3. Turn the fan control dial to the desired posi-
tion.
4. Turn the temperature control dial to the de-
sired position between the middle and the
hot position.
●To quickly remove ice or fog from the win-
dows, turn the fan control dial to the maxi-
mum position and the temperature control
dial to the full hot position.
When the
orposition is selected,
the air conditioner automatically turns on (how-
ever, the indicator light will not illuminate) . In this
position, the air conditioner cannot be turned off.
When the air flow control is turned to any position
other than
or, the air conditioner
light will illuminate (the air conditioner will con-
tinue operating) . and can be turned off using the
air conditioner button. This dehumidifies the air,
which helps defog the windshield.
Bi-level heating
This mode directs cooler air from the side and
center vents and warmer air from the floor outlets.
When the temperature control dial is moved to
the full hot or full cool position, the air between
the vents and the floor outlets is the same tem-
perature.
1. Move the air intake lever to
position.2. Turn the air flow control dial to the
position.
3. Turn the fan control dial to the desired posi-
tion.
4. Turn the temperature control dial to the de-
sired position.
Heating and defogging
This mode heats the interior and defogs the wind-
shield.
1. Move the air intake lever to the
posi-
tion.
2. Turn the air flow control dial to the
position.
3. Turn the fan control dial to the desired posi-
tion.
4. Turn the temperature control dial to the de-
sired position between the middle and the
hot position.
When the
orposition is selected,
the air conditioner automatically turns on (how-
ever, the indicator light will not illuminate) . In this
position, the air conditioner cannot be turned off.
When the air flow control is turned to any position
other than
or, the air conditioner
light will illuminate (the air conditioner will con-tinue operating) and can be turned off using the
air conditioner button. This dehumidifies the air,
which helps defog the windshield.
Operating tips
Clear snow and ice from the wiper blades
and air inlet in front of the windshield. This
improves heater operation.
AIR CONDITIONER OPERATION
(if so equipped)
Start the engine, turn the fan control dial to the
desired position, and push the
button to
activate the air conditioner. When the air condi-
tioner is on, cooling and dehumidifying functions
are added to the heater operation.
The air conditioner cooling function oper-
ates only when the engine is running.
Cooling
This mode is used to cool and dehumidify the air.
1. Move the air intake lever to the
posi-
tion.
2. Turn the air flow control dial to the
position.
3. Turn the fan control dial to the desired posi-
tion.
Heater, air conditioner, audio and phone systems4-5
REVIEW COPY—2009 Versa(vrs)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
09/10/08—debbie
DRAINING OF COOLANT WATER
If the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-
freeze, drain the cooling system, including the
engine block. Refill before operating the vehicle.
For details, see “Changing engine coolant” in the
“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section of this
manual.
TIRE EQUIPMENT
1. SUMMER tires have a tread designed to
provide superior performance on dry pave-
ment. However, the performance of these
tires will be substantially reduced in snowy
and icy conditions. If you operate your ve-
hicle on snowy or icy roads, NISSAN recom-
mends the use of MUD & SNOW or ALL
SEASON TIRES on all four wheels. Please
consult a NISSAN dealer for the tire type,
size, speed rating and availability informa-
tion.
2. For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tires may be used. However, some U.S.
states and Canadian provinces prohibit their
use. Check local, state and provincial laws
before installing studded tires.
Skid and traction capabilities of studded
snow tires on wet or dry surfaces may be
poorer than that of non-studded snow tires.3. Tire chains may be used. For details see
“Tire chains” in the “Maintenance and do-it-
yourself” section of this manual.
SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENT
It is recommended that the following items be
carried in the vehicle during winter:
●A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove
ice and snow from the windows and wiper
blades.
●A sturdy, flat board to be placed under the
jack to give it firm support.
●A shovel to dig the vehicle out of snowdrifts.
●Extra window washer fluid to refill the reser-
voir tank.
DRIVING ON SNOW OR ICE
WARNING
●Wet ice (32°F, 0°C and freezing rain) ,
very cold snow or ice can be slick and
very hard to drive on. The vehicle will
have much less traction or “grip” under
these conditions. Try to avoid driving on
wet ice until the road is salted or
sanded.●Whatever the condition, drive with cau-
tion. Accelerate and slow down with
care. If accelerating or downshifting too
fast, the drive wheels will lose even
more traction.
●Allow more stopping distance under
these conditions. Braking should be
started sooner than on dry pavement.
●Allow greater following distances on
slippery roads.
●Watch for slippery spots (glare ice) .
These may appear on an otherwise
clear road in shaded areas. If a patch of
ice is seen ahead, brake before reach-
ing it. Try not to brake while on the ice,
and avoid any sudden steering
maneuvers.
●Do not use the cruise control on slip-
pery roads.
●Snow can trap dangerous exhaust
gases under your vehicle. Keep snow
clear of the exhaust pipe and from
around your vehicle.
