Black plate (25,1)
8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Model "S35-D" EDITED: 2009/ 9/ 4
Maintenance requirement..................................... 8-2
Scheduled maintenance ................................... 8-2
General maintenance ...................................... 8-2
Where to go for service ................................... 8-2
General maintenance .......................................... 8-2
Explanation of maintenance items ....................... 8-2
Maintenance precautions ..................................... 8-5
Engine compartment check locations ...................... 8-6
QR25DE engine ............................................ 8-6
Engine cooling system ......................................... 8-7
Checking engine coolant level ........................... 8-8
Changing engine coolant ................................. 8-8
Engine oil ......................................................... 8-8
Checking engine oil level ................................. 8-8
Changing engine oil and filter ............................ 8-9
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) fluid ........ 8-11
Brake fluid ...................................................... 8-11
Window washer fluid ........................................ 8-12
Battery .......................................................... 8-13
Jump starting .............................................. 8-14
Drive belts ...................................................... 8-14
Spark plugs .................................................... 8-15
Replacing spark plugs ................................... 8-15 Air cleaner
...................................................... 8-16
Windshield wiper blades .................................... 8-16
Cleaning .................................................... 8-16
Replacing ................................................... 8-17
Rear window wiper blade ................................... 8-18
Brakes ........................................................... 8-18
Self-adjusting brakes .................................... 8-18
Brake pad wear indicators .............................. 8-18
Fuses ............................................................ 8-19
Engine compartment ..................................... 8-19
Passenger compartment ................................ 8-20
Battery replacement .......................................... 8-21
Keyfob ....................................................... 8-21
Intelligent Key battery .................................... 8-22
Lights ............................................................ 8-24
Headlights .................................................. 8-25
Exterior and interior lights ............................... 8-26
Wheels and tires .............................................. 8-29
Tire pressure ............................................... 8-29
Tire labeling ................................................ 8-33
Types of tires .............................................. 8-35
Tire chains .................................................. 8-36
Changing wheels and tires ............................. 8-37
Black plate (254,1)
Model "S35-D" EDITED: 2009/ 9/ 4
Windshield defroster:Check that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly and
in sufficient quantity when operating the heater
or air conditioner.
Windshield wiper and washer*: Check that
the wipers and washer operate properly and that
the wipers do not streak.Under the hood and vehicleThe maintenance items listed here should be
checked periodically (for example, each time you
check the engine oil or refuel) .
Battery*: Check the fluid level in each cell.
It should be between the MAX and MIN lines.
Vehicles operated in high temperatures or under
severe condition require frequent checks of the
battery fluid level.
Brake fluid level*: Make sure that the brake
fluid level is between the MAX and MIN lines on
the reservoir.
Engine coolant level*: Check the coolant level
when the engine is cold.
Engine drive belts*: Make sure that the drive
belts are not frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*: Check the level after parking
the vehicle on a level surface and turning off the
engine. Wait more than 10 minutes for the oil to
drain back into the oil pan. Exhaust system:
Make sure there are no loose
supports, cracks or holes. If the sound of the
exhaust seems unusual or there is a smell of
exhaust fumes, immediately have the exhaust
system inspected by a NISSAN dealer. (See
“PRECAUTIONS WHEN STARTING AND
DRIVING” in the “5. St arting and driving”
section for exhaust gas (carbon monoxide) .)
Fluid leaks: Check under the vehicle for fuel,
oil, water or other fluid leaks after the vehicle has
been parked for a while. Water dripping from the
air conditioner after use is normal. If you should
notice any leaks or if gasoline fumes are evident,
check for the cause and have it corrected
immediately.
Radiator and hoses: Check the front of the
radiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves,
etc., that may have accumulated. Make sure the
hoses have no cracks, deformation, rot or loose
connections.
Underbody: The underbody is frequently ex-
posed to corrosive substances such as those
used on icy roads or to control dust. It is very
important to remove these substances, other-
wise rust will form on the floor pan, frame, fuel
lines and around the exhaust system. At the end
of winter, the underbody should be thoroughly
flushed with plain water, being careful to clean
those areas where mud and dirt may accumu-
late. For additional information, see “CLEANING
EXTERIOR” in the “7. Appearance and care” section.
Windshield washer fluid*:
Check that there is
adequate fluid in the reservoir.8-4
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Black plate (255,1)
Model "S35-D" EDITED: 2009/ 9/ 4
When performing any inspection or mainte-
nance work on your vehicle, always take care
to prevent serious accidental injury to yourself or
damage to the vehicle. The following are general
precautions which should be closely observed.
WARNING
.Park the vehicle on a level surface,
apply the parking brake securely
and block the wheels to prevent
the vehicle from moving. Move the
selector lever to P (Park) .
. Be sure the ignition switch is in the
OFF or LOCK position when per-
forming any parts replacement or
repairs.
. If you must work with the engine
running, keep your hands, clothing,
hair and tools away from moving
fans, belts and any other moving
parts.
