WARNING
Do not leave children or adults who
would normally require the support
of others alone in your vehicle. Pets
should not be left alone either. They
could accidentally injure themselves
or others through inadvertent opera-
tion of the vehicle. Also, on hot,
sunny days, temperatures in a closed
vehicle could quickly become high
enough to cause severe or possibly
fatal injuries to people or animals.
Properly secure all cargo to help pre-
vent it from sliding or shifting. Do not
place cargo higher than the seat-
backs. In a sudden stop or collision,
unsecured cargo could cause per-
sonal injury. (Coupe models)
Closely supervise children when they
are around cars to prevent them from
playing and becoming locked in the
trunk where they could be seriously
injured. Keep the car locked with the
trunk closed when not in use, andprevent children’s access to car keys.
(Roadster models)
EXHAUST GAS (Carbon monoxide)
WARNING
Do not breathe exhaust gases; they con-
tain colorless and odorless carbon mon-
oxide. Carbon monoxide is dangerous.
It can cause unconsciousness or death.
If you suspect that exhaust fumes are
entering the vehicle, drive with all
windows fully open, and have the
vehicle inspected immediately.
Do not run the engine in closed
spaces such as a garage.
Do not park the vehicle with the en-
gine running for any extended length
of time.
Keep the rear hatch/trunk lid closed
while driving, otherwise exhaust
gases could be drawn into the pas-senger compartment. If you must
drive with the rear hatch/trunk lid
open, follow these precautions:
1. Open all the windows.
2. Set the air recirculation mode OFF
and the fan control at the maxi-
mum position to circulate the air.
If electrical wiring or other cable con-
nections must pass to a trailer
through the seal on the rear
hatch/trunk lid or the body, follow
the manufacturer’s recommendation
to prevent carbon monoxide entry
into the vehicle.
If a special body, camper, or other
equipment is added for recreational
or other usage, follow the manufac-
turer’s recommendation to prevent
carbon monoxide entry into the ve-
hicle. Some recreational vehicle ap-
pliances such as stoves, refrigera-
tors, heaters, etc. may also generate
carbon monoxide.
PRECAUTIONS WHEN STARTING
AND DRIVING5-2
Starting and driving
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0
tire” in the “6. In case of emergency”
section for changing a flat tire.)
When a spare tire is mounted or a
wheel is replaced, the TPMS will not
function and the low tire pressure
warning light will flash for approxi-
mately 1 minute. The light will remain
on after the 1 minute. Contact your
NISSAN dealer as soon as possible
for tire replacement and/or system
resetting.
Replacing tires with those not origi-
nally specified by NISSAN could af-
fect the proper operation of the
TPMS.
Do not inject any tire liquid or aerosol
tire sealant into the tires, as this may
cause a malfunction of the tire pres-
sure sensors.
CAUTION
Do not place metalized film or any metal
parts (antenna, etc.) on the windows.This may cause poor reception of the
signals from the tire pressure sensors,
and the TPMS will not function properly.
Some devices and transmitters may temporarily
interfere with the operation of the TPMS and
cause the low tire pressure warning light to
illuminate. Some examples are:
Facilities or electric devices using similar
radio frequencies are near the vehicle.
If a transmitter set to similar frequencies is
being used in or near the vehicle.
If a computer (or similar equipment) or a
DC/AC converter is being used in or near the
vehicle.
FCC Notice:
Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the party responsible for com-
pliance could void the user’s authority to
operate the equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules and RSS-210 of Industry
Canada.
Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause
harmful interference, and (2) this devicemust accept any interference received, in-
cluding interference that may cause undes-
ired operation of the device.
AVOIDING COLLISION AND
ROLLOVER
WARNING
Failure to operate this vehicle in a safe
and prudent manner may result in loss
of control or an accident.
Be alert and drive defensively at all times. Obey
all traffic regulations. Avoid excessive speed,
high speed cornering, or sudden steering ma-
neuvers, because these driving practices could
cause you to lose control of your vehicle.As
with any vehicle, a loss of control could
result in a collision with other vehicles or
objects, or cause the vehicle to rollover,
particularly if the loss of control causes the
vehicle to slide sideways.Be attentive at all
times, and avoid driving when tired. Never drive
when under the influence of alcohol or drugs
(including prescription or over-the-counter
drugs which may cause drowsiness). Always
wear your seat belt as outlined in the “1. Safety
— Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint
Starting and driving
5-5
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0
Make sure the area around the vehicle is
clear.
Maintenance items should be checked peri-
odically, for example, each time you check
engine oil.
Check that all windows and lights are clean.
Visually inspect tires for their appearance and
condition. Also check tires for proper infla-
tion.
Lock all doors.
