2009 NISSAN PATHFINDER 4WD

WARNING
Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so
may result in increased stopping
distances.
Normal operation
The ABS operates at speeds above3-6MPH(5
- 10 km/h) .
When the ABS senses that one or more wheels
are close to locking up, the system electronically
controls the pressure applied to each brake.
This action is similar to pumping the brakes very
quickly. You may feel a pulsation in the brake
pedal and hear a noise from under the hood or
feel a vibration from the actuator when it is oper-
ating. This is normal and indicates that the ABS is
operating properly. However, the pulsation may
indicate that road conditions are hazardous and
extra care is required while driving.
Self-test feature
The ABS includes electronic sensors, electric
pumps, hydraulic solenoids and a computer. The
computer has a built-in diagnostic feature that
tests the system each time you start the engine
and move the vehicle at a low speed in forward or
reverse. When the self-test occurs, you may hear
a “clunk” noise and/or feel a pulsation in the brakepedal. This is normal and does not indicate a
malfunction. If the computer senses a malfunc-
tion, it switches the ABS off and illuminates the
ABS warning light on the instrument panel. The
brake system then operates normally, but without
anti-lock assistance.
If the ABS warning light illuminates during the
self-test or while driving, have the vehicle
checked by a NISSAN dealer.cABLS is a form of traction control using
sensors from the Anti-lock Brake System
(ABS) to transfer power from a slipping drive
wheel to a wheel with more traction. The
ABLS system applies braking to the slipping
wheel, which helps redirect power to an-
other wheel.
cOn 4WD models the ABLS system operates
in both 4H and 4LO modes. If 4WD mode is
engaged, the ABLS system will operate for
both drive axles. On 2WD vehicles, the
ABLS system operates on the drive axle
only.
cThe ABLS system is always ON unless the
system detects brake pad overheating. If
high brake pad temperature is detected, it
will turn OFF, but normal brake function will
continue. ABLS will function even when the
VDC system is turned OFF.
WARNING
The ABLS system provides increased trac-
tion, but will not prevent accidents due to
abrupt steering operation or by careless
driving or dangerous driving practices.
Reduce vehicle speed and be especially
careful when driving and cornering on
slippery surfaces, and always drive
carefully.
ACTIVE BRAKE LIMITED SLIP (ABLS)
SYSTEM
Starting and driving5-35
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The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system uses
various sensors to monitor driver inputs and ve-
hicle motion. Under certain driving situations, the
system will control braking and engine output to
help keep the vehicle on its steered path.
cWhen the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
system is operating, theSLIPindicator in
the instrument panel blinks.
cIf the 4WD transfer case is shifted into 4LO
the
indicator light will come on and
the VDC system will be turned off. See
“Transfer case shifting procedures” earlier in
this section.
cIf the SLIP indicator blinks, the road condi-
tions may be slippery. Be sure to adjust your
speed and driving to these conditions. See
“Slip indicator light”, and “Vehicle Dynamic
Control (VDC) off indicator light” in the “In-
struments and controls” section.
If the battery is removed or discharged, the Trac-
tion Control System may be disabled and the
SLIPand
indicator lights will not turn off
after 2 seconds when the ignition switch is turned
to the ON position.
Perform the following procedure to reset the
system:
cStart the engine and set the steering wheel
in the straight forward position.cDrive the vehicle at speeds above 10 mph
(15 km/h) for at least 10 minutes.
cThe VDC OFF indicator light should go off
indicating the traction control system is op-
erational.
cIf you interrupt the reset procedure by turn-
ing the ignition off, you will need to restart
the reset procedure.
If after driving the vehicle for more than 10 min-
utes and theSLIPand
lights remain illumi-
nated in the instrument panel, have the vehicle
dynamic control system checked by a NISSAN
dealer.
If the vehicle is operated with the Vehicle Dy-
namic Control system off using the VDC OFF
switch, VDC and Traction Control System (TCS)
functions will be turned off. TheSLIPindicator
will flash if wheel spin is detected. The ABS will
still operate with the VDC system off.