. It is advisable to secure or remove
any loose clothing and remove any
jewelry, such as rings, watches, etc.
before working on your vehicle.
. Always wear eye protection when-
ever you work on your vehicle.
. If you must run the engine in an enclosed space such as a garage, be
sure there is proper ventilation for
exhaust gases to escape.
. Never get under the vehicle while it
is supported only by a jack. If it is
necessary to work under the vehicle,
support it with safety stands.
. Keep smoking materials, flame and
sparks away from fuel tank and the
battery.
. The fuel filter or fuel lines should be
serviced by a NISSAN dealer be-
cause the fuel lines are under high
pressure even when the engine is
off.
CAUTION
.Do not work under the hood while
the engine is hot. Turn the engine
off and wait until it cools down.
. Avoid direct contact with used en-
gine oil and coolant. Improperly
disposed engine oil, and engine
coolant and/or other vehicle fluids
can damage the environment. Al-
ways conform to local regulations
for disposal of vehicle fluid. .
Never leave the engine or the CVT
related component harnesses dis-
connected while the ignition switch
is in the ON position.
. Never connect or disconnect the
battery or any transistorized com-
ponent while the ignition switch is
in the ON position.
. Your vehicle is equipped with an
automatic engine cooling fan. It may
come on at any time without warn-
ing, even if the ignition key is in the
OFF position and the engine is not
running. To avoid injury, always
disconnect the negative battery
cable before working near the fan.
This “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section
gives instructions regarding only those items
which are relatively easy for an owner to perform.
A genuine NISSAN Service Manual is also
available. (See “OWNER’S MANUAL/SERVICE
MANUAL ORDER INFORMATION” in the “9.
Technical and consumer information” section.)
Youshouldbeawarethatincompleteor
improper servicing may result in operating
difficulties or excessive emissions, and could
affect warranty coverage. If in doubt about
any servicing, we recommend that it be
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-5
Black plate (256,1)
Model "S35-D" EDITED: 2009/ 9/ 4
done by a NISSAN dealer.
SDI2127
QR25DE ENGINE1. Engine oil filler cap
2. Brake fluid reservoir
3. Air cleaner
4. Engine coolant reservoir
5. Window washer fluid reservoir6. Drive belt location
7. Engine oil dipstick
8. Radiator filler cap
9. Battery
10. Fuse/fusible link holderENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS
8-6
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Black plate (258,1)
Model "S35-D" EDITED: 2009/ 9/ 4
SDI2100
CHECKING ENGINE COOLANT LEVELCheck the coolant levelin the reservoir when
the engine is cold. If the coolant level is below
the MIN level
*2, open the reservoir cap and
add coolant up to the MAX level
*1. If the
reservoir is empty, check the coolant level in the
radiator when the engine is cold. If there is
insufficient coolant in the radiator, fill the radiator
with coolant up to the filler opening and also add
it to the reservoir up to the MAX level*1.
If the cooling system frequently requires
coolant, have it checked by a NISSAN
dealer.
CHANGING ENGINE COOLANTMajor cooling system repairs should be per-
formed by a NISSAN dealer. The service
procedures can be found in the appropriate
NISSAN Service Manual.
Improper servicing can result in reduced
heater performance and engine overheat-
ing.
WARNING
. To avoid the danger of being
scalded, never change the coolant
when the engine is hot.
. Never remove the radiator cap when
the engine is hot. Serious burns
could be caused by high pressure
fluid escaping from the radiator.
. Avoid direct skin contact with used
coolant. If skin contact is made,
wash thoroughly with soap or hand
cleaner as soon as possible.
. Keep coolant out of reach of chil-
dren and pets.
Engine coolant must be disposed of properly.
Check your local regulations.
SDI2129
CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
2. Run the engine until it reaches operating temperature.
3. Turn off the engine. Wait more than 10
minutes for the oil to drain back into
the oil pan.
4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean. Reinsert it all the way.
5. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level. It should be within the range
*1. If the
oil level is below
*2, remove the oil filler cap
ENGINE OIL
8-8
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Black plate (261,1)
Model "S35-D" EDITED: 2009/ 9/ 4
CAUTION
.Use only Genuine NISSAN CVT Fluid
NS-2. Do not mix with other fluids.
. Using transmission fluid other than
Genuine NISSAN CVT Fluid NS-2
will damage the CVT, which is not
covered by the NISSAN new vehicle
limited warranty.
When checking or replacement is required, we
recommend a NISSAN dealer for servicing. For additional brake fluid information, see
“CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED FUEL/
LUBRICANTS” in the “9. Technical and con-
sumer information” section of this manual.
WARNING
.
Use only new fluid from a sealed
container. Old, inferior or contami-
nated fluid may damage the brake
system. The use of improper fluids
can damage the brake system and
affect the vehicle’s stopping ability.
. Clean the filler cap before removing.
. Brake fluid is poisonous and should
be stored carefully in marked con-
tainers out of the reach of children.
CAUTION
Do not spill the fluid on any painted
surfaces. This will damage the paint. If
fluid is spilled, immediately wash the
surface with water.
