2003 SENTRA OWNER'S MANUAL

Welcome to the growing family of new NISSANowners. This vehicle is delivered to you withconfidence. It was produced using the latesttechniques and strict quality control.

This manual was prepared to help you under-stand the operation and maintenance of yourvehicle so that you may enjoy many miles (kilome-ters) of driving pleasure. Please read through thismanual before operating your vehicle.

A separate Warranty Information Bookletexplains details about the warranties cov-ering your vehicle. The “NISSAN Serviceand Maintenance Guide” explains detailsabout maintaining and servicing your ve-hicle. Additionally, a separate CustomerCare/Lemon Law Booklet (U.S. only) willexplain how to resolve any concerns youmay have with your vehicle, as well asclarify your rights under your state’s lemonlaw.

Your NISSAN dealership knows your vehiclebest. When you require any service or have anyquestions, they will be glad to assist you with theextensive resources available to them.

Before driving your vehicle please read this Own-er’s Manual carefully. This will ensure familiaritywith controls and maintenance requirements, as-sisting you in the safe operation of your vehicle.

WARNING

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION RE-MINDERS FOR SAFETY!

Follow these important driving rules tohelp ensure a safe and complete trip foryou and your passengers!

● NEVER drive under the influence of al-cohol or drugs.

● ALWAYS observe posted speed limitsand never drive too fast for conditions.

● ALWAYS use your seat belts and appro-priate child restraint systems. Preteenchildren should be seated in the rearseat.

● ALWAYS provide information about theproper use of vehicle safety features toall occupants of the vehicle.

● ALWAYS review this owner’s manual forimportant safety information.

MODIFICATION OF YOUR VEHICLE

This vehicle should not be modified.Modification could affect itsperformance, safety or durability, andmay even violate governmentalregulations. In addition, damage or per-formance problems resulting frommodifications may not be covered un-der NISSAN warranties.

FOREWORD READ FIRST—THEN DRIVE SAFELY

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Sentra (b15)Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna)12/10/02—sysadmin X

The inside pages of this manual containa minimum of 50% recycled fibers,including 10% post-consumer fibers.

This manual includes information for all optionsavailable on this model. Therefore, you may findsome information that does not apply to yourvehicle.

All information, specifications and illustrations inthis manual are those in effect at the time ofprinting. NISSAN reserves the right to changespecifications or design without notice and with-out obligation.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUTTHIS MANUALYou will see various symbols in this manual. Theyare used in the following ways:

WARNING

This is used to indicate the presence of ahazard that could cause death or seriouspersonal injury. To avoid or reduce therisk, the procedures must be followedprecisely.

CAUTION

This is used to indicate the presence of ahazard that could cause minor or moder-ate personal injury or damage to your ve-hicle. To avoid or reduce the risk, the pro-cedures must be followed carefully.

If you see this symbol, it means “Do not do this”or “Do not let this happen.”

If you see a symbol similar to these in an illustra-tion, it means the arrow points to the front of thevehicle.

Arrows in an illustration that are similar to theseindicate movement or action.

Arrows in an illustration that are similar to thesecall attention to an item in the illustration.

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65WARNING

WARNING

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents,and certain vehicle components containor emit chemicals known to the State ofCalifornia to cause cancer and birth de-fects or other reproductive harm. In addi-tion, certain fluids contained in vehiclesand certain products of component wearcontain or emit chemicals known to theState of California to cause cancer andbirth defects or other reproductive harm.

© 2003 NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.GARDENA, CALIFORNIA

All rights reserved. No part of this Owner’sManual may be reproduced or stored in a retrievalsystem, or transmitted in any form, or by anymeans, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,recording or otherwise, without the prior writtenpermission of Nissan North America, Inc., Gar-dena, California.

APD1005

WHEN READING THE MANUAL

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Sentra (b15)Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna)12/10/02—debbie X

The inside pages of this manual containa minimum of 50% recycled fibers,including 10% post-consumer fibers.

Your new NISSAN is the result of our dedication toproduce the finest in safe, reliable and economicaltransportation. Your vehicle is the product of a suc-cessful worldwide company that manufactures carsand trucks in over 17 countries and distributes themin 170 nations.

