Black plate (2,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 4/ 18
The legend of the GT-R began in May of 1964 in Japan when the affectionately termed “boxy” Skyline passed a Porsche 904 at a hairpin curve on the
Suzuka Circuit.
The GT-R legend continued on the Japanese racing circuits and in the sports car world when the GT-R was equipped with a powerful engine and state-of-
the-art all-wheel drive system in August of 1989.
A new legend is in the making for the 21st century. The “NISSAN GT-R” is now available worldwide.
During development, the NISSAN GT-R was taken to the Nurburgring in Germany, a racetrack used for performance evaluation benchmarking of
supercars. While being driven by a professional driver, the GT-R set a record time of 7 minutes 38 seconds even though the road surface of the most
difficult high-speed corner, the “kesselchen” was wet. The GT-R also handled an endurance test totaling approximately 3,000 miles (5,000 km) , setting
the world’s fastest continuous driving lap time of 7 minutes 55 seconds. Additionally, to make sure the GT-R performs off the track as well as it does on the
track, the vehicle was designed to perform on many types of roads from a scorching freeway to snow swept country roads.
A new legend is born.The NISSAN GT-R, introducing you
to a new genre of supercars
, Q I R U P D W L R Q 3 U R Y L G H G E \
Black plate (5,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 4/ 18
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT
THIS MANUALYou will see various symbols in this manual. They
are used in the following ways:
WARNING
This is used to indicate a hazard that
could cause death or serious personal
injury. To avoid or reduce the risk,
follow the information and instructions
exactly.
CAUTION
This is used to indicate a hazard that
could cause minor or moderate perso-
nal injury. To avoid or reduce the risk,
follow the information and instructions
carefully.
NOTICE
This is used to indicate a hazard that
could cause damage to property or your
vehicle. To avoid or reduce the risk,
follow the information and instructions.
If you see the symbol above, it means“Do not
do this” or“Do not let this happen” .If you see a symbol similar to those above in an
illustration, it means the arrow points to the front
of the vehicle.Arrows in an illustration that are similar to those
above indicate movement or action.
Arrows in an illustration that are similar to those
above call attention to an item in the illustration.This indicates the title and reference page.CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65
WARNING
WARNING
Engine Exhaust, some of its constitu-
ents, and certain vehicle components
contain or emit chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive
harm. In addition, certain fluids con-
tained in vehicles and certain products
of component wear contain or emit
chemicals known to the State of Cali-
fornia to cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive harm.CALIFORNIA PERCHLORATE ADVI-
SORYSome vehicle parts, such as lithium bat-
teries, may contain perchlorate material.
The following advisory is provided: “Per-
chlorate Material - special handling may
apply, See www.dtsc.ca.gov/
hazardouswaste/perchlorate.”
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Black plate (1,1)
GT-R specific information................................. GTR-2
Warranty information ................................... GTR-2
Maintenance information .............................. GTR-2
GT-R special specification parts ........................ GTR-2
Engine oil ................................................. GTR-2
Transmission oil ......................................... GTR-2
Differential oil (front and rear) ........................ GTR-2
Brake fluid ................................................ GTR-3
Tires and road wheels ................................. GTR-3
Brake pad and disc rotor ............................. GTR-3
Exhaust muffler .......................................... GTR-3
Exterior parts (spoiler, etc.) ........................... GTR-3
GT-R performance optimization services .............. GTR-4
Wheel alignment inspection and adjustment
(if necessary) (including tire pressure
adjustment) ............................................... GTR-4
Engine settings (balancing right and left
air flow) ................................................... GTR-4
Transmission settings .................................. GTR-4
Precautions before driving ................................ GTR-5
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) off mode ........ GTR-5
Summer tires ............................................ GTR-5
All-season tires .......................................... GTR-5
Body repair ................................................... GTR-5 Additional maintenance items
............................ GTR-6
Fluids ...................................................... GTR-6
Inspection and adjustments of tires, suspension
and brakes ............................................... GTR-6
Replenishing coolant ................................... GTR-6
Coolant mixture ratio ................................... GTR-7
Cool down ............................................... GTR-7
GT-R specific vehicle characteristics ................... GTR-7
Refueling precautions .................................. GTR-7
Refueling stops before the tank is full ............. GTR-7
Gasoline smell ........................................... GTR-7
Outside temperature display indicates higher
temperature .............................................. GTR-7
Idle speed is not steady ............................... GTR-7
Engine speed is restricted ............................ GTR-7
Distortion of rear wing ................................. GTR-8
Uneven wear of tires ................................... GTR-8
Noises are heard while driving ....................... GTR-8
Brake dust ................................................ GTR-9
Mechanical Limited Slip Differential (LSD)
characteristics ........................................... GTR-9
Dual clutch transmission .................................. GTR-9
Transmission operation characteristics ........... GTR-10
GT-R Overview
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
, Q I R U P D W L R Q 3 U R Y L G H G E \
Black plate (4,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
The GT-R is NISSAN’s first supercar category
vehicle. The GT-R is equipped with special
systems. These systems are different than those
used on conventional vehicles to allow for the
high performance driving characteristics of this
vehicle. Your vehicle should be maintained by a
GT-R certified NISSAN dealer. Special skills,
knowledge and equipment are necessary to
properly maintain your GT-R.WARRANTY INFORMATIONPlease read this OM carefully, together with your
Warranty Information Booklet which describes a
number of express limitations and exclusions for
failure to follow the instructions contained in this
OM, including, but not limited to:
.Failure to use proper parts, fuel and fluids,
. Driving with the VDC off,
. Racing,
. Modifications, including reprogramming or
replacing/adding chips in any on-board
computer,
. Failure to have required Performance Opti-
mization Services performed.
