2 Instruments and controls
Instrument panel...................................2-2
Meters and gauges................................2-3
Speedometer and odometer.....................2-3
Tachometer....................................2-4
g (gravity) -force gauge (if so equipped)...........2-5
Fuel gauge . ...................................2-5
Engine coolant temperature gauge...............2-6
Engine oil pressure gauge (if so equipped) . .......2-6
Warning/indicator lights and audible reminders.......2-8
Checking bulbs................................2-9
Warning lights.................................2-9
Indicator lights................................2-13
Audible reminders.............................2-15
Security systems.................................2-16
Vehicle security system (if so equipped)..........2-16
NISSAN vehicle immobilizer system.............2-17
Windshield wiper and washer switch...............2-18
Switch operation..............................2-18
Rear window and outside mirror (if so equipped)
defroster switch..................................2-19
Headlight and turn signal switch....................2-20
Headlight control switch........................2-20
Daytime running light system (Canada only)......2-21Instrument brightness control...................2-21
Turn signal switch.............................2-22
Fog light switch (if so equipped)................2-22
Hazard warning flasher switch.....................2-22
Horn............................................2-23
Heated seat (if so equipped).......................2-23
Power outlet.....................................2-24
Storage.........................................2-25
Map pockets..................................2-25
Storage bin...................................2-25
Storage trays.................................2-26
Instrument panel storage (if so equipped)........2-26
Seatback pockets (if so equipped)..............2-27
Cup holders..................................2-27
Glove box....................................2-28
Console box..................................2-29
Compact disc holder (if so equipped)............2-29
Trunk divider (if so equipped)...................2-29
Cargo net (if so equipped)......................2-30
Grocery hooks (if so equipped).................2-31
Windows........................................2-32
Power windows (if so equipped)................2-32
Manual windows (if so equipped)................2-35
REVIEW COPY—2009 Sentra(sen)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
10/27/08—tbrooks
Your vehicle may have two types of security sys-
tems:
●Vehicle security system (if so equipped)
●NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System
VEHICLE SECURITY SYSTEM (if so
equipped)
The vehicle security system provides visual and
audible alarm signals if someone opens the doors
when the system is armed. It is not, however, a
motion detection type system that activates when
a vehicle is moved or when a vibration occurs.The system helps deter vehicle theft but cannot
prevent it, nor can it prevent the theft of interior or
exterior vehicle components in all situations. Al-
ways secure your vehicle even if parking for a
brief period. Never leave your keys in the ignition,
and always lock the vehicle when unattended. Be
aware of your surroundings, and park in secure,
well-lit areas whenever possible.
Many devices offering additional protection, such
as component locks, identification markers, and
tracking systems, are available at auto supply
stores and specialty shops. Your NISSAN dealer
may also offer such equipment. Check with your
insurance company to see if you may be eligible
for discounts for various theft protection features.
How to arm the vehicle security
system
1. Close all windows.(The system can be
armed even if the windows are open.)
2. Place the ignition switch in the LOCK posi-
tion and remove the key.
3. Close all doors. Lock all doors. The doors
can be locked with:
●the power door lock switch (if the door is
opened, locked and then closed) .
●the key — master or mechanical (Intelli-
gent Key models) .●
any request switch (Intelligent Key models) .
●the keyfob or Intelligent Key.
Keyfob and Intelligent Key operation:
●Push the
button. All doors lock.
The hazard lights flash twice and the horn
beeps once to indicate all doors are
locked.
●When the
button is pushed with
all doors locked, the hazard lights flash
twice and the horn beeps once as a re-
minder that the doors are already locked.
The horn may or may not beep. Refer to
“Silencing the horn beep feature” in the
“Pre-driving checks and adjustments” sec-
tion later in this manual.
4. Confirm that the
indicator light comes
on. The
light stays on for about 30
seconds. The vehicle security system is now
pre-armed. After about 30 seconds the ve-
hicle security system automatically shifts
into the armed phase. The
light begins
to flash once every 3 seconds. If, during the
30-second pre-arm time period, the driver’s
door is unlocked by the key, a request
switch, the keyfob or Intelligent Key, or if the
ignition switch is placed in the ACC or ON
position, the system will not arm.
LIC0301
SECURITY SYSTEMS
2-16Instruments and controls
REVIEW COPY—2009 Sentra(sen)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
10/23/08—debbie
●If the key is turned slowly when locking
the driver’s door, the system may not
arm. Furthermore, if the key is turned
beyond the vertical position toward the
unlock position to remove the key, the
system may be disarmed when the key
is removed. If the indicator light fails to
glow for 30 seconds, unlock the door
once and lock it again.
●Even when the driver and/or passen-
gers are in the vehicle, the system will
arm with all doors closed and locked
with the ignition switch placed in the
OFF position.
Vehicle security system activation
The vehicle security system will give the following
alarm:
●The headlights blink and the horn sounds
intermittently.
●The alarm automatically turns off after ap-
proximately 50 seconds. However, the alarm
reactivates if the vehicle is tampered with
again. The alarm can be shut off by unlocking
the driver’s door with the key, a request
switch or by pressing the
button on
the keyfob or Intelligent Key.The alarm is activated by:
●opening a door without using the key, a
request switch, keyfob or Intelligent Key
(even if the door is unlocked by using the
inside lock knob or the power door lock
switch) .
