Black plate (327,1)
Model "Z51-D" EDITED: 2010/ 7/ 23
WARNING
Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so
may result in increased stopping dis-
tances.Self-test featureThe 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 and/or feel a pulsation in the
brake pedal. This is normal and does not
indicate a malfunction. If the computer senses
a malfunction, it switches the ABS off and
illuminates the ABS warning light on the
instrument panel. The brake system then oper-
ates 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.Normal operationThe ABS operates at speeds above 3 to 6 MPH
(5 to 10 km/h) . The speed varies according to
road conditions.
When the ABS senses that one or more wheels
are close to locking up, the actuator rapidlyapplies and releases hydraulic pressure. This
action is similar to pumping the brakes very
quickly. You may feel a pulsation in the brake
pedal and 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, the pulsa-
tion may indicate that road conditions are
hazardous and extra care is required while
driving.
The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system
uses various sensors to monitor driver inputs
and vehicle motion. Under certain driving con-
ditions, the VDC system helps to perform the
following functions.
.
Controls brake pressure to reduce wheel
slip on one slipping drive wheel so power is
transferred to a non slipping drive wheel on
the same axle.
. Controls brake pressure and engine output
to reduce drive wheel slip based on vehicle
speed (traction control function) .
. Controls brake pressure at individual wheels
and engine output to help the driver maintain
control of the vehicle in the following
conditions:
— understeer (vehicle tends to not follow the steered path despite increased steering
input)
— oversteer (vehicle tends to spin due to certain road or driving conditions) .
The VDC system can help the driver to maintain
control of the vehicle, but it cannot prevent loss
of vehicle control in all driving situations.
When the VDC system operates, the
indicator in the instrument panel flashes so note
the following:
. The road may be slippery or the system mayVEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
SYSTEM
Starting and driving
5-27
Black plate (328,1)
Model "Z51-D" EDITED: 2010/ 7/ 23
determine some action is required to help
keep the vehicle on the steered path.
. You may feel a pulsation in the brake pedal
and hear a noise or vibration from under the
hood. This is normal and indicates that the
VDC system is working properly.
. Adjust your speed and driving to the road
conditions.
See “Slip indicator light” in the “2. Instruments
and controls” section and “Vehicle Dynamic
Control (VDC) off indicator light” in the “2.
Instruments and controls” section.
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the
and
indicatorlightscomeoninthe
instrument panel. The VDC system automatically
turns off when these indicator lights are on.
The VDC OFF switch is used to turn off the VDC
system. The VDC off indicator
illuminates
to indicate the VDC system is off. When the
VDC switch is used to turn off the system, the
VDC system still operates to prevent one drive
wheel from slipping by transferring power to a
non slipping drive wheel. Theindicator
flashes if this occurs. All other VDC functions
are off and the
indicator will not flash. The
VDC system is automatically reset to on when
the ignition switch is placed in the OFF position
then back to the ON position.
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 and/or feel
a pulsation in the brake pedal. This is normal and
is not an indication of a malfunction.
WARNING
.
The VDC system is designed to help
the driver maintain stability 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 slip-
pery surfaces and always drive care-
fully.
. Do not modify the vehicle’s suspen-
sion. If suspension parts such as
shock absorbers, struts, springs,
stabilizer bars, bushings and
wheels are not NISSAN recom-
mended for your vehicle or are
extremely deteriorated the VDC sys-
tem may not operate properly. This
could adversely affect vehicle hand-
ling performance, and the
in-
dicator may flash or bothand
indicator lights may illuminate.
. If brake related parts such as brake
pads, rotors and calipers are not
NISSAN recommended or are extre-
mely deteriorated, the VDC system
may not operate properly and bothand
indicator lights may
illuminate.
. If engine control related parts are
not NISSAN recommended or are
extremely deteriorated, both the
and
indicator lights may
illuminate.
. When driving on extremely inclined
surfaces such as higher banked
corners, the VDC system may not
operate properly and the
in-
dicator may flash or bothand
indicator lights may illuminate.
Do not drive on these types of
roads.
. When driving on an unstable sur-
face such as a turntable, ferry,
elevator or ramp, the
indicator
may flash or bothand
indicator lights may illuminate. This
is not a malfunction. Restart the
engine after driving onto a stable
5-28
Starting and driving
Black plate (25,1)
8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Model "Z51-D" EDITED: 2010/ 7/ 23
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
VQ35DE engine ............................................ 8-6
Engine cooling system ......................................... 8-7
Checking engine coolant level ........................... 8-7
Changing engine coolant ................................. 8-8
Engine oil ......................................................... 8-8
Checking engine oil level ................................. 8-8
Changing engine oil and filter ............................ 8-8
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) fluid ........ 8-11
Power steering fluid .......................................... 8-11
Brake fluid ...................................................... 8-12
Window washer fluid ........................................ 8-12
Battery .......................................................... 8-13
Jump starting .............................................. 8-14
Variable voltage control system (if so equipped) ...... 8-15
Drive belt ....................................................... 8-15 Spark plugs
.................................................... 8-16
Replacing spark plugs ................................... 8-16
Air cleaner ...................................................... 8-16
Windshield wiper blades .................................... 8-17
Cleaning .................................................... 8-17
Replacing ................................................... 8-18
Rear window wiper blade ................................... 8-19
Brakes ........................................................... 8-19
Self-adjusting brakes .................................... 8-19
Brake pad wear warning ................................ 8-19
Fuses ............................................................ 8-20
Engine compartment ..................................... 8-20
Passenger compartment ................................ 8-21
Intelligent Key battery replacement ....................... 8-22
Lights ............................................................ 8-24
Headlights .................................................. 8-25
Exterior and interior lights ............................... 8-27
Wheels and tires .............................................. 8-30
Tire pressure ............................................... 8-30
Tire labeling ................................................ 8-33
Types of tires .............................................. 8-35
Tire chains .................................................. 8-36
Changing wheels and tires ............................. 8-36
Black plate (362,1)
Model "Z51-D" EDITED: 2010/ 7/ 23
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.
