2012 NISSAN QASHQAI Chain

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine Operating precautions ........................................ 5-35
Tyre pressure ..................................................... 5-36
Safety chains ...................................................... 5-36
Trailer brakes...................................................... 5-36
Trailer detection (where fitted) ............................ 5-36
Installation of coupling device ............................. 5-36
Vehicle security........................................................ 5-38
Power steering system............................................. 5-38
Brake system ........................................................... 5-39 Brake precautions .............................................. 5-39
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).......................... 5-39 Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) system
(where fitted) ........................................................... 5-40
Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) OFF
switch................................................................. 5-42
Cold weather driving................................................ 5-42 Battery ............................................................... 5-43
Engine coolant .................................................... 5-43
Tyre equipment ................................................... 5-43
Special winter equipment.................................... 5-43
Corrosion protection ........................................... 5-43

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine Unsecured cargo can be thrown around when
driving over rough terrain. Properly secure it so
that it will not be thrown forwards and cause
injury to you or your passengers.
To avoid raising the centre of gravity excessively,
do not exceed the rated capacity of the roof rack/
gear bin (where fitted) and evenly distribute the
load. Secure heavy loads in the luggage area as
far forwards and as low as possible. Do not equip
the vehicle with tyres larger than specified. This
could cause your vehicle to rollover.
Accelerating quickly, sharp steering manoeuvres
or sudden braking may cause loss of control.
Do not drive beyond the performance of the
tyres, even with 4WD. Sudden acceleration,
steering or braking may result in loss of control
and could cause the vehicle to become stuck.
If at all possible, avoid sharp turning manoeuvres,
particularly at high speeds. Your 4WD vehicle
has a higher centre of gravity than a 2WD ve-
hicle and can tip over more easily. The vehicle is
not designed for cornering at the same speeds
as conventional 2WD models any more than low
sports cars are designed to perform satisfacto-
rily under off-road conditions. Failure to operate
this vehicle correctly could result in loss of con-
trol and/or a rollover accident.
Do not grip the inside or spokes of the steering
wheel when driving off-road. The steering wheel
could jerk and injure your hands. Instead, drive
with your fingers and thumbs on the outside of
the rim.
Before operating the vehicle, ensure that the
driver and all passengers have their seat belts
fastened.
Avoid raising the centre of gravity by loading
things on the roof or equipping the vehicle with
tyres larger than specified in this manual.
Always drive with the floor mats in place as the
floor may become very hot. Particular care
should be taken if you are barefoot.
Lower your speed when encountering strong
crosswinds. With its higher centre of gravity your
NISSAN is more affected by gusty side winds.
Slower speeds ensure better vehicle control.
Be sure to check the brakes immediately after
driving in mud or water as specified in “Wet
brakes” later in this section.
Whenever you drive off-road through sand, mud
or water as deep as the wheel hub, more fre-
quent maintenance may be required. For details,
refer to the separately provided Warranty Infor-
mation and Maintenance Booklet.
Rinse the underside of the vehicle with fresh
water after driving through mud or sand. Re-
move any brush or sticks that are trapped.
Install the same size of winter tyres on all four (4)
wheels (such as studless tyres) or install snow
chains to the front wheels when driving on slip-
pery roads (e.g. after a snowfall) and drive care-
fully using 4WD.
Avoid parking your vehicle on steep hills. If you
get out of the vehicle and it rolls forwards, back-
wards or sideways, you could be injured.
5-28Starting and driving