NISSAN vehicles are designed and manufacturedby Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. which was founded inTokyo, Japan in 1933, and NISSAN affiliates world-wide, collectively growing to become the fifth largestautomaker in the world. In addition to cars andtrucks, NISSAN also makes forklift trucks, marineengines, boats and other diversified products.

NISSAN has made a substantial and growing in-vestment in North America. NISSAN’s commitmentis over $6 billion dollars in capital investments infacilities across the continent. Some of the facilitiesinclude the Nissan Manufacturing facility in Smyrna,Tennessee, vehicle styling design at Nissan Design

America, Inc. in San Diego, California, and engineer-ing at Nissan Technical Center North America inFarmington Hills, Michigan. Additionally, NISSANemploys nearly 19,000 people throughout theUnited States, Canada, and Mexico. An additional60,000 people work for the 1,250 NISSAN andINFINITI dealers across North America.

NISSAN is also a substantial contributor to theCanadian economy. Nissan Canada Inc., its suppli-ers and over 150 dealers employ approximately4,500 people. These include company employeesand the staffs of NISSAN dealers all across Canada.In addition, many Canadians work for companiesthat supply NISSAN and NISSAN dealers with ma-terials and services ranging from the operation ofport facilities and transportation services, to thesupply of lubricants, parts and accessories.

NISSAN pioneered the use of electronics and com-puters in automobiles, and has led the industry in

improving both performance and fuel efficiencythrough new engine designs and the use of syn-thetic materials to reduce vehicle weight. The com-pany has also developed ways to build quality into itsvehicles at each stage of the production process,both through extensive use of automation and —most importantly — through an awareness thatpeople are the central element in quality control.

From the time the parts arrived from our suppliersuntil you took delivery of your new NISSAN, dozensof checks were made to ensure that only the best jobwas being done in producing and delivering yourvehicle. NISSAN also takes great care to ensure thatwhen you take your NISSAN to your dealer formaintenance, the service technician will perform hiswork according to the quality standards that havebeen established by NISSAN.

Safety has also been built into your NISSAN. As youknow, seat belts are an integral part of the safetysystems that will help protect you and your passen-gers in the event of a sudden stop or an accident.We urge you to use the seat belts every time youdrive the vehicle.

The NISSAN story of growth and achievement re-flects our major goal: to provide you, our customer,with a vehicle that is built with quality and craftsman-ship — a product that we can be proud to build andyou can be proud to own.

WFW0002

WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF NISSAN


NISSAN CARES . . .

Both NISSAN and your NISSAN dealer are dedicated to serving all your automotive needs. Your satisfaction with your vehicle and your NISSAN dealer areour primary concerns. Your NISSAN dealer is always available to assist you with all your automobile sales and service needs.

However, if there is something that your NISSANdealer cannot assist you with or you would like toprovide NISSAN directly with comments or ques-tions, please contact the NISSAN Consumer AffairsDepartment using our toll-free number:

For U.S. mainland and Alaska customers1-800-NISSAN-1(1-800-647-7261)

For Hawaii customers1-808-836-0888 (Oahu Number)

For Canadian customers1-800-387-0122

The Consumer Affairs Department will ask for thefollowing information:

– Your name, address, and telephone number

– Vehicle identification number (attached to thetop of the instrument panel on the driver’sside)

– Date of purchase

– Current odometer reading

– Your NISSAN dealer’s name

– Your comments or questions

OR

You can write to NISSAN with the information at:

For U.S. mainland and Alaska customersNissan North America, Inc.Consumer Affairs DepartmentP.O. Box 191Gardena, California 90248-0191

For Hawaii customersNissan Motor Corporation in Hawaii2880 Kilihau St.Honolulu, Hawaii 96819

For Canadian customersNissan Canada Inc.5290 Orbitor DriveMississauga, Ontario L4W 4Z5

We appreciate your interest in NISSAN and thank you for buying a quality NISSAN vehicle.

