2012 NISSAN VERSA HATCHBACK coolant level

CAUTION
Running the engine with the engine oil
pressure warning light on could cause se-
rious damage to the engine almost imme-
diately. Such damage is not covered by
warranty. Turn off the engine as soon as it
is safe to do so.
High temperature warning light(red)
When the ignition switch is placed in the ON
position, the high temperature warning light illu-
minates and then turns off. This indicates that the
high temperature sensor in the engine coolant
system is operational.
CAUTION
If the high temperature warning light illu-
minates while the engine is running, it
may indicate the engine temperature is
extremely high. Stop the vehicle safely as
soon as possible. If the vehicle is over-
heated, continuing vehicle operation may
seriously damage the engine. See “If your
vehicle overheats” in the “In case of emer-
gency” section.
Low fuel warning light
This light comes on when the fuel level in the fuel
tank is getting low. Refuel as soon as it is conve-
nient, preferably before the fuel gauge reaches E
(Empty) . There will be a small reserve of fuel
in the tank when the fuel gauge needle
reaches E (Empty) .
Low tire pressure warning light
(if so equipped)
Your vehicle is equipped with a Tire Pressure
Monitoring System (TPMS) that monitors the tire
pressure of all tires except the spare.
The low tire pressure warning light warns of low
tire pressure or indicates that the TPMS is not
functioning properly.
After the ignition switch is placed in the ON
position, this light illuminates for about 1 second
and turns off.
Low tire pressure warning:
If the vehicle is being driven with low tire
pressure, the warning light will illuminate.
When the low tire pressure warning light
illuminates, you should stop and adjust the
tire pressure of all 4 tires to the recom-
mended COLD tire pressure shown on the Tire and Loading Information label located
in the driver’s door opening. The low tire
pressure warning light does not automati-
cally turn off when the tire pressure is ad-
justed. After the tire is inflated to the rec-
ommended pressure, the vehicle must be
driven at speeds above 16 MPH (25 km/h)
to activate the TPMS and turn off the low
tire pressure warning light. Use a tire pres-
sure gauge to check the tire pressure.
For additional information, see “Tire Pressure
Monitoring System (TPMS)” in the “Starting and
driving” section and in the “In case of emergency”
section.
TPMS malfunction:
If the TPMS is not functioning properly, the low
tire pressure warning light will flash for approxi-
mately 1 minute when the ignition switch is
placed in the ON position. The light will remain on
after the 1 minute. Have the system checked by a
NISSAN dealer.
For additional information, see “Tire Pressure
Monitoring System (TPMS)” in the “Starting and
driving” section and “Tire pressure” in the “Main-
tenance and do-it-yourself” section.
2-10Instruments and controls

6. After the engine cools down, check the cool-ant level in the engine coolant reservoir tank
with the engine running. Add coolant to the
engine coolant reservoir tank if necessary.
Have your vehicle repaired at a NISSAN
dealer. When towing your vehicle, all State (Provincial in
Canada) and local regulations for towing must be
followed. Incorrect towing equipment could dam-
age your vehicle. Towing instructions are avail-
able from a NISSAN dealer. Local service opera-
tors are generally familiar with the applicable laws
and procedures for towing. To assure proper
towing and to prevent accidental damage to your
vehicle, NISSAN recommends having a service
operator tow your vehicle. It is advisable to have
the service operator carefully read the following
precautions:
WARNING
●
Never ride in a vehicle that is being
towed.
● Never get under your vehicle after it has
been lifted by a tow truck.
CAUTION
● When towing, make sure that the trans-
mission, axles, steering system and
powertrain are in working condition. If
any of these conditions apply, dollies or
a flatbed tow truck must be used.
● Always attach safety chains before
towing. For information about towing your vehicle behind
a recreational vehicle (RV) , refer to “Flat towing”
in the “Technical and consumer information” sec-
tion of this manual.
TOWING YOUR VEHICLE
6-10In case of emergency