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine When parked on a sloping driveway, turn the
wheels so the vehicle will not roll into the street
in case it moves.
FACING DOWNHILL:j1
Turn the wheels into the kerb, allow the vehicle
to move forward until the kerb side wheel gently
touches the kerb. Then set the handbrake.
FACING UPHILL:j2
Turn the wheels away from the kerb and allow
the vehicle to move back until the kerb side wheel
gently touches the kerb. Then set the handbrake.
NO KERB — FACING DOWNHILL OR UPHILL:j3
Turn the wheels toward the side of the road so
the vehicle will move away from the centre of the
road if it moves. Then set the handbrake.
Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position
and remove the key/Intelligent Key (where fit-
ted).
Always turn off ignition after parking a vehicle
with Stop/Start System fitted to avoid a possible
flat battery.
NOTE
The Stop/Start System is designed to prevent
unnecessary fuel consumption, exhaust emis-
sions and noise during a journey. The Stop/
Start System does not automatically turn off
ignition at the end of a journey. Your new vehicle was designed to be used primarily
to carry passengers and luggage.
Remember that towing a trailer will place additional
loads on your vehicle’s engine, drive-train, steering,
braking and other systems. Towing a trailer will also
exaggerate other conditions, such as sway caused
by crosswinds, rough road surfaces or passing
trucks. Driving style and speed must be adjusted
according to the circumstances. Before towing a
trailer, see a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop
for an explanation of towing equipment and its
proper use.
OPERATING PRECAUTIONS
Avoid towing a trailer during the running-in
schedule.
Choose proper coupling devices (trailer hitch,
safety chain, roof carrier, etc.) for your vehicle
and trailer. These devices are available from a
NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop where you
can also obtain more detailed information about
trailer towing.
Heavy-duty kits are available at a NISSAN dealer
or qualified workshop.
It is advisable to contact a NISSAN dealer or
qualified workshop for towing details, before
towing a trailer up steep slopes for long dis-
tances.
Never allow the total trailer load (trailer weight
plus its cargo weight) to exceed the maximum
set for the coupling device. Contact a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop
for more information on this matter.
The trailer must be loaded so that heavy goods
are distributed over the axle and as low in the
trailer as possible. Poor load distribution can se-
riously affect the stability of the trailer and tow
vehicle.
Do not exceed the maximum permitted vertical
load on the trailer hitch.
Before driving, make sure that the lighting sys-
tem of the trailer works properly.
When towing with 4WD models, the 4WD mode
switch should be in the AUTO position. Using
the vehicle in AUTO mode gives better traction,
particularly when moving off from stationary and/
or on an incline, as the vehicle is less likely to
wheel spin.
Avoid abrupt starts, accelerations and stops.
Avoid sharp turns and lane changes.
Always drive your vehicle at a moderate speed.
Always block the wheels on both vehicle and
trailer when parking. Apply the handbrake (where
fitted) on the trailer. Parking on a steep slope is
not recommended.
If parking on a steep slope is unavoidable it is
also advisable to put the vehicle into gear, or
select P (Park (AT or CVT models), and turn the
front wheels into the kerb (in addition to the other
precautions described). Before parking on a
TRAILER TOWING
Starting and driving5-35

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine steep slope consider the incline (the towing
weights quoted are for a 12% slope).
Follow the trailer manufacturer’s instructions.
Have your vehicle serviced more often than at
the intervals specified in the separately provided
Warranty Information and Maintenance booklet.
Trailer towing requires more fuel than under nor-
mal circumstances because of a considerable
increase in traction power required and resis-
tance.
When towing a trailer, observe the following re-
stricted towing speed:
Speed: below 100 km/h (62 MPH)
CAUTION
While towing a trailer, check the engine coolant
temperature gauge regularly to prevent engine
overheating.
TYRE PRESSURE
When towing a trailer, inflate the vehicle tyres to the
maximum recommended COLD tyre pressure, as
indicated on the tyre placard (for full loading). Make
sure the trailer tyre pressures are correct.
CAUTION
Do not tow a trailer when the vehicle is installed
with a temporary-use spare tyre.
SAFETY CHAINS
Always use a suitable chain between the vehicle
and trailer. The chain should be attached to the hitch
and not to the vehicle bumper or axle. Be sure to
leave enough slack in the chain to permit turning
corners. The chain should not drag on the ground:
passing the chain across the trailer hitch may be the
best practice depending on your trailer.
TRAILER BRAKES
Ensure that trailer brakes are installed as required
by local regulations. Also check that all other trailer
equipment conforms to local regulations.
TRAILER DETECTION (where fitted)
When towing a trailer and the turn signal switch is
used, the electrical system of the vehicle will detect
an additional electrical load of the trailer lighting. As
a result, the trailer direction indicator light comes
on.
INSTALLATION OF COUPLING
DEVICE
NISSAN recommends that the coupling device for
trailer towing be installed under the following condi-
tions:
Maximum permissible vertical load on the cou-
pling device: 736 N (75 kg, 165 lb)
The coupling device, mounting points and instal-
lation parts on your vehicle: as shown as an ex-
ample in the illustration. Follow all of the coupling device manufacturer’s in-
structions for installation and use.
5-36Starting and driving

