2011 NISSAN ALTIMA HYBRID Owners Manual

Hydraulic system
The brake system has separate hydraulic circuits.
If one circuit malfunctions, you will still have brak-
ing at other wheels.
However, the brake pedal will have to be de-
pressed harder and your stopping distance will
increase. The brake system warning light will also
come on.
Brake actuator
The brake actuator uses a pump to provide
power assisted braking.
The brake warning light comes on if the actuator
is not functioning properly. The brake pedal will
be hard to depress and stopping distance will
increase. Depress the brake pedal firmly to stop
the vehicle in a safe place and contact a NISSAN
dealer.
If the brake pedal is depressed repeatedly, the
brake warning light may turn on. However this is
normal if the light turns off after a few seconds.
Noise may be heard in the engine room under the
following conditions. This is a normal operating
characteristic and does not indicate a malfunc-
tion.● When you open a door.
● When the brake pedal is depressed firmly. ●
When the brake pedal is depressed repeat-
edly.
● When the Hybrid System is in the READY
mode.
● When the Hybrid System is turned off.
It may be hard to depress the brake pedal or the
pedal stroke may be short with the Hybrid System
OFF. This is not a malfunction.
Using the brakes
Avoid resting your foot on the brake pedal while
driving. This will overheat the brakes, wear out the
brake pads faster, and reduce gas mileage.
To help reduce brake wear and to prevent the
brakes from overheating, reduce speed and
downshift to a lower gear before going down a
slope or long grade. Overheated brakes may
reduce braking performance and could result in
loss of vehicle control.
When applying the brakes, you may hear a sound
coming from the braking system. This is normal.
WARNING
While driving on a slippery surface, be
careful when braking, accelerating or
downshifting. Abrupt braking or acceler-
ating could cause the wheels to skid and
result in an accident.
Wet brakes
When the vehicle is washed or driven through
water, the brakes may get wet. As a result, your
braking distance will be longer and the vehicle
may pull to one side during braking.
To dry the brakes, drive the vehicle at a safe
speed while lightly pressing the brake pedal to
heat up the brakes. Do this until the brakes return
to normal. Avoid driving the vehicle at high
speeds until the brakes function correctly.
Parking brake break-in
Break-in the parking brake shoes whenever the
stopping effect of the parking brake is weakened
or whenever the parking brake shoes and/or
drum/rotors are replaced, in order to assure the
best brake performance.
This procedure is described in the vehicle service
manual and can be performed by a NISSAN
dealer.
5-20Starting and driving

ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
(ABS)
WARNING
●The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is a
sophisticated device, but it cannot pre-
vent accidents resulting from careless
or dangerous driving techniques. It can
help maintain vehicle control during
braking on slippery surfaces. Remem-
ber that stopping distances on slippery
surfaces will be longer than on normal
surfaces even with ABS. Stopping dis-
tances may also be longer on rough,
gravel or snow covered roads, or if you
are using tire chains. Always maintain a
safe distance from the vehicle in front
of you. Ultimately, the driver is respon-
sible for safety.
● Tire type and condition of tires may also
affect braking effectiveness.
– When replacing tires, install the specified size of tires on all four
wheels. – When installing a spare tire, make
sure that it is the proper size and type
as specified on the Tire and Loading
Information label. See “Tire and
Loading Information label” in the
“Technical and consumer informa-
tion” section of this manual.
– For detailed information, see “Wheels and tires” in the “Mainte-
nance and do-it-yourself” section of
this manual.
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) controls the
brakes so the wheels do not lock during hard
braking or when braking on slippery surfaces.
The system detects the rotation speed at each
wheel and varies the brake fluid pressure to pre-
vent each wheel from locking and sliding. By
preventing each wheel from locking, the system
helps the driver maintain steering control and
helps to minimize swerving and spinning on slip-
pery surfaces. When the ABS is operating the
SLIP indicator light in the instrument panel will
blink.
Using the system
Depress the brake pedal and hold it down. De-
press the brake pedal with firm steady pressure,
but do not pump the brakes. The ABS will oper-
ate to prevent the wheels from locking up. Steer
the vehicle to avoid obstacles.
WARNING
Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so
may result in increased stopping
distances.
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. This is normal and does not
indicate a malfunction. If the computer senses a
malfunction, it switches the ABS off and illumi-
nates 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.
Starting and driving5-21

Normal operation
The ABS operates at speeds above4-6MPH(7
- 10 km/h) . The speed varies according to road
conditions.
When the ABS senses that 1 or more wheels are
close to locking up, the actuator rapidly applies
and releases hydraulic pressure. This action is
similar to pumping the brakes very quickly. You
may hear a noise from under the hood or feel a
vibration from the actuator when it is operating.
This is normal and indicates that the ABS is
operating properly. However, if theSLIPindica-
tor light blinks, the road conditions are hazardous
and extra care is required while driving. When accelerating on slippery surfaces the tire
may spin or slip. With the vehicle Traction Control
System (TCS) , sensors detect these movements
and control the braking and engine output to help
improve vehicle road traction.
● When the TCS is operating, the slip indica-
tor in the instrument panel blinks.
● If the slip indicator blinks, the vehicle is may
be under slippery conditions. Be sure to
drive carefully.
● If a malfunction occurs in the system, the
VDC warning light illuminates in the instru-
ment panel.
As long as the VDC warning light is on, the
traction control function is canceled. The vehicle
will behave like a vehicle without the system.
WARNING
● The Traction Control System is de-
signed to help maintain traction with
the road surface 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. ●
If brake related parts such as brake
pads, rotors and calipers are not stan-
dard equipment or are extremely dete-
riorated, the Traction Control System
may not operate properly and the VDC
warning light may come on.
● Do not modify the vehicle’s suspension.
If suspension parts such as shock ab-
sorbers, struts, springs, bushings and
wheels are not standard equipment or
are extremely deteriorated, the Traction
Control System may not operate prop-
erly and the VDC warning light may
come on.
● If wheels or tires other than the recom-
mended ones are used, the Traction
Control System may not operate prop-
erly and the VDC warning light may
come on.
● The Traction Control System is not a
substitute for winter tires or tire chains
on a snow covered road.
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM (TCS)
5-22Starting and driving

