EXPLANATION OF GENERAL
MAINTENANCE ITEMS Additional information on the following
items with ª*º is found later in this sec-
tion.
Outside the vehicle The maintenance items listed here should
be performed from time to time, unless
otherwise specified.
Doors and engine hood: Check that all
doors and the engine hood operate prop-
erly. Also ensure that all latches lock se-
curely. Lubricate hinges and latches 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 lubrica-
tion 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 head-
light 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.
Tires*: Check the pressure with a gauge
often and always prior to long distance
trips. If necessary, adjust the pressure in
all tires, including the spare, to the speci-
fied pressure. Check carefully for damage,
cuts or excessive wear.
Tire rotation*:
Sedan: The tires should be rotated every
7,500 miles (12,000 km) to minimize tire
wear variation.
Coupe: The tires cannot be rotated.
Tire, 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.
O For additional information regarding
tires, refer to ªImportant Tire Safety
Informationº (US) or ªTire Safety Infor-
mationº (Canada) in the Warranty In-
formation 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 windshield re-
paired by a qualified repair facility.
Windshield wiper blades*: Check for
cracks or wear if they do not wipe prop-
erly.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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Inside the vehicle The maintenance items listed here should
be checked on a regular basis, such as
when performing periodic maintenance,
cleaning the vehicle, etc.
Accelerator pedal: Check the pedal for
smooth operation and make sure the
pedal does not catch or require uneven
effort. Keep the floor mat away from the
pedal.
Automatic transmission P (Park) mecha-
nism: On a fairly steep hill check that your
vehicle is held securely with the selector
lever in the P (Park) position without ap-
plying any brakes.
Brake pedal*: 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 sure
to keep the floor mat away from the
pedal.
Brakes: Check that the brakes do not pull
the vehicle to one side when applied.
Parking brake*: Check that the pedal/
lever has the proper travel and confirm
that your vehicle is held securely on a
fairly steep hill with only the parking
brake applied. Seats: Check seat position controls such
as seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc.
to ensure they operate smoothly and that
all latches lock securely 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 (For example, buckles, an-
chors, adjusters and retractors) operate
properly and smoothly, and are installed
securely. Check the belt webbing for cuts,
fraying, wear or damage.
Steering wheel: Check for changes in the
steering conditions, such as excessive
free play, hard steering or strange noises.
Warning lights and chimes: Make sure
that all warning lights and chimes are op-
erating properly.
Windshield defroster: Check that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets prop-
erly and in sufficient quantity when oper-
ating the heater or air conditioner.
Windshield wiper and washer*: Check that
the wipers and washer operate properly
and that the wipers do not streak. Under the hood and the vehicle The maintenance items listed here should
be checked periodically (For example,
each time you check the engine oil or re-
fuel).
Battery*: Check the fluid level in each
cell. It should be between the MAX and
MIN lines. Vehicles operated in high tem-
peratures or under severe conditions re-
quire frequent checks of the battery fluid
level.
Brake and clutch fluid level*: 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 after
parking the vehicle on a level location
and turning off the engine. (Wait at least
10 minutes for the oil to drain back into
the oil pan.)
Exhaust system: Make sure there are no
loose supports, cracks or holes. If the
sound of the exhaust seems unusual or
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there is a smell of exhaust fumes, imme-
diately locate the trouble and correct it.
See ªPrecautions when starting and
drivingº in the ª5. Starting and drivingº
section for exhaust gas (Carbon mon-
oxide).
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 evi-
dent, check for the cause and have it cor-
rected immediately.
Power steering fluid level* and lines:
Check the level when the fluid is cold and
the engine is turned 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, de-
formation, deterioration or loose connec-
tions.
Underbody: The underbody is frequently
exposed to corrosive substances such as
those used on icy roads or to control
dust. It is very important to remove these
substances, otherwise rust will form on the floor pan, frame, fuel lines and
around the exhaust system. At the end of
winter, the underbody should be thor-
oughly flushed with plain water, being
careful to clean those areas where mud
and dirt may accumulate. For additional
information, see ªCleaning exteriorº in
the ª7. Appearance and careº section.
