You may hear a sound when the steering wheel
is operated quickly. However, this is not a mal-
function.
If the electric power steering warning light
illu-
minates while the engine is running, it may indicate
the electric power steering system is not functioning
properly and may need servicing. Have the electric
power steering system checked by a NISSAN dealer
or qualified workshop. (See “ Power steering warn-
ing light” in the “2. Instruments and controls” sec-
tion.)
When the electric power steering warning light illu-
minates with the engine running, the power assis-
tance for the steering will cease operation. You will
still have control of the vehicle. However, greater
steering effort is needed, especially in sharp turns
and at low speeds.The brake system has two separate hydraulic cir-
cuits. If one circuit malfunctions, two wheels will still
have braking ability.BRAKE PRECAUTIONS
Vacuum assisted brake
The brake booster aids braking by using engine
vacuum or vacuum from an engine-driven pump. If
the engine stops or the drive belt is broken, 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 shift to a lower
gear before going down a slope or long downhillgradient. Overheated brakes may reduce braking
performance and could result in loss of vehicle con-
trol.
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 or both the brake and
clutch (MT models). Use the parking brake to hold
the vehicle. Do not slip the clutch (MT models).
When ready to start, make sure that the shift lever is
in an appropriate forward or reverse driving posi-
tion, slowly release the parking brake while depress-
ing the accelerator pedal and releasing the clutch
(MT models) or depressing the accelerator pedal
(XTRONIC transmission models). If your vehicle has
an electric parking brake, this will automatically re-
lease when you depress the accelerator pedal and
release the clutch (MT models) or depress the ac-
celerator pedal (XTRONIC transmission models).
BRAKE SYSTEM
5-58Starting and driving
The hill start assist system will operate automatically
under the following conditions:
•The shift lever is shifted into a forward (vehicle
facing uphill) or reverse gear (vehicle facing
downhill).
•The vehicle is stopped completely on a hill by
applying the foot brake.
•The slope is greater than 3 degrees.
The maximum holding time is 2 seconds. After 2
seconds the vehicle will begin to roll back and the
hill start assist system will stop operating completely.
If the slope is steep enough to activate the HSA sys-
tem, the green HSA indicator light in the combina-
tion meter will illuminate.
If the chassis control screen is selected, the vehicle
is displayed on a slope. The wheels flash to show
that the car is being held.The hill start assist system will not operate when the
shift lever is shifted to the N (Neutral) or P (Park)
position or on a flat and level road.
When the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)
warning light illuminates in the meter, the hill start
assist system will not operate. (See “Electronic Sta-
bility Programme (ESP) OFF indicator light (where
fitted)” in the “2. Instruments and controls” section.)
The ECO mode system helps to enhance fuel
economy by turning on ECO functions within the
ECO Meter and modifying engine characteristics to
avoid rapid acceleration.
To turn on the ECO mode system, push the ECO
mode switch. The ECO mode system indicator light
will illuminate on the vehicle information display.
To turn off the ECO mode system, push the ECO
mode switch again. The ECO mode system indica-
tor will turn off.
•If the accelerator pedal is fully depressed, the
engine characteristics will temporarily return to
normal to give maximum available acceleration.
•The ECO mode system will turn off automatically
if a malfunction occurs in the system.
NSD524
NSD475ECO mode switch
ECO MODE SYSTEM (where fitted)
Starting and driving5-65
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 driving5-67
Corrosion will also accelerate in areas where the
temperatures stay above freezing.
Air pollution
Industrial pollution, the presence of salt in the air in
coastal areas, or heavy road salt use will accelerate
the corrosion process. Road salt will also acceler-
ate the disintegration of paint surfaces.
TO PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE FROM
CORROSION
•Wash and wax your vehicle often to keep the
vehicle clean.
•Always check for minor damage to the paint sur-
face and if any exists, repair it as soon as pos-
sible.
•Keep the drain holes at the bottom of the doors
and back door opened to avoid water accumula-
tion.
•Check the vehicle underbody for accumulation
of sand, dirt or salt. If present, wash with water
as soon as possible.
CAUTION
•Never remove dirt, sand or other debris from
the passenger compartment by washing it out
with a hose. Remove dirt with a vacuum
cleaner or broom.
•Never allow water or other liquids to come in
contact with electronic components inside the
vehicle as this may damage them.
Chemicals used for road surface de-icing are ex-tremely corrosive. They accelerate corrosion and
deterioration of underbody components such as the
exhaust system, fuel and brake lines, brake cables,
floor pan and fenders.
In the winter, the underbody must be cleaned
periodically.
For additional protection against rust and corrosion,
which may be required in some areas, consult a
NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop.
