.When the VDC or ABS (including the
traction control system) operates
. When the SNOW mode switch is ON (To
use the DCA system, turn off the SNOW
mode switch, then turn on the dynamic
driver assistance switch
*2.)
For details about the SNOW mode switch,
see “SNOW mode switch” (P.2-47).
. When the 4WD shift switch is in the 4H or
4L position (for 4WD models)
. When the radar signal is temporarily inter-
rupted
Action to take:
When the conditions listed above are no longer
present, turn the system off with the dynamic
driver assistance switch
*2. Turn the DCA
system back on to use the system.
JVS0482X
Condition B:
When the radar sensor area is covered with dirt
or is obstructed, making it impossible to detect a
vehicle ahead, the DCA system is automatically
canceled.
The chime sounds and the DCA system warning
light (orange) will come on and the “FRONT
RADAR OBSTRUCTION” warning will appear.
Action to take:
If the warning light comes on, park the vehicle in
a safe place, place the shift lever in the P (Park)
position and turn the engine off. When the radar
signal is temporarily interrupted, clean the
sensor area and restart the engine. If the “FRONT RADAR OBSTRUCTION” warning
continues to be displayed, have the DCA system
checked. It is recommended you visit a NISSAN
dealer for this service.
Starting and driving5-103
5-126Starting and driving
The 4WD shift switch is used to select the 4WD
mode depending on the driving conditions.
There are 3 types of drive modes available,
AUTO, 4HI and 4LO.
The 4WD shift switch electronically controls the
transfer case operation. Rotate the switch to
move between each mode, AUTO, 4H and 4L.
You must depress the 4WD shift switch to
select 4L, and the vehicle MUST be sta-
tionary and the shift lever in the N (Neutral)
position when changing into or out of 4L.
WARNING
.When parking, apply the parking
brake before stopping the engine
and make sure that the 4WD shift
indicator is on and the ATP warning
light turns off. Otherwise, the vehi-
cle could unexpectedly move even if
the automatic transmission is in the
P (Park) position.
. The 4LO and 4HI indicators must
stop blinking and the 4LO or 4HI
indicator must remain illuminated or
turn off before shifting the trans-
mission into gear. If the shift lever is
shifted from the N (Neutral) position
to any other gear while the 4LO and 4HI indicators are blinking alter-
nately, the vehicle may move unex-
pectedly.
CAUTION
.
Never shift the 4WD shift switch
between 4L and 4H while driving.
. The 4HI position provides greater
traction. Avoid excessive speed, as
it will cause increased fuel con-
sumption and higher oil tempera-
tures, and could damage drivetrain
component. Speeds over 62 MPH
(100 km/h) in 4HI is not recom-
mended.
. The 4LO position provides maxi-
mum traction. Avoid raising vehicle
speed excessively, as the maximum
speed is approximately 31 MPH (50
km/h) .
. When driving straight, shift the 4WD
shift switch to the AUTO or 4H
position. Do not move the 4WD shift
switch when making a turn or rever-
sing. .
Do not shift the 4WD shift switch
(between AUTO and 4H) while driv-
ing on steep downhill grades. Use
the engine brake and low automatic
transmission gears for engine brak-
ing.
. Do not operate the 4WD shift switch
(between AUTO and 4H) with the
rear wheels spinning.
. Do not drive on dry hard surface
roads in the 4HI or 4LO position.
Driving on dry hard surfaces in 4HI
or 4LO may cause unnecessary
noise and tire wear. NISSAN recom-
mends driving in the AUTO position
under these conditions.
. The 4WD transfer case may not be
shifted between 4HI and 4LO at low
ambient temperatures and the 4LO
and 4HI indicators may blink even
when the 4WD shift switch is
shifted. After driving for a while
you can change the 4WD shift
switch between 4H and 4L.
5-138Starting and driving
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. It is recommended you visit a NISSAN
dealer for this service.
Normal operation
The ABS operates at speeds above 3 to 6 MPH
(5 to 10 km/h) . The speed varies according to
road conditions.
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.The 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:
— understeer (vehicle tends to not follow
the steered path despite increased
steering input)
— 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.
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
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 lightwill 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.
When the 4L position is selected with the 4WD
shift switch, the VDC system is disabled and the
VDC off indicator light illuminates (for 4WD
models) .
See “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warning
light” (P.2-17) and “Vehicle Dynamic Control
(VDC) off indicator light” (P.2-20).
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
SYSTEM
TIRE EQUIPMENT
SUMMER 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.
It is recommended you 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 “Tire
chains” (P.8-36) .
For four-wheel drive
If you install snow tires, they must also be the
same size, brand, construction and tread pattern
on all four wheels.
SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENT
It 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 ICE
WARNING
.Wet ice (328F, 0 8C 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 “grip” 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.
. Watch for slippery spots (glare ice) .
These may appear on an otherwise
clear road in shaded areas. If a
patch of ice is seen ahead, brake
before reaching it. Try not to brake
while on the ice, and avoid any
sudden steering maneuvers.
. Do not use the cruise control on
slippery roads.
. Snow can trap dangerous exhaust
gases under your vehicle. Keep
snow clear of the exhaust pipe and
from around your vehicle.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (if so
equipped)
Engine block heaters are used to assist in cold
temperature starting.
