2005 NISSAN 350Z power steering

the windows, move the heater or air condi-
tioner temperature control to maximum hot
and fan control to high speed.
3. If engine overheating is caused by climbing a
long hill on a hot day, run the engine at a fast
idle (approximately 1,500 rpm) until the tem-
perature gauge indication returns to normal.
4. Get out of the vehicle. Look and listen for
steam or coolant escaping from the radiator
before opening the hood. (If steam or coolant
is escaping, turn off the engine.) Do not open
the hood further until no steam or coolant can
be seen.
5. Open the engine hood.
WARNING
If steam or water is coming from the
engine, stand clear to prevent getting
burned.
6. Visually check if the cooling fan is running.
The radiator hoses and radiator should not
leak water.
If coolant is leaking or the cooling fan does
not run, stop the engine.
WARNING

Be careful not to allow your hands,
hair, jewelry or clothing to come into
contact with, or get caught in, engine
belts or the engine cooling fan.

The engine cooling fan can start at
any time when the coolant tempera-
ture is high.
7. After the engine cools down, check the cool-
ant level in the reservoir tank with the engine
running. Add coolant to the reservoir tank if
necessary. Have your vehicle repaired at a
NISSAN dealer.When towing your vehicle, all State (Provincial in
Canada) and local regulations for towing must
be followed. Incorrect towing equipment could
damage your vehicle. Towing instructions are
available from a NISSAN dealer. Local service
operators are generally familiar with the appli-
cable laws and procedures for towing. To assure
proper towing and to prevent accidental damage
to your vehicle, NISSAN recommends having a
service operator tow your vehicle. It is advisable
to have the service operator carefully read the
following precautions.
WARNING

Never ride in a vehicle that is being
towed.

Never get under your vehicle after it
has been lifted by a tow truck.
CAUTION

When towing, make sure that the
transmission, axles, steering system
and powertrain are in working condi-TOWING YOUR VEHICLE
6-10
In case of emergency


04.8.23/Z33-D/V5.0


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 ........................................................ 8-8
Checking engine coolant level .................................... 8-8
Changing engine coolant ............................................. 8-9
Engine oil ............................................................................. 8-10
Checking engine oil level ........................................... 8-10
Changing engine oil and filter ................................... 8-10
Automatic transmission fluid ........................................... 8-12
Power steering fluid .......................................................... 8-13
Brake and clutch fluid ....................................................... 8-13
Brake fluid ....................................................................... 8-14
Clutch fluid ..................................................................... 8-14
Window washer fluid ........................................................ 8-14
Battery ................................................................................... 8-15
Jump starting ................................................................. 8-16
Drive belts ............................................................................ 8-17
Spark plugs ......................................................................... 8-17
Replacing spark plugs ................................................ 8-17Air cleaner ............................................................................ 8-18
Windshield wiper blades ................................................. 8-19
Cleaning ......................................................................... 8-19
Replacing ....................................................................... 8-20
Parking brake and brake pedal ...................................... 8-21
Checking parking brake ............................................. 8-21
Checking brake pedal ................................................. 8-21
Brake booster ................................................................ 8-22
Fuses ..................................................................................... 8-22
Engine compartment ................................................... 8-23
Passenger compartment ............................................ 8-24
Keyfobbattery replacement ............................................ 8-24
Lights ..................................................................................... 8-26
Headlights ...................................................................... 8-27
Exterior and interior lights .......................................... 8-28
Wheels and tires ................................................................ 8-31
Tire pressure ................................................................. 8-31
Tire labeling ..................................................................... 8-33
Types of tires ................................................................. 8-35
Tire chains ...................................................................... 8-35
Changing wheels and tires ........................................ 8-36


04.8.23/Z33-D/V5.0


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 good quantity when operating the heater or air
conditioner.Under the hood and the vehicleThe maintenance items listed here should be
checked periodically (for example, each time you
check the engine oil or refuel).
Battery*:Check the fluid level in each cell. It
should be between the MAX and MIN lines.
Vehicles 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 levels are between the
MAX and MIN lines on the reservoir.
Engine coolant level*:Check the coolant level
when the engine is cold.
Engine drive belts*:Make sure that no belt is
frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*:Check the level on the
dipstick after parking the vehicle on a level spot,
turning off the engine and waiting 10 minutes.Exhaust system:Make 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 locate the trouble
and correct it. (See “Precautions when starting
and driving” in the “5. Starting and driving”
section for exhaust gas (carbon monoxide).)
Fluid leaks:Check 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 lines:Check
the level in the reservoir tank with the engine off.
Check the lines for proper attachment, leaks,
cracks, etc.
Radiator and hoses:Check 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, deterioration
or loose connections.
Underbody:The 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, other-
wise rust will form on the floor pan, frame, fuel
lines and around the exhaust system. At the endof winter, the underbody should be thoroughly
flushed with plain water, being careful to clean
those areas where mud and dirt may accumu-
late. For additional information, see “Cleaning
exterior” in the “7. Appearance and care” sec-
tion.
Window washer fluid*:Check that there is
adequate fluid in the tank.8-4
Maintenance and do-it-yourself