In addition, see your Dunlop/Goodyear and
Bridgestone tire warranties for specific limita-
tions or exclusions for operating summer tires
below 48F( 20 8C) .
MAINTENANCE INFORMATION. Special skills, knowledge and equipment are
necessary to properly inspect and adjust the
GT-R engine, transmission, suspension and
brakes to maintain performance. A GT-R
certified NISSAN dealer has the GT-R
certified technical staff and the special
equipment to properly maintain your GT-R.
. Many general periodic maintenance items
can be performed at all NISSAN dealers.
However, make sure the specified fluids and
parts are used when the maintenance is
performed.
Only use the following required fluids and parts
in the GT-R.ENGINE OILMobil 1, 0W-40 (100% synthetic oil)
Mobil 1, 0W-40 (100% synthetic) is the factory
fill oil. The VR38 engine with its plasma-sprayed
bores was developed using this oil. NISSAN
cannot ensure proper engine operation and
durability if other 0W-40 synthetic oil is used.
If Mobil 1, 0W-40 is not available, Mobil 1,
10W-40 (100% synthetic) may be used; how-
ever, some performance loss may be noticed.TRANSMISSION OILGenuine NISSAN Transmission Oil R35
Special (100% synthetic oil)
The GT-R uses a multiple-disc dual wet clutch
transmission. The specially developed transmis-
sion oil maximizes the friction characteristics of
the clutch and the lubrication of the gear
bearings. The use of additives is prohibited.DIFFERENTIAL OIL (front and rear)Castrol SAF-XJ 75W-140 (100% synthetic
oil)
The GT-R uses a 1.5-Way mechanical Limited
Slip Differential (LSD) to maximize driving power
under many operating conditions. Use the
specified differential oil to maximize the perfor-
GTR-2
GT-R Overview
GT-R SPECIFIC INFORMATION GT-R SPECIAL SPECIFICATION
PARTS
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Black plate (6,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
In addition to the regular maintenance recom-
mended by NISSAN, the GT-R requires the
following special inspections:
.Wheel alignment inspection and adjustment
(if necessary) (including tire pressure ad-
justment)
. Engine settings (balancing right and left air
flow)
. Transmission settings
These inspections are required at the following
intervals:
. 1,000 miles
. 12 months
. 24 months
. 36 monthsNOTE:.These inspections will be performed
free of charge for labor at a GT-R
certified NISSAN dealer only. Inspec-
tions thereafter are recommended
every 12 months or 12,000 miles
(whichever comes first) at the custo-
mer’s expense. See the 2009 NISSAN
GT-R Warranty Information Booklet for
details.
. Repairs and adjustments involving parts replacement, etc. determined to
be necessary as a result of these
inspections are performed at the cus-
tomer’s expense.
. See the 2009 NISSAN GT-R Warranty
Information Booklet for significant lim-
itations, exclusions and possible void-
ing of your warranty resulting from
failure to have these necessary inspec-
tions, repairs and/or adjustments per-
formed.
. See the 2009 NISSAN GT-R Service and
Maintenance Guide for a detailed ex-
planation of the GT-R Performance
Optimization services.
WHEEL ALIGNMENT INSPECTION
AND ADJUSTMENT (if necessary)
(including tire pressure adjustment)This vehicle is equipped with a high perfor-
mance suspension. The vehicle’s wheel align-
ment needs to be measured and adjusted (if
necessary) by a GT-R certified NISSAN dealer
as necessary as the vehicle is driven and the
suspension parts break-in.
