed and should be attached
to the hitch, not to the vehicle bumper or
axle. Be sure to leave enough slack in the
chain to permit turning corners.
Trailer lights
Trailer lights should comply with Federal
and/or local regulations. For assistance in
hooking up trailer lights, contact an autho-
rized NISSAN dealer.
Trailer brakes
If your trailer is equipped with a braking
system, make sure it conforms to Federal
and/or local regulations and that it is prop-
erly installed.
WARNING
Never connect a trailer brake system
directly to the vehicle brake system.
Pre-towing tips
cBe certain your vehicle maintains a level
position when a loaded and/or unloaded
9-24Technical and consumer information
ZX

Cruise control............................................. 5-17
Cup holders ............................................... 2-25
D
Daytime running light system (Canada
only) ........................................................... 2-21
Defogger switch
Rear window defogger switch .............. 2-19
Dimensions and weights............................ 9-11
Door locks .................................................... 3-2
Drive belts .................................................. 8-20
Driving
Auto-lock free-running hubs ................. 5-21
Cold weather driving............................. 5-27
Driving with automatic transmission ....... 5-9
Driving with manual transmission ......... 5-15
Precautions when starting and driving ... 5-2
E
Economy - fuel........................................... 5-19
Emission control information label............. 9-14
Emission control system warranty ............. 9-27
Engine
Before starting the engine ...................... 5-8
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................ 9-2
Changing engine coolant...................... 8-11
Changing engine oil.............................. 8-13
Changing engine oil filter...................... 8-14Checking engine coolant level ............. 8-10
Checking engine oil level ..................... 8-11
Engine compartment check locations .... 8-7
Engine coolant temperature gauge ........ 2-5
Engine cooling system ......................... 8-10
Engine oil .............................................. 8-11
Engine oil and oil filter
recommendation ..................................... 9-6
Engine oil pressure warning light ......... 2-12
Engine oil viscosity ................................. 9-7
Engine serial number ........................... 9-13
Engine specifications .............................. 9-9
Starting the engine ................................. 5-8
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) ................. 5-2
F
Flashers (See hazard warning flasher
switch) ........................................................ 2-22
Flat tire ......................................................... 6-2
Floor mat positioning aid ............................. 7-4
Fluid
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) ...... 8-15
Brake fluid ..................................... 8-17, 9-3
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................ 9-2
Clutch fluid ............................................ 8-17
Engine coolant ...................................... 8-10
Engine oil .............................................. 8-11
Power steering fluid .............................. 8-17
Window washer fluid ............................ 8-18
F.M.V.S.S. certification label ..................... 9-13Front seats
Separate ................................................. 1-2
Fuel
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................ 9-2
Fuel economy ....................................... 5-19
Fuel filler cap ........................................ 3-11
Fuel gauge.............................................. 2-6
Fuel octane rating................................... 9-5
Fuel recommendation ............................. 9-4
Fuses ......................................................... 8-29
G
Gauge
Engine coolant temperature gauge ........ 2-5
Fuel gauge.............................................. 2-6
Odometer ................................................ 2-3
Speedometer .......................................... 2-3
Tachometer............................................. 2-5
General maintenance .................................. 8-3
H
Hazard warning flasher switch .................. 2-22
Headlight aiming adjustment ..................... 8-32
Headlight and turn signal switch ............... 2-20
Headlights .................................................. 8-31
Hood release ............................................... 3-8
Horn ........................................................... 2-22
10-2
ZX

Hubs
Auto-lock free-running hubs ................. 5-21
I
Indicator lights and audible reminders
(See warning/indicator lights and audible
reminders) .................................................. 2-10
Inside mirror ............................................... 3-13
Instrument brightness control .................... 2-20
J
Jump seat .................................................... 1-5
Jump starting ............................................... 6-8
K
Key ............................................................... 3-2
Keyless entry system (See remote keyless