The engine block heater should be used when
the outside temperature is 208F( í78C) or lower.
Starting and driving5-141
10 Technical and consumer information
Capacities and recommended fluids/lubricants ............. 10-2Fuel information ................................................................ 10-4
Engine oil and oil filter recommendation .................... 10-6
Air conditioning system refrigerant and
lubricant recommendations ............................................ 10-7
Specifications ........................................................................\
.. 10-8
Engine ........................................................................\
......... 10-8
Wheels and tires .............................................................. 10-9
Dimensions ........................................................................\
10-9
When traveling or registering in another country ....... 10-10
Vehicle identification ........................................................... 10-10 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate ............... 10-10
Vehicle identification number (chassis number) .... 10-10
Engine serial number .................................................... 10-11
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label ................. 10-11
Emission control information label ............................ 10-11
Tire and loading information label ............................. 10-12
Air conditioner specification label ............................. 10-12
Installing front license plate .............................................. 10-12
Vehicle loading information ............................................... 10-13
Terms ........................................................................\
........ 10-13 Vehicle load capacity ................................................. 10-14
Securing the load ....................................................... 10-15
Loading tips .................................................................. 10-16
Measurement of weights ........................................... 10-16
Towing a trailer .................................................................... 10-17 Maximum load limits ................................................... 10-17
Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)/maximum
Gross Axle Weight (GAW) ...................................... 10-19
Towing load/specification ......................................... 10-20
Towing safety .............................................................. 10-21
Flat towing .................................................................... 10-29
Uniform tire quality grading .............................................. 10-29 Treadwear ..................................................................... 10-29
Traction AA, A, B and C ........................................... 10-29
Temperature A, B and C ........................................... 10-30
Emission control system warranty .................................. 10-30
Reporting safety defects .................................................. 10-31
Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) test ...... 10-32
Event Data Recorders (EDR) .......................................... 10-33
Owner’s Manual/Service Manual
order information ................................................................ 10-33
FLAT TOWING
Towing your vehicle with all four wheels on the
ground is sometimes called flat towing. This
method is sometimes used when towing a
vehicle behind a recreational vehicle, such as a
motor home.
CAUTION
.Failure to follow these guidelines
can result in severe transmission
damage.
. Whenever flat towing your vehicle,
always tow forward, never back-
ward.
. DO NOT tow any automatic trans-
mission vehicle with all four wheels
on the ground (flat towing) . Doing
so WILL DAMAGE internal transmis-
sion parts due to lack of transmis-
sion lubrication.
. DO NOT tow a Four-Wheel Drive
(4WD) vehicle with any of the
wheels on the ground. Doing so
may cause serious and expensive
damage to the powertrain.
. For emergency towing procedures
refer to “Towing recommended by NISSAN” (P.6-17) .
Automatic Transmission
Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) models:
Do not tow a 4WD vehicle with any of the
wheels on the ground.
Two-Wheel Drive (2WD) models:
To tow a vehicle equipped with an automatic
transmission, an appropriate vehicle dolly
MUST
be placed under the towed vehicle’s drive
wheels. Always follow the dolly manufacturer’s
recommendations when using their product. DOT (Department Of Transportation) Quality
Grades: All passenger car tires must conform to
federal safety requirements in addition to these
grades.
Quality grades can be found where applicable
on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and
maximum section width. For example:
Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A
TREADWEAR
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating
based on the wear rate of the tire when tested
under controlled conditions on a specified
government test course. For example, a tire
graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1
1/2) times as well on the government course as
a tire graded 100. The relative performance of
tires depends upon actual conditions of their
use, however, and may depart significantly from
the norm due to variations in driving habits,
service practices and differences in road char-
acteristics and climate.
TRACTION AA, A, B AND C
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are
AA, A, B and C. Those grades represent the
tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as
measured under controlled conditions on spe-
cified government test surfaces of asphalt and
concrete. A tire marked C may have poor
traction performance.
Technical and consumer information10-29
UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING
10-30Technical and consumer information
WARNING
The traction grade assigned to this tire
is based on straight-ahead braking
traction tests, and does not include
acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning,
or peak traction characteristics.
TEMPERATURE A, B AND C
The temperature grades A (the highest) , B, and
C, representing the tire’s resistance to the
generation of heat and its ability to dissipate
heat when tested under controlled conditions on
a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sus-
tained high temperature can cause the material
of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and
excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire
failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of
performance which all passenger car tires must
meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent
higher levels of performance on the laboratory
test wheel than the minimum required by law.
WARNING
The temperature grade for this tire is
established for a tire that is properly
inflated and not overloaded. Excessive
speed, under-inflation, or excessive
loading, either separately or in combi-
nation, can cause heat build-up and
possible tire failure.Your NISSAN is covered by the following
emission warranties.
For USA:
.
Emission Defects Warranty
. Emissions Performance Warranty
Details of these warranties may be found with
other vehicle warranties in your Warranty In-
formation Booklet that comes with your
NISSAN. If you did not receive a Warranty
Information Booklet, or it has become lost, you
may obtain a replacement by writing to:
. NISSAN Division
Nissan North America, Inc.
Consumer Affairs Department
P.O. Box 685003
Franklin, TN 37068-5003
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
WARRANTY