2010 NISSAN ALTIMA COUPE check engine

High beam indicator light(blue)
This blue light comes on when the headlight high
beams are on and goes out when the low beams
are selected.
The high beam indicator light also comes on
when the passing signal is activated.
Malfunction Indicator Light(MIL)
If this indicator light comes on steady or blinks
while the engine is running, it may indicate a
potential emission control malfunction.
The Malfunction Indicator Light may also come
on steady if the fuel-filler cap is loose or missing,
or if the vehicle runs out of fuel. Check to make
sure the fuel-filler cap is installed and closed
tightly, and that the vehicle has at least 3 gallons
(11.4 liters) of fuel in the fuel tank.
After a few driving trips, the
light should
turn off if no other potential emission control
system malfunction exists.
If this indicator light comes on steady for 20 sec-
onds and then blinks for 10 seconds when the
engine is not running, it indicates that the vehicle is
not ready for an emission control system
inspection/maintenance test. See “Readiness for inspection/maintenance (I/M) test” in the “Technical
and consumer information” section of this manual.
Operation
The Malfunction Indicator Light will come on in
one of two ways:
●
Malfunction Indicator Light on steady — An
emission control system malfunction has been
detected. Check the fuel-filler cap. If the fuel-
filler cap is loose or missing, tighten or install
the cap and continue to drive the vehicle.
The
light should turn off after a few
driving trips. If the
light does not turn off
after a few driving trips, have the vehicle in-
spected by a NISSAN dealer. You do not need
to have your vehicle towed to the dealer.
● Malfunction Indicator Light blinking — An
engine misfire has been detected which may
damage the emission control system. To re-
duce or avoid emission control system dam-
age:
– do not drive at speeds above 45 MPH (72 km/h) .
– avoid hard acceleration or deceleration.
– avoid steep uphill grades.
– if possible, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled or towed. The Malfunction Indicator Light may stop blinking
and come on steady. Have the vehicle inspected
by a NISSAN dealer. You do not need to have
your vehicle towed to the dealer.
CAUTION
Continued vehicle operation without hav-
ing the emission control system checked
and repaired as necessary could lead to
poor driveability, reduced fuel economy,
and possible damage to the emission con-
trol system.
Security indicator light
This light blinks when the ignition switch is
placed in the OFF, LOCK or ACC position.
The blinking security indicator light indicates that
the security systems equipped on the vehicle are
operational.
For additional information, see “Security sys-
tems” later in this section.
Slip indicator light
This indicator will blink when the VDC system is
operating, thus alerting the driver to the fact that
the road surface is slippery and the vehicle is
nearing its traction limits.
Instruments and controls2-15

You may feel or hear the system working; this is
normal.
The light will blink for a few seconds after the
VDC system stops limiting wheel spin.
The
indicator light also comes on when
you place the ignition switch in the ON position.
The light will turn off after approximately 2 sec-
onds if the system is operational. If the light does
not come on have the system checked by a
NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop.
Turn signal/hazard indicator
lights
The appropriate light flashes when the turn signal
switch is activated.
Both lights flash when the hazard switch is turned
on.
Vehicle Dynamic Control(VDC) OFF indicator light
This indicator light comes on when the Vehicle
Dynamic Control off switch is pushed to OFF.
This indicates the Vehicle Dynamic Control has
been turned off. Push the Vehicle Dynamic Control off switch
again or restart the engine and the system will
operate normally. See “Vehicle Dynamic Control
(VDC) system” in the “Starting and driving” sec-
tion of this manual.
The Vehicle Dynamic Control light also comes on
when you push the push-button ignition switch to
the ON position. The light will turn off after about
2 seconds if the system is operational. If the light
stays on or comes on along with the SLIP indica-
tor light while you are driving, have the Vehicle
Dynamic Control system checked by a NISSAN
dealer.
While the Vehicle Dynamic Control system is
operating, you might feel slight vibration or hear
the system working when starting the vehicle or
accelerating, but this is normal.
AUDIBLE REMINDERS
Brake pad wear warning
The disc brake pads have audible wear warnings.
When a disc brake pad requires replacement, it
makes a high pitched scraping sound when the
vehicle is in motion, whether or not the brake
pedal is depressed. Have the brakes checked as
soon as possible if the warning sound is heard.
Key reminder chime
A chime sounds if the driver’s door is opened
while the ignition switch is placed in the ACC or
OFF position or placed in the OFF or LOCK
position with the Intelligent Key left in the Intelli-
gent Key port. Make sure the ignition switch is
placed in the LOCK position, and take the Intel-
ligent Key with you when leaving the vehicle.
Light reminder chime
With the ignition switch placed in the OFF posi-
tion, a chime sounds when the driver’s door is
opened if the headlights or parking lights are on.
Turn the headlight control switch off before leav-
ing the vehicle.
NISSAN Intelligent Key™ door buzzer
The Intelligent Key door buzzer sounds if the
Intelligent Key is left inside the vehicle when
locking the doors. When the buzzer sounds, be
sure to check both the vehicle and the Intelligent
Key. See “NISSAN Intelligent Key™ ” in the “Pre-
driving checks and adjustments” section.
2-16Instruments and controls