Starting and driving5-31
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Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
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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.............................8-8
Checking engine coolant level...................8-8
Changing engine coolant........................8-9
Engine oil.........................................8-9
Checking engine oil level........................8-9
Changing engine oil...........................8-10
Changing engine oil filter.......................8-12
4-speed automatic transmission fluid...............8-13
Temperature conditions for checking.............8-13
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) fluid......8-14
Brake and clutch fluid.............................8-15
Brake fluid . . ..................................8-15
Clutch fluid . ..................................8-15
Window washer fluid.............................8-16
Window washer fluid reservoir..................8-16
Battery..........................................8-16
Jump starting.................................8-18
Drive belt........................................8-18Spark plugs......................................8-19
Replacing spark plugs . ........................8-19
Air cleaner.......................................8-20
In-cabin microfilter (if so equipped)..............8-20
Windshield wiper blades..........................8-20
Cleaning.....................................8-20
Replacing....................................8-21
Brakes..........................................8-22
Fuses...........................................8-23
Engine compartment...........................8-23
Passenger compartment . . .....................8-25
Battery replacement..............................8-26
Keyfob.......................................8-27
NISSAN Intelligent Key™.......................8-28
Lights...........................................8-29
Headlights....................................8-29
Exterior and interior lights . . .....................8-30
Wheels and tires.................................8-34
Tire pressure..................................8-34
Tire labeling...................................8-37
Types of tires..................................8-40
Tire chains....................................8-41
Changing wheels and tires.....................8-41
REVIEW COPY—2009 Versa(vrs)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
09/10/08—debbie
When driving in areas using road salt or other
corrosive materials, check lubrication frequently.
Lights*Clean the headlights on a regular basis.
Make sure that the headlights, stop lights, tail
lights, turn signal lights, and other lights are all
operating properly and installed securely. Also
check headlight aim.
Road wheel nuts (lug nuts)*When checking
the tires, make sure no wheel nuts are missing,
and check for any loose wheel nuts. Tighten if
necessary.
Tire rotation*Tires should be rotated every
7,500 miles (12,000 km) .
Tires*Check the pressure with a gauge often
and always prior to long distance trips. If neces-
sary, adjust the pressure in all tires, including the
spare, to the pressure specified. Check carefully
for damage, cuts or excessive wear.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
transmitter componentsReplace the TPMS
transmitter grommet seal, valve core and cap
when the tires are replaced due to wear or age.
Wheel alignment and balanceIf the vehicle
should pull to either side while driving on a
straight and level road, or if you detect uneven or
abnormal tire wear, there may be a need for wheelalignment. If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at
normal highway speeds, wheel balancing may be
needed.
●For additional information regarding tires,
refer to “Important Tire Safety Information”
(US) or “Tire Safety Information” (Canada) in
the Warranty Information Booklet.
WindshieldClean the windshield on a regular
basis. Check the windshield at least every six
months for cracks or other damage. Have a dam-
aged windshield repaired by a qualified repair
facility.
Windshield wiper blades*Check for cracks or
wear if they do not wipe properly.
Inside the vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked on a regular basis, such as when per-
forming periodic maintenance, cleaning the ve-
hicle, etc.
Additional information on the following
items with an “*” is found later in this sec-
tion.
Accelerator pedalCheck the pedal for smooth
operation and make sure the pedal does not bind
or require uneven effort. Keep the floor mat away
from the pedal.Brake pedalCheck the pedal for smooth opera-
tion. If the brake pedal suddenly goes down fur-
ther than normal, the pedal feels spongy or the
vehicle seems to take longer to stop, see a
NISSAN dealer immediately. Keep the floor mat
away from the pedal.
BrakesCheck that the brakes do not pull the
vehicle to one side when applied.
Automatic Transmission (AT) or Continu-
ously Variable Transmission (CVT) P (Park)
position mechanismOn a fairly steep hill
check that the vehicle is held securely with the
selector lever in the P (Park) position without
applying any brakes.
Parking brakeCheck the parking brake opera-
tion regularly. The vehicle should be securely held
on a fairly steep hill with only the parking brake
applied. If the parking brake needs adjustment,
see a NISSAN dealer.
SeatsCheck seat position controls such as seat
adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to ensure they
operate smoothly and all latches lock securely in
every position. Check that the head restraints
move up and down smoothly and the locks (if so
equipped) hold securely in all latched positions.
Seat beltsCheck that all parts of the seat belt
system (for example, buckles, anchors, adjusters
and retractors) operate properly and smoothly,
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-3
REVIEW COPY—2009 Versa(vrs)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
09/10/08—debbie
The air cleaner filter should not be cleaned and
reused. Replace it according to the maintenance
log shown in the “NISSAN Service and Mainte-
nance Guide.” When replacing the filter, wipe the
inside of the air cleaner filter housing and the
cover with a damp cloth.
To remove the air cleaner filter, push the tabs
1
and pull the unit upward2.
WARNING
●Operating the engine with the air
cleaner removed can cause you or oth-
ers to be burned. The air cleaner not
only cleans the air, it stops the flame if
the engine backfires. If it isn’t there, and
the engine backfires, you could be
burned. Do not drive with the air cleaner
removed, and be careful when working
on the engine with the air cleaner
removed.