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine The brake system has two separate hydraulic cir-
cuits. If one circuit malfunctions, you will still have
braking ability with two wheels.
BRAKE PRECAUTIONS
Vacuum assisted brake
The brake booster aids braking by using engine
vacuum. If the engine stops or the drive belt is bro-
ken, you can stop the vehicle by depressing the
brake pedal. However, greater foot pressure on the
brake pedal will be required to stop the vehicle and
the stopping distance will be longer.
Wet brakes
When the vehicle is washed or driven through wa-
ter, the brakes may get wet. As a result, your brak-
ing distance will be longer and the vehicle may pull
to one side during braking.
To dry 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.
Using the brakes
Avoid resting your foot on the brake pedal while
driving. This will overheat the brakes, wear out the
brake linings and pads faster and reduce fuel
economy performance.
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 down-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 or CVT models) or
both the brake and clutch (MT models). Use the
handbrake to hold the vehicle. Do not slip the clutch
(MT models). When ready to start, slowly release
the handbrake while depressing the accelerator
pedal and releasing the clutch (MT models) or de-
pressing the accelerator pedal (AT or CVT 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 the AT or CVT models, a low gear position in
the manual shift mode, low enough to obtain suffi-
cient engine braking, 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 wheel
BRAKE SYSTEM
Starting and driving5-39

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine surface. 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.
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”
indicator light () may illuminate.
Do not modify the vehicle’s suspension. If
suspension parts, such as shock absorbers,
struts, springs, stabiliser 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” indi-
cator 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”
indicator light () may illuminate. Do not
drive on these types of roads. If ESP OFF indi-
cator light
does illuminate after driving
on extreme surfaces, restart the engine to re-
set 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”
indicator 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.
Starting and driving5-41

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 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
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 cleaned
periodically. 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.
Starting and driving5-43

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine TEMPORARY-USE SPARE TYRE
The temporary-use spare tyre is designed for emer-
gency use only. This spare tyre should be used
ONLY for very short periods and NEVER be used
for long drives or extended periods.
Observe the following precautions if the temporary-
use spare tyre must be used, otherwise your vehicle
could be damaged or involved in an accident.
WARNING
Any continuous road use of this tyre could result
in tyre failure, loss of vehicle control, and pos-
sible personal injury.
CAUTION
The temporary-use spare tyre should be used
only in emergencies. It should be replaced by
the standard tyre at the first opportunity.
Drive carefully and do not drive your vehicle
faster than 80 km/h (50 MPH).
Avoid driving over obstacles. Also, do not take
the vehicle through an automatic car wash.
Avoid driving sharp turns and abrupt braking.
Do not exceed the vehicle’s maximum load
rating or the load-carrying capacity molded
on the sidewall of the temporary-use spare
tyre.
Do not use a snow chain on this tyre because
it will not fit properly. This could cause dam-
age to the vehicle and result in loss of the
chain.
Do not use the temporary-use spare tyre on
any other vehicle because this tyre has been
designed specifically for your vehicle.
The vehicle must not be driven with more than
one temporary-use spare tyre at the same
time.
Do not tow a trailer.
As with all tyres, the temporary-use spare tyre
must be checked regularly to ensure pres-
sure is maintained.
For pressure details, see the tyre placard lo-
cated on the driver’s side centre pillar. In case of a flat tyre, follow the instructions as de-
scribed below:
STOPPING THE VEHICLE
WARNING
Make sure that the handbrake is securely ap-
plied.
For Manual Transmission (MT) models: Make
sure the gear lever is in the R (Reverse) posi-
tion.
For Automatic Transmission (AT) or Continu-
ously Variable Transmission (CVT) models:
Make sure that the selector lever is in the P
(Park) position.
Never change tyres when the vehicle is on a
slope, ice or a slippery area. This is hazard-
ous.
Never change tyres if oncoming traffic is close
to your vehicle. Wait for professional road as-
sistance.
1. Safely move the vehicle off the road, away from traffic.
2. Switch on the hazard warning flashers.
3. Park on a level surface.
4. Apply the handbrake.
5. Shift the gear lever (MT models) into the R (Re- verse) position [AT or CVT models, move the
selector lever to the P (Park) position].
NCE069Z
Temporary-use spare tyre label
SPARE TYRE FLAT TYRE
6-2In case of emergency