2015 NISSAN 370Z COUPE Owners Manual


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GUID-20D632A7-EF37-4DBF-9F53-E37E4009B631.Keep your engine tuned up.
. Follow the recommended scheduled main-
tenance.
. Keep the tires inflated to the correct
pressure. Low tire pressure increases tire
wear and lowers fuel economy.
. Keep the wheels in correct alignment.
Improper alignment increases tire wear and
lowers fuel economy.
. Use the recommended viscosity engine oil.
(See ªEngine oil and oil filter recommenda-
tionº (P.9-6) .)GUID-8D3D4725-47F4-4A2F-BC0F-1FD589A930F2
SD1006MA
WARNING
.Do not stop or park the vehicle over
flammable materials such as dry
grass, waste paper or rags. They
may ignite and cause a fire.
. Never leave the engine running
while the vehicle is unattended.
. Do not leave children unattended
inside the vehicle. They could un-
knowingly activate switches or con-
trols. Unattended children could
become involved in serious acci- dents.
. Safe parking procedures require
that both the parking brake be
applied and the transmission placed
into P (Park) for Automatic Trans-
mission (AT) model or in an appro-
priate gear for Manual Transmission
(MT) model. Failure to do so could
cause the vehicle to move unexpect-
edly or roll away and result in an
accident.
. Make sure the automatic transmis-
sion shift lever has been pushed as
far forward as it can go and cannot
Starting and driving5-25
INCREASING FUEL ECONOMY PARKING/PARKING ON HILLS
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5-26Starting and driving
be moved without depressing the
foot brake pedal.
1. Firmly apply the parking brake.
2. Automatic transmission models:
Move the shift lever to the P (Park) position.
Manual transmission models:
Place the shift lever in the R (Reverse) gear.
When parking on an uphill grade, place the
shift lever in the 1st gear.
3. To help prevent the vehicle from rolling into the street when parked on a sloping drive
way, it is a good practice to turn the wheels
as illustrated.
.HEADED DOWNHILL WITH CURB:*1
Turn the wheels into the curb and move
the vehicle forward until the curb side
wheel gently touches the curb.
.HEADED UPHILL WITH CURB:*2
Turn the wheels away from the curb and
move the vehicle back until the curb side
wheel gently touches the curb.
.HEADED UPHILL OR DOWNHILL, NOCURB:
*3
Turn the wheels toward the side of the
road so the vehicle will move away from
the center of the road if it moves. 4. Push the ignition switch to the OFF position.
GUID-4FB5669D-23C1-45F0-B20E-2E466AB26432
WARNING
If the engine is not running or is turned
off while driving, the power assist for
the steering will not work. Steering will
be harder to operate.
The power assisted steering uses a hydraulic
pump, driven by the engine, to assist steering.
If the engine stops or the drive belt breaks, you
will still have control of the vehicle. However,
much greater steering effort is needed, espe-
cially in sharp turns and at low speeds.
POWER STEERING
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GUID-6373540C-797E-4B47-87E4-88F6AF54FEEBBRAKING PRECAUTIONSGUID-95B7D6B0-FDAC-4A6A-BBCA-DD89B79E13C0The brake system has two separate hydraulic
circuits. If one circuit malfunctions, you will still
have braking at two wheels.
Vacuum assisted brakesGUID-FC43F897-2FAD-4704-897C-9EF9D48E3D4BThe brake booster aids braking by using engine
vacuum. If the engine stops, 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 brakesGUID-58298AFE-6583-467D-9876-FECC549FC3B7When the vehicle is washed or driven through
water, the brakes may get wet. As a result, your
braking 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 tapping 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.
PARKING BRAKE BREAK-INGUID-8F6869D0-CE22-48C7-ADFD-29370C1A35EABreak in the parking brake shoes whenever the
stopping effect of the parking brake is weakened
or whenever the parking brake shoes and/or
drums/rotors are replaced, in order to assure the
best braking performance.
This procedure is described in the vehicle
service manual and can be performed by a
NISSAN dealer.
Using the brakesGUID-9A3B140F-D270-46ED-AA75-C22A22822B1CAvoid resting your foot on the brake pedal while
driving. This will cause overheating of the
brakes, wearing out the brake and pads faster
and reduce gas mileage.
To help save the brakes and to prevent the
brakes from overheating, reduce speed and
downshift to a lower gear before going down a
slope or long grade. Overheated brakes may
reduce braking performance and could result in
loss of vehicle control.
WARNING
.While driving on a slippery surface,
be careful when braking, accelerat-
ing or downshifting. Abrupt braking
or accelerating could cause the
wheels to skid and result in an accident.
. If the engine is not running or is
turned off while driving, the power
assist for the brakes will not work.
Braking will be harder.
Starting and driving5-27
BRAKE SYSTEM
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5-28Starting and driving
GUID-424E6C43-23C1-48EA-B39B-41DA78EC93D1BRAKE ASSISTGUID-EA21D7FA-3494-4201-9914-5865E67F8BE7When the force applied to the brake pedal
exceeds a certain level, the Brake Assist is
activated generating greater braking force than a
conventional brake booster even with light pedal
force.
