2003 NISSAN XTERRA belt

8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Maintenance requirements..........................8-2
General maintenance..............................8-2
Explanation of general maintenance items.........8-2
Maintenance precautions...........................8-5
Engine compartment check locations................8-6
Engine cooling system.............................8-9
Checking engine coolant level...................8-9
Changing engine coolant.......................8-10
Engine oil........................................8-10
Checking engine oil level.......................8-10
Changing engine oil...........................8-11
Changing engine oil filter.......................8-13
Automatic transmission fluid.......................8-14
Temperature conditions for checking.............8-14
Power steering fluid...............................8-15
Brake and clutch fluid.............................8-16
Brake fluid....................................8-16
Clutch fluid...................................8-16
Window washer fluid.............................8-17
Window washer fluid reservoir..................8-17
Battery..........................................8-18
Jump starting.................................8-19
Drive belts.......................................8-19Spark plugs......................................8-21
Replacing spark plugs.........................8-21
Air cleaner.......................................8-22
In-cabin Microfilter (if so equipped)..............8-23
Windshield wiper blades..........................8-26
Cleaning.....................................8-26
Replacing....................................8-26
Parking brake and brake pedal.....................8-29
Checking parking brake........................8-29
Checking brake pedal..........................8-29
Brake booster.................................8-30
Fuses...........................................8-31
Passenger compartment.......................8-31
Keyfob battery replacement........................8-32
Lights...........................................8-33
Headlights....................................8-33
Fog lights (if so equipped)......................8-34
Exterior and interior lights.......................8-36
Wheels and tires.................................8-40
Tire pressure..................................8-40
Types of tires..................................8-40
Tire chains....................................8-41
Changing wheels and tires.....................8-42
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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
operating properly and installed securely. Also
check headlight aim.
Road wheel nuts (lug nuts)*When checking
the tires, make sure no wheel nuts are missing,
and check for any loose wheel nuts. Tighten if
necessary.
Tire rotation*Tires should be rotated every
7,500 miles (12,000 km) .
Tire, wheel alignment and balanceIf 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.
cFor additional information regarding tires,
refer to “Important Tire Safety Information”
(US) or “Tire Safety Information” (Canada) in
the Warranty Information Booklet .
Tires*Check the pressure with a gauge at least
once a month and always prior to long distancetrips. If necessary, adjust the pressure in all tires,
including the spare, to the pressure specified.
Check carefully for damage, cuts or excessive
wear.
WindshieldClean the windshield on a regular
basis. Check the windshield at least every six
months for cracks or other damage. Have a dam-
aged windshield repaired by a qualified repair
facility.
Windshield wiper blades*Check for cracks or
wear if they do not wipe properly.
Inside the vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked on a regular basis, such as when per-
forming periodic maintenance, cleaning the ve-
hicle, etc.
Additional information on the following
items with an “*” is found later in this sec-
tion.
Accelerator pedalCheck the pedal for smooth
operation and make sure the pedal does not bind
or require uneven effort. Keep the floor mat away
from the pedal.
Automatic transmission P (Park) position
mechanismCheck that the lock release button
on the shift selector lever operates properly and
smoothly. On a fairly steep hill check that yourvehicle is held securely with the selector lever in
the P position without applying any brakes.
Brake pedal and booster*Check the pedal for
smooth operation and make sure it has the proper
distance under it when depressed fully. Check
the brake booster function. Be certain to keep the
floor mat away from the pedal.
BrakesCheck that the brakes do not pull the
vehicle to one side when applied.
Clutch pedal*Make sure the pedal operates
smoothly and check that it has the proper free
travel.
Parking brake*Check that the pedal has the
proper travel and confirm that your vehicle is held
securely on a fairly steep hill with only the parking
brake applied.
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 positions.
Seat beltsCheck that all parts of the seat belt
system (for example, buckles, anchors, adjusters
and retractors) operate properly and smoothly,
and are installed securely. Check the belt web-
bing for cuts, fraying, wear or damage.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-3
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Steering wheelCheck for changes in the steer-
ing system, such as excessive freeplay, hard
steering or strange noises.
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.
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) .