11. NISSAN Intelligent Key™ removal indicator
12. NISSAN Intelligent Key™ battery dischargeindicator
Door and trunk open warning
This warning illuminates when a door or the trunk
has been opened when the engine is running.
Push warning (CVT models)
After the Shift P warning illuminates, the Push
warning will illuminate if the ignition switch is
placed in the ACC position when the shift selec-
tor is moved to the P (Park) position.
See “Shift P warning (CVT models)” in this sec-
tion for additional information.
To turn off the Push warning, place the ignition
switch in the ON position and then in the LOCK
position.
Low fuel warning
This warning illuminates when the fuel level in the
fuel tank is getting low. Refuel as soon as it is
convenient, preferably before the fuel gauge
reaches E (Empty) . There will be a small re-
serve of fuel in the tank when the fuel
gauge needle reaches E (Empty) . Low windshield-washer fluid warning
This warning illuminates when the windshield-
washer fluid is at a low level. Add windshield-
washer fluid as necessary. See “Windshield-
washer fluid” in the “Maintenance and do-it-
yourself” section of this manual.
No key warning
This warning illuminates following two condi-
tions:
1. When the ignition switch is pushed and the Intelligent Key cannot be recognized by the
system. If this warning illuminates, you can-
not start the engine.
Check for the following causes and perform
the assigned remedies:
– The battery of the Intelligent Key carried with you is discharged completely. Re-
place the battery with a new one.
– The Intelligent Key carried with you is not registered to the system. Use the regis-
tered Intelligent Key.
– You do not have an Intelligent Key with you. Carry an Intelligent Key with you. 2. When the door is closed with the Intelligent
Key left outside the vehicle and the ignition
switch is placed in the ACC or ON position.
A chime will also sound.
Parking brake warning
This warning illuminates when the parking brake
is set and the vehicle is driven.
SHIFT P warning (CVT models)
This warning illuminates when the ignition switch
is pushed to stop the engine with the shift selec-
tor in any position except in the P (Park) position.
If this warning illuminates, the ignition switch is
placed in the OFF position. Move the shift selec-
tor to the P (Park) position or place the ignition
switch in the ON position.
An inside warning chime will also sound.
If the shift selector is moved to the P (Park)
position, the Push warning will appear. Refer to
“Push warning (CVT models)” in this section.
For additional information about Intelligent Key,
see “NISSAN Intelligent Key™ ” in the “Pre-
driving checks and adjustments” section.
Instruments and controls2-23

exterior vehicle components in all situations. Al-
ways secure your vehicle even if parking for a
brief period. Never leave your Intelligent Key in
the vehicle, 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. Remove the Intelligent Key from the vehicle.
3. Close all doors, hood and trunk. Lock all doors. The doors can be locked with the
Intelligent Key, door handle request switch
(if so equipped) , power door lock switch or
mechanical key.
4. Confirm that the security indicator light comes on. The security light stays on for
about 30 seconds. The vehicle security sys-
tem is now pre-armed. After about 30 sec- onds the vehicle security system automati-
cally shifts into the armed phase. The
security 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 or the keyfob, or the ignition switch is
placed in the ACC or ON position, the sys-
tem will not arm.
● Even when the driver and/or passen-
gers are in the vehicle, the system will
activate with all the doors, hood and
trunk lid locked with the ignition
switch placed in the LOCK position.
When placing the ignition switch in the
ACC or ON position, the system will be
released.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 or trunk lid with the key, or
by pressing the
button on the Intelli-
gent Key. The alarm is activated by:
● opening the door or trunk lid without using
the key or Intelligent Key (even if the door is
unlocked by releasing the door inside lock
switch) .
How to stop an activated alarm
The alarm stops only by unlocking the driver’s
door or the trunk lid with the key, pressing
the
button on the Intelligent Key, or press-
ing the request switch (if so equipped) on the
driver’s or passenger’s door with the Intelligent
Key in range of the door handle.
NISSAN VEHICLE IMMOBILIZER
SYSTEM
The NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System will not
allow the engine to start without the use of a
registered key.
Never leave these keys in the vehicle.
Statement related to Section 15 of FCC
Rules for NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer Sys-
tem
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;
Instruments and controls2-25