Windshield washer fluid*: Check that
there is adequate fluid in the tank. When performing any inspection or main-
tenance work on your vehicle, always take
care to prevent serious accidental injury
to yourself or damage to the vehicle. The
following are general precautions which
should be closely observed.
WARNING O Park the vehicle on a level surface, apply
the parking brake securely and block the
wheels to prevent the vehicle from
moving. For a manual transmission,
move the shift lever to N (Neutral) posi-
tion. For an automatic transmission
models, move the selector lever to P
(Park).
O Be sure the ignition key is in the OFF or
LOCK position when performing any
parts replacement or repairs.
O If 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.
O It is advisable to secure or remove any
loose clothing and remove any jewelry,MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
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1. Fuse/fusible link holder
2. Battery
3. Engine oil filler cap
4. Brake fluid reservoir
5. Clutch fluid reservoir (MT models)
6. Power steering fluid reservoir
7. Engine coolant reservoir
8. Window washer fluid reservoir
9. Radiator filler cap
10. Drive belts
11. Engine oil dipstick
12. Air cleaner
SSI0160ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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WARNINGO Prolonged and repeated contact with
used engine oil may cause skin cancer.
O Try to avoid direct skin contact with used
oil. If skin contact is made, wash thor-
oughly with soap or hand cleaner as
soon as possible.
O Keep used engine oil out of reach of
children. When checking or replacement is re-
quired, we recommend an INFINITI dealer
for servicing.
CAUTION O Use only Genuine NISSAN Matic J ATF. Do
not mix with other fluids.
O 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 trans-
mission, which is not covered by the
INFINITI new vehicle limited warranty.
The specified automatic transmission
fluid is also described on caution labels
located in the engine compartment. Check the fluid level in the reservoir.
The fluid level should be checked using
the HOT range (
q 1
: HOT MAX.,
q 2
: HOT
MIN.) at fluid temperatures of 122 to 176ÉF
(50 to 80ÉC) or using the COLD range (
q 3
:
COLD MAX.,
q 4
: COLD MIN.) at fluid tem-
peratures of 32 to 86ÉF (0 to 30ÉC). SDI1765A
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID POWER STEERING FLUID
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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1. Power steering fluid pump
2. Fan
3. Alternator
4. Crankshaft pulley
5. Air conditioner compressor
D : Tension checking points WARNING Be sure the ignition key is in the OFF or LOCK
position. The engine could rotate unexpect-
edly.
1. Visually inspect each belt for signs of
unusual wear, cuts, fraying, oil adhe-
sion or looseness. If the belt is in poor
condition or loose, have it replaced or
adjusted by an INFINITI dealer.
2. Have the belts checked regularly for
condition and tension in accordance
with the maintenance schedule in the
INFINITI Service and Maintenance
Guide.
WARNING Be sure the engine and ignition switch are
off and that the parking brake is engaged se-
curely.