Position seat and adjust head restraints.
Adjust inside and outside mirrors.
Fasten seat belts and ask all passengers to
do likewise.
Check the operation of warning lights when
the ignition key is turned to the ON position.
See “Warning/indicator lights and audible
reminders” in the “2. Instruments and con-
trols” section.1. Apply the parking brake.
2.Automatic transmission:
Move the selector lever to P (Park) or N
(Neutral). (P preferred.)
The starter is designed not to operate if the
selector lever is in one of the driving posi-
tions.
Manual transmission:
Move the shift lever to N (Neutral) position,
and depress the clutch pedal to the floor
while cranking the engine.
The starter is designed not to operate unless
the clutch pedal is fully depressed.
3. Crank the enginewith your foot off the
accelerator pedalby turning the ignition
key to START. Release the key when the
engine starts. If the engine starts, but fails to
run, repeat the above procedure.
If the engine is very hard to start in extremely
cold weather or when restarting, depress the
accelerator pedal a little (approximately 1/3
to the floor) and hold it then crank the engine.
Release the key and the accelerator pedal
when the engine starts.
If the engine is very hard to start because it is
flooded, depress the accelerator pedal all theway to the floor and hold it. Crank the engine
for 5 to 6 seconds. After cranking the engine,
release the accelerator pedal. Crank the en-
ginewith your foot off the accelerator
pedalby turning the ignition key to START.
Release the key when the engine starts. If the
engine starts, but fails to run, repeat the
above procedure.
CAUTION
Do not operate the starter for more than
15 seconds at a time. If the engine does
not start, turn the key off and wait 10
seconds before cranking again, other-
wise the starter could be damaged.
4.Warm-up
Allow the engine to idle for at least 30
seconds after starting. Do not race the en-
gine while warming it up. Drive at moderate
speed for a short distance first, especially in
cold weather.
In cold weather, keep the engine running for
a minimum of 2 to 3 minutes before shutting
it off. Starting and stopping the engine over a
short period of time may make the vehicle
more difficult to start.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE STARTING THE ENGINE
Starting and driving
5-9
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0
leave the windows closed to reduce drag.
Use the recommended viscosity engine oil.
See “Engine oil and oil filter recommenda-
tion” in the “9. Technical and consumer infor-
mation” section.
WARNING
Do not stop or park the vehicle over
flammable materials such as dry
grass, waste paper or rags. They may
ignite and cause a fire.
Never leave the engine running while
the vehicle is unattended.
Do not leave children unattended in-
side the vehicle.1. Firmly apply the parking brake.
2.Automatic transmission models:
Move the selector lever to the P (Park) posi-
tion.
Manual transmission models:
Place the shift lever in the R (Reverse) posi-
tion. When parking on an uphill grade, place
the shift lever in the 1 (Low gear) position.
MSD0002
PARKING/PARKING ON HILLS
Starting and driving
5-19
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0
SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENTIt is recommended that the following items be
carried in the vehicle during winter:
a scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove
ice and snow from the windows and wiper
blades.
a sturdy, flat board to be placed under the
jack to give it firm support.
a shovel to dig the vehicle out of snow-drifts.
extra window washer fluid to refill the reser-
voir tank.DRIVING ON SNOW OR ICE
WARNING
Wet ice (32°F, 0°C and freezing rain),
very cold snow or ice can be slick and
very hard to drive on. The vehicle will
have much less traction or “grip” un-
der these conditions. Try to avoid
driving on wet ice until the road is
salted or sanded.
Whatever the condition, drive with
caution. Accelerate and slow downwith care. If accelerating or down-
shifting too fast, the drive wheels will
lose even more traction.
Allow more stopping distance under
these conditions. Braking should be
started sooner than on dry pavement.
Allow greater following distances on
slippery roads.
Watch for slippery spots (glare ice).
These may appear on an otherwise
clear road in shaded areas. If a patch
of ice is seen ahead, brake before
reaching it. Try not to brake while on
the ice, and avoid any sudden steer-
ing maneuvers.
Do not use cruise control on slippery
roads.
Snow can trap dangerous exhaust
gases under your vehicle. Keep snow
clear of the exhaust pipe and from
around your vehicle.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (if so
equipped)Engine block heaters are available through
NISSAN dealers to assist in cold temperature
starting. The engine block heater should be used
when the outside temperature is 20°F (−7°C) or
lower.
To use the engine block heater:
1. Turn the engine off.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the engine block
heater cord.
3. Plug the engine block heater cord into a
grounded 3-wire, 3-pronged extension cord.
4. Plug the extension cord into a Ground Fault
Interrupt (GFI) protected, grounded 110-volt
AC (VAC) outlet.