SDI2130
Check the fluid level in the reservoir. If the fluid is
below the MIN line
*1
or the brake warning
light comes on, add Genuine NISSAN Super
Heavy Duty Brake Fluid or equivalent DOT 3
fluid up to the MAX line*2. If fluid must be
added frequently, the system should be checked
by a NISSAN dealer.
CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE
TRANSMISSION (CVT) FLUID BRAKE FLUID
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-11
Black plate (294,1)
Model "S35-D" EDITED: 2009/ 9/ 4
The following are approximate capacities. The actual refill capacities may be a little different. When refilling, follow the procedure
instructed in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section to determine the proper refill capacity.
Capacity (Approximate)Recommended specifications
US measure Imp measure Liter
Fuel 15-7/8 gal 13-1/4 gal60 See “FUEL RECOMMENDATION” later in this section.
Engine oil*1
Drain and refill With oil filter change 4-7/8 qt4 qt4.6
.Engine oil with API Certification Mark*2
. Viscosity SAE 5W-30
Without oil filter change 4-1/2 qt3-3/4 qt 4.3
Cooling system With reservoir 7-3/4 qt6-3/8 qt 7.3
50% Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent
50% Demineralized or distilled water
Reservoir 3/4 qt5/8 qt 0.75
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) fluid —— — Genuine NISSAN CVT Fluid NS-2*3
Differential gear oil —— —Genuine NISSAN Differential Oil Hypoid Super GL-5 80W-90 or API GL-5 Viscosity SAE
80W-90*4
Transfer oil —— —Genuine NISSAN Differential Oil Hypoid Super GL-5 80W-90 or API GL-5 Viscosity SAE
80W-90
Brake fluid Refill to the proper oil level according to the instructions in the “8.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section. Genuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid*5 or equivalent DOT 3
Multi-purpose grease —— — NLGI No. 2 (Lithium soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerant —— — HFC-134a (R-134a)*6
Air conditioning system lubricants —— — NISSAN A/C System Oil Type S or exact equivalent
Window washer fluid 1-1/4 gal1 gal 4.5
Genuine NISSAN Windshield Washer Concentrate Cleaner & Antifreeze or equivalent
*1: For additional information, see “ENGINE OIL” in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section for changing engine oil.
*2: For additional information, see “ENGINE OIL AND OIL FILTER RECOMMENDATION” later in this section.
*3: Use only Genuine NISSAN CVT Fluid NS-2. Using transmission fluid other than Genuine NISSAN CVT Fluid NS-2 will damage the CVT, which is not covered by the NISSAN new vehicle limited
warranty.
*4: For hot climates, viscosity SAE 90 is suitable for ambient temperatures above 32 8F(0 8C).
*5: Available in mainland U.S.A. through a NISSAN dealer.
*6: For additional information, see “VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION” later in this section for air conditioner specification label.
CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED
FUEL/LUBRICANTS9-2
Technical and consumer information
Black plate (310,1)
Model "S35-D" EDITED: 2009/ 9/ 4
for proper towing.
For Kro¯
m models:
Do not attach the towing equipment to Kro ¯
m
models. The equipment will contact the exhaust
pipes located on the rear center of the vehicle.MAXIMUM LOAD LIMITS
Maximum trailer loadsNever allow the total trailer load to exceed the
value specified in the “Towing Load/Specifica-
tion” chart. The total trailer load equals trailer
weight plus its cargo weight.
. When towing a trailer load of 1,000 lbs
(454 kg) or more, trailers with a brake
system MUST be used.
The maximum GCWR (Gross Combined Weight
Rating) should not exceed the value specified in
the following “Towing Load/Specification” chart.
STI0541
The GCWR equals the combined weight of the
towing vehicle (including passengers and cargo)
plus the total trailer load. Towing loads greater
than these or using improper towing equipment
could adversely affect vehicle handling, braking
and performance.
The ability of your vehicle to tow a trailer is not
only related to the maximum trailer loads, but
also the places you plan to tow. Tow weights
appropriate for level highway driving may have to
be reduced on very steep grades or for low
traction situations (for example, on slippery boat
ramps) .
Temperature conditions can also affect towing.
For example, towing a heavy trailer in high outside temperatures on graded roads can
affect engine performance and cause overheat-
ing. The transmission high fluid temperature
protection mode, which helps reduce the
chance of transmission damage, could activate
and automatically decrease engine power.
Vehicle speed may decrease under high load.
Plan your trip carefully to account for trailer and
vehicle load, weather and road conditions.
WARNING
Overheating can result in reduced en-
gine power and vehicle speed. The
reduced speed may be lower than other
traffic, which could increase the chance
of a collision. Be especially careful
when driving. If the vehicle cannot
maintain a safe driving speed, pull to
the side of the road in a safe area.
Allow the engine to cool and return to
normal operation. See “IF YOUR VEHI-
CLE OVERHEATS” in the “6. In case of
emergency” section of this manual.
9-18
Technical and consumer information