• Keep your engine tuned up.
• Follow the recommended scheduledmaintenance.
• Keep the tires inflated to the correct pres- sure. Low tire pressure increases tire
wear and lowers fuel economy.
• Keep the wheels in correct alignment. Im- proper alignment increases tire wear and
lowers fuel economy.
• For vehicles equipped with
, use 4H
or 4L position only when necessary.
4-Wheel Drive operation lowers fuel
economy.
• Use the recommended viscosity engine oil. For additional information, see “Engine
oil and oil filter recommendations”
(P. 10-7).
WARNING
• For 4WD equipped vehicles, do not
attempt to raise two wheels off the
ground and shif t the transmission to
any drive or reverse position with the
engine running. Doing so may result
in drivetrain damage or unexpected
vehicle movement which could result
in serious vehicle damage or per-
sonal injury.
• Do not attempt to test a 4WD
equipped vehicle on a 2-wheel dyna-
mometer (such as the dynamom-
eters used by some states for emis-
sions testing) or similar equipment
even if the other two wheels are
raised off the ground. Make sure you
inform test facility personnel that
your vehicle is equipped with 4WD
before it is placed on a dynamom-
eter. Using the wrong test equipment
may result in drivetrain damage or
unexpected vehicle movement
which could result in serious vehicle
damage or personal injury.CAUTION
• Do not drive the vehicle in the 4H or
4LO position on dry hard surface
roads. Driving on dry, hard surfaces in
4H or 4LO may cause unnecessary
noise, tire wear and increased fuel
consumption.
If the 4WD vehicle information dis-
play warning message turns on
when you are driving on dry hard sur-
face roads:
– In the 4H position, shif t the 4WD
shif t switch to 2WD.
– In the 4LO position, stop the ve-
hicle, move the shif t lever to the N
(Neutral) position with the brake
pedal depressed, and shif t the
4WD shif t switch to 2WD.
• If the vehicle information display
warning message is still on af ter the
above operation, have your vehicle
checked as soon as possible. It is rec-
ommended that you visit a NISSAN
dealer for this service.
INCREASING FUEL ECONOMY USING 4–WHEEL DRIVE (4WD) (if so
equipped)
Starting and driving5-107
When performing any inspection or main-
tenance work on your vehicle, always take
care to prevent serious accidental injury to
yourself or damage to the vehicle. The fol-
lowing are general precautions which
should be closely observed.
WARNING
• Park the vehicle on a level surface,
apply the parking brake securely and
block the wheels to prevent the ve-
hicle from moving. Move the shif t le-
ver to P (Park)
• Be sure the ignition switch is in the
OFF or LOCK position when perform-
ing 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 when-
ever you work on your vehicle.
• The automatic engine cooling fan (if
so equipped) may come on at any
time without warning, even if the ig- nition switch is in the OFF position
and the engine is not running. To
avoid injury, always disconnect the
negative battery cable before work-
ing 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 nec-
essary 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 are under high
pressure even when the engine is off,
it is recommended 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.
Always conform to local regulations for
disposal of vehicle fluid.
•
Never leave the engine or automatic
transmission related component
harnesses disconnected while the
ignition switch is in the ON position.
• Never connect or disconnect the bat-
tery or any transistorized compo-
nent while the ignition switch is in
the ON position.
NOTE:
If the battery is completely drained the
transmission will not manually shif t to
other positions.
This “Do-it-yourself ” section gives instruc-
tions regarding only those items which are
relatively easy for an owner to perform.
A Genuine NISSAN service manual is also
available. For additional information, see
“Owner's Manual/Service Manual order in-
formation” (P. 10-59).
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
Be sure the engine and ignition switch
are off and that the parking brake is
engaged securely.
CAUTION
Be sure to use the correct socket to re-
move the spark plugs. An incorrect
socket can damage the spark plugs.
If replacement is required, it is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for
this service.
WARNING
• Operating the engine with the air
cleaner removed can cause you or
others 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 care-
ful 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 and sched-
ules” 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:
Af ter installing a new air cleaner filter,
make sure the air cleaner cover is seated
in the housing and latch the tabs.
IN-CABIN MICROFILTER
The in-cabin microfilter restricts the entry
of airborne dust and pollen particles and
reduces some objectionable outside
odors. The filter is located behind the glove
box. For additional information on change
intervals, see “Maintenance schedules"
(P. 9-7).
