
8 Do-it-yourself
Maintenance precautions...........................8-2
Engine compartment check locations ................8-3
Engine cooling system .............................8-4
Checking engine coolant level ...................8-5
Changing engine coolant ........................8-5
Engine oil .........................................8-6
Checking engine oil level ........................8-6
Changing engine oil ............................8-7
Changing engine oil filter ........................8-8
Fuel filter (CUMMINS 5.0L) .........................8-9
Fuel filter replacement (stage 1) ..................8-9
Fuel filter replacement (stage 2) ..................8-9
Draining water .................................8-9
Fuel system priming .............................8-9
Diesel particulate filter (DPF) .......................8-10
Automatic regeneration ........................ 8-10
6-speed automatic transmission fluid (ATF)
(diesel engine only) ............................... 8-10
7-speed automatic transmission fluid (ATF)
(gasoline engine only) ............................. 8-10
Power steering fluid ............................... 8-11
Brake fluid ....................................... 8-11
Windshield-washer fluid ........................... 8-12Windshield-washer fluid reservoir . .
.............8-12
Battery .......................................... 8-13
Jump starting ................................. 8-14
Variable voltage control system (if so equipped) ......8-15
Drive belt ........................................ 8-15
Spark plugs (gasoline engine only) .................8-16
Replacing spark plugs ......................... 8-16
Air cleaner ....................................... 8-17
In-cabin microfilter ............................. 8-17
Windshield wiper blades .......................... 8-18
Cleaning ..................................... 8-18
Replacing .................................... 8-18
Brakes .......................................... 8-19
Fuses ........................................... 8-20
Engine compartment ........................... 8-20
Passenger compartment .......................8-22
Battery replacement .............................. 8-23
NISSAN
Intelligent Key® ....................... 8-24
Lights ........................................... 8-25
Headlights .................................... 8-25
Fog lights (if so equipped) ......................8-26
Daytime running light (DRL) (if so equipped) ......8-27
Exterior and interior lights .......................8-28

When performing any inspection or maintenance
work on your vehicle, always take care to prevent
serious accidental injury to yourself or damage to
the vehicle. The following are general precau-
tions which should be closely observed.
WARNING
●Park the vehicle on a level surface, ap-
ply the parking brake securely and
block the wheels to prevent the vehicle
from moving. Move the shift lever to P
(Park)
● Be sure the ignition switch is in the OFF
or LOCK position when performing any
parts replacement or repairs.
● If you must work with the engine run-
ning, keep your hands, clothing, hair
and tools away from moving fans, belts
and any other moving parts.
● It is advisable to secure or remove any
loose clothing and remove any jewelry,
such as rings, watches, etc. before
working on your vehicle.
● Always wear eye protection whenever
you work on your vehicle. ●
The automatic engine cooling fan (if so
equipped) may come on at any time
without warning, even if the ignition
switch is in the OFF position and the
engine is not running. To avoid injury,
always disconnect the negative battery
cable before working near the fan.
● If you must run the engine in an en-
closed space such as a garage, be sure
there is proper ventilation for exhaust
gases to escape.
● Never get under the vehicle while it is
supported only by a jack. If it is neces-
sary to work under the vehicle, support
it with safety stands.
● Keep smoking materials, flame and
sparks away from the fuel tank and
battery.
● Because the fuel lines on gasoline en-
gine models are under high pressure
even when the engine is off, it is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer
for service of the fuel filter or fuel lines.
CAUTION
● Do not work under the hood while the
engine is hot. Turn the engine off and
wait until it cools down. ●
Avoid contact with used engine oil and
coolant. Improperly disposed engine
oil, engine coolant and/or other vehicle
fluids can damage the environment. Al-
ways conform to local regulations for
disposal of vehicle fluid.
● Never leave the engine or automatic
transmission related component har-
nesses disconnected while the ignition
switch is in the ON position.
● Never connect or disconnect the battery
or any transistorized component while
the ignition switch is in the ON position.
This “Do-it-yourself” section gives instructions
regarding only those items which are relatively
easy for an owner to perform.
A Genuine NISSAN service manual is also avail-
able. For additional information, refer to “Owner’s
Manual/Service Manual order information” in the
“Technical and consumer information” section of
this manual.
You should be aware that incomplete or improper
servicing may result in operating difficulties or
excessive emissions, and could affect warranty
coverage. If in doubt about any servicing, it
is recommended that you have it done by a
NISSAN dealer.
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
8-2Do-it-yourself