04.8.23/Z33-D/V5.0


1. Fuse/fusible link holder
2. Battery
3. Engine oil filler cap
4. Brake fluid reservoir
5. Clutch fluid reservoir (M/T models)
6. Windshield washer fluid reservoir
7. Power steering fluid reservoir
8. Engine coolant reservoir
9. Radiator filler cap
10. Engine oil dipstick
11. Air cleaner
Do not tamper with the strut tower bar
adjustment
A. The strut tower bar has
been adjusted to the most suitable posi-
tion at the factory.CAUTION
Tampering with the strut tower bar ad-
justment may cause a noise while driv-
ing or damage to the hood or engine.
SDI1519
ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-7


04.8.23/Z33-D/V5.0


Check the fluid level in the reservoir tank.
The fluid level should be checked using the HOT
range at fluid temperatures of 122 - 176°F (50 -
80°C) or using the COLD range at fluid tem-
peratures of 32 - 86°F (0 - 30°C).
If the fluid is below the MIN line, add Genuine
NISSAN PSF fluid. Remove the cap and fill
through the opening.
CAUTION

Do not overfill.
Recommended fluid is Genuine
NISSAN PSF or equivalent.For additional brake and clutch fluid information,
refer to “Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants” in the “9. Technical and consumer
information” section of this manual.
WARNING
Use only new fluid. Old, inferior or con-
taminated fluid may damage the brake
system. Do not add synthetic brake
fluid. The use of improper fluids can
damage the brake system and affect the
vehicle’s stopping ability.
CAUTION
Do not spill the fluid on any painted
surfaces. This will damage the paint. If
fluid is spilled, immediately wash the
surface with water.
SDI1443
POWER STEERING FLUID BRAKE AND CLUTCH FLUID
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-13


04.8.23/Z33-D/V5.0


1. Power steering fluid pump
2. Alternator
3. Crankshaft pulley
4. Air conditioner compressor
: Tension checking points
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 unusual
wear, cuts, fraying, oil adhesion or looseness.
If the belt is in poor condition or loose, have
it replaced or adjusted by a NISSAN dealer.
2. Have the belts checked regularly for condi-
tion and tension.
REPLACING SPARK PLUGSIf replacement is required, see a NISSAN dealer
for servicing.
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.
SDI1389A
DRIVE BELTS SPARK PLUGS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-17


04.8.23/Z33-D/V5.0


The following are approximate capacities. The actual refill capacities may be a little different. When refilling, follow the procedure
instructed in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section to determine the proper refill capacity.
Capacity (Approximate)
Recommended
specifications US
measureImp
measureLiter
Fuel 20 gal 16-5/8 gal 76 Unleaded premium gasoline with an octane rating of at least 91 AKI (RON 96)*1
Engine oil (Drain and refill)*2
With oil filter change 5 qt 4-1/8 qt 4.7
API Certification Mark*3, *4

API grade SG/SH, Energy ConservingI&IIorAPIgradeSJorSL,Energy Conserving*3, *4

ILSAC grade GF-I, GF-II & GF-III*2, *3 Without oil filter change 4-5/8 qt 3-7/8 qt 4.4
Cooling system
With reservoir 9-1/4 qt 7-5/8 qt 8.7
Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent
Reservoir 7/8 qt 3/5 qt 0.8
Automatic transmission fluid — — — Genuine Nissan Matic J ATF*5
Manual transmission gear oil — — —Genuine NISSAN Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) HQ Multi 75W-85 or API GL-4, Viscosity
SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90
Differential gear oil — — — API GL-5, Viscosity SAE 80W-90*6
Power steering fluid (PSF)
Refill to the proper fluid level according to the instructions in
the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.Genuine NISSAN PSF or equivalent*7
Brake and clutch fluidGenuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid*8 or equivalent DOT 3 (U.S. FMVSS No. 116)
Multi-purpose grease — — — NLGI No. 2 (Lithium soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerant — — — HFC-134a (R-134a)*9
Air conditioning system lubricants — — — NISSAN A/C System Oil Type S or exact equivalent
Windshield washer fluid — — — Genuine NISSAN Windshield Washer Concentrate Cleaner & Anti-freeze or equivalent
*1: For additional information, see “Fuel recommendation” later in this chapter.
*2: For additional information, see “Engine oil” in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section for changing engine oil.
*3: For additional information, see “Engine oil and oil filter recommendation” later in this chapter.
*4: For additional information, see “Recommended SAE viscosity number” later in this chapter.
*5:Using automatic transmission fluid other than Genuine Nissan Matic J ATF will cause deterioration in driveability and automatic transmission durability,
and may damage the automatic transmission, which is not covered by the NISSAN new vehicle limited warranty.
*6: For hot areas, viscosity SAE 90 is suitable for ambient temperatures above 32°F (0°C).
*7: For Canada, Nissan Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), DEXRON
TMIII/MERCON
TMor equivalent ATF may also be used.
*8: Available in mainland US through a NISSAN dealer.
*9: For additional information, see “Vehicle identification” in this section for air conditioner specification label.
CAPACITIES AND
RECOMMENDED FUEL/
LUBRICANTS9-2
Technical and consumer information


