2012 NISSAN NOTE Brake fluid

NOTE
The ESP system cannot be switched off when
the ESP system is operating and the “SLIP” indi-
cator light (
) is blinking.
Push the ESP OFF switch again, or restart the en-
gine, to turn the system ON. See “Electronic Stabil-
ity Programme (ESP) system (where fitted)” earlier
in this section for operational details.
WARNING
•Whatever the conditions, drive with caution.
Accelerate and decelerate with great care. If
accelerating or decelerating too fast, the drive
wheels will lose even more traction.
•Allow more stopping distance in cold weather
driving. Braking should be started sooner than
on dry surfaces.
•Keep at a greater distance from the vehicle in
front of you on slippery roads.
•Wet ice (0°C, 32°F and freezing rain), very cold
snow and ice can be slick and very difficult to
drive on. The vehicle will have a lot less trac-
tion or grip under these conditions. Try to
avoid driving on wet ice until the road is salted
or sanded.
•Watch for slippery spots (black ice). These
may appear on an otherwise clear road in
shaded areas. If a patch of ice is seen ahead,
brake before driving on it. Try not to brake
while actually on the ice and avoid any sud-
den steering manoeuvres.
•Snow can trap dangerous exhaust gas under
your vehicle. Keep snow clear of the exhaust
pipe and from around your vehicle.
BATTERY
If the battery is not fully charged during extremely
cold weather conditions, the battery fluid may freeze
and damage the battery. To maintain maximum effi-ciency, the battery should be checked regularly. For
details, see “Battery” in the “8. Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section.
ENGINE COOLANT
If the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-freeze,
drain the cooling system. Refill before operating the
vehicle. For details, see “Engine cooling system” in
the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.
TYRE EQUIPMENT
1) The SUMMER tyres are of a tread design to pro-
vide superior performance on dry surfaces. How-
ever, the performance of these tyres will be sub-
stantially reduced in snowy and icy conditions. If
you operate your vehicle on snowy or icy roads,
NISSAN recommends the use of MUD & SNOW
or ALL SEASON tyres on all four wheels. Please
consult a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop
for tyre type, size, speed rating and availability
information.
2) For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tyres may be used. However, some countries,
provinces and states prohibit their use. Check
applicable laws before installing studded tyres.
CAUTION
Skid and traction capabilities of studded snow
tyres on wet or dry surfaces may be poorer
than that of non-studded snow tyres.
3) Snow chains may be used, if desired. But the
use of snow chains may be prohibited in some
areas. Therefore, check the local laws before
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
Starting and driving5-31

installing snow chains. When installing snow
chains, make sure they are of proper size for the
tyres on your vehicle and are installed according
to the snow chain manufacturer’s instructions.
Use chain tensioners when recommended by the
snow chain manufacturer to ensure a tight fit.
Loose end links of the snow chain must be se-
cured or removed to prevent the possibility of
whipping action damage to the wings or under-
carriage. In addition, drive at a reduced speed,
otherwise, your vehicle may be damaged and/or
vehicle handling and performance may be ad-
versely affected.
SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENT
It is recommended to carry the following items in the
vehicle during winter:
•A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove ice
and snow from the windows.
•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 windscreen washer fluid to refill the reser-
voir tank.
CORROSION PROTECTION
Chemicals used for road surface de-icing are ex-
tremely corrosive and will accelerate corrosion and
the deterioration of underbody components such as
the exhaust system, fuel and brake lines, brake
cables, floor pan, and wings.
In the winter, the underbody must be cleanedperiodically. For additional information, see “Cor-
rosion protection” in the “7. Appearance and
care” section.
For additional protection against rust and corrosion,
which may be required in some areas, consult a
NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop.
5-32Starting and driving

•Never lean over the battery while jump-start-
ing.
•Never allow battery fluid to come into contact
with eyes, skin, clothes or the vehicle’s
painted surfaces. Battery fluid is a corrosive
sulphuric acid which can cause severe burns.
If the fluid comes into contact with anything,
immediately flush the contacted area with
plenty of water.
•Keep the battery out of the reach of children.
•The booster battery must be rated at 12 volts.
Use of an incorrectly rated battery will dam-
age your vehicle.
•Never attempt to jump-start a frozen battery.
It could explode and cause serious injury.
1. Prepare vehicle
jA with the booster battery for
the vehiclejB being jump-started.
CAUTION
Do not allow the two vehicles to touch.
2. Apply the handbrake.
3. Shift the gear lever (MT models) into the N (Neu-
tral) position [AT models, move the selector lever
to the P (Park) position].
4. Switch off all unnecessary electrical systems
(headlights, hazard lights etc,).
5. Ensure that the ignition switch of the vehicle be-
ing jump-started is in the LOCK position.6. Open the bonnet. For details, see “Bonnet
release” in the “3. Pre-driving checks and
adjustments” section.
7. Remove the vent caps (where fitted) on the bat-
tery and cover the battery with an old cloth.
8. Connect the jump leads in the sequence (
j1→j2→j3→j4 ) as illustrated.
CAUTION
•Always connect positivej+ to positivej+
and negativej- to body ground (for ex-
ample, engine lift bracket, etc.) – not to
the battery’s negative
j-.
•An incorrect connection could damage the
charging system.
•Be sure that the jumper cables do not
touch moving parts in the engine compart-
ment.
•Be careful not to allow contact between
the positive jump lead connector and the
vehicle or the negative lead during con-
nection and disconnection.
9. Start the engine of the other vehicle
jA and let it
run for a few minutes. Keep the engine speed at
about 2,000 rpm.
10. Start the engine of your vehicle
jB in the nor-
mal way.
CAUTION
Do not keep the starter motor engaged formore than 10 seconds. If the engine does not
start immediately, turn the ignition switch to
“OFF” and wait 10 seconds before trying
again.
11. After starting the engine of your vehicle, care-
fully disconnect the negative lead and then the
positive lead (
j4→j3→j2→j1).
12. Remove and dispose of the cloth that was used
to cover the vent holes as it may be contami-
nated with corrosive acid.
13. Install the vent caps (where fitted).
14. Close the bonnet.
6-10In case of emergency

