2006 NISSAN X-TRAIL steering

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.
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). However, the timing for tire rotation
may vary according to your driving habits and
road surface conditions.
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 pressure specified. Check carefully
for damage, cuts or excessive wear.
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 maybe 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
“Tire Safety Information” in the Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet (Canada).
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.
Inside the vehicleThe 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 mats away from the pedal.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 func-
tion. Be sure to keep floor mats away from the
pedal.
Brakes:
Check that the brakes do not pull the vehicle to
one side when applied.
Parking brake*:
Check that the lever has the proper travel and
make sure that the vehicle is held securely on a
fairly steep hill when only the parking brake is
applied.
Seat belts:
Check that all parts of the seat belt system (for
example, buckles, anchors, adjusters and retrac-
tors) operate properly and smoothly, and are
installed securely. Check the belt webbing for
cuts, fraying, wear or damage.
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
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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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


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
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06.4.14/T30-J/V5.0


Check the fluid level in the reservoir tank.
The fluid level should be checked using the HOT
range (
1: HOT MAX.,
2: HOT MIN.) at fluid
temperatures of 50 to 80°C (122 to 176°F) or
using the COLD range (3: COLD MAX.,
4:
COLD MIN.) at fluid temperatures of 0 to 30°C
(32 to 86°F).
CAUTION

Do not overfill.

Use NISSAN Automatic TransmissionFluid (ATF), DEXRON
TMIII/MERCON
TM
or equivalent ATF.
For additional fluid specification information, re-
fer to “Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants” in the “9. Technical and con-
sumer information” section.
WARNING
Use only new fluid. Old, inferior, or con-
taminated fluid may damage the brake
system. The use of improper fluids can
damage the brake system and affect the
vehicle’s stopping ability.
SDI1765A
SDI1307A
POWER STEERING FLUID BRAKE AND CLUTCH FLUID8-14
Maintenance and do-it-yourself


06.4.14/T30-J/V5.0


2. Add distilled water up to the UPPER LEVEL
1.
3. Tighten cell plugs
A.
JUMP STARTINGIf jump starting is necessary, see “Jump starting”
in the “6. In case of emergency” section. If the
engine does not start by jump starting, the
battery may have to be replaced. Contact a
NISSAN dealer.1. Power steering fluid pump
2. Water pump
3. Alternator
4. Crankshaft pulley
5. Air conditioner compressor
6. Drive belt auto-tensioner
WARNING
Be sure the ignition key is in the OFF or
LOCK position. The engine could rotateunexpectedly.
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.
SDI1480
SDI1632
DRIVE BELTS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-17


06.4.14/T30-J/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 15-7/8 gal 13-1/4 gal 60 Unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of at least 87 AKI (RON 91)*1
Engine oil*5
Drain and refill
With oil filter change 4-1/8 qt 3-3/8 qt 3.9
API Certification Mark*2, *3

API grade SG, Energy Conserving II or API grade SH, SJ or SL, Energy Conserving*2, *3

ILSAC grade GF-II & GF-III*2, *3 Without oil filter change 3-3/4 qt 3-1/8 qt 3.5
Cooling system
With reservoir 7-1/2 qt 6-1/4 qt 7.1 Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent
Differential gear oil — — — API GL-5, Viscosity SAE 80W-90*4
Manual transmission gear oil — — —Genuine NISSAN Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) HQ Multi 75W-85 or API GL-4, Viscosity
SAE 75W-85
Automatic transmission fluid — — —CANADA NISSAN Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), DEXRON
TMIII/MERCON
TMor equiva-
lent ATF
Transfer fluid — — — API GL-5, Viscosity SAE 80W-90
Power steering fluid (PSF)
Refill to the proper oil level according to the instructions in
the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.CANADA NISSAN Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), DEXRON
TMIII/MERCON
TMor equiva-
lent ATF
Brake and clutch fluidGenuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid or equivalent DOT 3
Multi-purpose grease — — — NLGI No. 2 (Lithium soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerant — — — HFC-134a (R-134a)*6
Air conditioning system lubricants — — —NISSAN A/C System Oil
Type S or exact equivalent
Windshield washer fluidGenuine NISSAN Windshield Washer Concentrate
Cleaner & Antifreeze Fluid or equivalent
*1: For additional information, see later in this paragraph for fuel recommendation.
*2: For additional information, see later in this paragraph for engine oil and oil filter recommendation.
*3: For additional information, see later in this paragraph for recommended SAE viscosity number.
*4: For hot climates, viscosity SAE 90 is suitable for ambient temperatures above 0°C (32°F).
*5: For additional information, see “Engine oil” in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section for changing engine oil.
*6: For additional information, see “Vehicle identification” in this section for air conditioner specification label.CAPACITIES AND
RECOMMENDED FUEL/
LUBRICANTS9-2
Technical and consumer information


06.4.14/T30-J/V5.0


the proper equipment and to have it
installed.
Trailer lights should comply with federal and/or
local regulations. For assistance in hooking up
trailer lights, contact a NISSAN dealer or repu-
table trailer dealer.Trailer brakesIf your trailer is equipped with a braking system,
make sure it conforms to federal and/or local
regulations and that it is properly installed.
WARNING
Never connect a trailer brake system
directly to the vehicle brake system.Pre-towing tips
Be certain your vehicle maintains a level
position when a loaded and/or unloaded
trailer is hitched. Do not drive the vehicle if it
has an abnormal nose-up or nose-down con-
dition; check for improper tongue load, over-
load, worn suspension or other possible
causes of either condition.
Always secure items in the trailer to prevent
load shifts while driving.