LDI2960
5.6L 8 cylinder (VK56VD engine model)
AIR CLEANER
Do-it-yourself8-21
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
MAINTENANCE:
Engine 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 in-
tervals. 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 replac-
ing 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 mix-
ture for your area, see “Engine cooling sys-
tem” (P. 8-6)).
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 viscosity see
“Recommended fluids/lubricants and ca-
pacities” (P. 10-2). Engine Valve Clearance*:
Inspect only if
valve noise increases. Adjust valve clear-
ance if necessary.
Evaporative Emissions Control Vapor
Lines*: Check vapor lines for leaks or loose-
ness. Tighten connections or replace parts
as necessary.
Fuel Lines*: Check the fuel hoses, piping
and connections for leaks, looseness, or
deterioration. Tighten connections or re-
place parts as necessary.
CHASSIS AND BODY
MAINTENANCE:
Brake Lines and Cables: Visually inspect
for proper installation. Check for chafing,
cracks, deterioration, and signs of leaking.
Replace any deteriorated or damaged
parts immediately.
Brake Pads and Rotors: Check for wear,
deterioration and fluid leaks. Replace any
deteriorated or damaged parts
immediately.
Exhaust System: Visually inspect the ex-
haust pipes, muffler and hangers for leaks,
cracks, deterioration, and damage. Tighten
connections or replace parts as necessary. In-Cabin Microfilter:
Replace at specified
intervals. When driving for prolonged peri-
ods in dusty conditions, replace the filter
more frequently.
Propeller Shaf t(s): Check for damage,
looseness, and grease leakage.
(4WD/AWD/RWD).
Steering Gear and Linkage, Axle and Sus-
pension Parts, Drive Shaf t Boots: Check
for damage, looseness, and leakage of oil
or grease. Under severe driving conditions,
inspect more frequently.
Tire Rotation: Rotate tires at the specified
interval shown in the maintenance sched-
ule. When rotating tires, check for damage
and uneven wear. Replace if necessary.
Transmission Fluid/Oil, Differential Gear
Oil, Transfer Case Oil: Visually inspect for
signs of leakage at specified intervals.
Replace automatic transmission fluid at
specified intervals.
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.
9-6Maintenance and schedules
30,000 miles/(48,000 km)/
24 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Inspections:
• Automatic transmission fluid (1)
• Brake lines and cables
• Brake pads and rotors
• Fuel tank vapor vent system *
• Fuel lines/connections *
• Exhaust system
• Steering gear and linkage
• Axle and suspension parts
• Differential gear oil
• Propeller shaf t
• Transfer case oil (4WD models)
• Drive shaf t boots (4WD models)
• Horn, lights, signals, wipers, rear hatch/hood lif t supports
• All fluids inspected (engine, wiper, brake, power steering, coolant)
• Engine drive belt and hose inspections
• Suspension components (shocks, sub- frame, tie rods)
• Battery terminals and cables, battery test • Tire pressure, treadwear and depth
Essentials:
• Replace engine oil & filter
• Replace engine air filter (2)
• Replace brake fluid
• Replace In-cabin microfilter
• Tire rotation
• Lubricate steering stopper cap (XD mod-
els only)
Severe use maintenance:
Essentials:
• Replace automatic transmission fluid
(1) Request the dealer to inspect the fluid
deterioration data using a CONSULT. If the
deterioration data is more than 77000,
replace the AT fluid.
(2) If operating mainly in dusty conditions,
more frequent maintenance may be
required.
* Maintenance items and intervals with “*”
are recommended by NISSAN for reliable
vehicle operation. The owner need not per-
form such maintenance in order to main-
tain the emission warranty or manufac-
turer recall liability. Other maintenance
items and intervals are required.
