If the vehicle is driven under extreme conditions,
such as excessive wheel spinning and subse-
quent hard braking, the Fail-safe system may be
activated. This will occur even if all electrical cir-
cuits are functioning properly. In this case, turn
the ignition switch “OFF” and wait for 10 sec-
onds. Then turn the key back to the ON position.
The vehicle should return to its normal operating
condition. If it does not return to its normal oper-
ating condition have your NISSAN dealer or quali-
fied workshop check the transmission and have
the transmission repaired by a NISSAN dealer or
qualified workshop, if necessary.
WARNING
When the fail safe operation occurs, the vehicle
speed may be lower than other traffic, which
could increase the chance of a collision. Be es-
pecially careful when driving. If necessary, drive
to the side of the road at a safe place and away
from traffic, to allow the transmission to return to
normal operation, or have the transmission re-
paired by a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop,
if necessary.The Stop/Start System is designed to prevent un-
necessary fuel consumption, exhaust emissions,
and noise during a journey:
•When you stop the vehicle with the brake pedal
depressed (XTRONIC transmission) or with the
shift lever in N (Neutral) and clutch pedal re-
leased (MT), the engine is turned off automati-
cally.
•When you release the brake pedal (XTRONIC
transmission) or push the clutch pedal (MT), the
engine is automatically turned on.
CAUTION
At the end of the journey the engine must be
stopped and ignition turned OFF. Lock the ve-
hicle as normal. Turning the ignition OFF will shut
down all electrical systems. Failure to do this may
result in a flat battery.
NORMAL OPERATION
The Stop/Start System has stopped the engine and
will automatically restart the engine. The Stop/Start
symbol is shown in the vehicle information display.
NOTE
The Stop/Start System will not activate under
the following conditions:
•When the engine is kept idling without any driv-
ing after the engine is turned on.
•When the engine coolant temperature is low.
•When the battery capacity is low.
•When the battery temperature is low or extremely
high.
•When the vehicle is moved.
•When the vacuum in the brake servo decreases.
•When the engine bonnet is opened with the en-
gine running.
NSD491
STOP/START SYSTEM
(where fitted)
5-22Starting and driving
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
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
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
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the
parking brake.
2. Start the engine. If the engine is cold, start and
let the engine idle until the engine temperature
reaches the operational temperature.
3. Turn the engine off and wait at least 10 minutes
to let the engine oil drain back into the oil pan.4. Open the bonnet. For details, see “Bonnet
release” in the “3. Pre-driving checks and
adjustments” section.
5. Remove the engine oil filler cap.
6. Raise and support the vehicle using a suitable
floor jack and safety jack stands.
Place the safety jack stands under the vehicle
jack-up points.
For details, see “Flat tyre” in the “6. In case of
emergency” section.
7. Remove the engine compartment under cover.
8. Place a large drain pan under the drain plug.
9. Remove the drain plug with a wrench and com-
pletely drain the oil.
If the engine oil filter needs to be changed, re-
move and replace it at this time. See “Changing
engine oil filter” later in this section.
10. Clean and re-install the drain plug along with a
new washer. Securely tighten the drain plug
with a wrench.Do not use excessive force.
Drain plug tightening torques:
MR20DD engine:
34.3 N•m (3.5 kg-m, 25 ft-lb)
K9K engine:
20 N•m (2.1 kg-m, 15 ft-lb)
R9M engine:
50 N•m (5.1 kg-m, 36.9 ft-lb)
11. Refill the engine with recommended engine oil
and quantity.See “Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants” in the “9. Technical information”
section.
12. Check the oil level with the dipstick. For details,
see “Checking engine oil level” earlier in this
section. If necessary, add engine oil.
13. Install the engine oil filler cap securely.
14. Start the engine.
15. Check for any leakage around the drain plug.
Correct as required.
16. Turn the engine off and wait several minutes.
17. Check the oil level again with the dipstick. If
necessary, add engine oil.
18. Install the engine compartment under cover.
19. Lower the vehicle carefully to the ground.
20. Close the bonnet.
CHANGING ENGINE OIL FILTER
WARNING
•NISSAN recommends contacting a NISSAN
dealer or qualified workshop for engine oil fil-
ter servicing.
NISSAN Blue Citizenship
A used oil filter should be disposed of at a
rubbish tip having proper facilities.
NDI978ZR9M engine
NDI1477HRA2DDT engine
8-10Maintenance and do-it-yourself
MR20DD and K9K engines
Removal:
1. Drain the engine oil. For details, see “Changing
engine oil” earlier in this section.
2. Loosen the engine oil filter unit with an oil filter
wrench. Depending on the engine model, a spe-
cialcap typewrench may be required. See a
NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop, if in doubt.3. Remove the engine oil filter unit.
