2003 NISSAN PATHFINDER parking brake

CHANGING ENGINE OIL1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply
the parking brake.
2. Warm up the engine until it reaches operat-
ing temperature, and then turn it off and wait
more than 10 minutes.
3. Place a large drain pan under the drain plug.
4. Remove the oil filler cap.
5. Remove the drain plug with a wrench and
completely drain the oil.If the oil filter is to be changed, remove and
replace it at this time. See later in this section
for changing engine oil filter.
CAUTION
Be careful not to burn yourself, as the
engine oil is hot.

Waste oil must be disposed of prop-
erly.

Check your local regulations.
6. Clean and re-install the drain plug and new
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washer. Securely tighten the drain plug with a
wrench. Do not use excessive force.
Drain plug tightening torque:
22 to 29 ft-lb (29 to 39 N⋅m)
7. Refill engine with recommended oil through
the oil filler opening, then install the oil filler
cap securely.
See “Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants” in the “9. Technical and con-
sumer information” section for drain and refill
capacity.
The drain and refill capacity depends on the
oil temperature and drain time. Use these
specifications for reference only. Always use
the dipstick to determine when the proper
amount of oil is in the engine.
8. Start the engine.
Check for leakage around the drain plug.
Correct as required.
9. Turn the engine off and wait more than 10
minutes. Check the oil level with the dipstick.
Add engine oil if necessary.
WARNING

Prolonged and repeated contact withused engine oil may cause skin can-
cer.

Try to avoid direct skin contact with
used oil. If skin contact is made,
wash thoroughly with soap or hand
cleaner as soon as possible.

Keep used engine oil out of reach of
children.
CHANGING ENGINE OIL FILTER1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply
the parking brake.
2. Turn the engine off.
3. Loosen the oil filter with an oil filter wrench.
(Depending on the engine model, a special
cap-type wrench may be required. See your
NISSAN dealer.) Then remove the oil filter by
turning it by hand.
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TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS FOR
CHECKINGThe fluid level should be checked using the HOT
range (L & H marks) on the dipstick at fluid
temperatures between 122 and 176°F (50 and
80°C) after the vehicle has been driven approxi-
mately 5 minutes in urban areas after the engine
is warmed up. The level can be checked at fluid
temperatures between 86 and 122°F (30 and
50°C) using the COLD range on the dipstick for
reference, after the engine is warmed up but
before driving. However, the fluid level must be
rechecked using the HOT range.1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and set the
parking brake.
2. Start the engine and then move the selector
lever through each gear range, ending in P.
3. Check the fluid level with the engine idling.
4. Expand the spring stopper and remove the
dipstick. Wipe it clean with lint-free paper.
5. Re-insert the dipstick into the charging pipe
as far as it will go.
6. Remove the dipstick and note the reading.
If the level is on the low side of either range, add
fluid to the charging pipe.
7. When inserting the dipstick, set it so that the
spring stopper presses the upper part of the
dipstick rubber to lock the dipstick.
CAUTION

Do not overfill.

Use only Nissan Matic D (Continental
U.S. and Alaska) or Canada Nissan
automatic transmission fluid.
Dexron
TMIII/Mercon
TM
or equivalentmay also be used. Outside the conti-
nental US and Alaska contact a
NISSAN dealer for more information
regarding suitable fluids, including
recommended brand(s) of Dexron
TM
III/Mercon
TM
automatic transmission
fluid.
If the vehicle has been driven for a long
time at high speeds, or in city traffic in hot
weather, or if it is being used to pull a
trailer, the fluid level cannot be read accu-
rately. You should wait until the fluid has
cooled down (about 30 minutes).
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REPLACING SPARK PLUGS
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 toremove the spark plugs. An incorrect
socket can cause damage the spark
plugs.
Platinum-tipped spark plugsIt is not necessary to replace the platinum-
tipped spark plugs as frequently as the conven-
tional type spark plugs since they will last much
longer. Follow the maintenance schedule, but do
not reuse them by cleaning or regapping.
If replacement is required, see your NISSAN
dealer for servicing.
Always replace with recommended
platinum-tipped spark plugs.The filter element should not be cleaned and
reused as it is given a special treatment. We
recommended it be replaced according to the
maintenance log shown in a separate “Service
and Maintenance Guide”. When replacing the
filter, wipe the inside of the air cleaner housing
and the cover with a damp cloth.
WARNING

Operating the engine with the air
cleaner removed can cause you or
others to be burned. The air cleaner
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CAUTION
After wiper blade replacement, return
the wiper arm to its original position;
otherwise it may be damaged when the
hood is opened.
Make sure the wiper blade contacts the
glass, otherwise the arm may be dam-
aged from wind pressure.
Worn windshield wiper blades can dam-
age the windshield and impair driver
vision.
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.
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DI1010-C
PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE
PEDAL
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After the hitch is removed, seal the
bolt holes to prevent exhaust fumes,
water or dust from entering the pas-
senger compartment.

