2016 NISSAN QASHQAI traction

•Avoid steep uphill grades.
•If possible, reduce the load being carried or
towed.
The Malfunction Indicator light may stop blinking
and come on steady.
Have the vehicle inspected by a NISSAN dealer or
qualified workshop. You do not need to have your
vehicle towed to the dealer.
CAUTION
Continued vehicle operation without having the
engine control system checked and repaired as
necessary could lead to poor driveability,
reduced fuel economy and possible damage to
the engine control system, which may affect your
warranty coverage.
Rear fog light indicator light
(where fitted)
The light comes on when the rear fog light is
switched on (see “Rear fog light (where fitted)” later
in this section).
Side light and headlight indicator
light
This light comes on when the side light or headlight
position is selected, see “Headlight and turn signal
switch” later in this section for further details.
SLIP indicator light
(where fitted)
The SLIP indicator blinks when the Electronic Sta-
bility Programme (ESP) system is operating, thus
alerting the driver to the fact that the road surface is
slippery and the vehicle is nearing its traction limits.
You may feel or hear the system working, this is nor-
mal.
The light will continue to blink for a few seconds
after the ESP system stops limiting wheel spin.
For additional information see “Electronic Stability
Programme (ESP) OFF indicator light (where
fitted)” earlier in this section and “Electronic Stabil-
ity Programme (ESP) system (where fitted)” in the
“5. Starting and driving” section.
Trailer direction indicator light
The light will light up whenever an additional electri-
cal load is detected by the direction indicator sys-
tem.
For additional information, see “Trailer towing” in
the “5. Starting and driving” section.
Turn signal/hazard indicator
lights
The direction indicator lights will flash when the turn
signal switch or hazard warning flasher switch is
turned on. See “Headlight and turn signal switch”
later in this section and see “Hazard warning flasher
switch” in the “6. In case of emergency” section for
further details.
AUDIBLE REMINDERS
Door open reminder chime
The chime will sound if any door other than the driv-
er’s door is left open and the power door lock switch
is held down.
Intelligent Key models:The external buzzer will
sound if the vehicle is being locked remotely or us-
ing an outside door lock switch and any door is
open.
Parking brake reminder buzzer
A buzzer will sound when driving away if the parking
brake has not been released. Stop the vehicle and
release the parking brake.
Light reminder chime
A chime will sound for 10 seconds if the driver’s
door is opened while the external lights are turned
on and the ignition switch is in the “OFF” or LOCK
position.
See “Headlight and turn signal switch” later in this
section for further details on the headlight operation.
Fog light reminder chime
A chime will sound if the ignition switch is in the
“OFF” or LOCK position and the headlight switch is
in the AUTO position (where fitted) and the fog lights
are left on.
See “Fog light switch” later in this section for further
details.
2-12Instruments and controls

Your new vehicle was designed to be used primarily
to carry passengers and luggage.
Remember that towing a trailer will place additional
loads on your vehicle’s engine, drive-train, steering,
braking and other systems. Towing a trailer will also
exaggerate other conditions, such as sway caused
by crosswinds, rough road surfaces or passing
trucks. Driving style and speed must be adjusted
according to the circumstances. Before towing a
trailer, see a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop
for an explanation of towing equipment and its
proper use.
OPERATING PRECAUTIONS
•Avoid towing a trailer during the running-in
schedule.
•Choose proper coupling devices (trailer hitch,
safety chain, roof carrier, etc.) for your vehicle
and trailer. These devices are available from a
NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop where you
can also obtain more detailed information about
trailer towing.
Heavy-duty kits are available at a NISSAN dealer
or qualified workshop.
•It is advisable to contact a NISSAN dealer or
qualified workshop for towing details, before
towing a trailer up steep slopes for long dis-
tances.
•Never allow the total trailer load (trailer weight
plus its cargo weight) to exceed the maximum
set for the coupling device.Contact a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop
for more information on this matter.
•The trailer must be loaded so that heavy goods
are distributed over the axle and as low in the
trailer as possible. Poor load distribution can se-
riously affect the stability of the trailer and tow
vehicle.
•Do not exceed the maximum permitted vertical
load on the trailer hitch.
•Before driving, make sure that the lighting sys-
tem of the trailer works properly.
•When towing with 4WD models, the 4WD mode
switch should be in the AUTO position. Using
the vehicle in AUTO mode gives better traction,
particularly when moving off from stationary and/
or on an incline, as the vehicle is less likely to
wheel spin.
•Avoid abrupt starts, accelerations and stops.
•Avoid sharp turns and lane changes.
•Always drive your vehicle at a moderate speed.
•Always block the wheels on both vehicle and
trailer when parking. Apply the handbrake (where
fitted) on the trailer. Parking on a steep slope is
not recommended.
If parking on a steep slope is unavoidable it is
also advisable to put the vehicle into gear, or
select P (Park (XTRONIC models)), and turn the
front wheels into the kerb (in addition to the other
precautions described). Before parking on asteep slope consider the incline (the towing
weights quoted are for a 12% slope).
•Follow the trailer manufacturer’s instructions.
•Have your vehicle serviced more often than at
the intervals specified in the separately provided
Warranty Information and Maintenance booklet.
•Trailer towing requires more fuel than under nor-
mal circumstances because of a considerable
increase in traction power required and resis-
tance.
•When towing a trailer, observe the following re-
stricted towing speed:
Speed: below 100 km/h (62 MPH)
•Observe the legal maximum speeds for trailer
operation.
CAUTION
While towing a trailer, check the engine coolant
temperature gauge regularly to prevent engine
overheating.
NSD239Z
TRAILER TOWING
5-54Starting and driving