●Never pour fuel into the throttle body or
attempt to start the engine with the air
cleaner removed. Doing so could result
in serious injury.
IN-CABIN MICROFILTER (if so
equipped)
The in-cabin microfilter restricts the entry of air-
borne dust and pollen particles and reduces
some objectionable outside odors. The filter is
located behind the glove box. Refer to the
“NISSAN Service and Maintenance Guide” for
change intervals.
If replacement is required, see your NISSAN
dealer.
CLEANING
If your windshield is not clear after using the
windshield washer or if a wiper blade chatters
when running, wax or other material may be on
the blade or windshield.
Clean the outside of the windshield with a washer
solution or a mild detergent. Your windshield is
clean if beads do not form when rinsing with clear
water.
Clean each blade by wiping it with a cloth soaked
in a washer solution or a mild detergent. Then
rinse the blades with clear water. If your wind-
shield is still not clear after cleaning the blades
and using the wiper, replace the blades.
CAUTION
Worn windshield wiper blades can dam-
age the windshield and impair driver
vision.
SDI1864
AIR CLEANERWINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES
8-20Maintenance and do-it-yourself
REVIEW COPY—2009 Versa(vrs)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
09/10/08—debbie
REPLACING
Replace the wiper blades if they are worn.
1. Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield.
2. Push and hold the release tab
A, and then
move the wiper blade down
1the wiper
arm to remove.
3. Remove the wiper blade.
4. Insert the new wiper blade onto the wiper
arm until it clicks into place.
CAUTION
●After wiper blade replacement, return
the wiper arm to its original position;
otherwise it may be damaged when the
hood is opened.
●Make sure the wiper blades contact the
glass; otherwise the arms may be dam-
aged from wind pressure.
Be careful not to let anything get into the washer
nozzle
A. This may cause clogging or improper
windshield washer operation. If something gets
into the nozzle, remove it with a needle or small
pin
B.
SDI1803
WDI0526
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-21
REVIEW COPY—2009 Versa(vrs)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
09/10/08—debbie
Tire and Loading Information label.....9-12
Tirechains..................8-41
Tireplacard.................9-12
Tirepressure ................8-34
Tirerotation.................8-41
Types of tires................8-40
Uniform tire quality grading.........9-17
Wheels and tires..............8-34
Wheel/tire size................9-9
Tire pressure
Low tire pressure warning light.......2-9
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) . . .5-3
Top tether strap child restraint.........1-19
Towing
Flattowing..................9-17
Towtrucktowing..............6-10
Trailer towing................9-17
Transmission
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF)....8-13
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
fluid .....................8-14
Driving with automatic transmission....5-14
Driving with Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT).............5-17
Driving with manual transmission.....5-21
Selectorleverlockrelease .....5-16,5-20
Travel (See registering your vehicle in
another country).................9-10
Trip odometer...................2-4
Trunk access through the rear seat.......1-4
Trunklight....................2-35
Turnsignalswitch................2-21U
Uniform tire quality grading...........9-17
V
Vanity mirror...................3-29
Vehicle dimensions and weights........9-9
Vehicle identification..............9-10
Vehicle identification number (VIN)
(Chassis number)................9-10
Vehicle identification number (VIN) plate . . .9-10
Vehicle loading information...........9-13
Vehicle recovery.............6-12,6-13
Vehicle security system.............2-14
Vehicle security system
(NISSAN vehicle immobilizer system) ,
engine start.............2-15,3-2,5-12
Ventilators.....................4-2
W
Warning
Air bag warning light.........1-50,2-11
Anti-lock brake warning light........2-7
Battery charge warning light.........2-8
Brake warning light..............2-7
Door open warning light...........2-8
Engine oil pressure warning light......2-8
Hazard warning flasher switch.......2-22Lowfuelwarninglight............2-9
Low tire pressure warning light.......2-9
Low washer fluid warning light.......2-10
Passenger air bag and status light.....1-44
Seatbeltwarninglight...........2-11
Vehicle security system...........2-14
Warning labels (for SRS)..........1-50
Warning/indicator lights and audible
reminders...................2-6
Warning lights..................2-6
Washer switch
Rear window wiper and washer
switches...................2-18
Windshield wiper and washer switch . . .2-17
Weights (See dimensions and weights)....9-9
Wheels and tires................8-34
Wheel/tire size..................9-9
When traveling or registering your vehicle
in another country................9-10
Window washer fluid..............8-16
Windows
Locking passengers’ windows.......2-30
Manual windows..............2-31
Power rear windows............2-30
Power windows...............2-29
Rear power windows............2-30
Windshield wiper and washer switch.....2-17
Wiper
Rear window wiper and washer
switches...................2-18
Windshield wiper and washer switch . . .2-17
Wiperblades................8-20
10-6
REVIEW COPY—2009 Versa(vrs)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
09/10/08—debbie