NISSAN CUSTOMER CARE PROGRAM


Table ofContents

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

Instruments and controls

Pre-driving checks and adjustments

Heater, air conditioner and audio systems

Starting and driving

In case of emergency

Appearance and care

Maintenance and do-it-yourself

Technical and consumer information

Index

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10


1 Seats, restraints and supplemental airbag systems

Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2Front manual seat adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2Folding rear seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4Head restraint adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Supplemental restraint system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6Precautions on supplemental restraintsystem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6Supplemental air bag warning labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16Supplemental air bag warning light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-18Precautions on seat belt usage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18Child safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-20Pregnant women . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-21

Injured persons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-21Three-point type seat belt with retractor . . . . . . . . . . 1-22Seat belt extenders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-25Seat belt maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25

Child restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-25Precautions on child restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25Installation on rear seat center or outboardpositions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-27

LATCH ~lower anchors and tether for children!system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-33

Top tether strap child restraint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-34Installation on front passenger seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-35


0

WARNING

● Do not ride in a moving vehicle whenthe seatback is reclined. This can bedangerous. The shoulder belt will notbe against your body. In an accident,you could be thrown into it and receiveneck or other serious injuries. Youcould also slide under the lap belt andreceive serious internal injuries.

● For the most effective protection whenthe vehicle is in motion, the seat shouldbe upright. Always sit well back in theseat and adjust the seat properly. See“Precautions on Seat Belt Usage” laterin this section.

FRONT MANUAL SEATADJUSTMENT

WARNING

● Do not adjust the driver’s seat whiledriving so full attention may be given tovehicle operation. The seat may movesuddenly and could cause loss of con-trol of the vehicle.

● After adjustment, gently rock in the seatto make sure it is securely locked.

ARS1152

SEATS

1-2 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems


Forward and backwardPull the lever up and hold it while you slide theseat forward or backward to the desired position.Release the lever to lock the seat in position.

RecliningTo recline the seatback, pull the lever up and leanback. To bring the seatback forward, pull the leverup and lean your body forward. Release the leverto lock the seatback in position.

WARNING

After adjustment, gently rock in the seat tomake sure it is securely locked.

Seat lifter (if so equipped for driver’sseat)Turn either dial to adjust the angle and height ofthe seat cushion to the desired position.

WRS0175 WRS0176 WRS0131

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-3


FOLDING REAR SEAT

Interior trunk access

The trunk can be accessed from the rear seat forloading and unloading, as shown.

s1 Pull the knob in the trunk to release the rearseatback.

s2 Fold down the rear seatback.

WARNING

● Never allow anyone to ride in the cargoarea or on the rear seat when it is in thefold-down position. Use of these areasby passengers without proper restraintscould result in serious injury in an acci-dent or sudden stop.

● Properly secure all cargo with ropes orstraps to help prevent it from sliding orshifting. Do not place cargo higher thanthe seatbacks. In a sudden stop or col-lision, unsecured cargo could causepersonal injury.

● When returning the seatbacks to theupright position, be certain they arecompletely secured. If they are not com-pletely secured in the latched position,passengers may be injured in an acci-dent or sudden stop.

● Closely supervise children when theyare around cars to prevent them fromplaying and becoming locked in thetrunk where they could be seriously in-jured. Keep the car locked, with the rearseatback and trunk lid securely latchedwhen not in use, and prevent children’saccess to car keys.WRS0132



When using the fold down rear seatback, the rearcenter seat belt retractor may lock up and preventfolding down the seatback.

If the rear center seat belt retractor has inadvert-ently locked up, push the seat belt webbing to-ward the retractor as shown in the above illustra-tion. This will unlock the seat belt retractor andallow the rear seatback to fold down.

HEAD RESTRAINT ADJUSTMENTTo raise the head restraint, pull it up. To lower,push and hold the lock knob and push the headrestraint down.

WARNING

Head restraints should be adjusted prop-erly as they may provide significant pro-tection against injury in an accident. Donot remove them. Check the adjustmentafter someone else uses the seat.

Adjust the head restraint so the center is levelwith the center of your ears.

LRS0058 WRS0133 WRS0134



PRECAUTIONS ONSUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINTSYSTEM

This Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) sec-tion contains important information concerningthe driver and passenger supplemental front airbags, supplemental side air bags and preten-sioner seat belts.

Supplemental front impact air bag system:This system can help cushion the impact force tothe face and chest of the driver and front passen-ger in certain frontal collisions.