NORMAL OPERATION
The ABS operates at speeds above 5 to 10 km/h (3
to 6 MPH). The speed varies according to road con-
ditions.
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 bonnet or feel a vibration from the actua-
tor when it is operating. This is normal and indicates
that the ABS is operating properly. However, the
pulsation may indicate that road conditions are haz-
ardous and extra care is required while driving.When accelerating, driving on slippery surfaces or
suddenly avoiding obstacles on roads, the vehicle
might swerve or slip. The Electronic Stability Pro-
gramme (ESP) system continuously monitors and
compares the driver’s intended speed and the travel
direction. The system adjusts wheel brake pressure
and engine torque to assist in improving vehicle sta-
bility.
•When the ESP system is operating, the “SLIP”
indicator light () in the combination meter
blinks.
•When only the traction control (TCS) system in
the ESP system is operating, the “SLIP” indica-
tor light (
) in the combination meter will also
blink.
•If the “SLIP” indicator light () blinks, the road
conditions are slippery. Be sure to drive care-
fully. See “Warning/indicator lights and audible
reminders” in the “2. Instruments and controls”
section.
•Indicator light
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the “SLIP”
indicator light (
) will come on in the combina-
tion meter.
As long as these indicator lights are on, the trac-
tion control function is cancelled.
The ESP system uses Active Brake Limited Slip
(ABLS) system to improve vehicle traction. The Ac-
tive Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) system works when
one of the driving wheels is spinning on a slipperysurface. The Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) sys-
tem, brakes the spinning wheel to distribute the driv-
ing power to the other driving wheel.
If the vehicle is operated with the ESP system turned
off, all ESP and TCS functions will be turned off.
The Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) system and
ABS will still operate with the ESP system off. If the
Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) system is acti-
vated, the “SLIP” indicator light (
) will blink and
you may hear a clunk noise and/or feel a pulsation in
the brake pedal. This is normal and does not indi-
cate a malfunction.
While the ESP system is operating, you may feel a
pulsation in the brake pedal and hear a noise or
vibration from under the bonnet. This is normal and
indicates that the ESP system is working properly.
The ESP computer has a built in diagnostic feature
that tests the system each time the engine is started
and the vehicle moves forwards or reverses 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 ESP system is designed to help improve
driving stability but does not prevent accidents
caused by abrupt steering operation at high
speeds, or careless or dangerous driving
techniques. Reduce vehicle speed and be es-
pecially careful when driving and cornering on
slippery surfaces. Always drive carefully.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY PROGRAMME (ESP) SYSTEM (where fitted)
5-60Starting and driving

