2003 NISSAN PATHFINDER Maintenance and do-it-yourself

Table of
Contents
Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systemsInstruments and controlsPre-driving checks and adjustmentsHeater, air conditioner and audio systemsStarting and drivingIn case of emergencyAppearance and careMaintenance and do-it-yourselfTechnical and consumer informationIndex


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4H or 4LO position again to turn off the ATP
warning light when the warning light comes on.
(Before shifting the 4WD shift switch into the
4LO position or out of 4LO into the 4H position,
move the automatic transmission selector lever
into the N position). Shift the selector lever into
the P position and make sure that the 4WD shift
indicator light is ON and the ATP warning light is
OFF.
or
Brake warning light
This light functions for both the parking brake
and the foot brake systems.
Parking brake indicator:
The light comes on when the parking brake is
applied.
Low brake fluid warning light:
When the ignition key is in the ON position, the
light warns of a low brake fluid level. If the light
comes on while the engine is running, stop the
vehicle and perform the following:
1. Check the brake fluid level. Add brake fluid as
necessary. See “Brake and clutch fluid” in the
“8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.
2. If the brake fluid level is correct:
Have the warning system checked by a NISSAN
dealer.
WARNING

Your brake system may not be work-
ing properly if the warning light is on.
Driving could be dangerous. If you
judge it to be safe, drive carefully to
the nearest service station for re-
pairs. Otherwise, have your vehicle
towed.

Pressing the brake pedal with the
engine stopped and/or low brake
fluid level may increase your stop-
ping distance and braking will re-
quire greater pedal effort as well as
greater pedal travel.

If the brake fluid level is below the
MINmark on the brake fluid reser-
voir, do not drive until the brake sys-
tem has been checked at a NISSAN
dealer.
Charge warning light
If the light comes on while the engine is running,
it may indicate the charging system is not func-
tioning properly. Turn the engine off and checkthe alternator belt. If the belt is loose, broken,
missing or if the light remains on, see your
NISSAN dealer immediately.
CAUTION
Do not continue driving if the belt is
loose, broken or missing.
Door open warning light
This light comes on when any of the doors
and/or rear window are not closed securely
while the ignition key is ON.
Engine oil pressure warning
light
This light warns of low engine oil pressure. If the
light flickers or comes on during normal driving,
pull off the road in a safe area, stop the engine
immediatelyand call a NISSAN dealer or other
authorized repair shop.
The oil pressure warning light is not de-
signed to indicate a low oil level. Use the
dipstick to check the oil level.See “Engine
oil” in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself”
section.
Instruments and controls
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03.1.28/R50-D/V5


sible. Serious vehicle damage could
occur and may lead to an accident
and could result in serious personal
injury. Check the tire pressure for all
four wheels and adjust the pressure
to the COLD tire pressure shown on
the tire placard. If the light still comes
on while driving after adjusting the
tire pressure, a tire may be flat. If you
have a flat tire, replace it with a spare
tire as soon as possible.

When a spare tire is mounted or a
wheel is replaced, the low tire pres-
sure warning system will not func-
tion. Contact your NISSAN dealer as
soon as possible for tire replacement
and/or system resetting.
CAUTION

The low tire pressure warning is not a
substitute for the regular tire pres-
sure check. Be sure to check the tire
pressure regularly.
If the vehicle is being driven at
speeds of less than 20 MPH (32
km/h), the low tire pressure warning
system may not operate correctly.

Be sure to install the specified size of
tires to the four wheels correctly.
Low washer fluid warning light
(Canada only)
This light comes on when the washer fluid in the
washer tank is at a low level. Add washer fluid as
necessary. See “Window washer fluid” in the “8.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.
Seat belt warning light and
chime
The light and chime remind you to fasten seat
belts. The light illuminates whenever the ignition
key is turned to ON, and will remain illuminated
until the driver’s seat belt is fastened. At the
same time, the chime will sound for about six
seconds unless the driver’s seat belt is securely
fastened.
See “Seat belts” in the “1. Seats, restraints and
supplemental air bag systems” section for pre-
cautions on seat belt usage.
Supplemental air bag warning
light
After turning the ignition key to the ON position,
the supplemental air bag warning light will illu-
minate. The supplemental air bag warning light
will turn off after about 7 seconds if the supple-
mental front air bag and supplemental side air
bag systems and pre-tensioner seat belt are
operational.
If any of the following conditions occur, the
supplemental front air bag, supplemental side air
bag (if so equipped) and supplemental curtain
side-impact air bag (if so equipped) systems,
and pre-tensioner seat belt need servicing and
your vehicle must be taken to your nearest
NISSAN dealer.

The supplemental air bag warning light re-
mains on after approximately 7 seconds.