ENGINE SETTINGS (balancing right
and left air flow)Each cylinder bank of this engine operates
independently due to the vehicle’s twin turbo-
charger design. Each side of the engine must
operate at the same level of performance. The
power output of each bank must be checked
and adjusted as necessary by a GT-R certified
NISSAN dealer.TRANSMISSION SETTINGSThe design of the clutch and transmission
requires inspection and adjustment of the clutch
and shift forks by a GT-R certified NISSAN
dealer at the recommended intervals. Depend-
ing on the driving conditions, more frequent
adjustments may be necessary to help maximize
vehicle performance.
GTR-4
GT-R Overview
GT-R PERFORMANCE
OPTIMIZATION SERVICES
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Black plate (8,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
The following information applies if you engage
in performance driving such as driving your
GT-R for extended periods under the following
conditions.
.Higher-RPM (approaching redline) opera-
tion
. Frequent high pedal force braking from
moderate and higher speeds
. Frequent throttle activation
. Fast revving throughout the RPM range
In such cases, the following additional main-
tenance guidelines apply.
However, you should also carefully read
your 2009 NISSAN GT-R Warranty Informa-
tion Booklet for important information
concerning warranty coverage, limitations
and exclusions.
We recommend that maintenance be performed
at a GT-R certified NISSAN dealer. NISSAN will
only pay for GT-R Performance Optimization
Services performed at a GT-R certified NISSAN
dealer.FLUIDS. Before driving, check the fluid levels and
adjust as necessary using the specified fluid.
. Check the amount of fluid for the power steering.
. Be sure to change the fluids listed below
with the specified fluids every 1,800 miles
(3,000 km) .
ITEMS GT-R SPECIFIED FLUIDS
Engine oil Mobil 1, 0W-40*1
Transmission oil Genuine NISSAN Transmission
Oil R35 Special
Differential oil
(front and rear) Castrol SAF-XJ 75W-140
Brake fluid Genuine NISSAN Brake Fluid
R35 Special DOT4*2
*1: Mobil 1, 0W-40 (100% synthetic) is the factory fill oil. The VR38 engine with its plasma-sprayed
bores was developed using this oil. NISSAN
cannot ensure proper engine operation and dur-
ability if other 0W-40 synthetic oil is used. If Mobil
1, 0W-40 is not available, Mobil 1, 10W-40 (100%
synthetic) may be used; however, some perfor-
mance loss may be noticed.
*2: Genuine NISSAN Brake Fluid R35 Special DOT4 is the factory fill brake fluid. The Vehicle Dynamic
Control (VDC) unit and other related parts were
specially designed for this brake fluid and NISSAN
cannot ensure the best performance and proper
operation of the vehicle if other brake fluid is used.
INSPECTION AND ADJUSTMENTS
OF TIRES, SUSPENSION AND
BRAKES. Measure and adjust the wheel alignment.
. Check the tire pressure and the Tire
Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sen-
sor.
. Make tire pressure adjustments only when
the tires are cool. (
“WHEELS AND
TIRES” page 8-29)
. Secure road wheel balance weights with
aluminum tape or equivalent.
. Check the heat deterioration and wear of the
brakes. (As necessary, the brake pad and
the brake disc rotor must be replaced as a
set of four with new ones.)
REPLENISHING COOLANTCheck the coolant level in the pressurized
coolant reservoir. Adjust the level so that the
fluid is between the MAX and MIN markings. For
the coolant, use genuine NISSAN Long Life
coolant. (On delivery of new vehicle, the
reservoir is filled to the MIN level. Be sure to
replenish approximately 0.3 to 0.4 US quart (0.3
to 0.4 liter) of coolant.)
GTR-6
GT-R Overview
ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE ITEMS
, Q I R U P D W L R Q 3 U R Y L G H G E \
Black plate (9,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
COOLANT MIXTURE RATIOFor maximum cooling system performance, the
coolant mixture ratio should be the combination
of 30% antifreeze and 70% demineralized or
distilled water.
If ambient temperatures are anticipated below
58F( 15 8C) , make sure a proper mixture ratio of
50% antifreeze and 50% demineralized or
distilled water mix is used.COOL DOWNCool down the vehicle to help extend the life of
the vehicle if coolant temperatures are extremely
high. Drive the vehicle at 37 to 50 MPH (60 to
80 km/h) , in 5th or 6th gear for 2 to 3 miles (3 to
5 km) and then stop the engine.
