2013 NISSAN GT-R steering

The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system
uses various sensors to monitor driver inputs
and vehicle motion. Under certain driving con-
ditions, the VDC system helps to perform the
following functions.
.Controls brake pressure to reduce wheel
slip on one slipping drive wheel so power is
transferred to a non slipping drive wheel on
the same axle.
. Controls brake pressure and engine output
to reduce drive wheel slip based on vehicle
speed (traction control function) .
. Controls brake pressure at individual wheels
and engine output to help the driver maintain
control of the vehicle in the following
conditions:
— understeer (vehicle tends to not follow
the steered path despite increased
steering input)
— oversteer (vehicle tends to spin due to certain road or driving conditions) .
The VDC system can help the driver to maintain
control of the vehicle, but it cannot prevent loss
of vehicle control in all driving situations.
When the VDC system operates, the VDC
warning light
in the instrument panel flashes
so note the following: .
The road may be slippery or the system may
determine some action is required to help
keep the vehicle on the steered path.
. You may feel a pulsation in the brake pedal
and hear a noise or vibration from under the
hood. This is normal and indicates that the
VDC system is working properly.
. Adjust your speed and driving to the road
conditions.
. The VDC mode can be changed using the
VDC setup switch. (
“VDC, transmis-
sion and suspension setup switches” page
5-24)
(
“Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warning
light” page 2-30,“Vehicle Dynamic Con-
trol (VDC) off indicator light” page 2-31)
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the VDC
warning light
illuminates in the instrument
panel. The VDC system automatically turns off.
The VDC setup switch is used to turn off the
VDC system. The VDC off indicator
illuminates to indicate the VDC system is off.
When the VDC setup switch is used to turn off
the system, the VDC system still operates to
prevent one drive wheel from slipping by
transferring power to a non slipping drive wheel.
The VDC warning light
flashes if this
occurs. All other VDC functions are off and the VDC warning light
will not flash. The VDC
system is automatically reset to on when the
ignition switch is placed in the off position then
back to the on position.
(
“Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warning
light” page 2-30,“Vehicle Dynamic Con-
trol (VDC) off indicator light” page 2-31)
The computer has a built-in diagnostic feature
that tests the system each time you start the
engine and move the vehicle forward or in
reverse 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 VDC system is designed to help
the driver maintain stability but
does not prevent accidents due to
abrupt steering operation at high
speeds or by careless or dangerous
driving techniques. Reduce vehicle
speed and be especially careful
when driving and cornering on slip-
pery surfaces and always drive care-
fully.
. Do not modify the vehicle’s suspen-
sion. If suspension parts such as
Starting and driving5-49
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
SYSTEM

5-50Starting and driving
shock absorbers, struts, springs,
stabilizer bars, bushings and
wheels are not NISSAN approved
or are extremely deteriorated, the
VDC system may not operate prop-
erly. This could adversely affect
vehicle handling performance, and
the VDC warning light
may
illuminate.
. If brake related parts such as brake
pads, rotors and calipers are not
standard equipment or are extre-
mely deteriorated, the VDC system
may not operate properly and the
VDC warning light
may illumi-
nate.
. If engine control related parts are
not standard equipment or are ex-
tremely deteriorated, the VDC warn-
ing light
may illuminate.
. When driving on extremely inclined
surfaces such as higher banked
corners, the VDC system may not
operate properly and the VDC warn-
ing light
may illuminate. Do not
drive on these types of roads.
. When driving on an unstable sur-
face such as a turntable, ferry, elevator or ramp, the VDC warning
light
may illuminate. This is not
a malfunction. Restart the engine
after driving onto a stable surface.
. If wheels or tires other than the
those recommended are used, the
VDC system may not operate prop-
erly and the VDC warning light
may illuminate.
. The VDC system is not a substitute
for winter tires or tire chains on a
snow covered road.
NOTE:
. Always make sure the VDC is ON
before driving the vehicle by checking
that the VDC OFF indicator lights on
the meter and the VDC set-up switch
are not illuminated.
The GT-R is a high performance vehicle
and the VDC must be on/activated to
provide proper powertrain operation
and intended drivability.
WARNING
.The VDC OFF mode should ONLY be
used briefly to help free the vehicle
if stuck in snow or mud by tempora-
rily stopping operation of the VDC
to maintain wheel torque.
. Driving the GT-R with the VDC off
may lead to handling issues related
to steering maneuvers, acceleration,
or deceleration. Moreover, driving
with the VDC off can result in an
inoperative vehicle by causing ser-
ious damage to the powertrain,
including damage to the Transaxle
Assembly including Transfer, Clutch,
Gears, Transaxle case and all of its
components and other drivetrain
component(s) by overheating or ex-
cessive force.
. Damage to the powertrain or any
drivetrain component(s) that occurs
when there is a record in the Vehicle
Status Data Recorder (VSDR) that
the vehicle was driven with VDC off
during the period when the damage
was incurred is excluded from war-
ranty coverage.

