2006 NISSAN X-TRAIL engine coolant

tem may not operate properly and the
“VDC OFF” indicator or “SLIP” indi-
cator or both indicator lights may
illuminate.

The VDC 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.ANTIFREEZEIn the winter when it is anticipated that the
temperature will drop below 0°C (32°F), check
antifreeze to assure proper winter protection. For
additional information, see “Engine cooling sys-
tem” 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 additional information,
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 plug located under the radiator. Refill
before operating the vehicle. See “Engine cool-
ing 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 a
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
prohibit their use. Check local, state and
provincial laws before installing studded tires.
Skid and traction capabilities of stud-
ded 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 loca-
tion. Check the local laws before installing
tire chains.Use only SAE Class S chains.
Class “S” chains are used on vehicles with
restricted tire to vehicle clearance. Vehicles
that can use Class “S” chains are designed
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
5-28
Starting and driving


06.4.14/T30-J/V5.0


Do not attempt to start the engine by pushing
the vehicle.
CAUTION

Automatic transmission models can-
not be push started. Attempting to do
so may cause transmission damage.

Three way catalyst equipped models
should not be started by pushing
since the three way catalyst may be
damaged.

Never try to start the vehicle by tow-
ing it; when the engine starts, the
forward surge could cause the ve-
hicle to collide with the tow vehicle.
WARNING

Do not continue to drive if your ve-
hicle overheats. Doing so could
cause a vehicle fire.

To avoid the danger of being scalded,
never remove the radiator cap while
the engine is still hot. When the ra-
diator cap is removed, pressurized
hot water will spurt out, possibly
causing serious injury.

Do not open the hood if steam is
coming out.
If your vehicle is overheating (indicated by an
extremely high temperature gauge reading), or if
you feel a lack of engine power, detect abnormal
noise, etc., take the following steps:
1. Move the vehicle safely off the road, apply the
parking brake and move the shift lever to the
N (Neutral) position (automatic transmission
to the P (Park) position).
Do not stop the engine.
2. Turn off the air conditioner switch. Open all
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.
PUSH STARTING IF YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS
In case of emergency
6-9


06.4.14/T30-J/V5.0


WARNING

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

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 the
nearest NISSAN dealer.When towing your vehicle, all provincial 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 applicable laws and
procedures for towing. To assure proper towing
and to prevent accidental damage to your ve-
hicle, 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-
tion. If any unit is damaged, dolliesmust be used.

Always attach safety chains before
towing.TOWING YOUR VEHICLE
6-10
In case of emergency


06.4.14/T30-J/V5.0


8 Maintenance and do-it-yourselfMaintenance requirements ................................................. 8-2
Scheduled maintenance ............................................... 8-2
General maintenance ..................................................... 8-2
Where to go for service ................................................ 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 .................................................... 8-11
Changing engine oil filter ........................................... 8-12
Automatic transmission fluid ........................................... 8-13
Power steering fluid .......................................................... 8-14
Brake and clutch fluid ....................................................... 8-14
Window washer fluid ........................................................ 8-15
Battery ................................................................................... 8-16
Jump starting ................................................................. 8-17
Drive belts ............................................................................ 8-17
Spark plugs ......................................................................... 8-18Replacing spark plugs ................................................ 8-18
Air 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
Headlight aim ................................................................ 8-28
Exterior and interior lights .......................................... 8-30
Wheels and tires ................................................................ 8-34
Tire pressure ................................................................. 8-34
Tire labeling ................................................................... 8-37
Types of tires ................................................................. 8-39
Tire chains ...................................................................... 8-40
Changing wheels and tires ........................................ 8-41


06.4.14/T30-J/V5.0


the locks hold securely in all latched positions.
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
operating properly.
Windshield defroster:
Check that the air comes out of the defroster
outlets properly and in good quantity when
operating 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 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 upper level and lower level lines.
Vehicles operated in high temperatures or under
severe conditions require frequent checks of the
battery fluid level.Brake and clutch fluid level*:
Make sure that the brake and clutch fluid level is
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 and turning off the engine.
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 “Precau-
tions when starting and driving” in the “5. Start-
ing 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 attach-
ment, leaks, cracks, etc.
Radiator and hoses:
Check the front of the radiator and clean off any
dirt, insects, leaves, etc., that may have accumu-
lated. Make sure the hoses have no cracks,
deformation, deterioration or loose connections.
Underbody:
The underbody is frequently exposed to corro-
sive 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 ex-
haust system. At the end of winter, the under-
body should be thoroughly flushed with plain
water, being careful to clean those areas where
mud and dirt may accumulate. For additional
information, see “Cleaning exterior” in the “7.
Appearance and care” section.
Windshield washer fluid*:
Check that there is adequate fluid in the tank.8-4
Maintenance and do-it-yourself


06.4.14/T30-J/V5.0


MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONSWhen 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

Park the vehicle on a level surface,
apply the parking brake securely and
block the wheels to prevent the ve-
hicle from moving. For a manual
transmission, move the shift lever to
the N(Neutral) position. For an auto-
matic transmission, move the selec-
tor lever to the P (Park) position.