•Turn off the ECO mode system when accelera-
tion is required, such as when:
– driving with a heavy load of passengers or
cargo in the vehicle
– driving on a steep uphill slopeWARNING
•Whatever the conditions, drive with caution.
Accelerate and decelerate with great care. If
accelerating or decelerating too fast, the drive
wheels will lose even more traction.
•Allow more stopping distance in cold weather
driving. Braking should be started sooner than
on dry surfaces.
•Keep at a greater distance from the vehicle in
front of you on slippery roads.
•Wet ice (0°C, 32°F and freezing rain), very cold
snow and ice can be slick and very difficult to
drive on. The vehicle will have a lot less trac-
tion or grip under these conditions. Try to
avoid driving on wet ice until the road is salted
or sanded.
•Watch for slippery spots (black ice). These
may appear on an otherwise clear road in
shaded areas. If a patch of ice is seen ahead,
brake before driving on it. Try not to brake
while actually on the ice and avoid any sud-
den steering manoeuvres.
•Do not use cruise control (where fitted) on
slippery roads.
•Snow can trap dangerous exhaust gas under
your vehicle. Keep snow clear of the exhaust
pipe and from around your vehicle.
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 effi-
ciency, the battery should be checked regularly. For
details, see “Battery” in the “8. Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section.
ENGINE COOLANT
If the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-freeze,
drain the cooling system. Refill before operating the
vehicle. For details, see “Engine cooling system” in
the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.
TYRE EQUIPMENT
1) The SUMMER tyres are of a tread design to pro-
vide superior performance on dry surfaces. How-
ever, the performance of these tyres will be sub-
stantially reduced in snowy and icy conditions. If
you operate your vehicle on snowy or icy roads,
NISSAN recommends the use of MUD & SNOW
or ALL SEASON tyres on all four wheels. Please
consult a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop
for tyre type, size, speed rating and availability
information.
2) For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tyres may be used. However, some countries,
provinces and states prohibit their use. Check
applicable laws before installing studded tyres.
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
5-66Starting 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

•A NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop may
be able to help you with information about
tyre type, size, speed rating and availability.
•Replacement tyres may have a lower speed
rating than the factory equipped tyres, and
may not match the potential maximum vehicle
speed. Never exceed the maximum speed rat-
ing of the tyre.
All season tyres
NISSAN specifies all season tyres on some models
to provide good performance for use all year around,
including snowy and icy road conditions. All season
tyres are identified by ALL SEASON and/or M&S
on the tyre sidewall. Snow tyres have better snow
traction than all season tyres and may be more ap-
propriate in some areas.
Summer tyres
NISSAN specifies summer tyres as standard fit.
These tyres provide superior performance under
typical mild weather conditions.
If you plan to operate your vehicle in snowy or icy
conditions, NISSAN recommends the use of SNOW
or ALL SEASON tyres on all four wheels.
Snow tyres
If snow tyres are needed, it is necessary to select
tyres equivalent in size and load rating to the original
equipment tyres. If you do not, it can adversely af-
fect the safety and handling of your vehicle.
Generally, snow tyres will have lower speed ratingsthan factory equipped tyres and may not match the
potential maximum vehicle speed. Never exceed the
maximum speed rating of the tyre.
For additional traction on icy roads, studded tyres
may be used. However, some provinces and states
prohibit their use. Check local, state and provincial
laws before installing studded tyres. Skid and trac-
tion capabilities of studded snow tyres, on wet or
dry surfaces, may be poorer than that of non-stud-
ded snow tyres.
SNOW CHAINS
Use of snow chains may be prohibited in some ar-
eas. 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 chain manufacturer’s
suggestions. Use chain tensioners when recom-
mended by the snow chain manufacturer to ensure
a tight fit. Loose end links of the snow chain must be
secured or removed to prevent the possibility of
whipping action damage to the fenders or undercar-
riage.
In addition, drive at a reduced speed. Otherwise,
your vehicle can be damaged and/or vehicle han-
dling and performance may be adversely affected.
Snow chains must be installed only on the front
wheels and not on the rear wheels.
CAUTION
•Never install snow chains on a temporary-use
or small size spare tyre.
•Do not drive with snow chains on paved roads
which are clear of snow. Driving with chains in
such conditions can cause damage to the
various mechanisms of the vehicle due to
some overstress. When driving on clear paved
roads, be sure to change to 2WD mode, see
“Four-wheel Drive (4WD) (where fitted)” in the
“5. Starting and driving” section.
TYRE ROTATION
NISSAN recommends that tyres be rotated every
10,000 km (6,000 miles) for Two-Wheel Drive
(2WD) vehicles and 5,000 km (3,000 miles) for
Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) vehicles. After rotating
tyres and adjusting the tyre pressure, perform a
TPMS temperature calibration (see “TPMS tem-
perature calibration” in the “5. Starting and driving”
section).
See “Flat tyre” in the “6. In case of emergency” sec-
tion for tyre replacing procedures.
NDI762Z
8-34Maintenance and do-it-yourself