
The transfer case 4WD shift switch is used to
select either 2WD or 4WD depending on the
driving conditions. There are three types of drive
modes available, 2WD, 4H and 4LO.
The 4WD shift switch electronically controls the
transfer case operation. Rotate the switch to
move between each mode, 2WD, 4H and 4LO.
To change into or out of 4LO, the vehicle
MUST be stationary, shift the shift lever to
Neutral (N) , and for automatic transmission
vehicles depress the brake pedal or for
manual transmission vehicles depress the
clutch pedal. The switch must be depressed
and turned when changing into or out of
4LO.
WARNING
●When parking, apply the parking brake
before stopping the engine and make
sure that the 4WD shift indicator light is
on and the ATP warning light goes off.
Otherwise, the vehicle could unexpect-
edly move even if the automatic trans-
mission is in the P position. ●
The 4LO indicator light must stop blink-
ing and remain illuminated or turn off
before shifting the transmission into
gear. If the shift lever is shifted from the
(N) position to any other gear when the
4LO indicator light is blinking, the ve-
hicle may move unexpectedly.
CAUTION
●Never shift the 4WD shift switch be-
tween 4LO and 4H while driving.
● The 4H position provides greater trac-
tion. Avoid excessive speed, as it will
cause increased fuel consumption and
higher oil temperatures, and could
damage drivetrain components. Speeds
over 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4H is not
recommended
● The 4LO position provides maximum
power and traction. Avoid raising ve-
hicle speed excessively, as the maxi-
mum speed is approximately 31 mph
(50 km/h).
● When driving straight, shift the 4WD
shift switch to the 2WD or 4H position.
Do not move the 4WD shift switch when
making a turn or reversing. ●
Do not shift the 4WD shift switch (be-
tween 2WD and 4H) while driving on
steep downhill grades. Use the engine
brake and low automatic transmission
gears (D1 or D2) or manual transmis-
sion (1st gear or 2nd gear) for engine
braking.
● Do not operate the 4WD shift switch
(between 2WD and 4H) with the rear
wheels spinning.
● Do not drive on dry hard surface roads
in the 4H or 4LO position. Driving on dry
hard surfaces in 4H or 4LO may cause
unnecessary noise and tire wear.
NISSAN recommends driving in the
2WD position under these conditions.
● The 4WD transfer case may not be
shifted between 4H and 4LO at low am-
bient temperatures and the transfer
4LO position indicator light may blink
even when the 4WD shift switch is
shifted. After driving for a while you can
change the 4WD transfer case between
4H and 4LO.
When driving on rough roads, ● Set the 4WD shift switch to 4H or 4LO.
● Drive carefully according to the road surface
conditions.
5-28Starting and driving

●When the warning light comes on, the
2WD mode may be engaged even if the
4WD shift switch is in 4H. Be especially
careful when driving. If corresponding
parts are malfunctioning, the 4WD
mode will not be engaged even if the
4WD shift switch is shifted.
● Do not drive the vehicle in the 4H or 4LO
position on dry hard surface roads. Driv-
ing on dry, hard surfaces in 4H or 4LO
may cause unnecessary noise, tire wear
and increased fuel consumption.
If the 4WD warning light turns on when
you are driving on dry hard surface
roads:
– in the 4H position, shift the 4WD shift switch to 2WD.
– in the 4LO position for automatic transmission vehicles, stop the ve-
hicle and shift the shift lever to the N
position with the brake pedal de-
pressed and shift the 4WD shift
switch to 2WD. – in the 4LO position for manual trans-
mission vehicles, stop the vehicle
and shift the shift lever to the N po-
sition with the clutch pedal de-
pressed and shift the 4WD shift
switch to 2WD.
● If the warning light is still on after the
above operation, have your vehicle
checked as soon as possible. It is rec-
ommended that you visit a NISSAN
dealer for this service.
● The transfer case may be damaged if
you continue driving with the warning
light blinking. The E-Lock system can provide additional trac-
tion and should only be used when a vehicle has
become or is becoming stuck. This system oper-
ates by electronically “locking” the two rear drive
wheels together, allowing them to turn at the
same speed. The system is used when it is not
possible to free a stuck vehicle even when using
the 4LO position (4-wheel drive vehicles) .
When added traction is required, activate the
E-Lock system by pushing the switch ON. For
additional information, refer to “Electronic locking
rear differential (E-Lock) system switch” in the
“Instruments and controls” section of this manual.
Once the system fully engages, the indicator light
in the instrument panel will remain ON. When the
system is activated, both rear wheels will engage,
providing added traction.
The rear wheels may momentarily slip or move to
engage the system, and the system will only
engage up to approximately 4 mph (7 km/h).
Once the vehicle is free, the system should be
turned OFF and driving resumed.
The Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) system is disabled
and the ABS light illuminates when the E-Lock
system is ON. Also, the Vehicle Dynamic Control
(VDC) system is disabled and the
light
illuminates when the E-Lock system is ON.
ELECTRONIC LOCKING REAR
DIFFERENTIAL (E-Lock) SYSTEM (if
so equipped)
Starting and driving5-31

