and are installed securely. Check the belt web-
bing for cuts, fraying, wear or damage.
Steering wheelCheck 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. NOTE:
Care should be taken to avoid situations that
can lead to potential battery discharge and
potential no-start conditions such as: 1. In-
stallation or extended use of electronic ac-
cessories 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 dis-
tances. In these cases, the battery may need
to be charged to maintain battery health.
Brake fluid levels*
Make sure that the brake
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 “Ex- haust gas (carbon monoxide)” 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 after use is normal. If you should notice
any leaks or if gasoline fumes are evident, check for
the cause and have it corrected immediately.
Power steering fluid level* and lines Check
the level when the fluid is cold, 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 exposed
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, oth-
erwise rust may form on the floor pan, frame, fuel
lines and exhaust system. At the end of winter, the
underbody should be thoroughly flushed with plain
water, in those areas where mud and dirt may have
accumulated. See the “Appearance and care” sec-
tion of this manual.
Windshield-washer fluid* Check that there is
adequate fluid in the reservoir.
8-4Maintenance and do-it-yourself