See your 2013 Warranty Information Booklet for
important related information and warranty
coverage exclusions. See also section 2 (page
2-29) and section 5 (page 5-49) of this Owner’s
Manual, “Transmission Clutch Temperature
High” and “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
System” for important additional related informa-
tion.
.Except for the emergency cases above,
any issues related to driving stability
(e.g., steering maneuvers and maneu-
vers during acceleration and decelera-
tion) and any damages to drivetrain
components (e.g., transfer, clutch, a
sort of gear, transaxle case) will not
be covered by warranty if there is a
record in the Vehicle Status Data
Recorder (VSDR) that the vehicle was
driven with VDC off.
. When attempting to free the vehicle
from mud or fresh snow, the VDC will
detect the tire slipping, and the engine
speed may not increase even when the
accelerator pedal is depressed. To raise
the engine speed, use the VDC set up
switch to turn the VDC system OFF and
select SAVE mode with the transmis-
sion switch. (
“VDC, transmission
and suspension setup switches” page 5-24)
. When the VDC system is turned OFF,
all VDC functions (including traction
control) , except for the ABS functions,
are deactivated.
FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCK
To 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.
ANTI-FREEZE
In the winter when it is anticipated that the
outside temperature will drop below 328F(0 8C) ,
check antifreeze to assure proper winter protec-
tion. (
“Engine cooling system” page 8-10)
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 efficiency, the battery should
be checked regularly. (
“Battery” page 8-
17)
DRAINING OF COOLANT WATER
If the vehicle is to be left outside without
antifreeze, drain the cooling system, including
the engine block. Refill before operating the
vehicle. For details, contact a GT-R certified
NISSAN dealer.
Starting and driving5-51
COLD WEATHER DRIVING

5-52Starting and driving
TIRE EQUIPMENT
The GT-R summer tires are made from a
specially formulated rubber to maximize the
vehicle’s performance capabilities. Performance
of summer tires is substantially reduced when
temperatures are less than 328F(08C) so you
must drive carefully. NISSAN recommends the
use of winter or all-season tires on all four
wheels if you plan to operate your vehicle in
snowy or icy conditions when temperatures are
less than 328F(0 8C) .
WARNING
Never use summer tires when the
temperature is below −48F(−208C) to
prevent permanent tread deformation
which may cause tire damage or tire
failure. This may cause a loss of vehicle
control which can result in serious
personal injury or death.
Tire chains may be used. (
“Tire chains”
page 8-39)
If you install tires, they must also be the specified
size, brand, construction and tread pattern on all
four wheels.
SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENT
It 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 ICE
WARNING
.Wet ice (328F, 0 8C 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.
. Watch for slippery spots (glare ice) .
These may appear on an otherwise
clear road in shaded areas. If a
patch of ice is seen ahead, brake
before reaching it. Try not to brake
while on the ice, and avoid any
sudden steering maneuvers.
. Do not use the cruise control on
slippery roads.
. Snow can trap dangerous exhaust
gases under your vehicle. Keep
snow clear of the exhaust pipe and
from around your vehicle.
NOTE:
When driving on snow, select the SAVE
mode with the setup switch. By selecting
the SAVE mode, the engine output is
controlled appropriately for snow or slip-
pery road surfaces. This enables the vehi-
cle to start or accelerate smoothly.