Power steering fluid level* and lines: Check
the level when the fluid is cold, with the engine
off. Check the lines for proper attachment, leaks,
cracks, etc.
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 (364,1)
Model "Z51-D" EDITED: 2010/ 7/ 23
done by a NISSAN dealer.
SDI2172
VQ35DE ENGINE1. Power steering fluid reservoir
2. Drive belt location
3. Engine oil filler cap
4. Brake fluid reservoir
5. Air cleaner6. Fuse/fusible link holder
7. Window washer fluid reservoir
8. Engine coolant reservoir
9. Radiator filler cap
10. Engine oil dipstick
11. BatteryENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS
8-6
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Black plate (369,1)
Model "Z51-D" EDITED: 2010/ 7/ 23
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.
SDI2177
Check the fluid level in the reservoir.
The fluid level should be checked using the HOT
range (
*1: HOT MAX.,
*3: HOT MIN.) at fluid
temperatures of 122 to 176 8F (50 to 80 8C) or
using the COLD range (
*2: COLD MAX.,
*3:
COLD MIN.) at fluid temperatures of 32 to 86 8F
(0 to 30 8C) .
If the fluid is below the MIN line, add Genuine
NISSAN PSF or equivalent. Remove the cap
and fill through the opening.
CAUTION
. Do not overfill.
. Use Genuine NISSAN PSF or
equivalent.
CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE
TRANSMISSION (CVT) FLUID POWER STEERING FLUID
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-11
Black plate (373,1)
Model "Z51-D" EDITED: 2010/ 7/ 23
CAUTION
.Do not ground accessories directly
to the battery terminal. Doing so will
bypass the variable voltage control
system and the vehicle battery may
not charge completely.
. Use electrical accessories with the
engine running to avoid discharging
the vehicle battery.
The variable voltage control system measures
the amount of electrical discharge from the
battery and controls voltage generated by the
generator.
SDI2186
1. Power steering oil pump
2. Alternator
3. Drive belt auto-tensioner
4. Crankshaft pulley
5. Air conditioner compressor
WARNING
Be sure the ignition switch is in the OFF
or LOCK position before servicing drive
belt. The engine could rotate unexpect-
edly.
1. Visually inspect the belt for signs of unusual wear, cuts, fraying or looseness. If the belt is
in poor condition or loose, have it replaced or adjusted by a NISSAN dealer.
2. Have the belt condition checked regularly.
VARIABLE VOLTAGE CONTROL
SYSTEM (if so equipped) DRIVE BELT
Maintenance and do-it-yourself
8-15
Black plate (400,1)
Model "Z51-D" EDITED: 2010/ 7/ 23
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 21-5/8 gal18 gal 82 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, *3
. Viscosity SAE 5W-30*2, *3
Without oil filter change 4-1/2 qt3-3/4 qt 4.3
Cooling system With reservoir 10 qt8-1/4 qt 9.4
Pre-diluted Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or equivalent
Reservoir 7/8 qt3/4 qt 0.8
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) fluid —— — Genuine NISSAN CVT Fluid NS-2*4
Differential gear oil —— —Genuine NISSAN Differential Oil Hypoid Super GL-5 80W-90 or API GL-5 Viscosity SAE
80W-90*5
Transfer oil —— —Genuine NISSAN Differential Oil Hypoid Super GL-5 80W-90 or API GL-5 Viscosity SAE
80W-90*5
Power steering fluid (PSF) Refill to the proper oil level according to the instructions in the “8.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section. Genuine NISSAN PSF or equivalent*6
Brake fluid Genuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid*7 or equivalent DOT 3
Multi-purpose grease —— — NLGI No. 2 (Lithium soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerant —— — HFC-134a (R-134a)*8
Air conditioning system lubricants —— — NISSAN A/C System Oil Type S or exact equivalent
Window washer fluid —— —
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: NISSAN recommends Genuine NISSAN Ester Engine Oil available at a NISSAN dealer.
*4: 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.
*5: For hot climates, viscosity SAE 90 is suitable for ambient temperatures above 32 8F(0 8C).
*6: DEXRON
TMVI type ATF may also be used.
*7: Available in mainland U.S.A. through a NISSAN dealer.
*8: 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