REFUELING PRECAUTIONS
WARNING
Do not attempt to top off the fuel tank
after the fuel pump nozzle shuts off
automatically. Continued refueling may
cause fuel overflow, resulting in fuel
spray and possibly a fire. The fuel tank
is full at the first automatic shutoff.
To maximize vehicle performance, the fuel tank is
located as low as possible to lower the vehicle
center of gravity. The tank is also divided into
two parts. This fuel tank design causes higher
pressures inside the tank than other vehicles so
fuel spillage is possible by trying to top off the
fuel tank after automatic shutoff.REFUELING STOPS BEFORE THE
TANK IS FULLThe fuel tank pressure is higher when the vehicle
is hot. If the vehicle is refueled when the vehicle
is hot, the fuel pump may automatically shut off
before the tank is full. This does not indicate that
there is a malfunction. This will not happen after
the vehicle has cooled.GASOLINE SMELLThe fuel temperature is higher when the vehicle
is hot. This may cause a gasoline smell from the
vehicle. This does not indicate that there is a malfunction. The smell will go away when the
fuel temperature has cooled.
OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE DISPLAY
INDICATES HIGHER TEMPERATUREHeat from the engine compartment, radiator and
intercoolers can affect the outside temperature
display. The outside temperature display may
indicate a higher than actual temperature while
driving or stopped. This is normal.IDLE SPEED IS NOT STEADYThe idle speed may not be steady when the
engine compartment is extremely hot. This is
normal. The engine speed will be steady when
the engine cools down.
In this case, the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
may come on. After a few driving trips, the MIL
should turn off. If the light remains on after a few
driving trips, have the vehicle inspected by a
GT-R certified NISSAN dealer.ENGINE SPEED IS RESTRICTEDTo help protect the engine, the maximum engine
speed is automatically controlled in the following
conditions:
.
Revving the engine with the shift lever in the
&P
or
&N
position: The maximum engine
speed is 5,000 RPM
. Revving the engine when the engine coolant
GT-R Overview
GTR-7
GT-R SPECIFIC VEHICLE
CHARACTERISTICS
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Black plate (10,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 6/ 6
or oil is at a low or extremely high
temperature: The maximum engine speed
is 4,000 RPM
DISTORTION OF REAR WINGWhen the vehicle is parked in direct sunlight on
a hot day, the center of the rear wing may
become distorted. This is normal. When the
surface temperature of the rear wing is reduced,
the shape of the wing should return to normal.UNEVEN WEAR OF TIRESThe NISSAN GT-R is equipped with high
performance, low profile, run-flat tires that are
optimized for performance and handling. The life
of these tires will be less than those of tires
installed on a typical vehicle, and you are likely to
experience uneven tire wear and tire noise
regardless of the type of tire used.NOISES ARE HEARD WHILE DRIV-
ING.The GT-R brake pads use material that
provides a high amount of braking power
even in high temperatures. This material can
cause an intermittent screeching noise when
the brakes are applied. The noise decreases
as the brake pads wear. .
A screeching noise may be heard when the
brake pedal is depressed:
— When driving the vehicle for the first time in the morning,
— After leaving the vehicle parked for extended periods of time, or
— When the vehicle is damp following rain showers or washing the vehicle.
These sounds are normal. The noise is
caused when the brake pads absorb moist-
ure, and the noise stops after the brake is
applied several times.
. A screeching noise may also be heard when
the brake pedal is depressed:
— When repeatedly applying gentle brak- ing, especially on a curve at a low
speed, or
— When the brake rotors have circular scores with the brake temperature high.
. To maintain steady braking performance in
both extremely high and low temperatures,
the gap between the brake pad and caliper
is larger than normal and large-size brake
pads are used. When driving over a bump, a
light rattling sound may be heard from the
brake pad. This does not indicate that there
is a malfunction. .
When the brake disc rotor undergoes
thermal expansion, a rumbling noise may
be heard from the engaging portion of the
wheel and the brake disc rotor. This does
not indicate that there is a malfunction. The
noise will cease when the temperature
decreases.
. In addition to noise resulting from uneven
tire wear discussed in the previous section,
the GT-R tires are more rigid than a typical
passenger car tire and are made from a
specially formulated rubber to maximize the
vehicle’s performance capabilities. These
characteristics cause the GT-R tires to have
more road noise than a typical passenger
car tire. This road noise is normal.
. Due to the performance capabilities and
requirements of the GT-R, the sequential 6-
speed dual clutch transmission is unlike a
typical automatic transmission. You will likely
hear mechanical sounds from the transmis-
sion, particularly at slow speeds and at idle.
This condition is normal.GTR-8
GT-R Overview
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