2008 NISSAN 350Z window

8 Maintenance and do-it-yourselfMaintenance requirements ................................................. 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 ................................................................................ 8-9
Checking engine oil level .............................................. 8-9
Changing engine oil and filter ................................... 8-10
Automatic transmission fluid ........................................... 8-12
Power steering fluid .......................................................... 8-12
Brake and clutch fluid ....................................................... 8-13
Brake fluid ....................................................................... 8-13
Clutch fluid ..................................................................... 8-14
Window washer fluid ........................................................ 8-14
Battery ................................................................................... 8-15
Jump starting ................................................................. 8-16
Drive belts ............................................................................ 8-17
Spark plugs ......................................................................... 8-17Replacing spark plugs ................................................ 8-17
Air cleaners .......................................................................... 8-18
Windshield wiper blades ................................................. 8-19
Cleaning ......................................................................... 8-19
Replacing ....................................................................... 8-20
Brakes ................................................................................... 8-21
Self-adjusting brakes .................................................. 8-21
Brake pad wear indicators ......................................... 8-21
Fuses ..................................................................................... 8-21
Engine compartment ................................................... 8-22
Passenger compartment ............................................ 8-23
Keyfob battery replacement .............................................. 8-24
Lights ..................................................................................... 8-26
Headlights ...................................................................... 8-27
Exterior and interior lights .......................................... 8-28
Wheels and tires ................................................................ 8-30
Tire pressure ................................................................. 8-30
Tire labeling ..................................................................... 8-34
Types of tires ................................................................. 8-36
Tire chains ...................................................................... 8-37
Changing wheels and tires ........................................ 8-37


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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 prop-
erly.
Windshield wiper and washer*:Check that
the wipers and washer operate properly and that
the wipers do not streak.
Windshield defroster:Check that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly and
in good quantity when operating the heater or air
conditioner.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 MAX and MIN lines.
Vehicles operated in high temperatures or under
severe conditions require frequent checks of the
battery fluid level.
Brake and clutch fluid levels*: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 on the
dipstick after parking the vehicle on a level spot,
turning off the engine and waiting 10 minutes.
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 “Precautions when starting
and driving” in the “5. Starting 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 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, deformation, deterioration
or loose connections.Underbody:The underbody is frequently ex-
posed to corrosive substances such as those
used on icy roads or to control dust. It is very
important to remove these substances, other-
wise rust will form on the floor pan, frame, fuel
lines and around the exhaust system. At the end
of winter, the underbody should be thoroughly
flushed with plain water, being careful to clean
those areas where mud and dirt may accumu-
late. For additional information, see “Cleaning
exterior” in the “7. Appearance and care” sec-
tion.
Window washer fluid*:Check that there is
adequate fluid in the tank.8-4
Maintenance and do-it-yourself


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1. Fuse/fusible link holder
2. Battery
3. Engine oil filler cap
4. Brake fluid reservoir
5. Clutch fluid reservoir (M/T models)
6. Window washer fluid reservoir
7. Power steering fluid reservoir
8. Air cleaner
9. Radiator filler cap
10. Engine drive belts
11. Engine coolant reservoir
12. Engine oil dipstick
Do not tamper with the strut tower bar
adjustment
A. The strut tower bar has
been adjusted to the most suitable posi-
tion at the factory.CAUTION
Tampering with the strut tower bar ad-
justment may cause a noise while driv-
ing or damage to the hood or engine.
SDI2050
ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-7


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CLUTCH FLUIDCheck the fluid level in the reservoir. If the fluid
level is below the MIN line
2, add Genuine
NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid or
equivalentDOT 3fluid up to the MAX line
1.
If fluid is added frequently, the system should be
thoroughly checked by a NISSAN dealer.Add fluid when the low washer fluid warning light
comes on.
Add a washer solvent to the washer fluid for
better cleaning. In the winter season, add a
windshield washer anti-freeze. Follow the manu-
facturer’s instructions for the mixture ratio.
Recommended fluid is Genuine NISSAN Wind-
shield Washer Concentrate Cleaner & Anti-
freeze or equivalent.
WARNING
Anti-freeze is poisonous and should be
stored carefully in marked containers
out of the reach of children.
CAUTION

Do not substitute engine anti-freeze
coolant for window washer solution.
This may result in damage to the
paint.

Do not fill the window washer reser-
voir tank with washer fluid concen-
trates at full strength. Some methyl
alcohol based washer fluid concen-
trates may permanently stain the
grille if spilled while filling the win-
dow washer reservoir tank.