The supplemental air bag light flashes inter-
mittently.

The supplemental air bag light does not come
on at all.
Unless checked and repaired, the supplemental
restraint system and/or the pre-tensioner seat
belt may not function properly. For additional
information, see “Supplemental restraint system”
in the “1. Seats, restraints and supplemental air
bag systems” section.
Instruments and controls
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The vehicle dynamic control system
is not a substitute for winter tires or
tire chains on a snow covered road.
FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCKTo prevent a door lock from freezing, apply
de-icer or glycerin to it through the key hole. If
the lock becomes frozen, heat the key before
inserting it into the key hole.ANTI-FREEZEIn the winter when it is anticipated that the
temperature will drop below 32°F (0°C), check
anti-freeze to assure proper winter protection.
For details, see “Engine cooling system” in the
“8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.BATTERYIf the battery is not fully charged during extremely
cold weather conditions, the battery fluid may
freeze and damage the battery. To maintain
maximum efficiency, the battery should be
checked regularly. For details, see “Battery” in
the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.DRAINING OF COOLANT WATERIf the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-
freeze, drain the cooling system by opening the
drain valves located under the radiator and on
the engine block. Refill before operating the
vehicle. See “Engine cooling system” in the “8.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section for
Changing Engine Coolant.
TIRE EQUIPMENT1. SUMMER tires are of a tread design to
provide superior performance on dry pave-
ment. However, the performance of these
tires will be substantially reduced in snowy
and icy conditions. If you operate your vehicle
on snowy or icy roads, NISSAN recommends
the use of MUD & SNOW or ALL SEASON
tires on all four wheels. Please consult your
NISSAN dealer for the tire type, size, speed
rating and availability information.
2. For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tires may be used. However, some Provinces
and States prohibit their use, so, before
installing studded tires, check local, state and
provincial laws.
Skid and traction capabilities of studded
snow tires, on wet or dry surfaces, may be
poorer than that of non-studded snow
tires.
3. TIRE CHAINS may be used if desired. Make
sure they are of proper size for the tires on
your vehicle and are installed according to
the chain manufacturer’s suggestions. Use 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
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
Starting and driving
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Stowing the damaged tire and toolsSecurely store the tire and jacking equipment in
the vehicle as illustrated.
WARNING

Always make sure that the spare tire
and jacking equipment are properly
secured after use. Such items can
become dangerous projectiles in an
accident or sudden stop.

The small size spare tire is designedfor emergency use. See “Tires and
wheels” in the “8. Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section.
Tightening torque of nuts:
48 to 66 ft-lb
(66 to 89 N⋅m)
Use a suitable padlock.
SCE0339C
SCE0244
6-8
In case of emergency


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8 Maintenance and do-it-yourselfMaintenance requirements .................................................. 8-2
General maintenance ............................................................ 8-2
Explanation of general maintenance items ................ 8-2
Maintenance precautions ..................................................... 8-5
Engine compartment check locations .............................. 8-7
Engine cooling system.......................................................... 8-9
Checking engine coolant level...................................... 8-9
Changing engine coolant ............................................ 8-10
Engine oil ............................................................................... 8-13
Checking engine oil level ............................................ 8-13
Changing engine oil ...................................................... 8-14
Changing engine oil filter ............................................ 8-15
Automatic transmission fluid ............................................. 8-16
Temperature conditions for checking ....................... 8-17
Power steering fluid ............................................................ 8-18
Brake and clutch fluid ........................................................ 8-19
Brake fluid ....................................................................... 8-19
Clutch fluid ...................................................................... 8-19
Window washer fluid.......................................................... 8-20
Window washer fluid reservoir .................................. 8-20
Battery .................................................................................... 8-21
Jump starting .................................................................. 8-21
Drive belts ............................................................................. 8-22
Spark plugs ........................................................................... 8-23Replacing spark plugs.................................................. 8-23
Air cleaner ............................................................................. 8-23
Windshield wiper blades ................................................... 8-24
Cleaning ........................................................................... 8-24
Replacing ......................................................................... 8-24
Parking brake and brake pedal ........................................ 8-25
Checking parking brake ............................................... 8-25
Checking brake pedal .................................................. 8-26
Brake booster ................................................................. 8-26
Fuses ...................................................................................... 8-27
Engine compartment ..................................................... 8-27
Passenger compartment .............................................. 8-28
Keyfobbattery replacement ........................................ 8-28
Lights ...................................................................................... 8-30
Headlights ....................................................................... 8-31
Wheels and tires ................................................................. 8-34
Tire pressure ................................................................... 8-34
Types of tires .................................................................. 8-35
Tire chains ....................................................................... 8-36
Changing wheels and tires ......................................... 8-37


