Black plate (317,1)
[ Edit: 2012/ 4/ 11 Model: Z34-D ]
GUID-E006F8EB-AB14-4983-8267-C797B0E3C4BFFREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCKGUID-EE112D0C-BBDD-4077-8BA9-53541B872015To prevent a door lock from freezing, apply
deicer through the key hole. If the lock becomes
frozen, heat the key before inserting it into the
key hole or use the Intelligent Key system.
ANTIFREEZEGUID-C6044260-21E7-40A7-BEB0-7FF96E7A3938In the winter when it is anticipated that the
outside temperature will drop below 328F (08C) ,
check antifreeze to assure proper winter protec-
tion. For additional information, see “Engine
cooling system” (P.8-9).
BATTERYGUID-4EB718E1-BF81-46F0-8027-6F5A99E09969If the battery is not fully charged during
extremely cold weather conditions, the battery
fluid may freeze and damage the battery. To
maintain maximum efficiency, the battery should
be checked regularly. For additional information,
see “Battery” (P.8-16) .
DRAINING OF COOLANT WATERGUID-1383667C-4F22-4E77-90AC-F8D09E3B847AIf the vehicle is to be left outside without
antifreeze, drain the cooling system, including
the engine block. Refill before operating the
vehicle. For details, see “Engine cooling system”
(P.8-9) .
TIRE EQUIPMENTGUID-ED78C8A3-07DD-4857-A808-AB61C42A0B88SUMMER tires have a tread designed to provide
superior performance on dry pavement. How-
ever, the performance of these tires will be
substantially reduced in snowy and icy condi-
tions. If you operate your vehicle on snowy or icy
roads, NISSAN recommends the use of MUD &
SNOW or ALL SEASON tires on all four wheels.
Consult a NISSAN dealer for the tire type, size,
speed rating and availability information.
For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tires may be used. However, some U.S. states
and Canadian provinces prohibit their use.
Check local, state and provincial laws before
installing studded tires.
Skid and traction capabilities of studded
snow tires, on wet or dry surfaces, may be
poorer than that of non-studded snow
tires.
Tire chains may be used. For details, see “Tire
chains” (P.8-37) of this manual.
SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENTGUID-FFCFD728-8757-4ED4-B2B8-5725E4F7B286It is recommended that the following items be
carried in the vehicle during winter:
.A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove
ice and snow from the windows and wiper
blades. .
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 window washer fluid to refill the
reservoir tank.
DRIVING ON SNOW OR ICEGUID-32C999F5-3E37-4462-A88C-8A1D1D2A89DA
WARNING
.Wet ice (328F, 08C and freezing rain) ,
very cold snow or ice can be slick
and very hard to drive on. The
vehicle will have much less traction
or “grip” under these conditions. Try
to avoid driving on wet ice until the
road is salted or sanded.
. Whatever the condition, drive with
caution. Accelerate and slow down
with care. If accelerating or down-
shifting too fast, the drive wheels
will lose even more traction.
. Allow more stopping distance under
these conditions. Braking should be
started sooner than on dry pave-
ment.
. Allow greater following distances
on slippery roads.
Starting and driving5-31
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
Black plate (332,1)
[ Edit: 2012/ 4/ 11 Model: Z34-D ]
6-14In case of emergency
GUID-D87B8FF4-DC27-4115-BE92-EC758FBEFA20To start your engine with a booster battery, the
instructions and precautions below must be
followed.
WARNING
.If done incorrectly, jump starting
can lead to a battery explosion,
resulting in severe injury or death.
It could also damage your vehicle.
. Explosive hydrogen gas is always
present in the vicinity of the battery.
Keep all sparks and flames away
from the battery.
. Do not allow battery fluid to come
into contact with eyes, skin, clothing
or painted surfaces. Battery fluid is
a corrosive sulphuric acid solution
which can cause severe burns. If the
fluid should come into contact with
anything, immediately flush the con-
tacted area with water.
. Keep the battery out of the reach of
children.
. The booster battery must be rated at
12 volts. Use of an improperly rated
battery can damage your vehicle. .
Whenever working on or near a
battery, always wear suitable eye
protectors (for example, goggles or
industrial safety spectacles) and
remove rings, metal bands, or any
other jewelry. Do not lean over the
battery when jump starting.
. Do not attempt to jump start a
frozen battery. It could explode
and cause serious injury.
. Your vehicle has an automatic en-
gine cooling fan. It could come on at
any time. Keep hands and other
objects away from it.
JUMP STARTING
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[ Edit: 2012/ 4/ 11 Model: Z34-D ]
SCE0791
WARNING
Always follow the instructions below.
Failure to do so could result in damage
to the charging system and cause
personal injury.
