2009 NISSAN ARMADA engine coolant

8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Maintenance requirements..........................8-2
General maintenance..............................8-2
Explanation of general maintenance items.........8-2
Maintenance precautions...........................8-5
Engine compartment check locations................8-6
Engine cooling system.............................8-7
Checking engine coolant level...................8-7
Changing engine coolant........................8-8
Engine oil.........................................8-8
Checking engine oil level........................8-8
Changing engine oil............................8-9
Changing engine oil filter.......................8-10
5-speed automatic transmission fluid...............8-11
Power steering fluid...............................8-11
Brake fluid.......................................8-12
Brake fluid....................................8-12
Window washer fluid.............................8-12
Window washer fluid reservoir..................8-12
Battery..........................................8-13
Jump starting.................................8-14
Variable Voltage Control System...................8-15
Drive belt........................................8-15
Spark plugs......................................8-16Replacing spark plugs.........................8-16
Air cleaner.......................................8-17
In-cabin microfilter.............................8-17
Windshield wiper blades..........................8-19
Cleaning.....................................8-19
Replacing....................................8-19
Brakes..........................................8-22
Fuses...........................................8-22
Engine compartment...........................8-23
Passenger compartment.......................8-24
Battery replacement..............................8-25
Keyfob.......................................8-26
Intelligent Key.................................8-27
Lights...........................................8-28
Headlights....................................8-28
Fog lights (if so equipped)......................8-29
Exterior and interior lights.......................8-30
Wheels and tires.................................8-34
Tire pressure..................................8-34
Tire labeling...................................8-38
Types of tires..................................8-40
Tire chains....................................8-41
Changing wheels and tires.....................8-41
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Steering wheelCheck for changes in the steer-
ing system, such as excessive freeplay, hard
steering or strange noises.
Warning lights and chimesMake sure all
warning lights and chimes are operating properly.
Windshield wiper and washer*Check that
the wipers and washer operate properly and that
the wipers do not streak.
Windshield defrosterCheck that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly and in
sufficient quantity when operating the heater or
air conditioner.
Under the hood and vehicle
The 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. Ve-
hicles operated in high temperatures or under
severe conditions require frequent checks of the
battery fluid level.
Brake fluid level*Make sure that the brake fluid
level is between the MIN and MAX lines on the
reservoir.
Engine coolant level*Check the coolant level
when the engine is cold.Engine drive belts*Make sure the drive belts
are not frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*Check the level after parking
the vehicle on a level surface with the engine off.
Wait more than 10 minutes for the oil to drain
back into the oil pan.
Exhaust systemMake 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 have the exhaust
system inspected by a NISSAN dealer. See the
carbon monoxide warning in the “Starting and
driving” section of this manual.
Fluid leaksCheck 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 linesCheck
the level when the fluid is cold, with the engine
off. Check the lines for proper attachment, leaks,
cracks, etc.
Radiator and hosesCheck 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, rot or loose
connections.
UnderbodyThe 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 from the
underbody, otherwise rust may form on the floor
pan, frame, fuel lines and exhaust system. At the
end of winter, the underbody should be thor-
oughly flushed with plain water, in those areas
where mud and dirt may have accumulated. See
the “Appearance and care” section of this
manual.
Windshield washer fluid*Check that there is
adequate fluid in the reservoir.
8-4Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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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
cPark the vehicle on a level surface, ap-
ply the parking brake securely and
block the wheels to prevent the vehicle
from moving. Move the shift selector
lever to P (Park) .
cBe sure the ignition key is in the OFF or
LOCK position when performing any
parts replacement or repairs.
cIf you must work with the engine run-
ning, keep your hands, clothing, hair
and tools away from moving fans, belts
and any other moving parts.
cIt is advisable to secure or remove any
loose clothing and remove any jewelry,
such as rings, watches, etc. before
working on your vehicle.
cAlways wear eye protection whenever
you work on your vehicle.c
Your vehicle is equipped with an auto-
matic 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 running. To avoid injury,
always disconnect the negative battery
cable before working near the fan.
cIf you must run the engine in an en-
closed space such as a garage, be sure
there is proper ventilation for exhaust
gases to escape.
cNever get under the vehicle while it is
supported only by a jack. If it is neces-
sary to work under the vehicle, support
it with safety stands.
cKeep smoking materials, flame and
sparks away from the fuel tank and
battery.
cOn gasoline engine models, 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
cDo not work under the hood while the
engine is hot. Turn the engine off and
wait until it cools down.cAvoid contact with used engine oil and
coolant. Improperly disposed engine
oil, engine coolant and/or other vehicle
fluids can damage the environment. Al-
ways conform to local regulations for
disposal of vehicle fluid.
cNever leave the engine or automatic
transmission related component har-
nesses disconnected while the ignition
switch is in the ON position.
cNever connect or disconnect the battery
or any transistorized component while
the ignition switch is in the ON position.