Supplemental side-impact air bag system(if so equipped): This system can help cushionthe impact force to the chest area of the driverand front passenger in certain side impact colli-sions. The supplemental side air bag is designedto inflate on the side where the vehicle is im-pacted.

These supplemental restraint systems are de-signed to supplement the crash protection pro-vided by the driver and front passenger seat beltsand are not a substitute for them. Seat beltsshould always be correctly worn and the driverand front passenger seated a suitable distanceaway from the steering wheel, instrument panel

and front door finishers. (See “Seat belts” later inthis section for instructions and precautions onseat belt usage.)

The supplemental air bags operate onlywhen the ignition switch is in the ON orSTART position.

After turning the ignition key to the ONposition, the supplemental air bag warninglight illuminates. The supplemental air bagwarning light will turn off after about 7seconds if the system is operational.

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINTSYSTEM



WARNING

● The supplemental front air bags ordi-narily will not inflate in the event of aside impact, rear impact, rollover, orlower severity frontal collision. Alwayswear your seat belts to help reduce therisk or severity of injury in various kindsof accidents.

● The seat belts and the supplementalfront air bags are most effective whenyou are sitting well back and upright inthe seat. The front air bags inflate withgreat force. If you are unrestrained,leaning forward, sitting sideways or outof position in any way, you are atgreater risk of injury or death in a crash.You may also receive serious or fatalinjuries from the supplemental front airbag if you are up against it when itinflates. Always sit back against theseatback and as far away as practicalfrom the steering wheel or instrumentpanel. Always use the seat belts.

● Keep hands on the outside of the steer-ing wheel. Placing them inside thesteering wheel rim could increase therisk that they are injured when thesupplemental front air bag inflates.

0

WRS0031



WARNING

● Never let children ride unrestrained orextend their hands or face out of thewindow. Do not attempt to hold them inyour lap or arms. Some examples ofdangerous riding positions are shownin the illustrations.

ARS1133 ARS1041



ARS1042 ARS1043 ARS1044



WARNING

● Children may be severely injured orkilled when the supplemental front airbags inflate if they are not properly re-strained. Pre-teens and children shouldbe properly restrained in the rear seat, ifpossible.

● Never install a rear-facing child re-straint in the front seat. An inflatingsupplemental front air bag could seri-ously injure or kill your child. See “Childrestraints” later in this section fordetails.

WARNING

Supplemental side air bag (if soequipped):

● The supplemental side air bag ordi-narily will not inflate in the event of afrontal impact, rear impact or lower se-verity side collision. Always wear yourseat belt to help reduce the risk or se-verity of injury in various kinds ofaccidents.

ARS1045 WRS0256 SSS0101



● The seat belts and the supplementalside air bag are most effective whenyou are sitting well back and upright inthe seat. The side air bag inflates withgreat force. Do not allow anyone toplace their hand, leg or face near theside air bag on the side of the seatbackof the front seat. Do not allow anyonesitting in the front seat to extend theirhand out of the window or lean againstthe door.

● When sitting in the rear seat, do nothold onto the seatback of the front seat.If the side air bag inflates, you may beseriously injured. Be especially carefulwith children, who should always beproperly restrained. Some examples ofdangerous riding positions are shownin the illustrations.

● Do not use seat covers on the frontseatbacks. They may interfere withsupplemental side air bag inflation.

WRS0032 SSS0159



1. Supplemental front air bag modules2. Supplemental side air bag modules (if

so equipped)3. Satellite sensors (if so equipped)4. Seat belt pre-tensioner retractor5. Diagnosis sensor unit

Supplemental front air bag system

The driver supplemental front air bag is located inthe center of the steering wheel. The passengersupplemental front air bag is mounted in thedashboard above the glove box.

These systems are designed to meet optionalcertification requirements under U.S. regulations.

They are also permitted in Canada. The optionalcertification allows the front air bags to be de-signed to inflate somewhat less forcefully thanpreviously. However, all of the information,cautions and warnings in this manual stillapply and must be followed.

The supplemental front air bag system is de-signed to inflate in higher severity frontal colli-sions, although it may inflate if the forces in an-other type of collision are similar to those of ahigher severity frontal impact. It may not inflate incertain frontal collisions. Vehicle damage (or lackof it) is not always an indication of proper supple-mental front air bag system operation.