WARNING
●Operating the engine with the air
cleaner removed can cause you or oth-
ers to be burned. The air cleaner not
only cleans the air, it stops the flame if
the engine backfires. If it isn’t there, and
the engine backfires, you could be
burned. Do not drive with the air cleaner
removed, and be careful when working
on the engine with the air cleaner
removed. ●
Never pour fuel into the throttle body or
attempt to start the engine with the air
cleaner removed. Doing so could result
in serious injury.
To remove the filter from the air cleaner, push the
tabs and pull the cover upward.
The viscous paper type filter element should not
be cleaned and reused. Replace the air filter
according to the maintenance log shown in the
“Maintenance” section of this manual.
When replacing the air filter, wipe the inside of
the air cleaner housing and the cover with a damp
cloth.
NOTE:
After installing a new air cleaner, make
sure the air cleaner cover is seated in the
housing and latch the tabs.
For additional information on the Cummins 5.0L
engine air cleaner, refer to the “Titan Diesel Own-
er’s Manual”.
IN-CABIN MICROFILTER
The in-cabin microfilter restricts the entry of air-
borne dust and pollen particles and reduces
some objectionable outside odors. The filter is
located behind the glove box. For additional in-
formation on change intervals, refer to “Standard
maintenance” in the “Maintenance” section of this
manual.
If replacement is required, it is recommended that
you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service.
VK56VD engine
LDI2960
AIR CLEANER
Do-it-yourself8-17

UnderbodyThe underbody is frequently ex-
posed 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, otherwise rust may form on the floor
pan, frame, fuel lines and exhaust system. At the
end of winter, the underbody should be thor-
oughly flushed with plain water, in those areas
where mud and dirt may have accumulated. For
additional information, refer to the “Appearance
and care” section of this manual.
Windshield-washer fluid* Check that there is
adequate fluid in the reservoir. The following descriptions are provided to give
you a better understanding of the scheduled
maintenance items that should be regularly
checked or replaced. The maintenance schedule
indicates at which mileage/time intervals each
item requires service.
Items marked with
“*”are recommended by
NISSAN for reliable vehicle operation. You are
not required to perform maintenance on these
items in order to maintain the warranties which
come with your NISSAN. Other maintenance
items and intervals are required.
When applicable, additional information can be
found in the “Do-it-yourself” section of this
manual.
NOTE: NISSAN does not advocate the use of
non-OEM approved aftermarket flushing sys-tems and strongly advises against performingthese services on a NISSAN product. Many of theaftermarket flushing systems use non-OEM ap-proved chemicals or solvents, the use of whichhas not been validated by NISSAN.
For recommended fuel, lubricants, fluids, grease,
and refrigerant, refer to “Recommended
fluids/lubricants and capacities” in the “Technical
and consumer information section of this
manual.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
MAINTENANCE:
Drive Belts*
Check engine drive belts for wear, fraying or
cracking and for proper tension. Replace any
damaged drive belts.
Engine Air Filter
Replace at specified intervals. When driving for
prolonged periods in dusty conditions,
check/replace the filter more frequently.
Engine Coolant*
Replace coolant at the specified interval. When
adding or replacing coolant, be sure to use only
Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant
(blue) or equivalent with the proper mixture. (For
additional information on the proper mixture for
your area, refer to Engine cooling system” in the
“Do-it-yourself” section of this manual or the “Ti-
tan Diesel Owner’s Manual”.)
NOTE: Mixing any other type of coolant or the use
of non-distilled water may reduce the recom-
mended service interval of the coolant.
EXPLANATION OF SCHEDULED
MAINTENANCE ITEMS
Maintenance and schedules9-5

Engine Oil and Oil Filter
Replace engine oil and oil filter at the specified
intervals. For recommended oil grade and viscos-
ity refer to “Recommended fluids/lubricants and
capacities” in the “Technical and consumer infor-
mation” section of this manual.
Fuel Filter (diesel engine only)
Replace the fuel filter and drain the water at the
specified intervals.
Fuel Lines*
Check the fuel hoses, piping and connections for
leaks, looseness, or deterioration. Tighten con-
nections or replace parts as necessary.
CHASSIS AND BODY
MAINTENANCE:
Brake Lines and Cables
Visually inspect for proper installation. Check for
chafing, cracks, deterioration, and signs of leak-
ing. Replace any deteriorated or damaged parts
immediately.
Brake Pads, Rotors, Drums, & Linings
Check for wear, deterioration and fluid leaks.
Replace any deteriorated or damaged parts im-
mediately.Exhaust System
Visually inspect the exhaust pipes, muffler and hang-
ers for leaks, cracks, deterioration, and damage.
Tighten connections or replace parts as necessary.
In-Cabin Microfilter
Replace at specified intervals. When driving for
prolonged periods in dusty conditions, replace
the filter more frequently.
Propeller Shaft(s)
Check for damage, looseness, and grease leak-
age. (4WD/AWD/RWD) .
Steering Gear and Linkage, Axle and Sus-
pension Parts, Drive Shaft Boots
Check for damage, looseness, and leakage of oil
or grease. Under severe driving conditions, in-
spect more frequently.
Tire Rotation
Tires should be rotated every 5,000 miles
(8,000 km) according to the instructions under
“General maintenance” in this section. When ro-
tating tires, check for damage and uneven wear.
Replace if necessary.
Transmission Fluid/Oil, Differential Oil,
Transfer Case Oil
Visually inspect for signs of leakage at specified
intervals.Replace automatic transmission fluid at specified
intervals. (For diesel engine models)
If towing a trailer, using a camper or car-top
carrier, or driving on rough or muddy roads:
● Replace the differential oil every
20,000 miles (32,000 km) or 24 months.
● Replace the automatic transmission fluid
ever 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or
24 months. (For gasoline engine models)
Off-Road Maintenance
Check the following items frequently whenever you
drive off-road through deep sand, mud or water:
● Brake pads and rotors
● Brake linings and drums
● Brake lines and hoses
● Differential, transmission and transfer case
oil
● Steering linkage
● Propeller shaft(s) and front drive shafts
● Engine air filter
● Clutch housing drain (4WD only)
9-6Maintenance and schedules