How to stop an activated alarm
The alarm stops only by unlocking the driver’s door
with the key, pressing the
button on the
keyfob or Intelligent Key, or by unlocking all doors
with any request switch (Intelligent Key models) .
NISSAN VEHICLE IMMOBILIZER
SYSTEM
The NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System will not
allow the engine to start without the use of a
registered key.
If the engine fails to start using a registered key (for
example, when interference is caused by another
registered key, an automated toll road device or
automatic payment device on the key ring) , restart
the engine using the following procedures:
1. Leave the ignition switch placed in the ON
position for approximately 5 seconds.
2. Place the ignition switch in the OFF or
LOCK position and wait approximately 10
seconds.3. Repeat steps 1 and 2.
4. Restart the engine while holding the device
(which may have caused the interference)
separate from the registered key.
If the no start condition re-occurs, NISSAN rec-
ommends placing the registered key on a sepa-
rate key ring to avoid interference from other
devices.
Statement related to Section 15 of FCC
Rules for NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer Sys-
tem (CONT ASSY — IMMOBILIZER, ANT
ASSY — IMMOBILIZER)
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules and RSS-210 of Industry
Canada. Operation is subject to the follow-
ing two conditions;
(1) This device may not cause harmful in-
terference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference received, including inter-
ference that may cause undesired opera-
tion of the device.
CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS NOT EX-
PRESSLY APPROVED BY THE PARTY RE-
SPONSIBLE FOR COMPLIANCE COULD
VOID THE USER’S AUTHORITY TO OPER-
ATE THE EQUIPMENT.
Instruments and controls2-17
REVIEW COPY—2009 Sentra(sen)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
10/23/08—debbie
Security indicator light
For vehicles without Intelligent Key: This light
blinks whenever the ignition switch is placed in
the LOCK, OFF or ACC position.
For vehicles with Intelligent Key: This light blinks
when the ignition switch is placed in the LOCK
position with the key removed from the ignition
switch.
This function indicates the NISSAN Vehicle Im-
mobilizer System is operational.
If the NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System is mal-
functioning, the light will remain on while the
ignition switch is placed in the ON position.If the light still remains on and/or the en-
gine will not start, see a NISSAN dealer for
NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System ser-
vice as soon as possible. Please bring all
registered keys that you have when visiting
your NISSAN dealer for service.
SWITCH OPERATION
The windshield wiper and washer operates when
the ignition switch is placed in the ON position.
Push the lever down to operate the wiper at the
following speed:
1Intermittent (INT) — intermittent operation
can be adjusted by turning the knob toward
A(Slower) orB(Faster) .
2Low (LO) — continuous low speed operation
3High (HI) — continuous high speed opera-
tion
LIC0474WIC0854
WINDSHIELD WIPER AND WASHER
SWITCH
2-18Instruments and controls
REVIEW COPY—2009 Sentra(sen)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
10/23/08—debbie
3 Pre-driving checks and adjustments
Keys .............................................3-2
NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System keys.........3-2
NISSAN Intelligent Key™ (if so equipped).........3-3
Doors............................................3-4
Locking with key................................3-4
Locking with inside lock knob . ...................3-5
Locking with power door lock switch.............3-5
Automatic door locks . . .........................3-5
Child safety rear door lock.......................3-6
Remote keyless entry system (models without
NISSAN Intelligent Key™) (if so equipped)............3-6
How to use remote keyless entry system..........3-7
NISSAN Intelligent Key™ (if so equipped)...........3-10
Operating range...............................3-12
Door locks/unlocks precaution..................3-13
NISSAN Intelligent Key™ Operation..............3-13
How to use the remote keyless entry
function......................................3-16Warning lights and audible reminders............3-19
Warning signals...............................3-20
Troubleshooting guide.........................3-21
Hood...........................................3-22
Trunk lid.........................................3-22
Trunk lid release...............................3-23
Key operation (if so equipped)..................3-23
Interior trunk lid release........................3-23
Fuel-filler door...................................3-24
Opener operation..............................3-24
Fuel-filler cap.................................3-24
Steering wheel...................................3-26
Tilt operation..................................3-26
Sun visors.......................................3-26
Vanity mirrors (if so equipped)...................3-26
Mirrors..........................................3-27
Rearview mirror...............................3-27
Outside mirrors...............................3-27
REVIEW COPY—2009 Sentra(sen)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
10/27/08—tbrooks
1. Two master keys (black) with transpon-
der chip and chrome NISSAN brand
symbol on one side
2. Transponder chip
3. Key number plate
A key number plate is supplied with your keys.
Record the key number and keep it in a safe place
(such as your wallet) , not in the vehicle. If you lose
your keys, see a NISSAN dealer for duplicates by
using the key number. NISSAN does not record
key numbers so it is very important to keep track
of your key number plate.
A key number is only necessary when you have
lost all keys and do not have one to duplicatefrom. If you still have a key, your NISSAN dealer
can duplicate it.