Temperature
High temperatures accelerate the rate of corro-
sion to those parts which are not well ventilated.
Air pollution
Industrial pollution, the presence of salt in the air
in coastal areas, or heavy road salt use acceler-
ates the corrosion process. Road salt also accel-
erates the disintegration of paint surfaces.
PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE FROM
CORROSION
●Wash and wax your vehicle often to keep the
vehicle clean.
● Always check for minor damage to the paint
and repair it as soon as possible.
● Keep drain holes at the bottom of the doors
open to avoid water accumulation.
● Check the underbody for accumulation of
sand, dirt or salt. If present, wash with water
as soon as possible.
CAUTION
●NEVER remove dirt, sand or other de-
bris from the passenger compartment
by washing it out with a hose. Remove
dirt with a vacuum cleaner or broom.
● Never allow water or other liquids to
come in contact with electronic compo-
nents inside the vehicle as this may
damage them.
Chemicals used for road surface de-icing are
extremely corrosive. They accelerate corrosion
and deterioration of underbody components
such as the exhaust system, fuel and brake lines,
brake cables, floor pan and fenders.
In winter, the underbody must be cleaned
periodically.
For additional protection against rust and corro-
sion, which may be required in some areas, it is
recommended that you consult a NISSAN dealer.
Appearance and care7-7

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 key 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. ●
Your vehicle is equipped with an auto-
matic engine cooling fan. It may come on
at any time without warning, even if the
ignition key 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.
● On gasoline engine models, the fuel
filter or fuel lines should be serviced. It
is recommended that you visit a
NISSAN dealer for this service because
the fuel lines are under high pressure
even when the engine is off.
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 the transmis-
sion related component harness con-
nector 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.
IN-CABIN MICROFILTER (if so
equipped)
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. Refer to the Main-
tenance and Schedules section of this manual
for change intervals.
To replace the filter, perform the following proce-
dure:
1. Open the glove box and press in on the sides so that it will open completely allowing
it to hang by the cord. 2. Gently lift up on the tab
1.
3. Pull the filter cover toward you and then down
2.
4. Remove the old filter
3.
NOTE:
The filter is marked with air flow arrows.
The end of the filter with the arrow should
face the rear of the vehicle. The arrows
should face downward. 5. Insert the new filter into the housing and slide it over to the right.
LDI0442LDI2047
8-18Do-it-yourself

