2003 NISSAN MAXIMA ECU

WARNING
Be sure the ignition key is in the OFF or
LOCK position. The engine could rotate
unexpectedly.
1. Visually inspect each belt for signs of un-
usual wear, cuts, fraying, oil adhesion or
looseness. If the belt is in poor condition or
loose, have it replaced or adjusted by your
NISSAN dealer.2. Have the belts checked regularly for condi-
tion and tension.
WARNING
Be sure the engine and ignition switch
are off and that the parking brake is
engaged securely.
CAUTION
Be sure to use the correct socket to
remove the spark plugs. An incorrect
socket can damage the spark plugs.
SDI0141
DRIVE BELTS SPARK PLUGS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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Make sure that theÅside faces the
bottom case.
3. Close the lid securely.
4. Push the keyfob button two or three times
to check its operation.
See your NISSAN dealer if you need any
assistance for replacement.
If the battery is removed for any reason
other than replacement, perform step 4
above.
IBe careful not to touch a circuit board
and a battery terminal.
IAn improperly disposed battery can
harm the environment. Always confirm
local regulations for battery disposal.
IThe keyfob is water-resistant; however,
if it does get wet, immediately wipe com-
pletely dry.
IWhen changing batteries, do not let dust
or oil get on the keyfob.
FCC Notice:
Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the manufacturer compliance
could void the user's authority to operate
the equipment. This device complies with
Part 15 of the FCC Rules and RSS-210 ofIndustry Canada. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) This de-
vice may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any inter-
ference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation of the
device.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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not match the potential maximum ve-
hicle speed. Never exceed the maxi-
mum speed rating of the tire.
IFor additional information regarding
tires, refer to ªImportant Tire Safety
Informationº in the Warranty Informa-
tion Booklet (US) or ªTire Safety In-
formationº in the Warranty Informa-
tion booklet (Canada).
All season tiresNISSAN specifies all season tires on some
models to provide good performance for use
all year around, including snowy and icy road
conditions. All season tires are identified by
ALL SEASON and/or M&S on the tire sidewall.
Snow tires have better snow traction than all
season tires and may be more appropriate in
some areas.Summer tiresNISSAN specifies summer tires on some mod-
els to provide superior performance on dry
roads. Summer tire performance in snow and
ice will be substantially reduced. Summer tires
do not have the tire traction rating M&S on the
tire sidewall.If you operate your vehicle in snowy or icy
conditions, NISSAN recommends the use of
snow or all season tires on all four wheels.
Snow tiresIf snow tires are needed, it is necessary to
select tires equivalent in size and load rating to
the original equipment tires. If you do not, it
can adversely affect the safety and handling of
your vehicle.
Generally, snow tires will have lower speed
ratings than factory equipped tires and may
not match the potential maximum vehicle
speed. Never exceed the maximum speed
rating of the tire.
If you operate your vehicle in snowy or icy
conditions, NISSAN recommends the use of
snow or all season tires on all four wheels.
For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tires may be used. However, some provinces
and states prohibit their use. Check local, state
and provincial laws before installing studded
tires. Skid and traction capabilities of studded
snow tires, on wet or dry surfaces, may be
poorer than that of non-studded snow tires.TIRE CHAINSUse of tire chains may be prohibited according
to location. Check the local laws before install-ing tire chains. When installing tire chains,
make sure they are of proper size for the tires
on your vehicle and are installed according to
the chain manufacturer's suggestions.Use
only SAE class S chains.Other types may
damage your vehicle. Use chain tensioners
when recommended by the tire chain manu-
facturer to ensure a tight fit. Loose end links of
the tire chain must be secured or removed to
prevent the possibility of whipping action dam-
age to the fenders or undercarriage. If pos-
sible, avoid fully loading your vehicle when
using tire chains. In addition, drive at a re-
duced speed. Otherwise, your vehicle may be
damaged and/or vehicle handling and perfor-
mance may be adversely affected.
Never install tire chains on a T-type spare tire.
Do not use the chains on dry roads.
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ceeded. If GVWR is exceeded, remove
cargo as necessary. If either the front or
rear GAWR is exceeded, shift the load or
remove cargo as necessary.