The following tables show the standard mainte-
nance schedule. Depending upon weather and
atmospheric conditions, varying road surfaces,
individual driving habits and vehicle usage, addi-
tional or more frequent maintenance may be re-
quired.Maintenance beyond the last period
on the tables requires similar maintenance.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
Abbreviations: I = Inspect and correct or replace as necessary, R = Replace, D = Drain water
MAINTENANCE OPERATION
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or months, whichever comes first. miles x 1,000
(km x 1,000) Months MAINTENANCE INTERVAL
5
(8) 6 10
(16) 12 15
(24) 18 20
(32) 24 25
(40) 30 30
(48) 36 35
(56) 42 40
(64) 48 45
(72) 54 50
(80) 60 55
(88) 66 60
(96) 72
Drive belts See NOTE (1) I*I* I*
Air cleaner filter See NOTE (2) RR
Engine oil RRRRRRRRRRR R
Engine oil filter RRRRRRRRRRR R
Engine coolant See NOTE (4)(5)
EVAP vapor lines I*I* I*
Fuel lines I*I* I*
Fuel filter See NOTE (3)
Spark plugs (Iridium - tipped type) Replace every 105,000 miles (168,000)
Intake and exhaust valve clearances See NOTE (6)
GASOLINE STANDARD
MAINTENANCE
9-8Maintenance and schedules

MAINTENANCE OPERATION
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or months, whichever comes first. miles x 1,000
(km x 1,000) Months MAINTENANCE INTERVAL
65
(104) 78 70
(112) 84 75
(120) 90 80
(128) 96 85
(136) 102 90
(144) 108 95
(152) 114 100
(160) 120 105
(168) 126 110
(176) 132 115
(184) 138 120
(192) 144
Drive belts See NOTE (1)I*I*I*I*I* I*
Air cleaner filter See NOTE (2) RR
Engine oil RRRRRRRRRRR R
Engine oil filter RRRRRRRRRRR R
Engine coolant See NOTE (4)(5)
EVAP vapor lines I*I* I*
Fuel lines I*I* I*
Fuel filter See NOTE (3)
Spark plugs (Iridium - tipped type) Replace every 105,000 miles (168,000)
Intake and exhaust valve clearances See NOTE (6)
NOTE:
1. After 40,000 miles (64,000 km) or 48 months, inspect every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months. Replace the drive belts if found damaged.
2. If operating mainly in dusty conditions, more frequent maintenance may be required.
3. Maintenance-free item.
4. First replacement interval is 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 84 months. After first replacement, replace every 75,000 miles (120,000 km) or 60 months.
5. Use only Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or equivalent with proper mixture ration of 50% antifreeze and 50% demineralized or distilled water. Mixing any other type of coolant or the use of non-distilled water will reduce the life expectancy of the factory fill coolant.
6. Periodic maintenance is not required. However, if valve noise increased, inspect valve clearance.
* Maintenance items and intervals with “*” are recommended by NISSAN for reliable vehicle operation. The owner need not perform such maintenance in
order to maintain the emission warranty or manufacturer recall liability. Other maintenance items and intervals are required.
Maintenance and schedules9-9

The following tables show the standard mainte-
nance schedule. Depending upon weather and
atmospheric conditions, varying road surfaces,
individual driving habits and vehicle usage, addi-
tional or more frequent maintenance may be re-
quired.Maintenance beyond the last period
on the tables requires similar maintenance.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
Abbreviations: I = Inspect and correct or replace as necessary, R = Replace, D = Drain water
MAINTENANCE OPERATION
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or months, whichever comes first. miles x 1,000
(km x 1,000) Months MAINTENANCE INTERVAL
5
(8) 6 10
(16) 12 15
(24) 18 20
(32) 24 25
(40) 30 30
(48) 36 35
(56) 42 40
(64) 48 45
(72) 54 50
(80) 60 55
(88) 66 60
(96) 72
Drive belts See NOTE (1)I*I*I*I*I* I*
Air cleaner filter See NOTE (2) RR
Engine oil See NOTE (3)RRRRR R
Engine oil filter See NOTE (4)RRRRR R
Engine coolant Replace every 45,000 miles or 36 months
Fuel lines I*I* I*
Fuel filter See NOTES (5)R/DR/DR/DR/DR/D R/D
DIESEL STANDARD MAINTENANCE
Maintenance and schedules9-13