When the VDC system is operating, you may feel
a pulsation in the brake pedal and hear a noise or
vibration from under the hood. This is normal and
indicates that the VDC system is working prop-
erly.
The computer has a built in diagnostic feature
that tests the system each time you start the
engine and move the vehicle forward or in reverse
at a slow speed. When the self-test occurs, youmay hear a clunk noise and/or feel a pulsation in
the brake pedal. This is normal and is not an
indication of a malfunction.
WARNING
cThe Vehicle Dynamic Control system is
designed to help maintain traction with
the road service but does not prevent
accidents due to abrupt steering opera-
tion at high speeds or by careless or
dangerous driving techniques. Reduce
vehicle speed and be especially careful
when driving and cornering on slippery
surfaces and always drive carefully.
cIf brake related parts such as brake
pads, rotors and calipers are not stan-
dard equipment or are extremely dete-
riorated, the Vehicle Dynamic Control
system may not operate properly and
the Vehicle Dynamic Control off indica-
tor light may come on.
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
SYSTEM
5-36Starting and driving
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If the speed or distance must necessarily be
greater, remove the propeller shaft before towing
to prevent damage to the transmission.
Four-wheel drive models
NISSAN recommends that towing dollies be
used when towing your vehicle or place the ve-
hicle on a flat bed truck as illustrated.
CAUTION
Never tow 4WD models with any of the
wheels on the ground as this may cause
serious and expensive damage to the
transfer case and transmission.
WCE0162
In case of emergency6-13
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The following are approximate capacities. The actual refill capacities may be a little 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 21-1/8 gal 17-5/8 gal 80 See “Fuel Recommendation” later in this section.
Engine oil *6
Drain and Refill
With oil filter change VQ40DE 5-3/8 qt 4-1/2 qt 5.1
• Engine oil with API Certification Mark *1
• Viscosity SAE 5W-30 VK56DE 6-3/4 qt 5-3/4 qt 6.5
Without oil filter change VQ40DE 5-1/8 qt 4-1/4 qt 4.8
VK56DE 6-1/2 qt 5-1/2 qt 6.2
Cooling system
With reservoir models w/o rear a/c 2-3/4 gal 2-1/4 gal 10.2 50% Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent
50% Demineralized or distilled water
With reservoir models with rear a/c 3-1/2 gal 3 gal 13.4
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 *2
Power steering fluid (PSF) Genuine NISSAN PSF or equivalent.*3
Brake fluidGenuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid *4 or equivalent DOT 3
Multi-purpose grease — — — NLGI No. 2 (Lithium Soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerant — — — HFC-134a (R-134a) *5
Air conditioning system oil — — — NISSAN A/C System Oil Type S or equivalent *5
Transfer
fluidAll mode 4WD — — — Genuine Nissan Matic D ATF (Continental U.S. and Alaska) or Canada NISSAN Auto-
matic Transmission Fluid or equivalent (if available)
Part time 4WD — — —
Front final drive oil — — — Genuine NISSAN Differential Oil Hypoid Super GL-5 80W-90 or API GL-5 Viscosity
SAE 80W-90 *7
Rear final drive oil — — — Genuine NISSAN differential oil synthetic 75W -90 or API GL-5 synthetic gear oil, Vis-
cosity SAE 75W-90 *8
Windshield washer fluid (shared be-
tween front and rear wipers)1-1/4 gal 1 gal 4.5 Genuine NISSAN Windshield Washer Concentrate Cleaner & Antifreeze fluid or
equivalent
*1: For further details, see “Engine oil and oil filter recommendations.”
*2: 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 will
cause deterioration in driveability and automatic transmission durability, and may damage the automatic transmission, which is not covered by the NISSAN new vehicle limited
warranty.
*3: DEXRON™ VI type ATF or Canada NISSAN Automatic Transmission Fluid may also be used.
*4: Available in mainland USA through your NISSAN dealer.
*5: For further details, see “Air conditioner specification label.”
*6: For further details, see “Changing engine oil.”
*7: For hot climates, viscosity SAE 90 is suitable for ambient temperatures above 0° C (32° F) .
*8: See your NISSAN dealer for service, for synthetic oil.
CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED
FUEL/LUBRICANTS
9-2Technical and consumer information
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6. Make sure theindicator light (if so
equipped) indicates the transfer case is in
4H, 4L, or 2H and that the ATP light is off. If
the
indicator light is flashing, or the
ATP light is ON, make sure the transmission
is in P (Park) (AT) and turn the 4WD switch
to 2WD or 4H. See “Automatic transmission
park warning light” in the “Instruments and
controls” section and “Using four wheel
drive (4WD)” in the “Starting and driving”
section.
7. Turn off the engine.
To drive away:
1. Start the vehicle.
2. Apply and hold the brake pedal.
3. Shift the transmission into gear.
4. Release the parking brake.
5. Drive slowly until the vehicle and trailer are
clear from the blocks.
6. Apply and hold the brake pedal.
7. Have someone retrieve and store the blocks.cWhile going downhill, the weight of the
trailer pushing on the tow vehicle may de-
crease overall stability. Therefore, to main-
tain adequate control, reduce your speed
and shift to a lower gear. Avoid long or
repeated use of the brakes when descend-
ing a hill, as this reduces their effectiveness
and could cause overheating. Shifting to a
lower gear instead provides “engine brak-
ing” and reduces the need to brake as fre-
quently.
cIf the engine coolant temperature rises to a
high temperature, refer to “If your vehicle
overheats” in the “In case of emergency”
section of this owner’s manual.
cTrailer towing requires more fuel than normal
circumstances.
cAvoid towing a trailer for your vehicle’s first
500 miles (805 km) .
cFor the first 500 miles (805 km) that you do
tow, do not drive over 50 MPH (80 km/h) .
cHave your vehicle serviced more often than
at intervals specified in the recommended
Maintenance Schedule in the “NISSAN Ser-
vice and Maintenance Guide”.cWhen 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.
cCrosswinds 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.
Do the following if the trailer begins to sway:
1. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal to
allow the vehicle to coast and steer as
straight ahead as the road conditions allow.
This combination will help stabilize the ve-
hicle
– Do not correct trailer sway by steering or
applying the brakes.
2. When the trailer sway stops, gently apply the
brakes and pull to the side of the road in a
safe area.
3. Try to rearrange the trailer load so it is bal-
anced as described earlier in this section.
Technical and consumer information9-25
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10 Index
4WD warning light...............2-16
A
Active brake limited slip (ABLS) system
(if so equipped).................5-35
Active Head Restraint..............1-7
Adjusting pedal position............3-25
Air bag (See supplemental restraint
system).....................1-41
Air bag system
Front (See supplemental front impact
air bag system)...............1-49
Air bag warning labels.............1-56
Air bag warning light...........1-56, 2-19
Air cleaner housing filter............8-19
Air conditioner
Air conditioner operation..........4-40
Air conditioner service...........4-48
Air conditioner specification label.....9-11
Air conditioner system refrigerant and
oil recommendations.............9-6
Heater and air conditioner
controls................4-38, 4-45
Rear seat air conditioner..........4-47
Servicing air conditioner..........4-48
Air flow charts..................4-42
Alarm system
(See vehicle security system).........2-23
Anchor point locations.............1-24
Antenna.....................4-88Anti-lock brake warning light..........2-14
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)........5-34
Audible reminders................2-22
Audio system..................4-48
Compact Disc (CD) changer.......4-63
Compact disc (CD) player.....4-57, 4-71
Audio System
CompactFlash (CF) player.........4-73
Audio system
FM/AM radio with compact disc (CD)
player....................4-55
FM/AM/SAT radio with compact disc (CD)
changer...................4-60
FM/AM/SAT radio with compact disc (CD)
player....................4-68
Audio System
Music Box hard-disk drive audio
system....................4-75
Audio system
Radio....................4-48
Rear audio controls.............4-87
Audio System
Settings................4-60, 4-68
Audio system
Steering wheel audio control switch. . . .4-86
Autolight switch.................2-29
Automatic
Automatic drive positioner.........3-30
Automatic power window switch.....2-50
Automatic transmission position indicator