SSS0162 WRS0135



When the supplemental front air bag inflates, afairly loud noise may be heard, followed by therelease of smoke. This smoke is not harmful anddoes not indicate a fire. Care should be taken tonot inhale it, as it may cause irritation and chok-ing. Those with a history of a breathing conditionshould get fresh air promptly.

Supplemental front air bags, along with the use ofseat belts, help to cushion the impact force onthe face and chest of the front occupants. Theycan help save lives and reduce serious injuries.However, an inflating front air bag may causefacial abrasions or other injuries. Front air bagsdo not provide restraint to the lower body.

Seat belts should be correctly worn and thedriver and passenger seated upright as far aspractical away from the steering wheel or instru-ment panel. The supplemental front air bags in-flate quickly in order to help protect the frontoccupants. Because of this, the force of the frontair bag inflating can increase the risk of injury ifthe occupant is too close to, or is against, thefront air bag module during inflation.

The front air bags deflate quickly after a collision.

The supplemental front air bags operateonly when the ignition switch is in the ONor START position.

After turning the ignition key to the ONposition, the supplemental air bag warninglight illuminates. The supplemental air bagwarning light will turn off after about 7seconds if the system is operational.

WARNING

● Do not place any objects on the steer-ing wheel pad or on the instrumentpanel. Also, do not place any objectsbetween any occupant and the steeringwheel or instrument panel. Such ob-jects may become dangerous projec-tiles and cause injury if the supplemen-tal front air bag inflates.

● Right after inflation, several front airbag system components will be hot. Donot touch them; you may severely burnyourself.

● No unauthorized changes should bemade to any components or wiring ofthe supplemental air bag system. This isto prevent accidental inflation of thesupplemental air bag or damage to thesupplemental air bag system.

● Do not make unauthorized changes toyour vehicle’s electrical system, sus-pension system or front end structure.This could affect proper operation ofthe supplemental front air bag system.

● Tampering with the supplemental frontair bag system may result in seriouspersonal injury. Tampering includeschanges to the steering wheel and theinstrument panel assembly by placingmaterial over the steering wheel padand above the instrument panel or byinstalling additional trim materialaround the air bag system.

● Work around and on the supplementalfront air bag system should be done bya NISSAN dealer. Installation of electri-cal equipment should also be done by aNISSAN dealer. The Supplemental Re-straint System (SRS) wiring should notbe modified or disconnected. Unautho-rized electrical test equipment andprobing devices should not be used onthe air bag system.

● A cracked windshield should be re-placed immediately by a qualified re-pair facility. A cracked windshield couldaffect inflation of the supplemental airbag system.



● The SRS wiring harness connectors areyellow for easy identification.

When selling your vehicle, we request that youinform the buyer about the supplemental front airbag system and guide the buyer to the appropri-ate sections in this Owner’s Manual.

Supplemental side air bag system (ifso equipped)

The supplemental side air bags are located in theoutside of the seatback of the front seats. Thesupplemental side air bag (on the driver or frontpassenger seat) is designed to inflate in higherseverity side collisions, although it may inflate ifthe forces in another type of collision are similarto those of a higher severity side impact. It isdesigned to inflate on the side where the vehicleis impacted. It may not inflate in certain sidecollisions. Vehicle damage (or lack of it) is notalways an indication of proper supplemental sideair bag operation.

When the supplemental side air bag inflates, afairly loud noise may be heard, followed by re-lease of smoke. This smoke is not harmful anddoes not indicate a fire. Care should be taken tonot inhale it, as it may cause irritation and chok-ing. Those with a history of a breathing conditionshould get fresh air promptly.

Supplemental side air bags, along with the use ofseat belts, help to cushion the impact force onthe chest of the front occupants. They can helpsave lives and reduce serious injuries. However,an inflating side air bag may cause abrasions orother injuries. Side air bags do not provide re-straint to the lower body.

The seat belts should be correctly worn and thedriver and passenger seated upright as far aspractical away from the supplemental side airbag. The side air bag inflates quickly in order tohelp protect the front occupants. Because of this,the force of the side air bag inflating can increasethe risk of injury if the occupant is too close to, oris against, the side air bag module during infla-tion. The side air bag will deflate quickly after acollision.