6-2In case of emergency
In the event of a roadside emergency, Roadside
Assistance Service is available to you. Please
refer to your Warranty Information Booklet (U.S.)
or Warranty & Roadside Assistance Information
Booklet (Canada) for details.To shut off the engine in an emergency situation
while driving, perform the following procedure:
.Rapidly push the push-button ignition switch
3 consecutive times in less than 1.5
seconds, or
. Push and hold the push-button ignition
switch for more than 2 seconds.TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING
SYSTEM (TPMS)
This vehicle is equipped with the Tire Pressure
Monitoring System (TPMS) . It monitors tire
pressure of all tires. When the low tire pressure
warning light is lit, one or more of your tires is
significantly under-inflated. If the vehicle is being
driven with low tire pressure, the TPMS will
activate and warn you of it by the low tire
pressure warning light (in the instrument panel)
or the LOW PRESSURE information screen (on
the display) . This system will activate only when
the vehicle is driven at speeds above 16 MPH
(25 km/h). (
“Low tire pressure warning
light” page 2-26) (“Tire Pressure Monitor-
ing System (TPMS)” page 5-4)
WARNING
. If the low tire pressure warning light
illuminates or LOW PRESSURE in-
formation is displayed on the moni-
tor screen while driving, avoid
sudden steering maneuvers or
abrupt braking, reduce vehicle
speed, pull off the road to a safe
location and stop the vehicle as
soon as possible. Driving with un-
der-inflated tires may permanently
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
PROGRAM EMERGENCY ENGINE SHUT OFF FLAT TIRE

6-6In case of emergency
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 vehi-
cles to touch.
2. Apply parking brake. Move the shift lever to the
&Pposition. Switch off all unnecessary electrical systems (light, heater, air condi-
tioner, etc.).
3. Remove the battery cover. Cover the battery with a firmly wrung out moist cloth to reduce
explosion hazard.
4. Connect jumper cables in the sequence as illustrated (
*1?*2?*3?*4).
If the battery is disconnected or dis-
charged, the steering wheel will lock
and cannot be turned. Supply power
using jumper cables before pushing
the ignition switch and disengaging
the steering lock.
CAUTION
. Always connect positive (+) to posi-
tive (+) and negative (−) to body
ground (as illustrated) , not to the
battery.
. Make sure that 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
*Aand let it run for a few minutes.

original place after use.
Rear:
The rear hook
*5is designed as the recovery
hook.
To remove the cover
*6from the rear bumper,
first push in the tabs
*7until they unlatch and
then pull the cover.
Securely install the recovery hook
*3to the
attaching mount located on the rear bumper.
Make sure that the recovery hook is properly
secured in its storage location after use.
Do not use the tie down hooks for towing or
vehicle recovery.
CAUTION
. Do not use the vehicle tie downs to
free a vehicle stuck in sand, snow,
mud, etc.
. Always pull the cable straight out
from the vehicle. Never pull on the
vehicle at an angle.
. Pulling devices such as ropes or
canvas straps are not recommended
for use in vehicle towing or recov- ery.
NOTICE
.
Tow chains or cables must be at-
tached only to the vehicle recovery
hooks or main structural members
of the vehicle. Otherwise, the vehi-
cle body will be damaged.
. Never tow a vehicle using the vehi-
cle tie downs or recovery hooks.
. Pulling devices should be routed so
they do not touch any part of the
suspension, steering, brake or cool-
ing systems.
Rocking a stuck vehicle
If your vehicle is stuck in sand, snow, mud, etc.,
use the following procedure:
1. Turn off the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
system and select SAVE mode with the
transmission setup switch. (
“VDC,
transmission and suspension setup
switches” page 5-24)
2. Make sure the area in front and behind the vehicle is clear of obstructions.
In case of emergency6-11

6-12In case of emergency
3. Turn the steering wheel right and left to clearan area around the front tires.
4. Slowly rock the vehicle forward and back- ward.
.Shift back and forth between the&Rand
&A↔&Mpositions..Apply the accelerator as little as possible
to maintain the rocking motion.
.Release the accelerator pedal before
shifting between the&Rand&A↔&Mpositions..Do not spin the tires above 35 MPH (55
km/h).
5. Turn on the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system.
6. If the vehicle cannot be freed after a few tries, contact a professional towing service
to remove the vehicle.