2012 NISSAN NOTE REF

hill gradient. Overheated brakes may reduce brak-
ing performance and could result in loss of vehicle
control.
CAUTION
While driving on a slippery surface, be careful
when braking, accelerating or downshifting.
Abrupt braking actions or sudden acceleration
could cause the wheels to skid and result in an
accident.
Be aware that brakes will fade if repeated heavy
brake applications are made.
Driving uphill
When starting on a steep gradient, it is sometimes
difficult to operate the brake (AT models) or both the
brake and clutch (MT models). Use the handbrake
to hold the vehicle. Do not slip the clutch (MT mod-
els). When ready to start, slowly release the hand-
brake while depressing the accelerator pedal and
releasing the clutch (MT models) or depressing the
accelerator pedal (AT models).
Driving downhill
The engine braking action is effective for controlling
the vehicle while descending hills.
The gear lever (MT models) should be placed in a
gear position low enough to obtain sufficient engine
braking.
For AT models, the 2 (Second) or 1 (First) gear
should be selected.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS)
WARNING
•The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is a so-
phisticated device, but it cannot prevent acci-
dents resulting from careless or dangerous
driving techniques. It can help maintain ve-
hicle control during braking on slippery sur-
faces. Remember that stopping distances
may also be longer on rough, gravel or snow
covered roads, or if you are using snow
chains. Always maintain a safe distance from
the vehicle in front of you. Ultimately, the
driver is responsible for safety.
•Tyre type and condition may also affect brak-
ing effectiveness.
– When replacing tyres, install the specified
size of tyres on all four wheels.
– When installing a spare tyre, make sure it
is the proper size and type as specified on
the tyre placard. See “Vehicle
identification” in the “9. Technical
information” section for the tyre placard
location.
– For detailed information, see “Wheels and
tyres” in the “8. Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section.
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) controls the
brakes so that the wheels do not lock during hard
braking or when braking on slippery surfaces. The
system detects the rotation speed at each wheeland varies the brake fluid pressure to prevent each
wheel from locking and sliding. By preventing each
wheel from locking, the system helps the driver to
maintain steering control and helps to minimise
swerving and spinning on slippery surfaces.
Using the system
Depress the brake pedal and hold it down. Depress
the brake pedal with firm steady pressure, but do
not pump the brakes. The ABS will operate to pre-
vent the wheels from locking up. Steer the vehicle to
avoid obstacles.
WARNING
Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so may in-
crease the stopping distance.
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 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 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 or qualified workshop.
5-28Starting and driving

Normal operation
The ABS will not initiate at speeds below 5 to 10
km/h (3 to 6 MPH). The speeds will vary according
to road conditions.
When the ABS senses that one 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 feel a
pulsation in the brake pedal and hear a noise from
the actuator under the bonnet when it is operating.
This is normal and indicates that the ABS is working
properly. However, the pulsation may indicate that
road conditions are hazardous and extra care is re-
quired while driving.When accelerating, driving on slippery surfaces or
suddenly avoiding obstacles on roads, the vehicle
might swerve or slip. The Electronic Stability Pro-
gramme (ESP) system continuously monitors and
compares the driver’s intended speed and the travel
direction. The system adjusts wheel brake pressure
and engine torque to assist in improving vehicle sta-
bility.
•When the ESP system is operating, the “SLIP”
indicator light () in the combination meter
blinks.
•When only the traction control (TCS) system in
the ESP system is operating, the “SLIP” indica-
tor light (
) in the combination meter will also
blink.
•If the “SLIP” indicator light () blinks, the
road conditions are slippery. Be sure to drive
carefully. See “Warning/indicator lights and au-
dible reminders” in the “2. Instruments and
controls” section.
•Indicator light
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the “SLIP”
indicator light (
) and the ESP indicator light
() come on in the combination meter.
As long as these indicator lights are on, the trac-
tion control function is cancelled.
The ESP system uses Active Brake Limited Slip
(ABLS) system to improve vehicle traction. The Ac-
tive Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) system works when
one of the driving wheels is spinning on a slipperysurface. The Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) sys-
tem, brakes the spinning wheel to distribute the driv-
ing power to the other driving wheel.
If the vehicle is operated with the ESP system turned
off, all ESP and TCS functions will be turned off.
The Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) system and
ABS will still operate with the ESP system off. If the
Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) system or the ABS
is activated, the “SLIP” indicator light (
) will
blink and you may hear a clunk noise and/or feel a
pulsation in the brake pedal. This is normal and does
not indicate a malfunction.
While the ESP system is operating, you may feel a
pulsation in the brake pedal and hear a noise or
vibration from under the bonnet. This is normal and
indicates that the ESP system is working properly.
The ESP computer has a built in diagnostic feature
that tests the system each time the engine is started
and the vehicle moves forwards or reverses 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 ESP system is designed to help improve
driving stability but does not prevent accidents
caused by abrupt steering operation at high
speeds, or careless or dangerous driving
techniques. Reduce vehicle speed and be es-
pecially careful when driving and cornering on
slippery surfaces. Always drive carefully.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY PROGRAMME (ESP) SYSTEM (where fitted)
Starting and driving5-29