Pre-mix washer fluid concentrates
with water to the manufacturer’s rec-
ommended levels before pouring the
fluid into the window washer reser-
voir tank. Do not use the window
SDI1906
SDI2053
WINDOW WASHER FLUID
8-14
Maintenance and do-it-yourself


07.7.25/Z33-D/V5.0


washer reservoir tank to mix the
washer fluid concentrate and water.
Keep the battery surface clean and dry. Clean
the battery with a solution of baking soda and
water.

Make certain the terminal connections are
clean and securely tightened.

If the vehicle is not to be used for 30 days or
longer, disconnect the (−) negative battery
terminal to prevent discharging it.
CAUTION
When the battery cable is removed from
the battery terminal, do not close either
of the front doors. The automatic win-
dow adjusting function will not work,
and the side roof panel/top side rail
may be damaged by doing so.
To disconnect the negative (−) battery ter-
minal, perform the procedure in the follow-
ing order. Otherwise, the window and the
side roof panel/top side rail may contact
and be damaged.
1. Close the windows.
2. Open the hood.3. Close and lock all the doors using the
key or keyfob.
4. Disconnect the negative (−) battery ter-
minal.
5. Securely close the hood.
To connect the negative (−) battery termi-
nal, perform the procedure in the following
order. Otherwise, the window and the side
roof panel/top side rail may contact and be
damaged.
1. Unlock (using the key) and open the
driver side door. Do not close the door.
2. Open the hood.
3. Connect the negative (−) battery termi-
nal. Then close the hood.
4. Fully open the driver side door window.
5. Close the driver side door and the win-
dow.
WARNING

Do not expose the battery to flames
or electrical sparks. Hydrogen gas,
generated by battery fluid, is explo-
sive. Do not allow battery fluid to
BATTERY
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-15


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

Trailer towing consumes more fuel than nor-
mal circumstances.

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

Have a 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.

To maintain engine braking efficiency and
electrical charging performance, do not use
6th gear (manual transmission) or 5th posi-
tion (automatic transmission).

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 50
miles (80 km) 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, change transmis-
sion oil more frequently. For additional
information, see the “8. Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section.Towing 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,
refer to “Towing recommended by
NISSAN” in the “6. In case of emer-
gency” section of this manual.FLAT TOWINGTechnical and consumer information
9-21


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10 Index
A
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) ........................... 5-21
Advanced air bag system........................................ 1-35
Air bag system
Advanced Air Bag System ............................... 1-35
Front passenger air bag and status light ..... 1-36
Air bag warning labels ............................................. 1-42
Air bag warning light .................................... 1-43, 2-14
Air cleaner .................................................................. 8-18
Air conditioner
Air conditioner operation ..................................... 4-9
Air conditioner service ............................. 4-9, 4-12
Air conditioner specification label .................. 9-11
Air conditioning system refrigerant and
lubricant recommendations ..................... 4-12, 9-6
Heater and air conditioner (automatic)............ 4-9
Alarm, How to stop alarm (see vehicle security
system) ......................................................................... 2-19
Alcohol, drugs and driving......................................... 5-6
Anchor point location, Top tether strap .............. 1-24
Antenna ........................................................................ 4-30
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) ........................... 5-21
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning
light ............................................................................... 2-11
Appearance care
Exterior appearance care .................................... 7-2
Interior appearance care ..................................... 7-5
Audible reminders ..................................................... 2-17Audio operation precautions .................................. 4-14
Audio system .............................................................. 4-12
Steering wheel audio controls ........................ 4-29
Autochanger
Compact Disc (CD) ........................................... 4-26
Automatic
Anti-glare inside mirror ...................................... 3-26
Automatic adjusting function (front
windows)............................................................... 2-40
Automatic passenger seatback tilt
function......................................................... 1-5, 3-17
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) ................ 8-12
Driving with automatic transmission ..... 5-7, 5-10
Avoiding collision and rollover .................................. 5-5
B
Battery .......................................................................... 8-15
Battery saver system ......................................... 2-25
Keyfob.................................................................... 8-24
Before starting the engine ......................................... 5-9
Belts (See drive belts) ............................................. 8-17
Booster seats ............................................................. 1-25
Bluetooth
Hands-Free Phone System with
NISSAN Voice Recognition .................................. 4-31
Brake
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) .................... 5-21
Brake and clutch fluid ....................................... 8-13
Brake fluid............................................................. 8-13Brake system ....................................................... 5-21
Parking brake operation .................................... 5-15
Warning light ....................................................... 2-12
Break-in schedule ..................................................... 5-18
Brightness control, Instrument panel ................... 2-26
Bulb check/instrument panel.................................. 2-11
Bulb replacement ...................................................... 8-26
C
Capacities and recommended fuel/lubricants...... 9-2
Car phone or CB radio............................................ 4-31
Cargo (See vehicle loading information)............. 2-33
Cargo net .................................................................... 2-33
Catalytic converter, Three way catalyst ................. 5-3
CD care and cleaning .............................................. 4-29
Child restraints ........................................................... 1-17
Booster seats ...................................................... 1-25
Installation on front passenger seat ............. 1-20
Precautions on child restraints........................ 1-17
Top tether strap .................................................. 1-24
Top tether strap anchor point location ......... 1-24
Child safety ................................................................. 1-12
Chimes, Audible reminders..................................... 2-17
Circuit breaker, Fusible link .................................... 8-23
Cleaning exterior and interior .......................... 7-2, 7-5
Clock ............................................................................ 2-30
Clutch fluid.................................................................. 8-13
Coat hook .................................................................. 2-38