4. Wipe the engine oil filter mounting surface with a
clean rag.
CAUTION
If any oil is spilled on the engine or the ve-
hicle, thoroughly wipe it clean.
Installation:
1. Clean and re-install the drain plug along with a
new washer. For tightening torque details, see
“Changing engine oil” earlier in this section.
2. Coat the rubber gasket on the new engine oil fil-
ter unit with clean engine oil.
3. Install the engine oil filter unit by hand until a
slight resistance is felt, then tighten additionally
2/3 of a turn.
Engine oil filter tightening torques:
MR20DD engine
17.7 N•m (1.8 kg-m, 13 ft-lb)
K9K engine:
14 N•m (1.4 kg-m, 10 ft-lb)
4. Add engine oil and check the oil level with the
engine oil dipstick. For details, see “Checking
engine oil level” earlier in this section and “Ca-
pacities and recommended fuel/lubricants” in the
“9. Technical information” section.
5. Install the engine oil filler cap.
6. Start the engine.7. After the engine has been warmed up, make sure
there are no leaks around the engine oil filter unit
and the drain plug. Correct as required.
8. Turn the engine off and wait several minutes.
Check the oil level and add engine oil, if neces-
sary.
9. Install the engine compartment under cover.
10. Lower the vehicle carefully to the ground.
11. Close the bonnet.
NDI656ZMR20DD engine
NDI985ZK9K engine
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-11
R9M and HRA2DDT engines
Removal:
1. Drain the engine oil. For details, see “Changing
engine oil” earlier in this section.
2. Loosen the engine oil filter cover with a wrench.
3. Remove the engine oil filter cover then the oil fil-
ter element.
4. Remove the rubber O-ring from the filter cover.5. Wipe the oil filter cover entirely with a clean rag.
Installation:
1. Clean and re-install the drain plug along with a
new washer. For tightening torque details, see
“Changing engine oil” earlier in this section.
2. Install the rubber O-ring, in its housing, on the
outside of the engine oil filter cover.
3. Insert the new oil filter element into the engine oil
filter cover.
4. Coat the rubber O-ring with clean engine oil.
5. Install the engine oil filter cover until a slight re-
sistance is felt, then tighten additionally 2/3 of a
turn.
Tightening torque:
25 N•m (2.6 kg-m, 18 ft-lb)
6. Add engine oil and check the oil level with the
engine oil dipstick. For details, see “Checking
engine oil level” earlier in this section and “Ca-
pacities and recommended fuel/lubricants” in the
“9. Technical information” section.
7. Install the engine oil filler cap.
8. Start the engine.
9. After the engine has been warmed up, make sure
there are no leaks around the engine oil filter
cover and the drain plug. Correct as required.
10. Turn the engine off and wait several minutes.
Check the oil level and add engine oil, if neces-
sary.
11. Install the engine compartment under cover.12. Lower the vehicle carefully to the ground.
13. Close the bonnet.
PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT
NISSAN Blue Citizenship
It is illegal to pollute drains, water courses and soil.
Use authorised waste collection facilities, including
civic amenity sites and garages providing facilities
for the disposal of used oil and used oil filters. If in
doubt, contact your local authority for advice on dis-
posal.
The regulations concerning the pollution of the
environment will vary from country to country.
NDI1267R9M
NDI1476HRA2DDT
8-12Maintenance and do-it-yourself
See “Capacities and recommended fuel/lubricants”
in the “9. Technical information” section for the rec-
ommended brake and clutch fluid type.
If fluid must be added frequently, the system should
be thoroughly checked by a NISSAN dealer or quali-
fied workshop.
CAUTION
•NISSAN recommends that refilling and check-
ing the brake and clutch systems should be
left to a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop
who will have the necessary fluids and techni-
cal knowledge.
•Do not spill the fluid on painted surfaces. This
will damage the paint. If fluid is spilled, wash
with water.
WARNING
Anti-freeze window washer is poisonous and
should be stored carefully in marked containers
out of the reach of children.
•Check the fluid level in the window washer res-
ervoir. If the fluid level is low, add window washer
fluid up to the MAX level.
•Refill the reservoir more frequently when driving
conditions require an increased amount of win-
dow washer fluid.
•Add a washer solvent to the water for better
cleaning. In the winter season, add a window
washer anti-freeze. Follow the manufacturer’s in-
structions for the mixture ratio.
CAUTION
•Do not substitute anti-freeze engine coolant
for window washer solution. This may result
in damage to the paint.
•Always use window washer fluid recom-
mended by NISSAN.
NDI919Z
WINDOW WASHER FLUID/HEADLIGHT CLEANER FLUID (where fitted)
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-15