LOADING TIPSIThe GVW must not exceed GVWR or
GAWR as specified on the F.M.V.S.S. cer-
tification label.
IDo not load the front and rear axle to the
GAWR. Doing so will exceed the GVWR.
WARNING
IProperly secure all cargo to help pre-
vent it from sliding or shifting. Do not
place cargo higher than the seat-
backs. In a sudden stop or collision,
unsecured cargo could cause per-
sonal injury.
IDo not load your vehicle any heavier
than the GVWR or the maximum front
and rear GAWRs. If you do, parts on
your vehicle can break, or it can
change the way your vehicle handles.
This could result in loss of controland cause personal injury.
IOverloading can shorten the life of
your vehicle. Failures caused by
overloading are not covered by your
warranty.
Your new vehicle was designed to be used
primarily to carry passengers and cargo. Re-
member that towing a trailer will place addi-
tional loads on your vehicle's engine, drive
train, steering, braking and other systems.
Information on trailer towing ability and the
special equipment required should be ob-
tained from your NISSAN dealer. He can ob-
tain aNissan Trailer Towing Guidefor you.
TI1011M
TOWING A TRAILERTechnical and consumer information
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TOWING LOAD/SPECIFICATION CHART
Unit: lb (kg)
MAXIMUM
TOWING LOAD1,000 (454)
MAXIMUM
TONGUE LOAD110 (49)
TOWING SAFETY
Trailer hitchChoose a proper hitch for your vehicle and
trailer. A genuine NISSAN trailer hitch is avail-
able from your NISSAN dealer (Canada only).
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
IDo not use axle-mounted hitches.
IThe hitch should not be attached to
or affect the operation of the impact-
absorbing bumper.IDo not modify the vehicle exhaust
system, brake system, etc. to install a
trailer hitch.
ITo reduce the possibility of additional
damage if your vehicle is struck from
the rear, where practical, remove the
hitch and/or receiver when not in use.
After the hitch is removed, seal the
bolt holes to prevent exhaust fumes,
water or dust from entering the pas-
senger compartment.
IRegularly check that all hitch mount-
ing bolts are securely mounted.
Tire pressuresIWhen towing a trailer, inflate the vehicle
tires to the recommended cold tire pressure
indicated on the tire placard (located on the
inside of the center console lid).
ITrailer tire condition, size, load rating and
proper inflation pressure should be in ac-
cordance with the trailer and tire manufac-
turers' specifications.Safety chainAlways use a suitable chain between yourvehicle and the trailer. The chain 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 lightsTrailer lights should comply with federal and/or
local regulations. When wiring the vehicle for
towing, connect the stop and tail light pickup
into the vehicle electrical circuit at a point
between the sensor and stop light or light
switch.Trailer brakesIf your trailer is equipped with a braking sys-
tem, make sure it conforms to federal and/or
local regulations and that it is properly in-
stalled.
WARNING
Never connect a trailer brake system
directly to the vehicle brake system.Pre-towing tipsIBe certain your vehicle maintains a level
position when a loaded and/or unloadedTechnical and consumer information
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trailer is hitched. Do not drive the vehicle if
it has an abnormal nose-up or nose-down
condition; check for improper tongue load,
overload, worn suspension or other pos-
sible causes of either condition.
IAlways secure items in the trailer to prevent
load shifts while driving.
IBe certain your rear view mirrors conform to
all federal, state or local regulations. If not,
install any mirrors required for towing be-
fore driving the vehicle.
Trailer towing tipsIn order to gain skill and an understanding of
the vehicle's behavior, you should practice
turning, stopping and backing up in an area
which is free from traffic. Steering stability, and
braking performance will be somewhat differ-
ent than under normal driving conditions.
IAlways secure items in the trailer to prevent
load shift while driving.
IAvoid abrupt starts, acceleration or stops.
IAvoid sharp turns or lane changes.
IAlways drive your vehicle at a moderate
speed.
IAlways block the wheels on both vehicle
and trailer when parking. Parking on aslope is not recommended; however, if you
must do so, and if your vehicle is equipped
with automatic transmission, first block the
wheels and apply the parking brake, and
then move the transmission selector lever
into the P (Park) position. If you move the
selector lever to the P (Park) position be-
fore blocking the wheels and applying the
parking brake, transmission damage could
occur.