Seat belts:Check that all parts of the seat belt
system (for example, buckles, anchors, adjusters
and retractors) operate properly and smoothly,
and are installed securely. Check the belt web-
bing for cuts, fraying, wear or damage.
Steering wheel: Check for changes in the
steering system, such as excessive free play,
hard steering or strange noises.
Warning lights and chimes: Make sure all
warning lights and chimes are operating properly.
Windshield defroster: Check that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly and in
sufficient quantity when operating the heater or
air conditioner.
Windshield wiper and washer*: Check that
the wipers and washer operate properly and that
the wipers do not streak.
Under the hood and vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked periodically (for example, each time you
check the engine oil or refuel) .
Battery*: Check the fluid level in each cell. The
fluid should be at the bottom of the filler opening.
Vehicles operated in high temperatures or under
severe conditions require frequent checks of the
battery fluid level. NOTE:
Care should be taken to avoid situations
that can lead to potential battery discharge
and potential no-start conditions such as:
1. Installation or extended use of elec-
tronic accessories that consume bat-
tery power when the engine is not run-
ning (Phone chargers, GPS, DVD
players, etc.) .
2. Vehicle is not driven regularly and/or
only driven short distances.
In these cases, the battery may need to be
charged to maintain battery health.
Brake fluid level*: Make sure that the brake
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 the drive belts
are not frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*: Check the level after parking
the vehicle on a level spot and turning off the
engine. Wait more than 15 minutes for the oil to
drain back into the oil pan. Exhaust system:
Make sure there are no loose
supports, cracks or holes. If the sound of the
exhaust seems unusual or there is a smell of
exhaust fumes, immediately have the exhaust
system inspected. It is recommended that you
visit a NISSAN dealer for this service. For addi-
tional information, refer to “Exhaust gas (carbon
monoxide)” in the “Starting and driving” section of
this manual.
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 fuel fumes are evident,
check for the cause and have it corrected imme-
diately.
Power steering fluid level* and lines: Check
the level when the fluid is cold, with the engine
off. Check the lines for proper attachment, leaks,
cracks, etc.
Radiator and hoses: Check the front of the
radiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves,
etc., that may have accumulated. Make sure the
hoses have no cracks, deformation, rot or loose
connections.
9-4Maintenance and schedules

Underbody:The 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, other-
wise rust may form on the floor pan, frame, fuel
lines and around the exhaust system. At the end
of winter, the underbody should be thoroughly
flushed with plain water, being careful to clean
those areas where mud and dirt may accumulate.
For additional information, refer to the “Appear-
ance 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.
In addition to scheduled maintenance, your ve-
hicle requires that some items be checked during
normal day-to-day operation. For additional infor-
mation, refer to “General maintenance” in this
section.
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 perform-
ing these services on a NISSAN product.
Many of the aftermarket flushing systems
use non-OEM approved chemicals or sol-
vents, the use of which has not been vali-
dated by NISSAN.
For recommended fuel, lubricants, fluids,
grease, and refrigerant, refer to “Recom-
mended fluids/lubricants and capacities”
in the “Technical and consumer informa-
tion” 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.
EXPLANATION OF SCHEDULED
MAINTENANCE ITEMS
Maintenance and schedules9-5

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.)
NOTE: Mixing any other type of coolant or
the use of non-distilled water may reduce
the recommended service interval of the
coolant.
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.
Evaporative emissions control vapor lines*:
Check vapor lines for leaks or looseness. Tighten
connections or replace parts as necessary.
Fuel lines*:
Check the fuel hoses, piping and connections for
leaks, looseness, or deterioration. Tighten con-
nections or replace parts as necessary.Spark plugs:
Replace at specified intervals. Install new plugs
of the same type as originally equipped.
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 and rotors:
Check for wear, deterioration and fluid leaks.
Replace any deteriorated or damaged parts im-
mediately.
Exhaust system:
Visually inspect the exhaust pipes, muffler and
hangers for leaks, cracks, deterioration, and dam-
age. 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.
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
“Explanation of general maintenance items” in
this section. When rotating tires, check for dam-
age and uneven wear. Replace if necessary.
Transmission fluid/oil, differential oil:
Visually inspect for signs of leakage at specified
intervals.
9-6Maintenance and schedules