This “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-
der information” in the “Technical and consumer
information” section of this manual.
You should be aware that incomplete or improper
servicing may result in operating difficulties or
excessive emissions, and could affect warranty
coverage.If in doubt about any servicing,
have it done by a NISSAN dealer.
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-5
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1. Battery
2. Fuse/fusible link box
3. Transmission dipstick
4. Engine oil filler cap
5. Brake fluid reservoir
6. Windshield washer fluid reservoir
7. Air cleaner
8. Drive belt location
9. Radiator cap
10. Power steering fluid reservoir
11. Engine oil dipstick
12. Engine coolant reservoir
NOTE:
Engine cover removed for clarity.
WDI0630
ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS
8-6Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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The engine cooling system is filled at the factory
with Genuine NISSAN Long Life
Antifreeze/Coolant to provide year-round anti-
freeze and coolant protection.The anti-freeze so-
lution contains rust and corrosion inhibitors. Ad-
ditional engine cooling system additives are not
necessary.
WARNING
cNever remove the radiator or coolant
reservoir cap when the engine is hot.
Wait until the engine and radiator cool
down. Serious burns could be caused
by high pressure fluid escaping from
the radiator. See precautions in “If your
vehicle overheats” found in the “In case
of emergency” section of this manual.
cThe radiator is equipped with a pres-
sure type radiator cap. To prevent en-
gine damage, use only a genuine
NISSAN radiator cap.
CAUTION
When adding or replacing coolant, be sure
to use only a Genuine NISSAN Long Life
Antifreeze/Coolant (green) or equivalent
with the proper mixture ratio of 50% anti-
freeze and 50% demineralized or distilled
water. The use of other types of coolant
solutions or coolant colors, such as or-
ange, may damage the engine cooling
system.
Outside temperature
down toGenuine
NISSAN
Long Life
Antifreeze/
Coolant or
equivalentDemineral-
ized or dis-
tilled water
°C °F
-35 -30 50% 50%
CHECKING ENGINE COOLANT
LEVEL
Check the coolant levelin the reservoir when
the engine is cold.If the coolant level is below
the MIN level, add coolant to the MAX level. If the
reservoir is empty, check the coolant level in the
radiatorwhen the engine is cold.If there is
insufficient coolant in the radiator, fill the radiator
with coolant up to the filler opening and also add
it to the reservoir up to the MAX level.
The engine coolant reservoir is a pressur-
ized tank. When installing the cap, tighten
it until a clicking sound is heard.
LDI0369
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-7
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If the cooling system frequently requires
coolant, have it checked by a NISSAN
dealer.
CHANGING ENGINE COOLANT
A NISSAN dealer can change the engine coolant.
The service procedure can be found in the
NISSAN Service Manual.
Improper servicing can result in reduced
heater performance and engine overheat-
ing.
WARNING
cTo avoid the danger of being scalded,
never change the coolant when the en-
gine is hot.
cNever remove the radiator or engine
coolant reservoir cap when the engine
is hot. Serious burns could be caused
by high pressure fluid escaping from
the radiator.
cAvoid direct skin contact with used
coolant. If skin contact is made, wash
thoroughly with soap or hand cleaner
as soon as possible.
cKeep coolant out of the reach of chil-
dren and pets.Engine coolant must be disposed of properly.
Check your local regulations.CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply
the parking brake.
2. Start the engine and let it idle until it reaches
operating temperature.
3. Turn off the engine.Wait more than
10 minutes for the oil to drain back into
the oil pan.
4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean. Re-
insert it all the way.
LDI0370
ENGINE OIL
8-8Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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Refill the reservoir more frequently when driving
conditions require an increased amount of win-
dow washer fluid.
Recommended fluid is Genuine NISSAN Wind-
shield Washer Concentrate Cleaner & Anti-
freeze or equivalent.