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Your new NISSAN has been designed to have
minimum maintenance requirements with longer
service intervals to save you both time and
money. However, some day-to-day and regular
maintenance is essential to maintain your NIS-
SAN’s good mechanical condition, as well as its
emission and engine performance.
It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure that
scheduled maintenance, as well as general
maintenance, is performed.
As the vehicle owner, you are the only one who
can ensure that your vehicle receives the proper
maintenance care. You are a vital link in the
maintenance chain.
Scheduled maintenance:
For your convenience, both required and op-
tional scheduled maintenance items are de-
scribed and listed in your “Service and Mainte-
nance Guide”. You must refer to that guide to
ensure that necessary maintenance is performed
on your NISSAN at regular intervals.
General maintenance:
General maintenance includes those items
which should be checked during normal day-to-
day operation of the vehicle. They are essential if
your vehicle is to continue to operate properly. It
is your responsibility to perform these proce-
dures regularly as prescribed.Performing general maintenance checks require
minimal mechanical skill and only a few general
automotive tools.
These checks or inspections can be done by
yourself, a qualified technician or, if you prefer,
your NISSAN dealer.
Where to go for service:
If maintenance service is required or your vehicle
appears to malfunction, have the systems
checked and tuned by NISSAN dealer.
NISSAN technicians are well-trained specialists
and are kept up to date with the latest service
information through technical bulletins, service
tips, and in-dealership training programs. They
are completely qualified to work on NISSAN
vehiclesbeforethey work on your vehicle,
rather than after they have worked on it.
You can be confident that your NISSAN dealer’s
service department performs the best job to
meet the maintenance requirements of your ve-
hicle — in a reliable and economic way.During the normal day-to-day operation of the
vehicle, general maintenance should be per-
formed regularly as prescribed in this section. If
you detect any unusual sounds, vibrations or
smell, be sure to check for the cause or have
your NISSAN dealer check it promptly. In addi-
tion, you should notify your NISSAN dealer if you
think that repairs are required.
When performing any checks or maintenance
work, closely observe the “Maintenance precau-
tions” later in this section.
EXPLANATION OF GENERAL
MAINTENANCE ITEMSAdditional information on the following
items with “*” is found later in this section.Outside the vehicleThe maintenance items listed here should be
performed from time to time, unless otherwise
specified.
Tires*:
Check the pressure with a gauge at least once a
month and always prior to long distance trips. If
necessary, adjust the pressure in all tires, includ-
ing the spare, to the pressure specified. Check
carefully for damage, cuts or excessive wear.
MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS GENERAL MAINTENANCE8-2
Maintenance and do-it-yourself


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Wheel nuts*:
When checking the tires, make sure no nuts are
missing, and check for any loose nuts. Tighten if
necessary.
Tire rotation*:
Tires should be rotated every 7,500 miles
(12,000 km). However, the timing for tire rotation
may vary according to your driving habits and
road surface conditions.
Wheel alignment and balance:
If the vehicle should pull to either side while
driving on a straight and level road, or if you
detect uneven or abnormal tire wear, there may
be a need for wheel alignment.
If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at normal
highway speeds, wheel balancing may be
needed.
For additional information regarding tires, refer to
“Important Tire Safety Information” (US) or “Tire
Safety Information” (Canada) in the Warranty
Information booklet.
Windshield:
Clean the windshield on a regular basis. Check
the windshield at least every six months for
cracks or other damage. Have a damaged wind-
shield repaired by a qualified repair facility.Windshield wiper blades*:
Check for cracks or wear if they do not wipe
properly.
Doors and engine hood:
Check that all doors and the engine hood oper-
ate properly. Also ensure that all latches lock
securely. Lubricate hinges, latches, rollers and
links if necessary. Make sure that 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.
Lights*:
Clean the headlights on a regular basis. Make
sure that the headlights, stop lights, tail lights,
turn signal lights, and other lights are all operat-
ing properly and installed securely. Also check
headlight aim.
Inside the vehicleThe maintenance items listed here should be
checked on a regular basis, such as when
performing periodic maintenance, cleaning the
vehicle, etc.Warning lights and chimes:
Make sure that 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 defroster:
Check that the air comes out of the defroster
outlets properly and in sufficient quantity when
operating the heater or air conditioner.
Steering wheel:
Check for changes in the steering conditions,
such as excessive freeplay, hard steering or
strange noises.
Seats:
Check seat position controls such as seat ad-
justers, seatback recliner, etc. to ensure they
operate smoothly and that all latches lock se-
curely in every position. Check that the head
restraints move up and down smoothly and that
the locks (if so equipped) hold securely in all
latched positions.
Seat belts:
Check that all parts of the seat belt system (e.g.
buckles, anchors, adjusters and retractors) op-
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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