7-6Appearance and care
8Maintenance and do-it-yourselfMaintenance and do-it-yourself
Maintenance requirements ....................................... 8-2
Scheduled maintenance...................................... 8-2
General maintenance .......................................... 8-2
Where to go for service ...................................... 8-2
General maintenance ............................................... 8-2
Explanation of general maintenance items ........... 8-2
Maintenance precautions ......................................... 8-4
Engine compartment ................................................ 8-5
Engine cooling system ............................................. 8-6
Checking engine coolant level............................. 8-6
Changing engine coolant .................................... 8-6
Engine oil................................................................. 8-8
Checking engine oil level .................................... 8-8
Changing engine oil ............................................ 8-9
Changing engine oil filter .................................... 8-10
Protect the environment ...................................... 8-12
Fuel filter (Diesel engine models) ............................. 8-13
Draining water .................................................... 8-13
Bleeding the fuel system ..................................... 8-13
XTRONIC Continuously variable transmission
(CVT) fluid ............................................................... 8-13
Brakes ..................................................................... 8-13
Checking parking brake ...................................... 8-13
Checking brake pedal......................................... 8-13
Brake booster ..................................................... 8-14
Brake and clutch fluid .............................................. 8-14
Window washer fluid/headlight cleaner fluid
(where fitted) ........................................................... 8-15
Battery..................................................................... 8-16
Vehicle battery .................................................... 8-16Jump-starting ...................................................... 8-18
Integrated keyfob/Intelligent Key battery
replacement........................................................ 8-18
Drive belts ............................................................... 8-20
Spark plugs (Petrol engine models).......................... 8-21
Air duct removal....................................................... 8-21
Air cleaner filter........................................................ 8-23
Viscous paper type ............................................. 8-23
Dry paper type (where fitted) .............................. 8-23
Wiper blades ........................................................... 8-24
Cleaning ............................................................. 8-24
Front window wiper replacement ........................ 8-24
Back door window wiper replacement ................ 8-24
Windscreen washer nozzle ................................. 8-25
Fuses ...................................................................... 8-25
Passenger compartment ..................................... 8-25
Engine compartment ........................................... 8-26
Lights ...................................................................... 8-27
Headlights .......................................................... 8-28
Exterior lights ...................................................... 8-29
Interior lights....................................................... 8-29
Light locations .................................................... 8-30
Wheels and tyres ..................................................... 8-33
Tyre inflation pressure......................................... 8-33
Types of tyres ..................................................... 8-33
Snow chains....................................................... 8-34
Tyre rotation ....................................................... 8-34
Tyre wear and damage ....................................... 8-35
Tyre age ............................................................. 8-35
Changing tyres and wheels................................. 8-35
Lights*:
Clean the headlights on a regular basis. Make sure
that the headlights, stop lights, tail lights, turn signal
lights, and other lights are all operating properly and
installed securely. Also check headlight aim.
Tyres*:
Check the pressure with a gauge periodically when
at a service station (including the spare) and adjust
to the specified pressure if necessary. Check care-
fully for damage, cuts or excessive wear.
Tyre rotation*:
Tyres should be rotated every 10,000 km (6,000
miles) for Two-Wheel Drive (2WD) models and
5,000 km (3,000 miles) for Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
models. However, the timing for tyre rotation may
vary according to your driving habits and road sur-
face conditions.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
transmitter components (where fitted):
Replace the TPMS transmitter grommet seal, valve
core and cap when the tyres are replaced due to
wear or age.
Wheel alignment and balance:
If the vehicle pull to either side while driving on a
straight and level road, or if you detect uneven or
abnormal tyre wear, there may be a need for wheel
alignment. If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at
normal highway speeds, wheel balancing may be
needed.Wheel nuts:
When checking the tyres, make sure no wheel nuts
are missing, and check for any loose wheel nuts.
Tighten if necessary.
Windscreen:
Clean the windscreen on a regular basis. Check the
windscreen at least every six months for cracks or
other damage. Have a damaged windscreen re-
paired by a qualified repair facility.
Wiper blades*:
Check for cracks or wear if they do not wipe prop-
erly.
Under the bonnet and vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked periodically, e.g. each time you check the
engine oil or refuel.
Battery*:
Check if the green indicator on the top of the main-
tenance free battery is visible. If it is not visible,
replace the battery as soon as possible.
Vehicles operated in high temperatures or under
severe conditions, check the fluid level frequently.
Brake and clutch fluid level*:
Make sure that the brake and clutch fluid level is
between the MAX and MIN lines on the reservoir.
Engine coolant level*:
Check the coolant level when the engine is cold.Engine drive belts*:
Make sure that the drive belts are not frayed, worn,
cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*:
Check the level after parking the vehicle on a level
surface and turning off the engine.