CAUTION
cDo not substitute engine anti-freeze
coolant for window washer solution.
This may result in damage to the paint.
cDo not fill the window washer reservoir
tank with washer fluid concentrates at
full strength. Some methyl alcohol
based washer fluid concentrates may
permanently stain the grille if spilled
while filling the window washer reser-
voir tank.
cPre-mix washer fluid concentrates with
water to the manufacturer’s recom-
mended levels before pouring the fluid
into the window washer reservoir tank.
Do not use the window washer reservoir
tank to mix the washer fluid concen-
trate and water.cKeep the battery surface clean and dry.
Clean the battery with a solution of baking
soda and water.
cMake certain the terminal connections are
clean and securely tightened.
cIf the vehicle is not to be used for 30 days or
longer, disconnect the negative (-) battery
terminal cable to prevent discharge.
WARNING
cDo not expose the battery to flames or
electrical sparks. Hydrogen gas gener-
ated by the battery is explosive. Do not
allow battery fluid to contact your skin,
eyes, fabrics or painted surfaces. After
touching a battery or battery cap, do not
touch or rub your eyes. Thoroughly
wash your hands. If the acid contacts
your eyes, skin or clothing, immediately
flush with water for at least 15 minutes
and seek medical attention.
cDo not operate the vehicle if the fluid in
the battery is low. Low battery fluid can
cause a higher load on the battery
which can generate heat, reduce bat-
tery life, and in some cases lead to an
explosion.cWhen working on or near a battery, al-
ways wear suitable eye protection and
remove all jewelry.
cBattery posts, terminals and related ac-
cessories contain lead and lead com-
pounds. Wash hands after handling.
cKeep battery out of the reach of
children.
BATTERY
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-13
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The following are approximate capacities. The actual refill capacities may be slightly different. When refilling, follow the procedure
described in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section to determine the proper refill capacity.
Capacity (Approximate) Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
US measure Imp measure Liter
Fuel 28 gal 23-1/4 gal 105.8 Unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of at least 87 AKI (RON 91) or E-85
Ethanol fuel for Flexible Fuel Vehicles*1
Engine oil *7
Drain and Refill
With oil filter change 6-4/5 qt 5-3/4 qt 6.5
• Engine oil with API Certification Mark *2
• Viscosity SAE 5W-30 *2
Without oil filter change 6-1/2 qt 5-1/2 qt 6.2
Cooling system
With reservoir 3-3/4 gal 3-1/8 gal 14.4 50% Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent
50% Demineralized or distilled water
Automatic transmission fluid Refill to the proper level according to the instructions in the
“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.Genuine NISSAN Matic S ATF *3
Power steering fluid (PSF)Genuine NISSAN PSF or equivalent.*4
Brake fluidGenuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid *5 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 oil — — — NISSAN A/C System Oil Type S or equivalent *6
Transfer fluid — — — Genuine NISSAN Matic D ATF (Continental U.S. and Alaska) or Canada
NISSAN Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent (if available)
Front final drive oil — — — Genuine NISSAN Differential Oil Hyponoid Super GL-5 80W- 90 or API GL-5
Viscosity SAE 80W-90 *8
Rear final drive oil — — — API GL-5 Synthetic 75W-90 gear oil or equivalent *
Windshield washer fluid (shared between
front and rear wipers)1-1/4 gal 1 gal 4.5 Genuine NISSAN Windshield Washer Concentrate Cleaner & Antifreeze or
equivalent
*1: For further details, see “Fuel recommendation.”
*2: For further details, see “Engine oil and oil filter recommendations.”
*3: If Genuine NISSAN Matic S ATF is not available, Genuine NISSAN Matic J ATF may also be used. Using automatic transmission fluid other than Genuine NISSAN Matic S ATF or Matic J ATF
will cause deterioration in driveability and automatic transmission durability, and may damage the automatic transmission, which is not covered bythe NISSAN new vehicle limited warranty.
*4: DEXTRON™ VI type ATF or Canada NISSAN Automatic Transmission Fluid may also be used.
*5: Available in mainland USA through your NISSAN dealer.
*6: For further details, see “Air conditioner specification label.”
*7: For further details, see “Changing engine oil.”
*8: For hot climates, viscosity SAE 90 is suitable for ambient temperatures above 0° C (32° F) .
*9: See your NISSAN dealer for service.
CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED
FUEL/LUBRICANTS
9-2Technical and consumer information
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