Regularly check all hitch mounting
bolts are securely mounted.

To 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.

Never connect a trailer brake system
directly to the vehicle brake system.Tire pressures
When towing a trailer, inflate the vehicle tires
to the recommended cold tire pressure indi-
cated on the tire placard (affixed to the glove
box lid).

Trailer tire condition, size, load rating and
proper inflation pressure should be in accor-
dance with the trailer and tire manufacturers’
specifications.Safety chains
Always use a suitable chain between your ve-
hicle 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 vehicle for towing connection,
connect stop and tail light pickup into the
vehicle electrical circuit at point between
the sensor and stop light switch or light
switch.Trailer brakesIf your trailer is equipped with a braking system,
make sure it conforms to Federal and/or local
regulations and that it is properly installed.
WARNING
Never connect a trailer brake system
directly to the vehicle brake system.Trailer towing tipsIn order to gain skill and an understanding of thevehicle’s behavior, you should practice turning,
stopping and backing up in an area which is free
from traffic. Steering stability and braking perfor-
mance will be somewhat different than under
normal driving conditions.

Always secure items in the trailer to prevent
load shift while driving.

Avoid abrupt starts, acceleration or stops.

Avoid sharp turns or lane changes.

Always drive your vehicle at a moderate
speed.

Always block the wheels on both vehicle and
trailer when parking. Parking on a slope 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 trans-
mission selector lever into the P position. If
you move the selector lever to the P position
before blocking the wheels and applying the
parking brake, transmission damage could
occur.

When 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 overload-
ing and/or overheating.
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10 Index
A
ABS (Anti-lock brake system)................................ 5-34
Air bag system, Front (See supplemental front air
bag system) ................................................................ 1-16
Air bag warning labels ............................................. 1-21
Air bag warning light .................................... 1-21, 2-13
Air cleaner housing filter.......................................... 8-23
Air conditioner
Air conditioner operation ..................................... 4-4
Air conditioner specification label .................. 9-14
Air conditioning system refrigerant and
lubricant recommendations ..................... 4-12, 9-7
Heater and air conditioner controls.................. 4-2
Servicing air conditioner ................................... 4-12
Air flow charts............................................................... 4-5
Alcohol, drugs and driving......................................... 5-5
Anchor point locations
Top tether strap .................................................. 1-44
Antenna ........................................................................ 4-29
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) .............................. 5-34
Anti-lock brake warning light .................................... 2-9
Appearance care
Exterior appearance care .................................... 7-2
Interior appearance care ..................................... 7-3
Armrest (if so equipped) ............................................ 1-9
Ashtray (See cigarette lighter and ashtray) ........ 2-29
ATP warning light ...................................................... 2-10
Audible reminders ..................................................... 2-16Audio operation precautions .................................. 4-14
Audio system .............................................................. 4-13
Steering wheel audio controls ........................ 4-28
Autochanger
Compact Disc (CD) ........................................... 4-26
Automatic
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) ................ 8-16
Drive positioner ................................................... 3-17
Driving with automatic transmission ..... 5-7, 5-11
Seat positioner, seat .......................................... 3-17
Transmission park warning light ..................... 2-10
Transmission selector lever lock release ...... 5-14
Avoiding collision and rollover .................................. 5-5
B
Back door.................................................................... 3-10
Battery .......................................................................... 8-21
Battery saver system ......................................... 2-22
Battery replacement, (See remote keyless entry
system) ........................................................................... 3-8
Before starting the engine ...................................... 5-10
Belts (See drive belts) ............................................. 8-22
Brake
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) ......................... 5-34
Brake and clutch fluid ....................................... 8-19
Brake booster ...................................................... 8-26
Brake fluid............................................................. 8-19
Brake pedal .......................................................... 8-25Brake pedal check ............................................. 8-26
Brake system ....................................................... 5-34
Parking brake check............................... 5-17, 8-25
Parking brake operation .................................... 5-17
Warning light .......................................................... 2-9
Break-in schedule ..................................................... 5-20
Bulbcheck/instrument panel .................................... 2-9
Bulbreplacement ...................................................... 8-30
C
Capacities and recommended fuel/lubricants...... 9-2
Car phone or CB radio............................................ 4-31
Cargo (See vehicle loading information)............. 2-36
Cargo net .................................................................... 2-36
Cassette player (See audio system) ........ 4-18, 4-25
Catalytic converter, Three way catalyst ................. 5-3
CD care and cleaning .............................................. 4-28
Child restraints ........................................................... 1-32
Installation on front passenger seat............... 1-45
Installation on rear seat outboard
positions ................................................................ 1-37
Installation on rear seat center position........ 1-34
Precautions on child restraints........................ 1-32
Top tether strap anchor point locations ....... 1-44
With top tether strap ......................................... 1-43
Child safety ................................................................. 1-25
Child safety rear door lock ........................................ 3-4
Chimes, Audible reminders..................................... 2-16