•If engine related parts, such as a muffler, are
not standard equipment or are extremely de-
teriorated, the ESP OFF indicator light (
)
and/or the “SLIP” indicator light ()may
illuminate.
•If brake related parts, such as brake pads,
rotors and callipers, are not standard equip-
ment or are extremely deteriorated, the ESP
system may not operate properly and the ESP
OFF indicator light (
) and/or the “SLIP” indi-
cator light () may illuminate.
•Do not modify the vehicle’s suspension. If
suspension parts, such as shock absorbers,
struts, springs, stabilizer bars and bushings,
are not NISSAN-approved or are extremely
deteriorated, the ESP system may not oper-
ate properly. This could adversely affect ve-
hicle handling performance and the ESP OFF
indicator light (
) and/or the “SLIP” indicator
light () may illuminate.
•When driving on extremely inclined surfaces,
such as higher banked corners, the ESP sys-
tem may not operate properly and the ESP
OFF indicator light (
) and/or the “SLIP” indi-
cator light () may illuminate. Do not drive
on these types of roads. If ESP OFF indicator
light
does illuminate after driving on ex-
treme surfaces, restart the engine to reset
the ESP system.
•If wheels or tyres other than the
recommended ones are used, the ESP sys-tem may not operate properly and the ESP
OFF indicator light (
) and/or the “SLIP” indi-
cator light () may illuminate.
•The ESP system is not a substitute for winter
tyres or snow chains on a snow covered road.
NOTE
•The ESP system should be switched on under
normal circumstances although it may be ad-
vantageous to switch off the ESP system to
allow wheelspin under the following condi-
tions:
– when driving in deep snow or mud
– when trying to rock a vehicle free that is
stuck in snow
– when driving with snow chains
•If the ESP system has been switched off, drive
carefully with reduced speed. When road con-
ditions allow, ESP should be switched back
on.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY
PROGRAMME (ESP) OFF SWITCH
A.LHD models
B.RHD models
The vehicle should be driven with the Electronic
Stability Programme (ESP) system “ON” for most
driving conditions.
When the vehicle get stuck in mud or snow, the
ESP system reduces the engine output to decrease
wheel spin. The engine speed will be reduced even
if the accelerator is depressed to the floor. If maxi-
mum engine power is needed to free a stuck ve-
hicle, turn the ESP system off.
To turn off the ESP system, push the ESP OFF
switch. The ESP OFF indicator light (
) will come
on.
NSD311Z
5-30Starting and driving

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

Getting the tools and spare wheel
The spare wheel, jack and tools are located inside
the luggage compartment.
1. Open the back door.
2. Remove the below listed items in the following
sequence:
a. “Flexi-board” system (where fitted)b. Floor carpet
c. Spare wheel (where fitted) — Turn the re-
tainer anticlockwise to remove.
d. Jack
e. Tools
CAUTION
•When removing or replacing the spare wheel,
the rear sliding seat should be moved to the
forward position.
•When carrying the road wheel in the luggage
compartment, the rear sliding seat should be
located in the forward position.
REMOVING WHEEL COVER
(where fitted)
WARNING
Take care when removing the wheel cover as the
cover may detach suddenly.Remove the wheel cover as illustrated with a suit-
able tool or carefully remove the wheel cover with
both hands.
Removing the wheel
WARNING
•Make sure to read the caution label attached
to the jack body before use.
•Do not get under a vehicle that is supported
only by a jack: Use vehicle support stands.
•Use only the jack that is provided with your
vehicle. The jack is designed only for lifting
your vehicle during a tyre change.
•Do not use the jack provided with your vehicle
on other vehicles.
•Use the correct jack-up points. Never use any
other part of the vehicle for jack support.
•Never lift the vehicle more than necessary.
NCE317
SCE0173AZ
NCE176Z
Jack-up points
6-4In case of emergency