04.8.23/Z33-D/V5.0


Compact Disc (CD) changer operation .............. 4-24
Compact Disc (CD) player (See audio
system) ......................................................................... 4-17
Compact spare tire ................................................... 8-38
Console box................................................................ 2-34
Control panel buttons (models with navigation
system) ........................................................................... 4-2
Controls
Control panel buttons (display with navigation
system)..................................................................... 4-2
Heater and air conditioner controls
(automatic) .............................................................. 4-8
Coolant
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................................. 9-2
Changing engine coolant .................................... 8-9
Checking engine coolant level........................... 8-8
Corrosion protection ................................................... 7-5
Cruise control............................................................. 5-15
Cup holders ................................................................ 2-33
Curtain side-impact air bag system (See
supplemental side air bag and curtain air bag
system) ......................................................................... 1-37
D
Daytime running light system ................................. 2-25
Defroster switch, Rear window and
outside mirror defroster switch.............................. 2-23
Dimensions and weights ............................................ 9-9
Display controls (See control panel buttons),
With navigation system .............................................. 4-2
Door open warning light .......................................... 2-13
Drive belts ................................................................... 8-17Driving
Cold weather driving ......................................... 5-24
Driving with automatic transmission........ 5-6, 5-9
Driving with manual transmission .......... 5-7, 5-12
Precautions when starting and driving ............ 5-2
E
Economy, Fuel............................................................ 5-17
Elapsed time ............................................................... 2-10
Emission control information label ........................ 9-11
Emission control system warranty......................... 9-22
Engine
Before starting the engine .................................. 5-8
Break-in schedule............................................... 5-17
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................................. 9-2
Changing engine coolant .................................... 8-9
Changing engine oil and filter ......................... 8-10
Checking engine coolant level........................... 8-8
Checking engine oil level ................................. 8-10
Coolant temperature gauge ............................... 2-6
Engine block heater ........................................... 5-25
Engine compartment check locations.............. 8-7
Engine cooling system ......................................... 8-8
Engine oil .............................................................. 8-10
Engine oil and oil filter recommendation......... 9-5
Engine oil viscosity ............................................... 9-5
Engine serial number ......................................... 9-11
Engine specifications ........................................... 9-8
If your vehicle overheats ...................................... 6-9
Oil pressure gauge ............................................... 2-7
Starting the engine ............................................... 5-8
Event data recorders ................................................ 9-24Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide).............................. 5-2
F
Filter
Air cleaner housing filter ................................... 8-18
Changing engine oil and filter ......................... 8-10
Flashers (See hazard warning flasher switch) ... 2-27
Flat tire............................................................................ 6-2
Flat tire, Low tire pressure warning system .......... 5-3
Flat towing .................................................................. 9-20
Floor mat cleaning ....................................................... 7-4
Fluid
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) ................ 8-12
Brake and clutch fluid ....................................... 8-13
Brake fluid............................................................. 8-14
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................................. 9-2
Engine coolant ....................................................... 8-8
Engine oil .............................................................. 8-10
Power steering fluid ........................................... 8-13
Window washer fluid ......................................... 8-14
FM-AM radio with Compact Disc (CD)
player ............................................................................ 4-15
FM-AM-SAT radio with cassette player and
Compact Disc (CD) changer ................................. 4-19
Front manual seat adjustment .................................. 1-3
Front power seat adjustment........................... 1-4, 1-5
Fuel
Average fuel consumption ................................ 2-10
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................................. 9-2
Distance to empty ................................................. 2-9
Filler cap ............................................................... 3-13


04.8.23/Z33-D/V5.0

10-2