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Cold weather driving ................................................ 5-25
Command (See Bluetooth
Hands-Free
Phone System)........................................................... 4-37
Compact Disc (CD) changer (See audio
system) ......................................................................... 4-26
Compact Disc (CD) player (See audio
system) ......................................................................... 4-21
Compact spare tire ................................................... 8-40
Console box................................................................ 2-35
Control panel buttons (models with navigation
system) ........................................................................... 4-2
Controls
Control panel buttons (display with
navigation system) ................................................ 4-2
Heater and air conditioner controls
(automatic) .............................................................. 4-9
Steering wheel audio controls ........................ 4-29
Coolant
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................................. 9-2
Changing engine coolant .................................... 8-9
Checking engine coolant level........................... 8-8
Corrosion protection ................................................... 7-6
Cruise control............................................................. 5-16
Cup holders ................................................................ 2-33
D
Daytime running light system ................................. 2-25
Defroster switch, Rear window and outside
mirror defroster switch ............................................. 2-23
Dimensions and weights ............................................ 9-8
Display controls (See control panel buttons),
With navigation system .............................................. 4-2Door open warning light .......................................... 2-12
Drive belts ................................................................... 8-17
Driving
Cold weather driving ......................................... 5-25
Driving with automatic transmission ..... 5-7, 5-10
Driving with manual transmission .......... 5-7, 5-13
Precautions when starting and driving ............ 5-2
E
Economy, Fuel............................................................ 5-18
Elapsed time ............................................................... 2-10
Emission control information label ........................ 9-10
Emission control system warranty......................... 9-23
Engine
Before starting the engine .................................. 5-9
Break-in schedule............................................... 5-18
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................................. 9-2
Changing engine coolant .................................... 8-9
Changing engine oil and filter ......................... 8-10
Checking engine coolant level........................... 8-8
Checking engine oil level .................................... 8-9
Coolant temperature gauge ............................... 2-5
Engine block heater ........................................... 5-26
Engine compartment check locations.............. 8-7
Engine cooling system ......................................... 8-8
Engine oil................................................................. 8-9
Engine oil and oil filter recommendation......... 9-5
Engine oil viscosity ............................................... 9-5
Engine serial number ......................................... 9-10
Engine specifications ........................................... 9-7
If your vehicle overheats ...................................... 6-9
Oil pressure gauge ............................................... 2-7Starting the engine ............................................... 5-9
Event data recorders ................................................ 9-25
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide).............................. 5-2
F
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label ............. 9-10
Filter, Changing engine oil and filter .................... 8-10
Flashers (See hazard warning flasher switch) ... 2-27
Flat tire............................................................................ 6-2
Flat towing .................................................................. 9-21
Floor mat cleaning ....................................................... 7-5
Fluid
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) ................ 8-12
Brake and clutch fluid ....................................... 8-13
Brake fluid............................................................. 8-13
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................................. 9-2
Engine coolant ....................................................... 8-8
Engine oil................................................................. 8-9
Power steering fluid ........................................... 8-12
Window washer fluid ......................................... 8-14
FM-AM radio with Compact Disc (CD)
player ............................................................................ 4-19
FM-AM-SAT radio with Compact Disc (CD)
changer ........................................................................ 4-23
Front manual seat adjustment ................................. 1-3
Front power seat adjustment .................................. 1-3
Front passenger air bag and status light ............ 1-36
Front power seat adjustment .................................... 1-4
Front seat active head restraints ......................... 1-10
Fuel
Average fuel consumption .................................. 2-9


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10-2