8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Maintenance requirements..........................8-2
General maintenance ..............................8-2
Explanation of general maintenance items .........8-2
Maintenance precautions ...........................8-5
Engine compartment check locations ................8-6
Engine cooling system .............................8-7
Checking engine coolant level ...................8-8
Changing engine coolant ........................8-8
Engine oil .........................................8-9
Checking engine oil level ........................8-9
Changing engine oil ........................... 8-10
Changing engine oil filter .......................8-11
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) fluid
(if so equipped) .................................. 8-11
4-speed automatic transmission fluid
(if so equipped) .................................. 8-12
Temperature conditions for checking . ............8-12
Brake and clutch (if so equipped) fluid ..............8-13
Brake fluid .................................... 8-14
Clutch fluid (if so equipped) ....................8-14
Windshield-washer fluid ........................... 8-14
Windshield-washer fluid reservoir ...............8-14
Battery .......................................... 8-15Jump starting
................................. 8-16
Drive belt ........................................ 8-17
Spark plugs ...................................... 8-17
Replacing spark plugs ......................... 8-17
Air cleaner ....................................... 8-18
Windshield wiper blades .......................... 8-19
Cleaning ..................................... 8-19
Replacing .................................... 8-19
Brakes .......................................... 8-20
Fuses ........................................... 8-21
Engine compartment ........................... 8-22
Passenger compartment .......................8-23
Battery replacement .............................. 8-25
Keyfob (if so equipped) ........................ 8-26
NISSAN Intelligent Key™ (if so equipped) ........8-27
Lights ........................................... 8-28
Headlights .................................... 8-28
Exterior

and interior lights ....................... 8-29
Wheels and tires ................................. 8-32
Tire pressure . . . ............................... 8-32
Tire labeling ................................... 8-35
Types of tires .................................. 8-38
Tire chains .................................... 8-39
Changing wheels and tires .....................8-39

Seat beltsCheck that all parts of the seat belt
system (for example, buckles, anchors, adjusters
and retractors) operate properly and smoothly,
and are installed securely. Check the belt web-
bing for cuts, fraying, wear or damage.
Steering wheel Check for changes in the steer-
ing system, such as excessive freeplay, hard
steering or strange noises.
Warning lights and chimes Make sure all
warning lights and chimes are operating properly.
Windshield wiper and washer* Check that
the wipers and washer operate properly and that
the wipers do not streak.
Windshield defroster Check that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly and in
sufficient quantity when operating the heater or
air conditioner.
Under the hood and vehicle
The 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. Ve-
hicles operated in high temperatures or under
severe conditions require frequent checks of the
battery fluid level. Brake and clutch (if so equipped) fluid lev-
els*
Make sure that the brake and clutch fluid
level is between the MIN and MAX lines on the
reservoir.
Engine coolant level* Check the coolant level
when the engine is cold.
Engine drive belts* Make sure the drive belts
are not frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level* Check the level after parking
the vehicle on a level surface with the engine off.
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 the
carbon monoxide warning in the “Starting and
driving” section of this manual.
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 (if so equipped) after use is nor-
mal. If you should notice any leaks or if gasoline
fumes are evident, check for the cause and have
it corrected immediately. 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 from the
underbody, otherwise rust may form on the floor
pan, frame, fuel lines and exhaust system. At the
end of winter, the underbody should be thor-
oughly flushed with plain water, in those areas
where mud and dirt may have accumulated. See
the “Appearance and care” section of this
manual.
Windshield–washer fluid* Check that there is
adequate fluid in the reservoir.
8-4Maintenance and do-it-yourself