IWhen going down a hill, shift into a lower
gear and use the engine braking effect.
When ascending a long grade, downshift
the transmission to a lower gear and reduce
speed to reduce chances of engine over-
loading and/or overheating.
IIf the engine coolant rises to an extremely
high temperature when the air conditioning
system is on, turn off the air conditioner.
Coolant heat can be additionally vented by
opening the windows, switching the fan
control to high and setting the temperature
control to the HOT position.
ITrailer towing requires more fuel than nor-
mal circumstances.
IAvoid towing a trailer for the first 500 miles
(800 km).
IHave your vehicle serviced more often thanat intervals specified in the recommended
maintenance schedule.
IWhen making a turn, your trailer wheels will
be closer to the inside of the turn than your
vehicle wheels. To compensate for this,
make a larger than normal turning radius
during the turn.
ICrosswinds and rough roads will adversely
affect vehicle/trailer handling, possibly
causing vehicle sway. When being passed
by larger vehicles, be prepared for possible
changes in crosswinds that could affect
vehicle handling. If swaying does occur,
firmly grip the steering wheel, steer straight
ahead, and immediately (but gradually) re-
duce vehicle speed. This combination will
help stabilize the vehicle. Never increase
speed.
IBe careful when passing other vehicles.
Passing while towing a trailer requires con-
siderably more distance than normal pass-
ing. Remember the length of the trailer
must also pass the other vehicle before you
can safely change lanes.
ITo maintain engine braking efficiency and
electrical charging performance, do not use
fifth gear (manual transmission) or over-
drive (automatic transmission).9-18
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Gas cap .......................................................... 3-12
Gauge ............................................................... 2-3
Engine coolant temperature gauge ............. 2-5
Fuel gauge .................................................. 2-5
Odometer..................................................... 2-4
Speedometer ............................................... 2-4
Tachometer ................................................. 2-4
General maintenance ....................................... 8-2
Glove box........................................................ 2-27
Glove box lock ................................................ 2-27
H
Hazard warning flasher switch........................ 2-22
Head restraints ................................................. 1-6
Headlights
Bulb replacement ...................................... 8-27
Headlight switch ........................................ 2-19
Xenon headlights....................................... 2-19
Heated seats................................................... 2-23
Heated steering wheel (if so equipped).......... 2-24
Heater
Engine coolant heater ............................... 5-21
Heater and air conditioner controls ............. 4-3
Heater operation.......................................... 4-3
Heater operation, Semiautomatic air
conditioner ........................................................ 4-4
HomeLink
Universal Transceiver .................. 2-37
Hood, release ................................................. 3-10
Horn ................................................................ 2-22
How to stop alarm, Vehicle security ............... 2-15I
Ignition switch ................................................... 5-4
Automatic transmission models ........... 5-4, 5-8
Key positions ............................................... 5-6
Manual transmission models ............. 5-5, 5-11
Immobilizer system ......................................... 2-15
Indicator lights................................................. 2-12
Inspection/maintenance (I/M) test................... 9-21
Instrument panel ............................................... 2-2
Interior light ..................................................... 2-34
Interior light replacement ................................ 8-28
Interior trunk lid release .................................. 3-12
ISOFIX child restraint ..................................... 1-34
J
Jump starting .................................................... 6-6
K
Keyless entry .................................................... 3-4
Keys .................................................................. 3-2
L
Label, Air conditioner specification label ........ 9-12
Label, Emission control information label ....... 9-11
Label, F.M.V.S.S. certification label................ 9-11
Labels
Air bag warning labels............................... 1-18
Engine serial number ................................ 9-11Vehicle identification number (VIN)........... 9-10
LATCH system................................................ 1-34
License plate, Installing front license plate..... 9-13
Light
Air bag warning light ................................. 1-18
Bulb replacement ...................................... 8-26
Fog light switch ......................................... 2-21
Headlight switch ........................................ 2-19
Headlights Bulb replacement .................... 8-27
Interior light................................................ 2-34
Personal light............................................. 2-35
Replacement ............................................. 8-26
Trunk light.................................................. 2-36
Vanity mirror light ...................................... 2-36
Warning/indicator lights and audible
reminders ........................................... 2-9, 2-12
Xenon headlights....................................... 2-19
Lights, Exterior and interior light
replacement .................................................... 8-28
Loading information (See vehicle loading
information) ..................................................... 9-14
Lock
Door locks ................................................... 3-2