1. If the booster battery is in another vehicle
*A, position the two vehicles (*Aand*B)
to bring their batteries into close proximity to
each other.
Do not allow the two vehicles to touch. 2. Apply parking brake. Move the selector lever
to the P (Park) position (Automatic transmis-
sion models). Move the shift lever to the N
(Neutral) position (Manual transmission
models) . Switch off all unnecessary elec-
trical systems (light, heater, air conditioner,
etc.).
3. Remove vent caps on the battery (if so equipped) . Cover the battery with a firmly
wrung out moist cloth*Cto reduce
explosion hazard.
4. Connect jumper cables in the sequence as illustrated (
*1?*2?*3?*4) .
CAUTION
.Always connect positive (+) to posi-
tive (+) and negative (−) to body
ground (as illustrated) — not to the
battery.
. Make sure the jumper cables do not
touch moving parts in the engine
compartment and that clamps do
not contact any other metal.
5. Start the engine of the booster vehicle
*A
and let it run for a few minutes.
6. Keep the engine speed of the booster
vehicle
*Aat about 2,000 rpm, and start
the engine of the vehicle being jump started
*B.
CAUTION
Do not keep the starter motor engaged
for more than 10 seconds. If the engine
does not start right away, push the
ignition switch to the OFF position
and wait 10 seconds before trying
again.
In case of emergency6-15
Black plate (334,1)
[ Edit: 2012/ 4/ 11 Model: Z34-D ]
6-16In case of emergency
7. After starting your engine, carefully discon-nect the negative cable and then the positive
cable (
*4?*3?*2?*1) .
8. Replace the vent caps (if so equipped). Be sure to dispose of the cloth used to cover
the vent holes as it may be contaminated
with corrosive acid.
9. Put the battery cover on.
GUID-E11D40BA-8C48-4BF2-9C65-4736439851E6Do not attempt to start the engine by pushing.
CAUTION
. Automatic transmission models
cannot be push-started or tow-
started. Attempting to do so may
cause transmission damage.
. Three way catalyst equipped models
should not be started by pushing
since the three way catalyst may be
damaged.
. Never try to start the vehicle by
towing it; when the engine starts,
the forward surge could cause the
vehicle to collide with the tow
vehicle.
GUID-DC895B76-A74E-4040-9622-94CA1A87B215
CAUTION
.Do not continue to drive if your
vehicle overheats. Doing so could
cause engine damage or a vehicle
fire.
. To avoid the danger of being
scalded, never remove the radiator
cap while the engine is still hot.
When the radiator cap is removed,
pressurized hot water will spurt out,
possibly causing serious injury.
. Do not open the hood if steam is
coming out.
If your vehicle is overheating (indicated by an
extremely high temperature gauge reading) , or if
you feel a lack of engine power, detect abnormal
noise, etc., take the following steps:
1. Move the vehicle safely off the road, apply the parking brake and move the selector
lever to the P (Park) position (Automatic
transmission models). Move the shift lever to
the N (Neutral) position (Manual transmis-
sion models) .
Do not stop the engine.
PUSH STARTING IF YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS
Black plate (349,1)
[ Edit: 2012/ 4/ 11 Model: Z34-D ]
8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Maintenance requirement...
........................................................ 8-3
Scheduled maintenance ...
.................................................... 8-3
General maintenance ...
......................................................... 8-3
Where to go for service ...
.................................................... 8-3
General maintenance ...
............................................................... 8-3
Explanation of maintenance items ...
................................... 8-3
Maintenance precautions ...
........................................................ 8-6
Engine compartment check locations ...
.................................. 8-8
VQ37VHR engine model ...
.................................................. 8-8
Engine cooling system ...
............................................................. 8-9
Checking engine coolant level ...
...................................... 8-10
Changing engine coolant ...
............................................... 8-10
Engine oil ...
........................................................................\
......... 8-11
Checking engine oil level ...
............................................... 8-11
Changing engine oil and filter ...
....................................... 8-11
Automatic transmission fluid ...
............................................... 8-13
Power steering fluid ...
............................................................... 8-13
Brake and clutch fluid ...
........................................................... 8-14
Brake fluid ...
........................................................................\
.. 8-14
Clutch fluid (Manual transmission models) ...
............... 8-15
Window washer fluid ...
............................................................ 8-15
Battery ...
........................................................................\
............... 8-16
Jump starting ...
..................................................................... 8-18 Variable voltage control system
...
......................................... 8-18
Drive belts ...
........................................................................\
....... 8-19
Spark plugs ...
........................................................................\
..... 8-19
Replacing spark plugs ...
.................................................. 8-20
Air cleaner ...
........................................................................\
....... 8-20
Windshield wiper blades ...