When performing any inspection or maintenance
work on your vehicle, always take care to prevent
serious accidental injury to yourself or damage to
the vehicle. The following are general precau-
tions which should be closely observed.
WARNING
●Park the vehicle on a level surface, ap-
ply the parking brake securely and
block the wheels to prevent the vehicle
from moving. For manual transmission
models, move the shift selector to N
(Neutral) . For Automatic Transmission
(A/T) or CVT models, move the shift
selector to P (Park) .
●
Be sure the ignition switch is placed in
the OFF or LOCK position when perform-
ing any parts replacement or repairs.
●Your vehicle is equipped with an automatic
engine cooling fan. It may come on at any
time without warning, even if the ignition
switch is placed in the OFF position and
the engine is not running. To avoid injury,
always disconnect the negative battery
cable before working near the fan.
● If you must work with the engine run-
ning, keep your hands, clothing, hair
and tools away from moving fans, belts
and any other moving parts. ●
It is advisable to secure or remove any
loose clothing and remove any jewelry,
such as rings, watches, etc. before
working on your vehicle.
● Always wear eye protection whenever
you work on your vehicle.
● If you must run the engine in an en-
closed space such as a garage, be sure
there is proper ventilation for exhaust
gases to escape.
● Never get under the vehicle while it is
supported only by a jack. If it is neces-
sary to work under the vehicle, support
it with safety stands.
● Keep smoking materials, flame and
sparks away from the fuel tank and
battery.
● On gasoline engine models, the fuel
filter or fuel lines should be serviced by
a NISSAN dealer because the fuel lines
are under high pressure even when the
engine is off.CAUTION
● Do not work under the hood while the
engine is hot. Turn the engine off and
wait until it cools down. ●
Avoid contact with used engine oil and
coolant. Improperly disposed engine
oil, engine coolant and/or other vehicle
fluids can damage the environment. Al-
ways conform to local regulations for
disposal of vehicle fluid.
● Never leave the engine or the transmis-
sion related component harness con-
nector disconnected while the ignition
switch is in the ON position.
● Never connect or disconnect the battery
or any transistorized component while
the ignition switch is in the ON position.
This “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section
gives instructions regarding only those items
which are relatively easy for an owner to perform.
A genuine NISSAN service manual is also avail-
able. See “Owner’s Manual/Service Manual or-
der information” in the “Technical and consumer
information” section of this manual.
You should be aware that incomplete or improper
servicing may result in operating difficulties or
excessive emissions, and could affect warranty
coverage. If in doubt about any servicing,
have it done by a NISSAN dealer.
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-5

CHECKING ENGINE COOLANT
LEVEL
Check the coolant levelin the reservoir when
the engine is cold. If the coolant level is below
the MIN level
2, add coolant to the MAX level
1. If the reservoir is empty, check the coolant
level in the radiator when the engine is cold. If
there is insufficient coolant in the radiator, fill the
radiator with coolant up to the filler opening and
also add it to the reservoir up to the MAX level
1. This vehicle contains Genuine NISSAN Long Life
Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) . The life expectancy of
the factory-fill coolant is 105,000 miles (168,000
km) or 7 years. Mixing any other type of coolant or
the use of non-distilled water will reduce the life
expectancy of the factory-fill coolant. Refer to the
NISSAN Service and Maintenance Guide for
more details.
If the cooling system frequently requires
coolant, have it checked by a NISSAN
dealer.
CHANGING ENGINE COOLANT
A NISSAN dealer can change the engine coolant.
The service procedure can be found in the
NISSAN Service Manual.
Improper servicing can result in reduced
heater performance and engine overheat-
ing.
WARNING
●
To avoid the danger of being scalded,
never change the coolant when the en-
gine is hot.
● Never remove the radiator cap when the
engine is hot. Serious burns could be
caused by high pressure fluid escaping
from the radiator. ●
Avoid direct skin contact with used
coolant. If skin contact is made, wash
thoroughly with soap or hand cleaner
as soon as possible.
● Keep coolant out of the reach of chil-
dren and pets.
Engine coolant must be disposed of properly.
Check your local regulations.
SDI1860
8-8Maintenance and do-it-yourself