Glove box lock........................................... 2-27
Power door lock .......................................... 3-2
Trunk lid lock opener lever........................ 3-10
Low fuel warning light ..................................... 2-11
M
Maintenance
Battery ....................................................... 8-15
General maintenance .................................. 8-2
Inside the vehicle ........................................ 8-3
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Seat belts .................................................. 1-20
Three-point type with retractor .................. 1-23
Seat(s)
Heated seats ............................................. 2-23
Seats ........................................................... 1-2
Security system, vehicle security system ....... 2-14
Security systems (Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer
System), Engine start ..................................... 2-15
Security systems (See vehicle security
system) ........................................................... 2-14
Servicing air conditioner .......................... 4-3, 4-12
Shift lock release ............................................ 5-10
Shifting
Automatic transmission ........................ 5-4, 5-8
Manual transmission .......................... 5-5, 5-11
Shoulder belt height adjustment, For front
seats ............................................................... 1-26
Side air bag system (See supplemental side air
bag system) .................................................... 1-15
Spark plugs ..................................................... 8-17
Speedometer .................................................... 2-4
Starting
Before starting the engine ........................... 5-7
Jump starting ............................................... 6-6
Precautions when starting and driving ........ 5-2
Push starting ............................................... 6-8
Starting the engine ...................................... 5-7
Steering
Power steering fluid................................... 8-14
Power steering system .............................. 5-17
Tilting steering wheel ................................ 3-14
Storage ........................................................... 2-26
Sunglasses holder .......................................... 2-26
Sun shade....................................................... 2-31Sun visors ....................................................... 3-15
Sunroof ........................................................... 2-31
Supplemental air bag warning labels ............. 1-18
Supplemental air bag warning light ....... 1-18, 2-11
Supplemental front air bag system ................. 1-13
Supplemental restraint system ......................... 1-8
Precautions on supplemental restraint
system ......................................................... 1-8
Supplemental side air bag system ................. 1-15
Switch
Fog light switch ......................................... 2-21
Hazard warning flasher switch .................. 2-22
Headlight switch ........................................ 2-19
Ignition switch .............................................. 5-4
Ignition switch automatic transmission
models.................................................. 5-4, 5-8
Ignition switch manual transmission
models................................................ 5-5, 5-11
Power door lock switch ............................... 3-4
Rear window and outside mirror defogger
switch......................................................... 2-17
Traction control system cancel switch ...... 2-24
Turn signal switch ..................................... 2-21
T
Tachometer ....................................................... 2-4
Temperature gauge, Engine coolant temperature
gauge ................................................................ 2-5
Theft (Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System),
Engine start..................................................... 2-15
Three way catalyst ............................................ 5-3
Tilting steering wheel ...................................... 3-14Tire
Flat tire ........................................................ 6-2
Uniform tire quality grading ....................... 9-19
Tires
Spare tire ................................................... 8-37
Tire chains ................................................. 8-34
Tire placard ............................................... 9-12
Tire pressure ............................................. 8-33
Tire rotation ............................................... 8-35
Types of tires............................................. 8-33
wheel/tire size.............................................. 9-9
Wheels and tires ....................................... 8-33
Top tether strap child restraints ...................... 1-35
Towing
Tow truck towing ....................................... 6-10
Towing a trailer.......................................... 9-15
Towing load/specification chart ................. 9-15
Towing safety ............................................ 9-17
Traction control system .................................. 5-19
Traction control system (TCS) cancel
switch .............................................................. 2-24
Trailer towing .................................................. 9-15
Transceiver, HomeLink
Universal
Transceiver ..................................................... 2-37
Transmitter ........................................................ 3-4
Transmission
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) ........... 8-12
Driving with automatic transmission .... 5-4, 5-8
Driving with manual transmission ...... 5-5, 5-11
Transmission selector lever lock
release ....................................................... 5-10
Traveling or registering your vehicle in another
country ............................................................ 9-10
Trip computer.................................................. 2-32
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