WARNING
The Brake Assist is only an aid to assist
braking operation and is not a collision
warning or avoidance device. It is the
driver's responsibility to stay alert, drive
safely and be in control of the vehicle at
all times.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS)GUID-B7350BDF-8854-429A-B2F3-935BFC82FFF3
WARNING
.The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
is a sophisticated device, but it
cannot prevent accidents resulting
from careless or dangerous driving
techniques. It can help maintain
vehicle control during braking on
slippery surfaces. Remember that
stopping distances on slippery sur-
faces will be longer than on normal surfaces even with ABS. Stopping
distances may also be longer on
rough, gravel or snow covered
roads, or if you are using tire chains.
Always maintain a safe distance
from the vehicle in front of you.
Ultimately, the driver is responsible
for safety.
. Tire type and condition may also
affect braking effectiveness.
Ð When replacing tires, install the
specified size of tires on all four
wheels.
Ð When installing a spare tire, make sure that it is the proper
size and type as specified on the
Tire and Loading Information
label. See ªTire and Loading
Information labelº (P.9-13) of
this manual.
Ð For detailed information, see ªWheels and tiresº (P.8-30) of
this manual.
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) controls
the brakes so the wheels do not lock during hard
braking or when braking on slippery surfaces.
The system detects the rotation speed at each wheel and varies the brake fluid pressure to
prevent each wheel from locking and sliding. By
preventing each wheel from locking, the system
helps the driver maintain steering control and
helps to minimize swerving and spinning on
slippery surfaces.
Using the systemGUID-5F8F3DF3-1213-44B2-819C-394D031FC9DBDepress the brake pedal and hold it down.
Depress the brake pedal with firm steady
pressure, but do not pump the brakes. The
ABS will operate to prevent the wheels from
locking up. Steer the vehicle to avoid obstacles.
WARNING
Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so
may result in increased stopping dis-
tances.
Self-test featureGUID-7E716B57-87FA-4414-818C-3D591D470B85The ABS includes electronic sensors, electric
pumps, hydraulic solenoids and a computer. The
computer has a built-in diagnostic feature that
tests the system each time you start the engine
and move the vehicle at a low speed in forward
or reverse. When the self-test occurs, you may
hear a ªclunkº noise and/or feel a pulsation in the
brake pedal. This is normal and does not
BRAKE ASSIST
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indicate a malfunction. If the computer senses a
malfunction, it switches the ABS off and
illuminates the ABS warning light on the
instrument panel. The brake system then oper-
ates normally, but without anti-lock assistance.
If the ABS warning light illuminates during the
self-test or while driving, have the vehicle
checked by a NISSAN dealer.
Normal operationGUID-BDC138D9-7206-40B2-891C-4FFE2C9E11B2The ABS operates at speeds above 3 to 6 MPH
(5 to 10 km/h) .
When the ABS senses that one or more wheels
are close to locking up, the actuator rapidly
applies and releases hydraulic pressure. This
action is similar to pumping the brakes very
quickly. You may feel a pulsation in the brake
pedal and hear a noise from under the hood or
feel a vibration from the actuator when it is
operating. This is normal and indicates that the
ABS is operating properly. However, the pulsa-
tion may indicate that road conditions are
hazardous and extra care is required while
driving.
GUID-DB1EF854-9E66-4871-AEF9-9DF110D4B99BThe 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:
Ð understeer (vehicle tends to not follow
the steered path despite increased
steering input)
Ð 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.
See ªVehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warning
lightº (P.2-15).
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the VDC
warning light
illuminates in the instrument
panel. The VDC system automatically turns off.
The VDC OFF switch is used to turn off the VDC
system. The VDC off indicator light
illuminates to indicate the VDC system is off.
When the VDC 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.
See ªVehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warning
lightº (P.2-15) and ªVehicle Dynamic Control
(VDC) off indicator lightº (P.2-17).
The computer has a built-in diagnostic feature
Starting and driving5-29
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
SYSTEM
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5-30Starting and driving
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 ªclunkº 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
shock absorbers, struts, springs,
stabilizer bars, bushings and
wheels are not NISSAN recom-
mended for your vehicle or are
extremely deteriorated, the VDC
system may not operate properly.
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
NISSAN recommended 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 NISSAN recommended or are
extremely deteriorated, the VDC
warning 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
NISSAN recommended ones are
used, the VDC system may not
operate properly and the VDC warn- ing light
may illuminate.
. The VDC system is not a substitute
for winter tires or tire chains on a
snow covered road.
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GUID-B474243D-BFA3-4375-B3E1-76ACD464F8A1
JVS0446X
1. Front performance damper
2. Rear performance damper
The performance dampers are installed in the
front and rear parts of the NISMO models for
improved handling and ride.
WARNING
.High-pressure nitrogen gas is
sealed inside the performance dam-
pers. Do not attempt to modify or
disassemble them.
. For disposal of the performance
dampers or when scrapping the
vehicle, contact a NISSAN dealer.
Never burn or puncture the perfor-
mance dampers. Incorrect disposal
procedures could cause serious per-
sonal injury.
Starting and driving5-31
PERFORMANCE DAMPERS (NISMO
models)
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5-32Starting and driving
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 ªEngine
cooling systemº (P.8-8).
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 ªBatteryº (P.8-15) .
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 ªEngine cooling systemº
(P.8-8) .
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 ªTire
chainsº (P.8-36) 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 ªgripº 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.
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
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