The front seats are warmed by built-in heaters.1. Start the engine.
2. Push the low or high position of the switch, as desired, depending on the temperature.
The indicator light in the switch will illumi-
nate.
The heater is controlled by a thermostat,
automatically turning the heater on and off.
The indicator light will remain on as long as
the switch is on.
3. When the seat is warmed or before you leave the vehicle, be sure to turn the switch
off.
CAUTION
●Do not use the seat heater for extended
periods or when no one is using the
seat.
● Do not put anything on the seat which
insulates heat, such as a blanket, cush-
ion, seat cover, etc. Otherwise, the seat
may become overheated.
● Do not place anything hard or heavy on
the seat or pierce it with a pin or similar
object. This may result in damage to the
heater.
● Any liquid spilled on the heated seat
should be removed immediately with a
dry cloth.
● When cleaning the seat, never use
gasoline, benzine, thinner, or any simi-
lar materials.
● If any abnormalities are found or the
heated seat does not operate, turn the
switch off and have the system checked
by your NISSAN dealer.
● The battery could run down if the seat
heater is operated while the engine is
not running. The vehicle should be driven with the Vehicle
Dynamic Control (VDC) system on for most driv-
ing conditions.
If the vehicle is stuck in mud or snow, the VDC
system reduces the engine output to reduce
wheel spin. The engine speed will be reduced
even if the accelerator is depressed to the floor. If
maximum engine power is needed to free a stuck
vehicle, turn the VDC system off.
To turn off the VDC system, push the VDC OFF
switch. The
indicator will come on.
Push the VDC OFF switch again or restart the
engine to turn on the system. See “Vehicle Dy-
namic Control (VDC) system” in the “Starting and
driving” section.
LIC1543WIC0534
HEATED SEAT (if so equipped) VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
OFF SWITCH
2-34Instruments and controls

CAUTION
●Be sure to carry the Intelligent Key with
you when operating the vehicle.
● Never leave the Intelligent Key in the
vehicle when you leave the vehicle.
The Intelligent Key is always communicating with
the vehicle as it receives radio waves. The Intel-
ligent Key transmits weak radio waves. Environ-
mental conditions may interfere with the opera-
tion of the Intelligent Key under the following
operating conditions: ● When operating near a location where
strong radio waves are transmitted, such as
a TV tower, power station and broadcasting
station.
● When in possession of wireless equipment,
such as a cellular telephone, transceiver,
and CB radio.
● When the Intelligent Key is in contact with or
covered by metallic materials.
● When any type of radio wave remote control
is used nearby.
● When the Intelligent Key is placed near an
electric appliance such as a personal com-
puter. ●
When the vehicle is parked near a parking
meter.
In such cases, correct the operating conditions
before using the Intelligent Key function or use
the mechanical key.
Although the life of the battery varies depending
on the operating conditions, the battery’s life is
approximately 2 years. If the battery is dis-
charged, replace it with a new one.
When the Intelligent Key battery is almost dis-
charged, insert the Intelligent Key into the Intelli-
gent Key port to start the engine. Replace the
discharged battery with a new one as soon as
possible. For more details, see “Push-button ig-
nition switch” in the “Starting and driving” sec-
tion.
Since the Intelligent Key is continuously receiving
radio waves, if the key is left near equipment
which transmits strong radio waves, such as sig-
nals from a TV and personal computer, the bat-
tery life may become shorter.
For information regarding replacement of a bat-
tery, see “Battery replacement” in the “Mainte-
nance and do-it-yourself” section.
As many as 4 Intelligent Keys can be registered
and used with one vehicle. For information about
the purchase and use of additional Intelligent
Keys, contact a NISSAN dealer.
CAUTION
Listed below are conditions or occur-
rences which will damage the Intelligent
Key:
● Do not allow the Intelligent Key, which
contains electrical components, to
come into contact with water or salt
water. This could affect the system
function.
● Do not drop the Intelligent Key.
● Do not strike the Intelligent Key sharply
against another object.
● Do not change or modify the Intelligent
Key.
● Wetting may damage the Intelligent
Key. If the Intelligent Key gets wet, im-
mediately wipe until it is completely dry.
● Do not place the Intelligent Key for an
extended period in an area where tem-
peratures exceed 140°F (60°C) .
● Do not attach the Intelligent Key with a
key holder that contains a magnet.
● Do not place the Intelligent Key near
equipment that produces a magnetic
field, such as a TV, audio equipment and
personal computers.
Pre-driving checks and adjustments3-7