30,000 miles/(48,000 km)/
36 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Not Applicable. Proceed to next interval
Severe use maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake pads & rotors
• Steering gear & linkage
• Axle & suspension parts
• Propeller shaf t
• Drive shaf t boots (4WD models)
• Exhaust system
• Horn, lights, signals, wipers, rear hatch/ hood lif t supports
• All fluids inspected (engine, wiper, brake, power steering, coolant)
• Engine drive belt and hose inspections
• Engine air filter
• Suspension components (shocks, sub- frame, tie rods)
• Differential gear oil
• Battery terminals and cables, battery test
• Tire pressure, treadwear and depth
Maintenance and schedules9-13
60,000 miles/(96,000 km)/
48 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Inspections:
• Automatic transmission fluid (1)
• Brake lines and cables
• Brake pads and rotors
• Engine drive belt *
• Fuel tank vapor vent system *
• Fuel lines/connections *
• Exhaust system
• Propeller shaf t
• Axle & suspension parts
• Steering gear & linkage
• Differential gear oil
• Drive shaf t boots (4WD models)
• Transfer case oil (4WD models)
• Horn, lights, signals, wipers, rear hatch/hood lif t supports
• All fluids inspected (engine, wiper, brake, power steering, coolant)
• Hose inspection • Suspension components (shocks, sub-
frame, tie rods)
• Battery terminals and cables, battery test
• Tire pressure, treadwear and depth
Essentials:
• Replace engine air filter (2)
• Replace brake fluid
• Replace engine oil & filter
• Replace in-cabin microfilter
• Tire rotation
• Lubricate steering stopper cap (XD mod- els only)
Severe use maintenance:
Essentials:
• Replace automatic transmission fluid
• Replace transfer case oil (4WD models)
(1) Request the dealer to inspect the fluid
deterioration data using a CONSULT. If the
deterioration data is more than 77000,
replace the AT fluid.
(2) If operating mainly in dusty conditions,
more frequent maintenance may be
required. * Maintenance items and intervals with “*”
are recommended by NISSAN for reliable
vehicle operation. The owner need not per-
form such maintenance in order to main-
tain the emission warranty or manufac-
turer recall liability. Other maintenance
items and intervals are required.
Maintenance and schedules9-19
Essentials:
• Replace engine oil & filter
• Lubricate steering stopper cap (XD mod-els only)90,000 miles/(144,000 km)/
72 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Inspections:
• Automatic transmission fluid (1)
• Brake lines and cables
• Brake pads and rotors
• Engine drive belt *
• Fuel tank vapor vent system *
• Fuel lines/connections *
• Exhaust system
• Propeller shaf t
• Steering gear and linkage
• Axle and suspension parts
• Differential gear oil
• Transfer case oil (4WD models)
• Drive shaf t boots (4WD models)
• Horn, lights, signals, wipers, rear hatch/hood lif t supports
• All fluids inspected (engine, wiper, brake, power steering, coolant)
• Hose inspection
• Suspension components (shocks, sub- frame, tie rods) • Battery terminals and cables, battery test
• Tire pressure, treadwear and depth
Essentials:
• Replace engine air filter (2)
• Replace brake fluid
• Replace engine oil & filter
• Replace in-cabin microfilter
• Replace Intelligent Key battery
• Tire rotation
• Lubricate steering stopper cap (XD mod-
els only)
Severe use maintenance:
Essentials:
• Replace automatic transmission fluid
(1) Request the dealer to inspect the fluid
deterioration data using a CONSULT. If the
deterioration data is more than 77000,
replace the AT fluid.
(2) If operating mainly in dusty conditions,
more frequent maintenance may be
required.
Maintenance and schedules9-25
120,000 miles/(192,000 km)/
96 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Inspections:
• Automatic transmission fluid (1)
• Brake lines and cables
• Brake pads and rotors
• Engine drive belt *
• Fuel tank vapor vent system *
• Fuel lines/connections *
• Exhaust system
• Propeller shaf t
• Steering gear and linkage
• Axle and suspension parts
• Differential gear oil
• Transfer case oil (4WD models)
• Drive shaf t boots (4WD models)
• Horn, lights, signals, wipers, rear hatch/hood lif t supports
• All fluids inspected (engine, wiper, brake, power steering, coolant)
• Hose inspections
• Suspension components (shocks, sub- frame, tie rods) • Battery terminals and cables, battery test
• Tire pressure, treadwear and depth
Essentials:
• Replace engine air filter (2)
• Replace brake fluid
• Replace engine oil & filter
• Replace in-cabin microfilter
• Tire rotation
• Lubricate steering stopper cap (XD mod-
els only)
Severe use maintenance:
Essentials:
• Replace automatic transmission fluid
• Replace transfer case oil (4WD models)
• Replace differential gear oil
(1) Request the dealer to inspect the fluid
deterioration data using a CONSULT. If the
deterioration data is more than 77000,
replace the AT fluid.
(2) If operating mainly in dusty conditions,
more frequent maintenance may be
required. * Maintenance items and intervals with “*”
are recommended by NISSAN for reliable
vehicle operation. The owner need not per-
form such maintenance in order to main-
tain the emission warranty or manufac-
turer recall liability. Other maintenance
items and intervals are required.
9-32Maintenance and schedules