CAUTION Be sure to use the correct socket to remove
the spark plugs. An incorrect socket can
damage the spark plugs.SDI1389
DRIVE BELTS SPARK PLUGS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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The following are approximate capacities. The actual refill capacities may be slightly different. When refilling, follow the procedure in-
structed in the ª8. Maintenance and do-it-yourselfº section to determine the proper refill capacity. Capacity (Approximate)
Recommended
specificationsUS
measure Imp
measure Liter
Fuel*1 20 gal 16-5/8 gal 76
Engine oil (Drain and refill)*8
With oil filter change 5 qt 4-1/8 qt 4.7 O API Certification Mark*2, *3
O API grade SG/SH, Energy Conservin gI&IIorAPI grade SJ or SL, Energy Conserving*2, *3
O ILSAC grade GF-I, GF-II & GF-III*2, *3Without 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 Ð Ð Ð Genuine NISSAN Matic J ATF*4
Manual transmission gear oil Ð Ð Ð Genuine NISSAN Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF)
HQ Multi 75W-85 or API GL-4, Viscosity SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90
Differential gear oil Ð Ð Ð API GL-5, Viscosity SAE 80W-90*5
Transfer fluid Ð Ð Ð Genuine NISSAN Matic D ATF (Continental U.S. and Alaska) or CANADA NISSAN Automatic Trans-
mission Fluid*6
Power steering fluid (PSF) Refill to the proper fluid level according to the in-
structions in the ª8. Maintenance and do-it-yourselfº
section. Genuine NISSAN PSF or equivalent*10
Brake and clutch fluid Genuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid*7 or equivalent DOT 3
Multi-purpose grease Ð Ð Ð NLGI No. 2 (Lithium soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerant Ð Ð Ð HFC-134a (R-134a)*9
Air conditioning system lubricants Ð Ð Ð NISSAN A/C System Oil Type S or exact equivalent
Windshield washer fluid Ð Ð Ð Genuine NISSAN Windshield Washer Concentrate Cleaner & Antifreeze or equivalent
*1: For additional information, see ªFuel recommendationº later in this section.
*2: For additional information, see ªEngine oil and oil filter recommendationº later in this section.
*3: For additional information, see ªRecommended SAE viscosity numberº later in this section.
*4: 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 INFINITI new vehicle limited warranty.
*5: For hot climates, viscosity SAE 90 is suitable for ambient temperatures always above 32ÉF (0ÉC).
*6: DEXRON TM
III/MERCON TM
or equivalent may also be used. Outside the continental United States and Alaska contact an INFINITI dealer for more information regarding suitable fluids, including recommended
brand(s) of DEXRON TM
III/MERCON TM
automatic transmission fluid.
*7: Available in mainland US through an INFINITI dealer.
*8: For additional information, see ªEngine oilº in the ª8. Maintenance and do-it-yourselfº section for changing engine oil.
*9: For additional information, see ªVehicle identificationº later in this section for air conditioner specification label.
*10: For Canada, NISSAN Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), DEXRON TM
III/MERCON TM
or equivalent ATF may also be used.CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED
FUEL/LUBRICANTS
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WARNINGOverloading or improper loading of a trailer
and its cargo can adversely affect vehicle
handling, braking and performance and may
lead to accidents.
CAUTIONO Do not tow a trailer or haul a heavy load
for the first 500 miles (800 km). Your engine, axle or other parts could be
damaged.
O For the first 500 miles (800 km) that you
tow a trailer, do not drive over 50 mph
(80 km/h) and do not make starts at full
throttle. This helps the engine and other
parts of your vehicle wear in at the
heavier loads.
Your new vehicle was designed to be
used primarily to carry passengers and
cargo. Remember that towing a trailer will
place additional loads on a vehicle's en-
gine, drive train, steering, braking and
other systems.
An INFINITI Towing Guide (U.S. only) is
available on the website at
www. infiniti.com. This guide includes in-
formation on trailer towing capability and
the special equipment required for proper
towing.
MAXIMUM LOAD LIMITS
Maximum trailer loads Never allow the total trailer load to ex-
ceed the value specified in the Towing
Load/Specification Chart found later in this section. The total trailer load equals
trailer weight plus its cargo weight.
Towing loads greater than specified or us-
ing improper towing equipment could ad-
versely affect vehicle handling, braking
and performance. The ability of a vehicle
to tow a trailer is not only related to the
maximum trailer loads, but also the
places you plan to tow. Tow weights ap-
propriate for level highway driving may
have to be reduced on very steep grades
or in low traction situations (for example,
on slippery boat ramps).
CAUTION Vehicle damage resulting from improper
towing procedures are not covered by
INFINITI warranties.
Tongue load Keep the tongue load between 9 and 11%
of the total trailer load within the
maximum tongue load limits shown in the
following Towing Load/Specification
Chart. If the tongue load becomes exces-
sive, rearrange cargo to allow for proper
tongue load.TI1011M
TOWING A TRAILER
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