..................................................... 8-21
Cleaning ...
........................................................................\
... 8-21
Replacing ...
........................................................................\
. 8-21
Brakes ...
........................................................................\
.............. 8-22
Self-adjusting brakes ...
.................................................... 8-22
Brake pad wear warning ...
.............................................. 8-22
Fuses ...
........................................................................\
................ 8-23
Engine compartment ...
..................................................... 8-23
Passenger compartment ...
.............................................. 8-24
Intelligent Key battery replacement ...
................................... 8-25
Lights ...
........................................................................\
................ 8-27
Coupe ...
........................................................................\
....... 8-27
Roadster ...
........................................................................\
... 8-28
Headlights ...
........................................................................\
8-29
Exterior and interior lights ...
............................................ 8-29
Wheels and tires ...
................................................................... 8-31
Tire pressure ...
................................................................... 8-31
Tire labeling ...
..................................................................... 8-34
Black plate (353,1)
[ Edit: 2012/ 4/ 11 Model: Z34-D ]
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 vehicleGUID-D0B58847-013F-491F-B263-6B869D9C88DDThe 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.
NOTE:
Care should be taken to avoid situations
that can lead to potential battery discharge
and potential no-start conditions such as:
1. Installation or extended use of electro-
nic accessories that consume battery
power when the engine is not running
(Phone chargers, GPS, DVD players,
etc.)
2. Vehicle is not driven regularly and/or
only driven short distances. In these cases, the battery may need to be
charged to maintain battery health.
Brake and clutch fluid levels*:
Make sure
that the brake and clutch fluid levels are
between the MAX and MIN lines on the
reservoirs.
Engine coolant level*: Check the coolant level
when the engine is cold.
Engine drive belts*: Make sure that no belt is
frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*: Check the level after parking
the vehicle on a level spot and turning off the
engine. Wait more than 15 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” (P.5-2)
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 fuel fumes are evident,
check for the cause and have it corrected
immediately. Power steering fluid level* and lines:
Check
the level 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” (P.7-2).
Windshield washer fluid*: Check that there is
adequate fluid in the reservoir.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-5
Black plate (354,1)
[ Edit: 2012/ 4/ 11 Model: Z34-D ]
8-6Maintenance and do-it-yourself
GUID-AC78F4C5-074B-4FD0-8070-61F7D0EF17ACWhen performing any inspection or mainte-
nance work on your vehicle, always take care
to prevent serious accidental injury to yourself or
damage to the vehicle. The following are general
precautions which should be closely observed.
WARNING
.Park the vehicle on a level surface,
apply the parking brake securely
and block the wheels to prevent
the vehicle from moving. For man-
ual transmission models, move the
shift lever to N (Neutral) . For auto-
matic transmission models, move
the selector lever to P (Park) .
. Be sure the ignition switch is in the
OFF or LOCK position when per-
forming any parts replacement or
repairs.
. Never connect or disconnect the
battery or any transistorized com-
ponent while the ignition switch is
in the ON position.
. Never leave the engine or automatic
transmission related component
harnesses disconnected while the
ignition switch is in the ON position. .
If you must work with the engine
running, 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 when-
ever you work on your vehicle.
. If you must run the engine in an
enclosed 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
necessary to work under the vehicle,
support it with safety stands.
. Keep smoking materials, flame and
sparks away from fuel tank and the
battery.
. Your vehicle is equipped with an
automatic engine cooling fan. It may
come on at any time without warn-
ing, even if the ignition key is in the
OFF position and the engine is not
running. To avoid injury, always disconnect the negative battery
cable before working near the fan.
. The fuel filter or fuel lines should be
serviced by a NISSAN dealer be-
cause 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 direct contact with used en-
gine oil and coolant. Improperly
disposed engine oil, coolant, and/
or other vehicle fluids can damage
the environment. Always conform to
local regulations for disposal of
vehicle fluid.
This “8. 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
available. (See “Owner’s Manual/Service Man-
ual order information” (P.9-25).)
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
Black plate (356,1)
[ Edit: 2012/ 4/ 11 Model: Z34-D ]
8-8Maintenance and do-it-yourself
GUID-7EA2D50B-7A0C-4012-9C54-7BD3CF10A3D8
JVM0086X
VQ37VHR ENGINE MODELGUID-E1841C16-4100-4792-B654-1F167FCA4F2B1. Fuse/fusible link holder
2. Battery
3. Radiator filler cap
4. Engine oil dipstick
5. Engine oil filler cap
6. Brake fluid reservoir7.
Clutch fluid reservoir (Manual Transmission
models)
8. Power steering fluid reservoir
9. Window washer fluid reservoir
10 Air cleaner
11. Drive belt location 12. Engine coolant reservoir
ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS