When 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 manual trans-
mission models, move the shift lever
to N(Neutral) position. For automatic
transmission models, move the se-
lector lever to P (Park).
Be sure the ignition key is in the OFF
or LOCK position when performing
any parts replacement or repairs.
Never connect or disconnect the bat-
tery or any transistorized component
while the ignition switch is in the ON
position.
Never leave the engine or automatic
transmission related component har-
nesses disconnected while the igni-tion switch is in the ONposition.
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 remove 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 the fuel tank and
battery.On gasoline engine models with the
multiport fuel injection (MFI) system,
the fuel filter or fuel lines should be
serviced by a NISSAN dealer because
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 the engine off
and wait until it cools down.
Avoid contact with used engine oil
and coolant. Improperly disposed en-
gine oil, engine coolant and/or other
vehicle fluids can damage the envi-
ronment. Always conform to local
regulations for disposal of vehicle
fluid.
This “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section
gives instructions regarding only those items
which are relatively easy for an owner to perform.
A genuine NISSAN Service Manual is also avail-
able. See “Owner’s Manual/Service Manual or-
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-5
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0
TIRE PRESSURE
Tire pressure monitoring system
(TPMS)This vehicle is equipped with the tire pressure
monitoring system (TPMS). It monitors tire pres-
sure of all tires except the spare. When the low
tire pressure warning light is lit, one or more of
your tires is significantly under-inflated.
The TPMS will activate only when the vehicle is
driven at speeds above 16 MPH (25 km/h). Also,
this system may not detect a sudden drop in tire
pressure (for example a flat tire while driving).
For more details, refer to “Low tire pressure
warning light” in the “2. Instruments and con-
trols” section, “Tire pressure monitoring system
(TPMS)” in the “5. Starting and driving” section,
and “Flat tire” in the “6. In case of emergency”
section.
Tire inflation pressureCheck the tire pressures (including the
spare) often and always prior to long
distance trips. The recommended tire
pressure specifications are shown on the
Tire and Loading Information label under
the “COLD TIRE PRESSURE” heading.
The Tire and Loading Information label is
affixed to the driver side center pillar. Tire
pressures should be checked regularly
because:
Most tires naturally lose air over time.
Tires can lose air suddenly when
driven over potholes or other objects
or if the vehicle strikes a curbwhile
parking.
The tire pressures should be checked
when the tires are cold. The tires are
considered COLD after the vehicle has
been parked for 3 or more hours, or
driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km) at mod-
erate speeds.
SDI1401A
WHEELS AND TIRES
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-29
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0
TIRE LABELINGFederal law requires tire manufacturers
to place standardized information on the
sidewall of all tires. This information iden-
tifies and describes the fundamental
characteristics of the tire and also pro-
vides the tire identification number (TIN)
for safety standard certification. The TIN
can be used to identify the tire in case of
a recall.
1
Tire size (example: P215/65R15
95H)
1. P: The “P” indicates the tire is de-
signed for passenger vehicles. (Not all
tires have this information.)
2. Three-digit number (215): This num-
ber gives the width in millimeters of the
tire from sidewall edge to sidewall
edge.
3. Two-digit number (65): This number,
known as the aspect ratio, gives thetire’s ratio of height to width.
4. R: The “R” stands for radial.
5. Two-digit number (15): This number is
the wheel or rim diameter in inches.
6. Two- or three-digit number (95): This
number is the tire’s load index. It is a
measurement of how much weight
each tire can support. You may not
find this information on all tires be-
cause it is not required by law.
7. Tire Speed Rating. You should not
drive the vehicle faster than the tire
speed rating.
SDI1575
Example
SDI1951
Example
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-33
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0
other sidewall of the tire, or (2) the
outward facing sidewall of an asymmetri-
cal tire that has a particular side that must
always face outward when mounted on a
vehicle.TYPES OF TIRES
WARNING
When changing or replacing tires, be
sure all four tires are of the same
type (i.e., Summer, All Season or
Snow) and construction. A NISSAN
dealer may be able to help you with
information about tire type, size,
speed rating and availability.
Replacement tires may have a lower
speed rating than the factory
equipped tires, and may not match
the potential maximum vehicle
speed. Never exceed the maximum
speed rating of the tire.
Replacing tires with those not origi-
nally specified by NISSAN could af-
fect the proper operation of the tirepressure monitoring system (TPMS).
For additional information regarding
tires, refer to “Important Tire Safety
Information” (US) or “Tire Safety In-
formation” (Canada) in the Warranty
Information Booklet.
All season tiresNISSAN specifies all season tires on some
models to provide good performance for use all
year round, including snowy and icy road condi-
tions. All season tires are identified by ALL
SEASON and/or M&S on the tire sidewall. Snow
tires have better snow traction than all season
tires and may be more appropriate in some
areas.Summer tiresNISSAN specifies summer tires on some models
to provide superior performance on dry roads.
Summer tire performance in snow and ice will be
substantially reduced. Summer tires do not have
the tire traction rating M&S on the tire sidewall.
If you operate your vehicle in snowy or icy
conditions, NISSAN recommends the use of
snow or all season tires on all four wheels.
Snow tiresIf snow tires are needed, it is necessary to select
tires equivalent in size and load rating to the
original equipment tires. If you do not, it can
adversely affect the safety and handling of your
vehicle.
Generally, snow tires will have lower speed
ratings than factory equipped tires and may not
match the potential maximum vehicle speed.
Never exceed the maximum speed rating of the
tire.
If you operate your vehicle in snowy or icy
conditions, NISSAN recommends the use of
snow or all season tires on all four wheels.
For additional traction on icy roads, studded tires
may be used. However, some provinces and
states prohibit their use. Check local, state and
provincial laws before installing studded tires.
Skid and traction capabilities of studded snow
tires, on wet or dry surfaces, may be poorer than
that of non-studded snow tires.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-35
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0
TIRE CHAINS
CAUTION
Tire chains/cables should not be in-
stalled on 265/35R19 size tires. Installa-
tion of the tire chains/cables on
265/35R19 size tires will cause damage
to the vehicle. If you plan to use tire
chains/cables, you should install
245/45R18 size tires on your vehicle.
Use of tire chains may be prohibited according
to location. Check the local laws before installing
tire chains. When installing tire chains, make
sure they are of proper size for the tires on your
vehicle and are installed according to the chain
manufacturer’s suggestions.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 to meet the SAE standard minimum
clearances between the tire and the closest
vehicle suspension or body component required
to accommodate the use of a winter traction
device (tire chains or cables). The minimum
clearances are determined using the factory
equipped tire size. Other types may damage
your vehicle. Use chain tensioners when recom-mended by the tire chain manufacturer to ensure
a tight fit. Loose end links of the tire chain must
be secured or removed to prevent the possibility
of whipping action damage to the fenders or
undercarriage. If possible, avoid fully loading
your vehicle when using tire chains. In addition,
drive at a reduced speed. Otherwise, your ve-
hicle may be damaged and/or vehicle handling
and performance may be adversely affected.
Never install the tire chains on a T-type
spare tire.
Do not use the tire chains on dry roads.
Tire chains must be installed only on the
rear wheels and not on the front wheels.
CHANGING WHEELS AND TIRES
Tire rotationTires cannot be rotated in this vehicle, as
front tires are different size from rear tires
and the direction of wheel rotation is fixed
in each tire.
A pin is on the front brake rotor to prevent
the rear wheels from being installed in
place of the front wheels. The spare tire
can be installed in place of the front and
rear wheels. When installing the spare
tire in the front wheel, the hole in the
spare tire wheel must be aligned with the
pin on the brake rotor.
8-36
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0
1. Wear indicator
2. Wear indicator location markTire wear and damage
WARNING
Tires should be periodically in-
spected for wear, cracking,
bulging or objects caught in the
tread. If excessive wear, cracks,
bulging or deep cuts are found,the tire(s) should be replaced.
The original tires have built-in
tread wear indicators. When the
wear indicators are visible, the
tire(s) should be replaced.
Tires degrade with age and use.
Have tires, including the spare,
over 6 years old checked by a
qualified technician because
some tire damage may not be
obvious. Replace the tires as
necessary to prevent tire failure
and possible personal injury.
Improper service of the spare
tire may result in serious per-
sonal injury. If it is necessary to
repair the spare tire, contact a
NISSAN dealer.
For additional information re-
garding tires, refer to “Impor-
tant Tire Safety Information”
(US) or “Tire Safety Informa-tion” (Canada) in the Warranty
Information Booklet.
Replacing wheels and tiresWhen replacing a tire, use the same size, speed
rating and load carrying capacity as originally
equipped. See “Specifications” in the “9. Tech-
nical and consumer information” section for rec-
ommended types and sizes of tires and wheels.
WARNING
The use of tires other than those
recommended or the mixed use of
tires of different brands, construction
(bias, bias-belted or radial), or tread
patterns can adversely affect the ride,
braking, handling, ground clearance,
body-to-tire clearance, tire chain
clearance, speedometer calibration,
headlight aim and bumper height.
Some of these effects may lead to
accidents and could result in serious
personal injury.
If the wheels are changed for any
SDI1663
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-37
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0
reason, always replace with wheels
which have the same off-set dimen-
sion. Wheels of a different off-set
could cause premature tire wear,
possibly degraded vehicle handling
characteristics and/or interference
with the brake discs/drums. Such in-
terference can lead to decreased
braking efficiency and/or early brake
pad/shoe wear.
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 install a deformed wheel or
tire even if it has been repaired. Suchwheels or tires could have structural
damage and could fail without warn-
ing.
The use of retread tire is not recom-
mended.
For additional information regarding
tires, refer to “Important Tire Safety
Information” (US) or “Tire Safety In-
formation” (Canada) in the Warranty
Information Booklet.
Wheel balanceUnbalanced wheels may affect vehicle handling
and tire life. Even with regular use, wheels can
get out of balance. Therefore, they should be
balanced as required.
Wheel balance service should be performed
with the wheels off the vehicle. Spin balancing
the front wheels on the vehicle could lead to
transmission damage.
For additional information regarding tires, refer to
“Important Tire Safety Information” (US) or “Tire
Safety Information” (Canada) in the Warranty
Information booklet.
Care of wheelsWash the wheels when washing the vehicle
to maintain their appearance.
Clean the inner side of the wheels when the
wheel is changed or the underside of the
vehicle is washed.
Do not use abrasive cleaners when washing
the wheels.
Inspect wheel rims regularly for dents or
corrosion. Such damage may cause loss of
pressure or poor seal at the tire bead.
NISSAN recommends that the road wheels
be waxed to protect against road salt in areas
where it is used during winter.Spare tire (T-type spare tire)Observe the following precautions if the T-type
spare tire must be used, otherwise your vehicle
could be damaged or involved in an accident.
CAUTION
The T-type spare tire should be used
for emergency use only. It should be
replaced by the standard tire at the
first opportunity.
8-38
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0
9 Technical and consumer informationCapacities and recommended fuel/lubricants .............. 9-2
Fuel recommendation .................................................... 9-3
Engine oil and oil filter recommendation .................. 9-5
Air conditioner system refrigerant and lubricant
recommendations ........................................................... 9-6
Specifications ........................................................................ 9-7
Engine ................................................................................. 9-7
Wheels and tires .............................................................. 9-8
Dimensions and weights ............................................... 9-8
When traveling or registering your vehicle in another
country ..................................................................................... 9-9
Vehicle identification ............................................................ 9-9
Vehicle identification number (VIN) plate ................. 9-9
Vehicle identification number (chassis number) ..... 9-9
Engine serial number ................................................... 9-10
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label ................ 9-10
Emission control information label ........................... 9-10
Tire and loading information label ............................ 9-11
Air conditioner specification label ............................ 9-11
Installing front license plate ............................................. 9-12Vehicle loading information ............................................. 9-13
Terms ............................................................................... 9-13
Vehicle load capacity.................................................... 9-14
Loading tips .................................................................... 9-16
Measurement of weights ............................................. 9-16
Towing a trailer ................................................................... 9-17
Maximum load limits .................................................... 9-17
Towing safety ................................................................ 9-18
Flat towing............................................................................. 9-21
Automatic transmission ................................................ 9-22
Manual transmission ..................................................... 9-22
Uniform tire quality grading ............................................. 9-22
Emission control system warranty ................................. 9-23
Reporting safety defects (US only) ............................... 9-23
Readiness for inspection/maintenance (I/M) test
(US only) .............................................................................. 9-24
Event data recorders ......................................................... 9-25
Owner’s Manual/Service Manual order information ... 9-25
In the event of a collision ........................................... 9-26
07.2.9/Z33-D/V5.0