Recommended fluid is Genuine NISSAN
Windshield-Washer Fluid Concentrate Cleaner
& Anti-freeze or equivalent.
CAUTION
●Do not substitute engine anti-freeze
coolant for windshield-washer solution.
This may result in damage to the paint.
● Do not fill the windshield-washer fluid
reservoir with washer fluid concen-
trates at full strength. Some methyl al-
cohol based washer fluid concentrates
may permanently stain the grille if
spilled while filling the windshield-
washer fluid reservoir.
● Pre-mix windshield-washer fluid con-
centrates with water to the manufactur-
er’s recommended levels before pour-
ing the fluid into the windshield-washer
fluid reservoir. Do not use the
windshield-washer fluid reservoir to
mix the washer fluid concentrate and
water. ●
Keep the battery surface clean and dry.
Clean the battery with a solution of baking
soda and water.
● Make certain the terminal connections are
clean and securely tightened.
● If the vehicle is not to be used for 30 days or
longer, disconnect the negative (-) battery
terminal cable to prevent discharge.
WARNING
● Do not expose the battery to electrical
sparks, flames or smoking. Hydrogen
gas generated by the battery is explo-
sive. Explosive gases can cause blind-
ness or injury. Do not allow battery fluid
to contact your skin, eyes, fabrics or
painted surfaces. Sulfuric acid can
cause blindness or severe burns. After
touching a battery or battery cap, do not
touch or rub your eyes. Thoroughly
wash your hands. If the acid contacts
your eyes, skin or clothing, immediately
flush with water for at least 15 minutes
and seek medical attention. ●
Do not operate the vehicle if the fluid in
the battery is low. Low battery fluid can
cause a higher load on the battery
which can generate heat, reduce bat-
tery life, and in some cases lead to an
explosion.
● When working on or near a battery, al-
ways wear suitable eye protection and
remove all jewelry.
● Do not tip the battery. Keep the vent
caps tight and the battery level.
● Battery posts, terminals and related ac-
cessories contain lead and lead com-
pounds. Wash hands after handling.
● Keep battery out of the reach of
children.
BATTERY
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-15

The following are approximate capacities. The actual refill capacities may be slightly different. When refilling, follow the procedure
described in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section to determine the proper refill capacity.
Capacity (Approximate)
U.S. measure Imp. measure Liter Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
Fuel 13-1/4 gal 11 gal 50.0 See “Fuel recommendation” later in this section.
Engine oil (drain and refill) *6 With oil
filter
change 3-3/8 qt 2-7/8 qt 3.2
Genuine NISSAN engine oil *1
API grade SM *1
ILSAC grade GF-4 *1
Viscosity SAE 5W-30 *1
Without
oil filter
change 3-1/8 qt 2-5/8 qt 3.0
Cooling system (with reservoir) 1-3/4 gal 1-1/2 gal 6.8 Genuine NISSAN Engine Coolant or equivalent in its quality *2
Manual transmission gear oil — —
—Genuine NISSAN Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) HQ Multi
75W-85, or equivalent *3
Automatic transmission fluid Refill to the proper level according to the instruc-
tions in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself”
section. *7 Genuine NISSAN Matic S ATF *4
Brake and clutch (if so equipped) fluid Genuine NISSAN Brake Fluid or equivalent DOT 3.
Multi-purpose grease ———NLGI No. 2 (Lithium soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerant (if so equipped) ———HFC-134a (R-134a) *5
Air conditioning system oil (if so equipped) ———Genuine NISSAN A/C System Oil Type R or equivalent *5
Windshield-washer fluid 1-1/4 gal 1 gal4.5Genuine NISSAN Windshield Washer Concentrate Cleaner & Anti-
freeze or equivalent
*1: For further details, see “Recommended SAE viscosity number” in this section.
*2: Use Genuine NISSAN Engine Coolant or equivalent in its quality, in order to avoid possible aluminum corrosion within the engine cooling system caused by the use of non-genuine engine coolant. Note that any repairs for 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.
*3: If Genuine NISSAN Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) is not available, API GL-4, Viscosity SAE 75W-85 may be used as a temporary replacement. However, use Genuine NISSAN Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) as soon as possible.
*4: Using automatic transmission fluid other than Genuine NISSAN Matic S ATF will cause deterioration in driveability and automatic transmission durability, and may damage the auto- matic transmission, which is not covered by the warranty.
*5: For further details, see “Air conditioner system (if so equipped) refrigerant and oil recommendations” in this section.
*6: For further details, see “Engine oil” in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section of this manual.
*7 : See your NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop for service.
CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED
FUEL/LUBRICANTS
9-2Technical and consumer information