NISSAN VEHICLE IMMOBILIZER
SYSTEM KEYS
You can only drive your vehicle using the master
keys which are registered to the NISSAN Vehicle
Immobilizer System components in your vehicle.
These keys have a transponder chip in the key
head.
The master key can be used for all the locks.
Never leave these keys in the vehicle.
Additional or replacement keys:
If you still have a key, the key number is not
necessary when you need extra NISSAN Vehicle
Immobilizer System keys. Your dealer can dupli-
cate your existing key. As many as 5 NISSAN
Vehicle Immobilizer System keys can be used
with one vehicle. You should bring all NISSAN
Vehicle Immobilizer System keys that you have to
your NISSAN dealer for registration. This is be-
cause the registration process will erase the
memory of all key codes previously registered
into the NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System.
After the registration process, these components
will only recognize keys coded into the NISSAN
Vehicle Immobilizer System during registration.Any key that is not given to your dealer at the time
of registration will no longer be able to start your
vehicle.
Do not allow the immobilizer system key, which
contains an electrical transponder, to come into
contact with salt water. This could affect system
function.
LPD0348
KEYS
3-2Pre-driving checks and adjustments
REVIEW COPY—2009 Sentra(sen)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
10/23/08—debbie
5 Starting and driving
Precautions when starting and driving................5-2
Exhaust gas (carbon monoxide)..................5-2
Three-way catalyst..............................5-2
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)..........5-3
Avoiding collision and rollover....................5-5
Off-road recovery...............................5-5
Rapid air pressure loss..........................5-6
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving................5-6
Ignition switch. . ...................................5-7
NISSAN Intelligent Key™ (if so equipped).........5-7
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).........5-8
Manual transmission............................5-9
Key positions..................................5-9
Nissan vehicle immobilizer system...............5-10
Before starting the engine.........................5-10
Starting the engine...............................5-10
Driving the vehicle................................5-12
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
(if so equipped)...............................5-12
Manual transmission (if so equipped)............5-17
Parking brake . . ..................................5-19Cruise control (if so equipped).....................5-19
Precautions on cruise control...................5-19
Cruise control operations.......................5-20
Break-in schedule................................5-21
Increasing fuel economy...........................5-21
Parking/parking on hills............................5-22
Power steering...................................5-23
Brake system....................................5-24
Brake precautions.............................5-24
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
(if so equipped)...............................5-24
Cold weather driving..............................5-26
Freeing a frozen door lock......................5-26
Anti-freeze....................................5-26
Battery.......................................5-26
Draining of coolant water.......................5-26
Tire equipment................................5-26
Special winter equipment.......................5-26
Driving on snow or ice
.........................5-26
Engine block heater (if so equipped).............5-27
REVIEW COPY—2009 Sentra(sen)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
10/27/08—tbrooks
NISSAN VEHICLE IMMOBILIZER
SYSTEM
The NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer system will not
allow the engine to start without the use of the
registered key.
If the engine fails to start using a registered key (for
example, when interference is caused by another
registered key, an automated toll road device or
automatic payment device on the key ring) , restart
the engine using the following procedure:
1. Leave the ignition switch in the ON position
for approximately 5 seconds.
2. Place the ignition switch in the OFF or
LOCK position, and wait approximately 10
seconds.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2.
4. Restart the engine while holding the device
(which may have caused the interference)
separate from the registered key.
If the no start condition re-occurs, NISSAN recom-
mends placing the registered key on a separate key
ring to avoid interference from other devices.
●Make sure the area around the vehicle is
clear.
●Check fluid levels such as engine oil, cool-
ant, brake and clutch fluid, and window
washer fluid as frequently as possible, or at
least whenever you refuel.
●Check that all windows and lights are clean.
●Visually inspect tires for their appearance
and condition. Also check tires for proper
inflation.
●Lock all doors.
●Position seat and adjust head restraints.
●Adjust inside and outside mirrors.
●Fasten seat belts and ask all passengers to
do likewise.
●Check the operation of warning lights when
the key is turned to the ON (3) position. See
“Warning/indicator lights and audible re-
minders” in the “Instruments and controls”
section of this manual.1. Apply the parking brake.
2.CVT model:
Move the shift selector to P (Park) or N
(Neutral) . P (Park) is recommended.
The shift selector cannot be moved out
of P (Park) and into any of the other
gear positions if the ignition key is
turned to the OFF position or if the key
is removed from the ignition switch.
The starter is designed not to operate if
the shift selector is in any of the driving
positions.
Manual transmission model:
Move the shift selector to N (Neutral) . De-
press the clutch pedal to the floor while
cranking the engine.
The starter is designed not to operate
unless the clutch pedal is fully de-
pressed.
Models with Intelligent Key:Slowly
“PUSH ON” the ignition switch. When the
Intelligent Key warning light
in the
meter illuminates in green, the ignition
switch can be turned.
The Intelligent Key must be carried
when operating the ignition switch.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE STARTING THE ENGINE
5-10Starting and driving
REVIEW COPY—2009 Sentra(sen)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
10/27/08—tbrooks