entry system) ............................................... 3-4
L
Labels
Air conditioner specification label ......... 9-14
Emission control information label........ 9-14
Engine serial number ........................... 9-13
F.M.V.S.S. certification label ................ 9-13Vehicle identification number (VIN)
plate ...................................................... 9-12
Warning labels (for SRS) ..................... 1-16
Light
Air bag warning light............................. 1-16
Brake light (See stop light) ................... 8-35
Bulb check/instrument panel ................ 2-10
Bulb replacement.................................. 8-35
Headlight aiming adjustment ................ 8-32
Headlight and turn signal switch .......... 2-20
Headlights ............................................. 8-31
Light bulbs ............................................ 8-31
Passenger supplemental air bag
ON/OFF switch and light ...................... 1-13
Spotlights (See map light) .................... 2-33
Warning/indicator lights and audible
reminders .............................................. 2-10
Lock
Door locks............................................... 3-2
Power door locks .................................... 3-3
Luggage rack (see roof rack) ...................... 3-9
Luggage (See vehicle loading
information) ................................................ 9-15
M
Maintenance
General maintenance ............................. 8-3
Inside the vehicle.................................... 8-3
Maintenance precautions ....................... 8-5
Outside the vehicle ................................. 8-3Seat belt maintenance.......................... 1-26
Under the hood and vehicle ................... 8-4
Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) ............... 2-14
Manual windows ........................................ 2-29
Map lights .................................................. 2-33
Meters and gauges ...................................... 2-2
Mirror
Inside mirror.......................................... 3-13
Outside mirror control ........................... 3-14
Outside mirrors ..................................... 3-13
Vanity mirror ......................................... 3-13
Multi-remote control system (See remote
keyless entry system) .................................. 3-4
O
Octane rating (See fuel octane rating) ........ 9-5
Odometer ..................................................... 2-3
Oil
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................ 9-2
Changing engine oil.............................. 8-13
Changing engine oil filter...................... 8-14
Checking engine oil level ..................... 8-11
Engine oil .............................................. 8-11
Engine oil and oil filter
recommendation ..................................... 9-6
Engine oil viscosity ................................. 9-7
Outside mirror control ................................ 3-14
Outside mirrors .......................................... 3-13
Overdrive switch ............................... 5-13, 5-14
10-3
ZX

Overheat
If your vehicle overheats ...................... 6-10
Owner's manual order form ....................... 9-30
P
Parking
Parking brake check ............................. 8-26
Parking brake operation ....................... 5-16
Parking/parking on hills ........................ 5-24
Passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF
switch and light
Passenger supplemental air bag
ON/OFF switch and light ...................... 1-13
Power
Power door locks .................................... 3-3
Power steering fluid .............................. 8-17
Power steering system ......................... 5-25
Power windows..................................... 2-27
Precautions
Maintenance precautions ....................... 8-5
On-pavement and off-road driving
precautions ............................................. 5-3
Precautions on seat belt usage............ 1-18
Precautions when starting and driving ... 5-2
Push starting ................................................ 6-9
R
Radio
Car phone or CB radio ......................... 4-32FM-AM radio with cassette player and
compact disc (CD) player ..................... 4-13
FM-AM radio with compact disc (CD)
changer ................................................. 4-18
Steering wheel audio control switch ..... 4-31
Readiness for inspection maintenance
(I/M) test..................................................... 9-28
Rear sliding window................................... 2-29
Rear window defogger switch ................... 2-19
Registering your vehicle in another
country ....................................................... 9-12
Remote keyless entry system .................... 3-4
Reporting safety defects (USA) ................. 9-28
Roof rack (see luggage rack) ...................... 3-9
S
Safety
Reporting safety defects (USA) ............ 9-28
Seat
Jump seat ............................................... 1-5
Seat belt
Precautions on seat belt usage............ 1-18
Seat belt extenders .............................. 1-26
Seat belt maintenance.......................... 1-26
Seat belts.............................................. 1-18
Three-point type with retractor ............. 1-21