Be sure the ignition key is in the OFF
or LOCK position when performing
any parts replacement or repairs.

Your vehicle is equipped with an au-
tomatic engine cooling fan. It may
come on at any time without warning,
even if the ignition key is in the OFF
position and the engine is not run-
ning. To avoid injury, always discon-nect the negative battery cable be-
fore working near the fan.

If you must work with the engine
running, keep your hands, clothing,
hair and tools away from moving
fans, belts and any other moving
parts.

It is advisable to secure or remove
any loose clothing and any jewelry,
such as rings, watches, etc. before
working on your vehicle.

Always wear eye protection when-
ever you work on your vehicle.

If you must run the engine in an
enclosed space such as a garage, be
sure there is proper ventilation for
exhaust gases to escape.

Never get under the vehicle while it is
supported only by a jack. If it is nec-
essary to work under the vehicle,
support it with safety stands.

Keep smoking materials, flame and
sparks away from fuel and the
battery.
On gasoline engine models with the
Multiport Fuel Injection (MFI) Sys-
tem, the fuel filter or fuel lines should
be serviced by a NISSAN dealer be-
cause the fuel lines are under high
pressure even when the engine is off.
CAUTION

Do not work under the hood while
the engine is hot. Turn off the engine
and wait until it cools down.

Never connect or disconnect either
the battery or any transistorized
component connector while the igni-
tion key is on.

Never leave any engine or automatic
transmission related component har-
ness connectors disconnected while
the ignition key is on.

Avoid direct contact with used engine
oil and coolant. Improperly disposed
engine oil, engine coolant and/or
other vehicle fluids can hurt the envi-
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-5


06.4.14/T30-J/V5.0


1. Power steering fluid reservoir
2. Engine oil filler cap
3. Automatic transmission fluid dipstick
(Automatic Transmission (AT) model)
4. Brake and clutch (Manual Transmission (MT)
model) fluid reservoir
5. Air cleaner
6. Window washer fluid reservoir
7. Engine coolant reservoir
8. Engine oil dipstick
9. Radiator cap
10. Fuse/Fusible link holder
11. Battery
SDI1947
ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-7


06.4.14/T30-J/V5.0


The engine cooling system is filled at the factory
with a high-quality, year-round, antifreeze cool-
ant solution. The antifreeze solution contains rust
and corrosion inhibitors, therefore additional
cooling system additives are not necessary.
WARNING

Never remove the radiator cap when
the engine is hot. Wait until the en-
gine and radiator cool down. Serious
burns could be caused by high pres-
sure fluid escaping from the radiator.
Wait until the engine and radiator
cool down.

See “If your vehicle overheats” in the
“6. In case of emergency” section.

The radiator is equipped with a pres-
sure cap. To prevent engine damage,
use only a genuine NISSAN radiator
cap.
CAUTION
When adding or replacing coolant, besure to use only a Genuine NISSAN
Long Life Antifreeze Coolant or equiva-
lent with the proper mixture ratio of 50%
antifreeze and 50% demineralized
water/distilled water. The use of other
types of coolant solutions may damage
your engine cooling system.
Outside temperature
down to
Anti-
freezeDeminer-
alized
water/
distilled
water °C °F
−35 −30 50% 50%
CHECKING ENGINE COOLANT
LEVELCheck the coolant level in the reservoir tank
when the engine is cold. If the coolant level is
below MIN
2, add coolant up to the MAX
1
level. If the reservoir tank is empty, check the
coolant level in the radiatorwhen the engine is
cold.If there is insufficient coolant in the radia-
tor, fill the radiator with Genuine NISSAN Long
Life Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent up to the
filler opening and also add it to the reservoir tank
up to the MAX level
1.
If the engine cooling system frequently
SDI1926
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM8-8
Maintenance and do-it-yourself


06.4.14/T30-J/V5.0