8Maintenance and do-it-yourselfMaintenance and do-it-yourself
Maintenance requirements ....................................... 8-2
Scheduled maintenance...................................... 8-2
General maintenance .......................................... 8-2
Where to go for service ...................................... 8-2
General maintenance ............................................... 8-2
Explanation of general maintenance items ........... 8-2
Maintenance precautions ......................................... 8-4
Engine compartment ................................................ 8-5
Engine cooling system ............................................. 8-6
Checking engine coolant level............................. 8-6
Changing engine coolant .................................... 8-6
Engine oil................................................................. 8-8
Checking engine oil level .................................... 8-9
Changing engine oil ............................................ 8-9
Changing engine oil filter .................................... 8-11
Protect the environment ...................................... 8-12
Fuel filter (Diesel engine models) ............................. 8-12
Bleeding the fuel system ..................................... 8-12
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) ........................... 8-13
Brakes ..................................................................... 8-13
Checking brake pedal......................................... 8-13
Checking handbrake........................................... 8-13
Brake and clutch fluid .............................................. 8-13
Window washer fluid/headlight cleaner fluid
(where fitted) ........................................................... 8-14
Battery..................................................................... 8-15
Vehicle battery .................................................... 8-15
Reinitialisation procedure after battery
reconnection....................................................... 8-16
Jump-starting ...................................................... 8-16Integrated Keyfob/Intelligent Key battery
replacement........................................................ 8-17
Drive belts ............................................................... 8-18
Spark plugs (Petrol engine models).......................... 8-18
Air cleaner filter........................................................ 8-19
Viscous paper type ............................................. 8-19
Dry paper type (where fitted) .............................. 8-19
Wiper blades ........................................................... 8-19
Cleaning ............................................................. 8-19
Front window wiper replacement ........................ 8-20
Back door window wiper replacement ................ 8-20
Windscreen washer nozzle ................................. 8-20
Fuses ...................................................................... 8-21
Passenger compartment ..................................... 8-21
Engine compartment ........................................... 8-22
Lights ...................................................................... 8-23
Headlights .......................................................... 8-23
Exterior lights ...................................................... 8-24
Interior lights....................................................... 8-24
Light locations .................................................... 8-25
Wheels and tyres ..................................................... 8-29
Tyre inflation pressure......................................... 8-29
Types of tyres ..................................................... 8-29
Snow chains....................................................... 8-30
Tyre rotation ....................................................... 8-30
Tyre wear and damage ....................................... 8-30
Tyre age ............................................................. 8-31
Changing tyres and wheels ................................. 8-31
Wheel balance.................................................... 8-31
Spare tyre .......................................................... 8-31

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.
Tyres*:
Check the pressure with a gauge periodically when
at a service station (including the spare) and adjust
to the specified pressure if necessary. Check care-
fully for damage, cuts or excessive wear.
Tyre rotation*:
Tyres should be rotated at least every 10,000 km
(6,000 miles). However, the timing for tyre rotation
may vary according to your driving habits and road
surface conditions.
Wheel alignment and balance:
If the vehicle pull to either side while driving on a
straight and level road, or if you detect uneven or
abnormal tyre wear, there may be a need for wheel
alignment. If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at
normal highway speeds, wheel balancing may be
needed.
Wheel bolts:
When checking the tyres, make sure no wheel bolts
are missing, and check for any loose wheel bolts.
Tighten if necessary.Windscreen:
Clean the windscreen on a regular basis. Check the
windscreen at least every six months for cracks or
other damage. Have a damaged windscreen re-
paired by a qualified repair facility.
Wiper blades*:
Check for cracks or wear if they do not wipe prop-
erly.
Under the bonnet and vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked periodically, e.g. each time you check the
engine oil or refuel.
Battery*:
Check if the green indicator on the top of the main-
tenance free battery is visible. If it is not visible,
replace the battery as soon as possible.
Vehicles operated in high temperatures or under
severe conditions, check the fluid level frequently.
Brake and clutch fluid level*:
Make sure that the brake and clutch 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.
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
petrol fumes are evident, check for the cause and
have it corrected immediately.
Window washer fluid*:
Check that there is adequate fluid in the tank.
Inside the vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked on a regular basis, such as when perform-
ing periodic maintenance, cleaning the vehicle, etc.
Accelerator pedal:
Check the pedal for smooth operation and make
sure that the pedal does not catch or require uneven
effort. Keep the floor mats away from the pedal.
Brake pedal*:
Check the pedal for smooth operation. If the brake
pedal suddenly goes down further than normal, the
pedal feels spongy or the vehicle seems to take
longer to stop, contact a NISSAN dealer or qualified
workshop immediately. Keep the floor mat away
from the pedal.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-3