Two-point type without retractor ........... 1-24
Seat belt warning light ............................... 2-13
Seats
Adjustment .............................................. 1-2
Separate seats ....................................... 1-2Service manual order form ........................ 9-30
Shifting
Automatic transmission ........................ 5-10
Manual transmission............................. 5-15
Spark plug replacement............................. 8-21
Speedometer ............................................... 2-3
Spotlights (See map light) ......................... 2-33
SRS warning label ..................................... 1-16
Starting
Before starting the engine ...................... 5-8
Jump starting .......................................... 6-8
Precautions when starting and driving ... 5-2
Push starting........................................... 6-9
Starting the engine ................................. 5-8
Steering
Power steering fluid .............................. 8-17
Power steering system ......................... 5-25
Tilting steering wheel............................ 3-12
Steering wheel audio control switch .......... 4-31
Step rail...................................................... 3-11
Stop light .................................................... 8-35
Sun shade.................................................. 2-31
Sunroof ...................................................... 2-30
Supplemental restraint system
(Supplemental air bag system).................... 1-6
Switch
Automatic power window switch .......... 2-29
Hazard warning flasher switch ............. 2-22
Headlight and turn signal switch .......... 2-20
Overdrive switch.......................... 5-13, 5-14
Passenger supplemental air bag
ON/OFF switch and light ...................... 1-13
10-4
ZX

Rear window defogger switch .............. 2-19
Windshield wiper and washer switch ... 2-18
T
Tachometer .................................................. 2-5
Tailgate latch ............................................. 3-15
Three-way catalyst....................................... 5-2
Tie down hooks ......................................... 3-17
Tilting steering wheel ................................. 3-12
Tire
Flat tire.................................................... 6-2
Spare tire .............................................. 8-42
Tire chains ............................................ 8-39
Tire placard........................................... 9-14
Tire pressure ........................................ 8-38
Tire rotation .......................................... 8-40
Tires of 4-wheel drive ........................... 8-42
Types of tires ........................................ 8-38
Uniform tire quality grading .................. 9-26
Wheels and tires................................... 8-38
Wheel/tire size ...................................... 9-10
Towing
2-wheel drive models ........................... 6-11
4-wheel drive models ........................... 6-12
Tow truck towing .................................. 6-11
Towing load/specification chart ............ 9-23
Trailer towing ........................................ 9-21
Transfer case ............................................. 5-20
Transmission
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) ...... 8-15
Driving with automatic transmission ....... 5-9Driving with manual transmission ......... 5-15
Selector lever lock release ................... 5-12
Travel (See registering your vehicle in
another country)......................................... 9-12
Truck - camper loading.............................. 9-17
Turn signal switch (See headlight and
turn signal switch) ...................................... 2-20
U
Uniform tire quality grading ....................... 9-26
V
Vanity mirror .............................................. 3-13
Vehicle dimensions and weights ............... 9-11
Vehicle identification number (VIN) (chassis
number)...................................................... 9-12
Vehicle identification number (VIN) plate .. 9-12
Vehicle loading information ....................... 9-15
Vehicle recovery ........................................ 6-13
Vehicle security system ............................. 2-15
Ventilators .................................................... 4-2
W
Warning
Air bag warning light............................. 1-16
Hazard warning flasher switch ............. 2-22
Vehicle security system ........................ 2-15
Warning labels (for SRS) ..................... 1-16Warning/indicator lights and audible
reminders .............................................. 2-10
Weights (See dimensions and weights) .... 9-11
Wheels and tires ........................................ 8-38
Wheel/tire size ........................................... 9-10
When traveling or registering your vehicle
in another country ...................................... 9-12
Window washer fluid.................................. 8-18
Windows
Manual windows ................................... 2-29
Power windows..................................... 2-27
Rear sliding window ............................. 2-29
Windshield wiper and washer switch ........ 2-18
Wiper
Windshield wiper and washer switch ... 2-18
Wiper blades......................................... 8-25
10-5
ZX