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Vanity mirror light ................................................ 2-43
Warning/indicator lights and audible
reminders ..................................................... 2-9, 2-14
Loading information (See vehicle loading
information) ................................................................. 9-15
Lock
Door locks ............................................................... 3-2
Glass hatch lock ................................................. 3-11
Glove box lock..................................................... 2-32
Power door lock .................................................... 3-2
Low fuel warning light ............................................ 2-12
Low tire pressure warning light (if so
equipped) .................................................................... 2-12
Low tire pressure warning system (if so
equipped).............................................................. 5-3, 6-2
Luggage hooks .......................................................... 2-34
Luggage rack ............................................................. 2-37
M
Maintenance
Battery ................................................................... 8-21
General maintenance ........................................... 8-2
Inside the vehicle................................................... 8-3
Maintenance precautions .................................... 8-5
Outside the vehicle............................................... 8-2
Seat belt maintenance ...................................... 1-32
Under the hood and vehicle ............................... 8-4
Manual front seat adjustment ................................... 1-2
Meters and gauges ..................................................... 2-3
Mirror
Inside mirror ......................................................... 3-16
Outside mirror control ....................................... 3-16
Outside mirrors ................................................... 3-16N
Net, Cargo net ........................................................... 2-36
New vehicle break-in ................................................ 5-20
Nissan vehicle Immobilizer System....................... 2-16
Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System, Engine
start.................................................................................. 5-9
O
Odometer ....................................................................... 2-3
Oil
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................................. 9-2
Changing engine oil ........................................... 8-14
Changing engine oil filter ................................. 8-15
Checking engine oil level ................................. 8-13
Engine oil .............................................................. 8-13
Engine oil viscosity ............................................... 9-6
Outside mirror control .............................................. 3-16
Outside mirrors .......................................................... 3-16
Outside temperature display..................................... 2-6
Overdrive switch........................................................ 5-14
Overheat, If your vehicle overheats ...................... 6-11
P
Parking
Brake check ......................................................... 8-25
Parking brake check .......................................... 5-17
Parking brake operation .................................... 5-17
Parking on hills .................................................... 5-17
Parking/parking on hills ........................................... 5-32Payload weight capacity.......................................... 9-17
Personal lights............................................................ 2-43
Phone, Car phone or CB radio ............................. 4-31
Power
Front seat adjustment .......................................... 1-4
Power door lock .................................................... 3-2
Power outlet ......................................................... 2-28
Power steering fluid ........................................... 8-18
Power steering system ...................................... 5-33
Power windows................................................... 2-38
Pre-tensioner seat belt system .............................. 1-20
Precautions
Audio operation precautions............................ 4-14
Braking precautions ........................................... 5-34
Cruise control operations ................................. 5-19
Cruise control precautions ............................... 5-18
Driving safety .......................................................... 5-5
Maintenance precautions .................................... 8-5
On child restraints .............................................. 1-32
On seat belt usage ............................................ 1-24
On-pavement and offroad driving
precautions ............................................................. 5-4
Precautions on supplemental restraint
system.................................................................... 1-10
Precautions when starting and driving ............ 5-2
Push starting .............................................................. 6-11
R
Rack, Luggage rack.................................................. 2-37
Radio
Car phone or CB radio ..................................... 4-31
Steering wheel audio controls ........................ 4-28


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