When checking or replacement is required, NISSAN
recommends contacting a NISSAN dealer or quali-
fied workshop for servicing.
CAUTION
•Use only Genuine NISSAN Matic D ATF. Do
not mix with other fluids.
•Using automatic transmission fluid other than
Genuine NISSAN Matic D ATF will cause dete-
rioration in driveability and automatic trans-
mission durability, and may damage the auto-
matic transmission, which is not covered by
the warranty.
CHECKING BRAKE PEDAL
If the brake pedal suddenly goes down further than
normal, the pedal feels “spongy” or the vehicle
seems to take longer to stop, see a NISSAN dealer
or qualified workshop.
CHECKING HANDBRAKE
Periodically check the holding ability of the hand-
brake by parking on a steep hill and restraining the
vehicle by using only the handbrake. If it does not
hold satisfactorily, see a NISSAN dealer or qualified
workshop.
WARNING
•Use only new fluid. Old, inferior, or contami-
nated fluid may damage the brake and clutch
systems. The use of improper fluids can dam-
age the brake system and affect the vehicle’s
stopping ability.
•Clean the filler cap before removing.
NDI1011Z
LHD models
NDI735Z
RHD models
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID (ATF)BRAKES BRAKE AND CLUTCH FLUID
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-13

•Brake and clutch fluids are poisonous and
should be stored carefully in marked contain-
ers out of the reach of children.
Check the fluid level in the reservoir. If the fluid level
is between the MIN
j2 and MAXj1 lines or the
brake warning light comes on, add fluid up to the
MAX line.
See “Capacities and recommended fuel/lubricants”
in the “9. Technical information” section for the rec-
ommended brake and clutch fluid type.
If fluid must be added frequently, the system should
be thoroughly checked by a NISSAN dealer or quali-
fied workshop.
CAUTION
•NISSAN recommends that refilling and check-
ing the brake and clutch systems should be
left to a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop
who will have the necessary fluids and techni-
cal knowledge.
•Do not spill the fluid on painted surfaces. This
will damage the paint. If fluid is spilled, wash
with water.
WARNING
Anti-freeze window washer is poisonous and
should be stored carefully in marked containers
out of the reach of children.
•Check the fluid level in the window washer res-
ervoir. If the fluid level is low, add window washer
fluid up to the MAX level.
•Refill the reservoir more frequently when driving
conditions require an increased amount of win-
dow washer fluid.
•Add a washer solvent to the water for better
cleaning. In the winter season, add a window
washer anti-freeze. Follow the manufacturer’s in-
structions for the mixture ratio.
CAUTION
•Do not substitute anti-freeze engine coolant
for window washer solution. This may result
in damage to the paint.
•Always use window washer fluid recom-
mended by NISSAN dealer or qualified work-
shop.
NDI723Z
WINDOW WASHER FLUID/HEADLIGHT CLEANER FLUID (where fitted)
8-14Maintenance and do-it-yourself

Capacity (approximate) Recommended fuel and lubricants
Litre Imp measure
Brake & clutch fluidRefill to the proper oil level according to the instructions in
the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.Genuine NISSAN Brake fluid, or DOT 3, or DOT 4 (US
FMVSS No. 116) *5
Multi-purpose grease – – NLGI No. 2 (Lithium soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerant – – HFC-134a (R-134a)
Air conditioning system lubricantsCR14DE or HR16DE – – Genuine NISSAN A/C System Oil Type R or equivalent
K9K – – Genuine NISSAN A/C System Oil Type S or equivalent
*1: For further details, see “Recommended SAE viscosity number” later in this section.
*2: Use Genuine NISSAN engine coolant, or equivalent in its quality, in order to avoid possible aluminium corrosion within the engine cooling system caused by the use of non-genuine
engine coolant.Note that any repairs for the incidents within the engine cooling system while using non-genuine engine coolant may not be covered by the warranty, even
if such incidents occurred during the warranty period.Contact a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop for more information regarding the coolant type and capacity.
*3: Using fluid other than Genuine NISSAN Matic Fluid type D ATF may cause deterioration in driveability and automatic transmission durability and may damage the automatic trans-
mission, which is not covered by the NISSAN warranty.
*4: For details, contact a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop.
*5: Never mix different types of fluids (DOT 3 and DOT 4).
Technical information9-3