light.....................2-19Driving with automatic transmission. . . .5-14
Transmission selector lever lock
release....................5-17
Automatic anti-glare inside mirror.......3-27
AUX jack.................4-66, 4-73
B
Battery......................8-15
Charge warning light............2-15
Before starting the engine...........5-13
Belt (See drive belt)..............8-18
Block heater
Engine....................5-41
BluetoothThands-free phone
system.................4-105, 4-120
Booster seats..................1-36
Brake
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)......5-34
Brake fluid..................8-14
Brake light (See stop light).........8-32
Brake system................5-33
Brake warning light.............2-15
Brake wear indicators........2-22, 8-24
Parking brake operation..........5-19
Self-adjusting brakes............8-24
Brakes......................8-24
Break-in schedule................5-21
Brightness control
Instrument panel..............2-31
Brightness/contrast button.......4-18, 4-34
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Theft (NISSAN vehicle immobilizer system) ,
engine start.............2-24, 3-3, 5-12
Three-way catalyst................5-3
Tilting steering wheel..............3-25
Tire
Flat tire....................6-2
Spare tire...................6-4
Tire and Loading Information label.....9-11
Tire chains..................8-42
Tire placard.................9-11
Tire pressure................8-35
Tire rotation.................8-42
Tires of 4-wheel drive............8-44
Types of tires................8-41
Uniform tire quality grading.........9-27
Wheels and tires..............8-35
Wheel/tire size................9-8
Tire pressure
Low tire pressure warning light......2-17
Tire pressure display...........4-8, 4-24
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) . . .5-3
Tire rotation maintenance reminder . . .4-8, 4-24
Top tether strap child restraint.........1-24
Towing
2-wheel drive models............6-12
4-wheel drive models............6-13
Flat towing..................9-26
Tow truck towing..............6-11
Towing load/specification.........9-20
Trailer towing................9-17
Transceiver
HomeLinkTUniversal Transceiver.....2-54
Transmission
Driving with automatic transmission. . . .5-14
Selector lever lock release.........5-17Travel (See registering your vehicle in another
country)......................9-9
Trip computer...................2-5
Trip odometer...................2-4
Turn signal switch................2-31
U
Uniform tire quality grading...........9-27
V
Vanity mirror...................3-27
Variable voltage control system........8-17
Vehicle
Speed sensing door lock mechanism. . . .3-6
Vehicle dimensions and weights........9-8
Vehicle dynamic control (VDC) off switch. . .2-34
Vehicle dynamic control (VDC) system. . . .5-36
Vehicle electronic system........4-15, 4-30
Vehicle identification...............9-9
Vehicle identification number (VIN)
(Chassis number).................9-9
Vehicle identification number (VIN) plate. . . .9-9
Vehicle loading information...........9-12
Vehicle recovery.................6-14
Vehicle security system.............2-23
Vehicle security system
(NISSAN vehicle immobilizer system) ,
engine start.............2-24, 3-3, 5-12
Ventilators....................4-37
Visors......................3-26
Voice recognition system...........4-131
Voltmeter.....................2-8W
Warning
4WD warning light.............2-16
Air bag warning light.........1-56, 2-19
Anti-lock brake warning light........2-14
Battery charge warning light........2-15
Brake warning light.............2-15
Door open warning light..........2-16
Engine oil pressure warning light.....2-16
Hazard warning flasher switch.......2-32
Low fuel warning light...........2-17
Low tire pressure warning light......2-17
Low washer fluid warning light.......2-18
Passenger air bag and status light.....1-50
Seat belt warning light...........2-18
Vehicle security system...........2-23
Warning labels (for SRS)..........1-56
Warning/indicator lights and audible
reminders..................2-13
Warning lights..................2-13
Washer switch
Rear window wiper and washer
switches...................2-27
Windshield wiper and washer switch . . .2-26
Weights (See dimensions and weights). . . .9-8
Wheels and tires................8-35
Wheel/tire size..................9-8
When traveling or registering your vehicle in
another country..................9-9
Window washer fluid..............8-15
Windows
Locking passengers’ windows.......2-50
Power rear windows............2-50
Power windows...............2-48
10-7
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