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
Verify the location of all Intelligent Keys that are
programmed for the vehicle. If another Intelligent
Key is in range or inside the vehicle, the vehicle
system may respond differently than expected.
SymptomPossible CauseRemedy
When pushing the ignition switch to stop
the engine The SHIFT P warning appears on the dis-
play and the inside warning chime sounds
continuously. The shift selector is not in the P (Park)
position.Shift the shift selector to the P (Park)
position.
When opening the driver’s door to get out
of the vehicle The inside warning chime sounds
continuously. The ignition switch is placed in the ACC
position.
Place the ignition switch in the OFF
position.
The Intelligent Key is in the Intelligent Key
port. Remove the Intelligent Key from the Intelli-
gent Key port.
When closing the door after getting out of
the vehicle The NO KEY warning appears on the
display, the outside chime sounds 3 times
and the inside warning chime sounds for
approximately 3 seconds.
The ignition switch is placed in the ACC or
ON position.Place the ignition switch in the OFF
position.
The NO KEY warning appears on the dis-
play and the outside chime sounds
continuously. The ignition switch is placed in the ACC
position and the shift selector is not in the P
(Park) position.Move the shift selector to the P (Park) posi-
tion and place the ignition switch in the
OFF position.
The shift “P” warning light appears on the
display and the outside chime sounds
continuously. The ignition switch is placed in the OFF
position and the shift selector is not in the P
(Park) position.Move the shift selector to the P (Park)
position.
When closing the door with the inside lock
knob placed in the LOCK position The outside chime sounds for approximately
3 seconds and all the doors unlock. The Intelligent Key is inside the vehicle or
trunk.Carry the Intelligent Key with you.
When pushing the door handle request
switch to lock the door The outside chime sounds for approximately
2 seconds. The Intelligent Key is inside the vehicle or
trunk.
Carry the Intelligent Key with you.
A door is not closed securely. Close the door securely.
The door handle request switch is pushed
before the door is closed. Push the door handle request switch after
the door is closed.
When closing the trunk lid The outside chime sounds for approximately
10 seconds and the trunk lid opens. The Intelligent Key is inside the trunk.Carry the Intelligent Key with you.
3-16Pre-driving checks and adjustments

WARNING
●Radio waves could adversely affect
electric medical equipment. Those who
use a pacemaker should contact the
electric medical equipment manufac-
turer for the possible influences before
use.
● The Intelligent Key transmits radio
waves when the buttons are pressed.
The FAA advises the radio waves may
affect aircraft navigation and communi-
cation systems. Do not operate the In-
telligent Key while on an airplane. Make
sure the buttons are not operated unin-
tentionally when the unit is stored for a
flight.
The Intelligent Key can operate all the door locks
using the remote controller function. The operat-
ing environment and/or conditions may affect the
Intelligent Key operation.
Be sure to read the following before using the
Intelligent Key.
CAUTION
● Be sure to carry the Intelligent Key with
you when operating the vehicle. ●
Never leave the Intelligent Key in the
vehicle when you leave the vehicle.
The Intelligent Key is always communicating with
the vehicle as it receives radio waves. The Intel-
ligent Key transmits weak radio waves. Environ-
mental conditions may interfere with the opera-
tion of the Intelligent Key under the following
operating conditions: ● When operating near a location where
strong radio waves are transmitted, such as
a TV tower, power station and broadcasting
station.
● When in possession of wireless equipment,
such as a cellular telephone, transceiver,
and CB radio.
● When the Intelligent Key is in contact with or
covered by metallic materials.
● When any type of radio wave remote control
is used nearby.
● When the Intelligent Key is placed near an
electric appliance such as a personal com-
puter.
● When the vehicle is parked near a parking
meter. In such cases, correct the operating conditions
before using the Intelligent Key function or use
the mechanical key.
Although the life of the battery varies depending
on the operating conditions, the battery’s life is
approximately 2 years. If the battery is dis-
charged, replace it with a new one.
When the Intelligent Key battery is almost dis-
charged, insert the Intelligent Key into the Intelli-
gent Key port to start the engine. Replace the
discharged battery with a new one as soon as
possible. For more details, see “Push-button ig-
nition switch” in the “Starting and driving” sec-
tion.
Since the Intelligent Key is continuously receiving
radio waves, if the key is left near equipment
which transmits strong radio waves, such as sig-
nals from a TV and personal computer, the bat-
tery life may become shorter.
For information regarding replacement of a bat-
tery, see “Battery replacement” in the “Mainte-
nance and do-it-yourself” section.
As many as 4 Intelligent Keys can be registered
and used with one vehicle. For information about
the purchase and use of additional Intelligent
Keys, contact a NISSAN dealer.
NISSAN INTELLIGENT KEY™
WITHOUT DOOR AND TRUNK
REQUEST SWITCHES
Pre-driving checks and adjustments3-17