•Never use blocks on or under the jack.
•Do not start or run the engine while the ve-
hicle is on the jack. The vehicle may move
suddenly, and this may cause an accident.
•Never allow passengers to stay in the vehicle
while it is on the jack.
•Remove all loads before lifting the vehicle with
the jack.
•Make sure to block the wheel diagonally op-
posite the flat tyre as described earlier in this
section.
CAUTION
The jack should be used on firm, level ground.
1. Place the jack directly under the jack-up point as
illustrated so that the top of the jack contacts the
vehicle at the jack-up point.
2. Align the centre of both the jack head and the
protrusion at the jack-up point as shown.
3. Fit the protrusion of the vehicle in the groove of
the jack head as shown.4. Loosen each wheel bolt by one or two turns
anticlockwise with the wheel wrench.
Do not remove the wheel bolts until the tyre is
off the ground.
Models with wheel lock bolt (where fitted):
If the wheel is equipped with a wheel lock bolt,
insert the wheel lock key
j1 and loosen it as pre-
viously described.
The wheel lock bolt can only be removed with the
wheel lock key. A key number is necessary if you
need to duplicate the wheel lock key.
Record the key number as shown on the key
code card on the “Security information” page at
the end of this manual and keep it in a safe place,
not in the vehicle. If you loose the wheel lock key,
see your NISSAN dealer for a duplicate with the
original wheel lock key code.5. To lift the vehicle, securely hold and turn the
handle clockwise as shown.
6. Carefully raise the vehicle until the tyre clears the
ground.
7. Remove the wheel bolts, then remove the wheel
with the flat tyre.
NCE143Z
NCE318
In case of emergency6-5

CAUTION
The wheel is heavy. Be sure that your feet are
clear of the wheel and use gloves as necessary
to avoid injury.
A.Tighten
B.Loosen
Installing the wheel
WARNING
•The temporary use spare tyre is designed for
emergency use. See “Spare tyre” earlier in
this section.
•Never use wheel bolts that were not provided
with your vehicle. Incorrect wheel bolts or im-
properly tightened wheel bolts may cause the
wheel to become loose or come off. This
could cause an accident.
•Never use oil or grease on the wheel bolts.
This may cause the wheel bolts to become
loose.
1. Clean any mud or dirt from the surface between
the wheel and the hub.
2. Carefully fit the wheel and tighten the wheel bolts
with your fingers.
Models with wheel lock bolt (where fitted):
Insert the wheel lock key into the wheel lock bolt
and tighten into the wheel finger tight.
3. With the wheel wrench, tighten the wheel bolts
alternately and evenly in the sequence as illus-
trated (
j1-j4 ) until they are tight.
4. Lower the vehicle slowly until the tyre touches
the ground.
5. Tighten the wheel bolts securely using the wheel
wrench in the sequence as illustrated.
6. Lower the vehicle completely.
7. Install the wheel cover (where fitted).
NOTE
Before installation, align NISSAN logo (centre
cap) with bolt holes or perpendicular to valve
hole (where fitted), to correctly align to the
centre.
As soon as possible, tighten the wheel bolts to
the specified torque with a torque wrench.Wheel bolt tightening torque:
105 N•m (11 kg-m, 77 ft-lb)
WARNING
Retighten the wheel bolts after the vehicle has
been driven for 1,000 km (600 miles) (also in
cases of a flat tyre, etc.).
The wheel bolts must be kept tightened to specifi-
cation at all times. It is recommended that the wheel
bolts be tightened to specification at each mainte-
nance interval.
Adjust the tyre pressure to the COLD pressure.
COLD pressure is the tyre pressure as measured
after the vehicle has been parked for three hours or
more or driven for less than 1.6 km (1 mile).
COLD tyre pressures are shown on the tyre placard
affixed to the driver’s side centre pillar.
Stowing the wheel and tools
WARNING
Always make sure that the wheel, jack and tools
are properly stored after each use. Such items
can become dangerous projectiles in an acci-
dent or sudden stop.
1. Securely store the tools, wheel with the flat tyre
and jack in the designated location of the lug-
gage compartment.
NCE198Z
6-6In case of emergency