Automatic transmission fluid level*Check
the level after putting the selector lever in P with
the engine idling at operating temperature.
Battery*Check the fluid level in each cell. It
should be between the MAX and MIN lines. Ve-
hicles operated in high temperatures or under
severe conditions require frequent checks of the
battery fluid level.
Brake and clutch fluid levels*Make sure that
the brake and clutch fluid level is between the
MIN and MAX lines on the reservoir.Engine coolant level*Check the coolant level
when the engine is cold.
Engine drive belts*Make sure the drive belts
are not frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*Check the level after parking
the vehicle on a level surface with the engine off.
Wait more than 10 minutes for the oil to drain
back into the oil pan.
Exhaust systemMake sure there are no loose
supports, cracks or holes. If the sound of the
exhaust seems unusual or there is a smell of
exhaust fumes, immediately have the exhaust
system inspected by a NISSAN dealer. See the
carbon monoxide warning in the “Starting and
driving” section of this manual.
Fluid leaksCheck 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 imme-
diately.
Power steering fluid level* and linesCheck
the level when the fluid is cold, with the engine
off. Check the lines for proper attachment, leaks,
cracks, etc.
Radiator and hosesCheck the front of the
radiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves,etc., that may have accumulated. Make sure the
hoses have no cracks, deformation, rot or loose
connections.
UnderbodyThe underbody is frequently ex-
posed to corrosive substances such as those
used on icy roads or to control dust. It is very
important to remove these substances 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 thor-
oughly flushed with plain water, in those areas
where mud and dirt may have accumulated. See
the “Appearance and care” section of this
manual.
Windshield washer fluid*Check that there is
adequate fluid in the reservoir.
8-4Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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When performing any inspection or maintenance
work on your vehicle, always take care to prevent
serious accidental injury to yourself or damage to
the vehicle. The following are general precau-
tions which should be closely observed.
WARNING
cPark the vehicle on a level surface, ap-
ply the parking brake securely and
block the wheels to prevent the vehicle
from moving. For manual transmission
models, move the shift lever to N (Neu-
tral) . For automatic transmission mod-
els, move the selector lever to P (Park) .
cBe sure the ignition key is in the OFF or
LOCK position when performing any
parts replacement or repairs.
cNever leave the engine or automatic
transmission related component har-
nesses disconnected while the ignition
switch is in the ON position.
cNever connect or disconnect the battery
or any transistorized component while
the ignition switch is in the ON position.
cIf you must work with the engine run-
ning, keep your hands, clothing, hair
and tools away from moving fans, belts
and any other moving parts.cIt is advisable to secure or remove any
loose clothing and remove any jewelry,
such as rings, watches, etc. before
working on your vehicle.
cAlways wear eye protection whenever
you work on your vehicle.
cIf you must run the engine in an en-
closed space such as a garage, be sure
there is proper ventilation for exhaust
gases to escape.
cNever get under the vehicle while it is
supported only by a jack. If it is neces-
sary to work under the vehicle, support
it with safety stands.
cKeep smoking materials, flame and
sparks away from the fuel tank and
battery.
cOn gasoline engine models with the
multiport fuel injection (MFI) system,
the fuel filter or fuel lines should be
serviced by a NISSAN dealer because
the fuel lines are under high pressure
even when the engine is off.
CAUTION
cDo not work under the hood while the
engine is hot. Turn the engine off and
wait until it cools down.
cAvoid contact with used engine oil and
coolant. Improperly disposed engine
oil, engine coolant and/or other vehicle
fluids can damage the environment. Al-
ways conform to local regulations for
disposal of vehicle fluid.
This “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section
gives instructions regarding only those items
which are relatively easy for an owner to perform.
A genuine NISSAN service manual is also avail-
able. See “Owner’s Manual/Service Manual or-
der information” in the “Technical and consumer
information” section of this manual.
You should be aware that incomplete or improper
servicing may result in operating difficulties or
excessive emissions, and could affect warranty
coverage.If in doubt about any servicing,
have it done by a NISSAN dealer.
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-5
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WARNING
cWhen the engine is running, keep
hands, jewelry and clothing away from
any moving parts such as the cooling
fan and drive belts.
cAutomatic transmission fluid is poison-
ous and should be stored carefully in
marked containers out of the reach of
children.
TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS FOR
CHECKING
cThe fluid level should be checked using the
HOT range on the dipstick after the following
conditions have been met:
– The engine should be warmed up to op-
erating temperature.
– The vehicle should be driven at least 5
minutes.
– The automatic transmission fluid should
be warmed to 122 - 176°F (50 - 80°C) .cThe fluid can be checked at fluid tempera-
tures of 86 - 122°F (30 - 50°C) using the
COLD range on the dipstick after the engine
is warmed up and before driving. However,
the fluid should be re-checked 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 shift
selector lever through each gear range, end-
ing in P (Park) .
3. Check the fluid level with the engine idling.
KA24DE engine
WDI0279
VG33E/VG33ER engine
WDI0280
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID
8-14Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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2. Check the fluid level in each cell If it is
necessary to add fluid, add only distilled
water to bring the level up to the bottom of
the filler opening.Do not overfill.Vehicles operated in high temperatures or under
severe conditions require frequent checks of the
battery fluid level.
JUMP STARTING
If jump starting is necessary, see “Jump starting”
in the “In case of emergency” section of this
manual. If the engine does not start by jump
starting, the battery may have to be replaced.
Contact a NISSAN dealer.
1 Crankshaft
2 Water pump
3 Generator
4 Air conditioner compressor
5 Power steering fluid pump
: Tension checking points
WARNING
Be sure the ignition key is in the OFF or
LOCK position. The engine could rotate
unexpectedly.
LDI0302
KA24DE engine
WDI0286
DRIVE BELTS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-19
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1. Visually inspect each belt for signs of un-
usual wear, cuts, fraying or looseness. If the
belt is in poor condition or is loose, have it
replaced or adjusted by a NISSAN dealer.
2. Have the belts checked regularly for condi-
tion and tension in accordance with the
maintenance schedule found in the
“NISSAN Service and Maintenance Guide”.
1 Crankshaft
2 Water pump
3 Alternator
4 Air conditioner compressor
5 Power steering fluid pump
: Tension checking points
1 Crankshaft
2 Water pump
3 Generator
4 Air conditioner compressor
5 Power steering pump
6 Supercharger
7 Idler
: Tension checking points
VG33E engine
WDI0287
VG33ER engine
WDI0288
8-20Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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cThe original tires have built-in tread
wear indicators. When the wear indica-
tors are visible, the tire(s) should be
replaced.
cImproper service of the spare tire may
result in serious personal injury. If it is
necessary to repair the spare tire, con-
tact a NISSAN dealer.
cFor additional information regarding
tires, refer to Important Tire Safety In-
formation (US) or Tire Safety Informa-
tion (Canada) in the Warranty Informa-
tion Booklet.
Replacing wheels and tires
When replacing a tire, use the same size, tread
design, speed rating and load carrying capacity
as originally equipped. Recommended types and
sizes are shown in “Wheels/tire size” in the
“Technical and consumer information” section of
this manual.
WARNING
cThe use of tires other than those recom-
mended 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, tire chain clearance,
speedometer calibration, headlight aim
and bumper height. Some of these ef-
fects may lead to accidents and could
result in serious personal injury.
cIf the wheels are changed for any rea-
son, always replace with wheels which
have the same off-set dimension.
Wheels of a different off-set could
cause premature tire wear, degrade ve-
hicle handling characteristics and/or
interference with the brake
discs/drums. Such interference can
lead to decreased braking efficiency
and/or early brake pad/shoe wear. Re-
fer to “Wheel/tire size” in the “Techni-
cal and consumer information” section
of this manual for wheel off-set
dimensions.cWhen a spare tire is mounted or a wheel
is replaced, the low tire pressure warn-
ing system will not function. Contact
your NISSAN dealer as soon as pos-
sible for tire replacement and/or sys-
tem resetting (for models with the low
tire pressure warning system) .
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 warning.
cThe use of retread tires is not
recommended.
cFor additional information regarding
tires, refer to Important Tire Safety In-
formation (US) or Tire Safety Informa-
tion (Canada) in the Warranty Informa-
tion Booklet.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-43
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