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
petrol fumes are evident, check for the cause and
have it corrected immediately.
Window washer fluid*:
Check that there is adequate fluid in the tank.
Inside the vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked on a regular basis, such as when perform-
ing periodic maintenance, cleaning the vehicle, etc.
Accelerator pedal:
Check the pedal for smooth operation and make
sure that the pedal does not catch or require uneven
effort. Keep the floor mats away from the pedal.
Brake pedal*:
Check the pedal for smooth operation. If the brake
pedal suddenly goes down further than normal, the
pedal feels spongy or the vehicle seems to take
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-3
•If you must run the engine in an enclosed
space such as a garage, be sure there is
proper ventilation for exhaust gases.
•DO NOT GET UNDER A VEHICLE THAT IS
SUPPORTED BY A JACK.
•Keep smoking materials, flame and sparks
away from fuel and battery.
•Never connect or disconnect either the bat-
tery or any transistorised component connec-
tor while the ignition switch is in the ON posi-
tion.
•Never leave the engine or transmission re-
lated component harness connector discon-
nected while the ignition switch is in the ON
position.
•On petrol engine models with the multiport
fuel injection (MFI) system, the fuel filter or
fuel lines should be serviced by a NISSAN
dealer or qualified workshop because the fuel
lines are under high pressure even when the
engine is off.
•Always wear eye protection whenever you
work on your vehicle.
•Failure to follow these or other common sense
guidelines may lead to serious injury or ve-
hicle damage.
NISSAN Blue Citizenship
Improperly disposed engine oil and/or other
vehicle fluids can pollute the environment. Al-
ways conform to local regulations for disposal
of vehicle fluid.
This section gives instructions regarding only those
items which are relatively easy for an owner to per-
form.
You should be aware that incomplete or improper
servicing may result in operating difficulties or ex-
cessive emissions, and could affect your warranty
coverage.If in doubt about any servicing, have it
done by your NISSAN dealer or qualified work-
shop.For an overview of the engine compartment, see
“Engine compartment” in the “0. Illustrated table
of contents” section.
ENGINE COMPARTMENT
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-5
MR20DD, MR16DE or R9M engine
1. Set the heater or air conditioner temperature
control to the maximum “HOT” position.
2. Open the bonnet. For details, see “Bonnet
release” in the “3. Pre-driving checks and
adjustments” section.
3. Open the engine coolant reservoir cap
j1to
help drain the coolant.
4. Loosen the engine coolant radiator drain plug
j3
to help drain the coolant.
5. Disconnect the end of the hose
j2 to drain the
coolant.
6. Flush the cooling system by running clean water
through the engine coolant reservoir.
7. Install the hose
j2.
8. Tighten the engine coolant radiator drain plug
j3.
9. Fill the coolant reservoir up to the MAX level.
See “Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants” in the “9. Technical information” sec-
tion for cooling system capacity.
10. Install the engine coolant reservoir cap.
11. Start the engine, and rev the engine two or
three times under no load.
12. Touch the radiator hose and feel if the water
flows.
13. Keep racing the engine at a speed of 3,000 rpm
for about 10 minutes.14. Observe the coolant temperature gauge for
signs of overheating.
15. Stop the engine and check coolant level, allow
to cool and refill up to the MAX level.
16. Check radiator lower hose for any signs of leak-
age.
17. Close the bonnet.HRA2DDT or K9K engine
1. Set the heater or air conditioner temperature
control to the maximum “HOT” position.
2. Open the bonnet. For details, see “Bonnet
release” in the “3. Pre-driving checks and
adjustments” section.
3. Loosen the engine coolant radiator drain plug
j1
to help drain the coolant.
4. Disconnect the radiator lower hose
j2 and open
the drain plugj3 on the engine block.5. Open the engine coolant reservoir cap to help to
drain the coolant.
6. Flush the cooling system by running fresh water
through the engine coolant reservoir.
7. Install the hose
j2 and securely tighten the en-
gine block drain plugj3.
8. Tighten the engine coolant radiator drain plug
j1.
9. Fill the reservoir up to the MAX level with cool-
ant. See “Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants” in the “9. Technical information”
section for cooling system capacity.
10. Install the engine coolant reservoir cap.
11. Start the engine, and rev the engine two or
three times under no load.
12. Touch the radiator hose and feel if the water
flows.
13. Keep racing the engine at a speed of 2,000 –
2,500 rpm for about 10 minutes.
14. Observe the coolant temperature gauge for
signs of overheating.
15. Stop the engine and check coolant level, allow
to cool and refill up to the MAX level.
16. Check the radiator lower hose for any signs of
leakage.
17. Close the bonnet.
NDI1491
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-7