5. The engine block heater must be plugged in
for at least2-4hours, depending on outside
temperatures, to properly warm the engine
coolant. Use an appropriate timer to turn the
engine block heater on.
6. Before starting the engine, unplug and prop-
erly store the cord to keep it away from
moving parts.
5-26
Starting and driving
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0
windows, and move the temperature control
to maximum hot and the 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
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0
In order to maintain the appearance of your
vehicle, it is important to take proper care of it.
In the following cases, please wash your vehicle
as soon as possible to protect the paint surface.
After a rainfall to prevent possible damage
from acid rain
After driving on coastal roads
When contaminants such as soot, bird drop-
pings, tree sap, metal particles or bugs get on
the paint surface
When dust or mud builds up on the surface
Whenever possible, store or park your vehicle
inside a garage or in a covered area.
When it is necessary to park outside, park in a
shady area or protect the vehicle with a body
cover.
Be careful not to scratch the paint surface
when putting on or removing the body
cover.WASHINGWash dirt off the vehicle with a wet sponge and
plenty of water. Clean the vehicle thoroughly
using a mild soap, a special vehicle soap or a
general purpose dish-washing liquid mixed with
clean, lukewarm (never hot) water.
CAUTION
Do not use car washes that use acid
in the detergent. Some car washes,
especially brushless ones, use some
acid for cleaning. The acid may react
with some plastic vehicle compo-
nents, causing them to crack. This
could affect their appearance, and
also could cause them not to function
properly. Always check with your car
wash to confirm that acid is not used.
Do not use strong household soap,
strong chemical detergents, gasoline
or solvents.
Do not wash the vehicle in direct
sunlight or while the vehicle body is
hot, as the surface may become
water-spotted.
Avoid using tight-napped or rough
cloths, such as washing mitts. Care
must be taken when removing
caked-on dirt or other foreign sub-
stances so the paint surface is not
scratched or damaged.For Roadster models, observe the
following:
•Do not use an automatic car wash
or a high pressure car wash. The
soft top may be damaged.
•Avoid applying direct water pres-
sure, such as high pressured water
from household hoses, on the lin-
ing of the soft top and vehicle
body. Avoid applying continuous
water on the parts around the soft
top and the windows. These may
cause water to leak into the inside
of your vehicle.
Rinse the vehicle again with plenty of clean
water.
Inside flanges, seams and folds on the doors,
hatches and hood are particularly vulnerable to
the effects of road salt. Therefore, these areas
must be regularly cleaned. Make sure that the
drain holes in the lower edge of the door are
open. Spray water under the body and in the
wheel wells to loosen the dirt and wash away
road salt.
Avoid leaving water spots on the paint surface
by using a damp chamois to dry the vehicle.
CLEANING EXTERIOR7-2
Appearance and care
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0
become coated with a film after the vehicle is
parked in the hot sun. Glass cleaner and a soft
cloth will easily remove this film.
CAUTION
When cleaning the inside of the win-
dows, do not use sharp-edged tools,
abrasive cleaners or chlorine-based
disinfectant cleaners. They could
damage the electrical conductors or
rear window defroster elements.
If glass cleaner gets on the soft top,
immediately wash it off with clean
water. (Roadster models)ALUMINUM ALLOY WHEELSWash regularly with a sponge dampened in a
mild soap solution, especially during winter
months in areas where road salt is used. Salt
could discolor the wheels if not removed.
CAUTION
Follow the directions below to avoidstaining or discoloring the wheels:
Do not use a cleaner that uses strong
acid or alkali contents to clean the
wheels.
Do not apply wheel cleaners to the
wheels when they are hot. The wheel
temperature should be the same as
ambient temperature.
Rinse the wheel to completely re-
move the cleaner within 15 minutes
after the cleaner is applied.
CHROME PARTSClean all chrome parts regularly with a non-
abrasive chrome polish to maintain the finish.TIRE DRESSINGNISSAN does not recommend the use of tire
dressings. Tire manufacturers apply a coating to
the tires to help reduce discoloration of the
rubber. If a tire dressing is applied to the tires, it
may react with the coating and form a com-
pound. This compound may come off the tire
while driving and stain the vehicle paint.If you choose to use a tire dressing, take the
following precautions:
Use a water-based tire dressing. The coating
on the tire dissolves more easily with an
oil-based tire dressing.
Apply a light coat of tire dressing to help
prevent it from entering the tire tread/grooves
(where it would be difficult to remove).
Wipe off excess tire dressing using a dry
towel. Make sure the tire dressing is com-
pletely removed from the tire tread/grooves.
Allow the tire dressing to dry as recom-
mended by tire dressing manufacturer.
7-4
Appearance and care
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0