Load the trailer so approximately 60% of the
trailer load is in the front half and 40% is in
the back half.

Check your hitch, trailer tire pressure, vehicle
tire pressure, trailer light operation, and trailer
wheel lug nuts every time you attach a trailer
to the vehicle.

Be certain your rear view mirrors conform to
all federal, state or local regulations. If not,
install any mirrors required for towing before
driving the vehicle.
Trailer towing tipsIn order to gain skill and an understanding of the
vehicle’s behavior, you should practice turning,
stopping and backing up in an area which is free
from traffic. Steering stability, and braking per-
formance will be somewhat different than under
normal driving conditions.

Always secure items in the trailer to prevent
load shift while driving.

Avoid abrupt starts, acceleration or stops.

Avoid sharp turns or lane changes.

Always drive your vehicle at a moderate
speed. Some states or provinces have spe-cific speed limits for vehicles that are towing
trailers. Obey the local speed limits.

When backing up, hold the bottom of the
steering wheel with one hand. Move your
hand in the direction in which you want the
trailer to go. Make small corrections and back
up slowly. If possible, have someone guide
you when you are backing up.

Always block the wheels on both vehicle and
trailer when parking. Parking on a slope is not
recommended; however, if you must do so,
and if your vehicle is equipped with automatic
transmission, first block the wheels and apply
the parking brake, and then move the selector
lever into the P (Park) position. If you move
the selector lever to the P (Park) position
before blocking the wheels and applying the
parking brake, transmission damage could
occur.

When going down a hill, shift into a lower
gear and use the engine braking effect.
When going up a long grade, downshift the
transmission to a lower gear and reduce
speed to reduce chances of engine overload-
ing and/or overheating.

If the engine coolant rises to an extremely
high temperature when the air conditioning
system is on, turn off the air conditioner.
Coolant heat can be additionally vented by
9-20
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06.4.14/T30-J/V5.0


opening the windows, switching the fan con-
trol to high and setting the temperature con-
trol to the HOT position.

Trailer towing requires more fuel than normal
circumstances.

Avoid towing a trailer for the first 805 km
(500 miles).

Have your vehicle serviced more often than at
intervals specified in the recommended main-
tenance schedule.

When making a turn, your trailer wheels will
be closer to the inside of the turn than your
vehicle wheels. To compensate for this, make
a larger than normal turning radius during the
turn.

Crosswinds and rough roads will adversely
affect vehicle/trailer handling, possibly caus-
ing vehicle sway. When being passed by
larger vehicles, be prepared for possible
changes in crosswinds that could affect ve-
hicle handling. If swaying does occur, firmly
grip the steering wheel, steer straight ahead,
and immediately (but gradually) reduce ve-
hicle speed. This combination will help stabi-
lize the vehicle. Never increase speed.

Be careful when passing other vehicles.
Passing while towing a trailer requires con-
siderably more distance than normal passing.Remember the length of the trailer must also
pass the other vehicle before you can safely
change lanes.

Avoid holding the brake pedal down too long
or too frequently. This could cause the brakes
to overheat, resulting in reduced braking ef-
ficiency.

Increase your following distance to allow for
greater stopping distances while towing a
trailer. Anticipate stops and brake gradually.

Do not use cruise control while towing a
trailer.

Check your hitch, trailer wiring harness con-
nections, and trailer wheel lug nuts after 80
km (50 miles) of travel and at every break.

When stopped in traffic for long periods of
time in hot weather, put the vehicle in the P
(Park) position.
When towing a trailer, the transmission
oil/fluid should be changed more fre-
quently. For additional information, see
the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself”
section earlier in this manual.
FLAT TOWINGTowing your vehicle with all four wheels on the
ground is sometimes called flat towing. This
method is sometimes used when towing a ve-hicle behind a recreational vehicle, such as a
motor home.
CAUTION

Failure to follow these guidelines
can result in severe transmission
damage.

Whenever flat towing your vehicle,
always tow forward, never backward.

DO NOT tow any automatic transmis-
sion vehicle with all four wheels on
the ground (flat towing). Doing so
WILL DAMAGE internal transmission
parts due to lack of transmission lu-
brication.

For emergency towing procedures re-
fer to “Towing Recommended by
NISSAN” in the “6. In case of emer-
gency” section of this manual.Automatic transmissionTo tow a vehicle equipped with an automatic
transmission, an appropriate vehicle dollyMUST
be placed under the towed vehicle’s drive
wheels.Alwaysfollow the dolly manufacturer’sTechnical and consumer information
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