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.● When the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
system is operating, the SLIPindicator in
the instrument panel blinks.
● If 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 warning light” in the “Instruments
and controls” section.
● Indicator light
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the
VDC warning light comes on in the instru-
ment panel.
As long as this warning light is on, the trac-
tion control and the Vehicle Dynamic Control
functions are canceled.
When the VDC system is operating, you may
hear a noise or vibration from under the hood.
This is normal and indicates that the VDC system
is working properly.
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, you
may hear a clunk noise. This is not an indication of
a malfunction and indicates that the VDC system
is working properly.
WARNING
●
The Vehicle Dynamic Control system is
designed to help improve driving stabil-
ity but does not prevent accidents due
to abrupt steering operation at high
speeds or by careless or dangerous
driving techniques. Reduce vehicle
speed and be especially careful when
driving and cornering on slippery sur-
faces and always drive carefully.
● Do not modify the vehicle’s suspension.
If suspension parts such as shock ab-
sorbers, struts, springs, bushings and
wheels are not standard equipment or
are extremely deteriorated, the Traction
Control System may not operate prop-
erly and the VDC warning light may
come on.
● If 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 VDC warning light may come on. ●
When driving on extremely inclined sur-
faces such as higher banked corners,
the Vehicle Dynamic Control system
may not operate properly and the VDC
warning light may come on. Do not drive
on these types of roads.
● When driving on an unstable surface
such as a turntable, ferry, elevator or
ramp, the VDC warning light may illumi-
nate. This is not a malfunction. Restart
the engine after driving onto a stable
surface.
● If wheels or tires other than the recom-
mended ones are used, the Vehicle Dy-
namic Control system may not operate
properly and the VDC warning light may
come on.
● The Vehicle Dynamic Control system is
not a substitute for winter tires or tire
chains on a snow covered road.
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
SYSTEM
Starting and driving5-23

FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCK
To prevent a door lock from freezing, apply de-
icer through the key hole. If the lock becomes
frozen, heat the key before inserting it into the key
hole or use the remote keyless entry function on
the Intelligent Key.
ANTI-FREEZE
In the winter when it is anticipated that the tem-
perature will drop below 32°F (0°C) , check the
anti-freeze to assure proper winter protection.
For details, see “Engine cooling system” and
“Inverter cooling system” in the “Maintenance
and do-it-yourself” section of this manual.
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” and
“Changing inverter coolant” in the “Maintenance
and do-it-yourself” section of this manual.
TIRE EQUIPMENT
1. SUMMER tires have a tread designed toprovide 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 washer fluid to refill the windshield-
washer fluid reservoir.
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.
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
5-24Starting and driving

●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.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (if so
equipped)
WARNING
● Do not use your engine block heater
with an ungrounded electrical system
or a 2-pronged adapter. You can be se-
riously injured by an electrical shock if
you use an ungrounded connection.
● Disconnect and properly store the en-
gine block heater cord before turning
the Hybrid System ON. Damage to the
cord could result in an electrical shock
and can cause serious injury. ●
Use a heavy-duty 3-wire, 3-pronged ex-
tension cord rated for at least 10 A. Plug
the extension cord into a Ground Fault
Interrupt (GFI) protected, grounded
110-VAC outlet. Failure to use the
proper extension cord or a grounded
outlet can result in a fire or electrical
shock and cause serious personal
injury.
Engine block heaters are available through
NISSAN dealers to assist in cold temperature
starting. The engine block heater should be used
when the outside temperature is 20° F (-7° C) or
lower.
To use the engine block heater: 1. Turn the Hybrid System OFF.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the engine block heater cord.
3. Plug the engine block heater cord into a grounded 3-wire, 3-pronged extension
cord.
4. Plug the extension cord into a Ground Fault Interrupt (GFI) protected, grounded 110-
volt AC (VAC) outlet. 5. The engine block heater must be plugged in
for at least2-4hours, depending on outside
temperatures, to properly warm the engine
coolant. Use an appropriate timer to turn the
engine block heater on.
6. Before turning the Hybrid System ON, un- plug and properly store the cord to keep it
away from moving parts.
Starting and driving5-25

MEMO
5-26Starting and driving

6 In case of emergency
Emergency engine shut off.........................6-2
Flat tire ...........................................6-2
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) ..........6-2
Changing a flat tire .............................6-3
Hybrid system stops operating while driving ..........6-7
Vehicle does not start ..............................6-7
Confirm battery is discharged . ...................6-7 Emergency Start
...............................6-7
Jump starting .....................................6-8
Push starting ..................................... 6-10
If your vehicle overheats ........................... 6-10
Towing your vehicle ............................... 6-11
Towing recommended by NISSAN ..............6-12
Vehicle recovery (freeing a stuck vehicle) .........6-13