The supplemental side air bags operateonly when the ignition switch is in the ONor START position.

After turning the ignition key to the ONposition, the supplemental air bag warning

LRS0020



light illuminates. The supplemental air bagwarning light will turn off after about 7seconds if the system is operational.

WARNING

● Do not place any objects near the seat-back of the front seats. Also, do notplace any objects (an umbrella, bag,etc.) between the front door finisherand the front seat. Such objects maybecome dangerous projectiles andcause injury if the supplemental side airbag inflates.

● Right after inflation, several supple-mental side air bag system componentswill be hot. Do not touch them; you mayseverely burn yourself.

● No unauthorized changes should bemade to any components or wiring ofthe supplemental side air bag system.This is to prevent accidental inflation ofthe side air bag or damage to the sideair bag system.

● Do not make unauthorized changes toyour vehicle’s electrical system, sus-pension system or side panel. Thiscould affect proper operation of theside air bag system.

● Tampering with the supplemental sideair bag system may result in seriouspersonal injury. For example, do notchange the front seats by placing mate-rial near the seatback or by installingadditional trim material, such as seatcovers, around the side air bag.

● Work around and on the supplementalside air bag system should be done by aNISSAN dealer. Installation of electricalequipment should also be done by aNISSAN dealer. The SRS wiring har-nesses* should not be modified or dis-connected. Unauthorized electrical testequipment and probing devices shouldnot be used on the side air bag system.

* The SRS wiring harness connectors areyellow for easy identification.

When selling your vehicle, we request that youinform the buyer about the supplemental side airbag system and guide the buyer to the appropri-ate sections in this Owner’s Manual.

Pre-tensioner seat belt system (Forfront seats)

WARNING

● The pre-tensioner seat belt cannot bereused after activation. It must be re-placed together with the retractor andbuckle as a unit.

● If the vehicle becomes involved in afrontal collision but the pre-tensioner isnot activated, be sure to have the pre-tensioner system checked and, if nec-essary, replaced by your NISSANdealer.

● No unauthorized changes should bemade to any components or wiring ofthe pre-tensioner seat belt system. Thisis to prevent accidental activation ofthe pre-tensioner seat belt or damageto the pre-tensioner seat belt operation.Tampering with the pre-tensioner seatbelt system may result in serious per-sonal injury.



● Work around and on the pre-tensionersystem should be done by a NISSANdealer. Installation of electrical equip-ment should also be done by a NISSANdealer. Unauthorized electrical testequipment and probing devices shouldnot be used on the pre-tensioner seatbelt system.

● If you need to dispose of the pre-tensioner or scrap the vehicle, contact aNISSAN dealer. Correct pre-tensionerdisposal procedures are set forth in theappropriate NISSAN Service Manual.Incorrect disposal procedures couldcause personal injury.

The front seat pre-tensioner seat belt systemactivates in conjunction with the supplementalfront air bag. Working with the seat belt retractor,it helps tighten the seat belt the instant the ve-hicle becomes involved in certain types of colli-sions, thereby restraining seat occupants.

The pre-tensioner is encased with the seat belt’sretractor. These seat belts are used the same asconventional seat belts.

When the pre-tensioner seat belt activates,smoke is released and a loud noise may be heard.This smoke is not harmful and does not indicate afire. Care should be taken not to inhale it, as it may

cause irritation and choking. Those with a historyof a breathing condition should get fresh airpromptly.

If any abnormality occurs in the pre-tensionersystem, the supplemental air bag warninglight will flash intermittently after the igni-tion key is turned to the ON or START position. Inthis case, the pre-tensioner seat belt will notfunction properly. They must be checked andrepaired. Take your vehicle to the nearestNISSAN dealer.

When selling your vehicle, we request that youinform the buyer about the pre-tensioner seat beltsystem and guide the buyer to the appropriatesections in this Owner’s Manual. 1. SRS Air Bag Warning Labels

2. SRS Side Air Bag Warning Labels (ifso equipped)

SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAGWARNING LABELSWarning labels about the supplemental front airbag and supplemental side air bag (if soequipped) systems are placed in the vehicle asshown in the illustation.

WRS0136



SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAGWARNING LIGHT

The supplemental air bag warning light,displaying in the instrument panel, moni-tors the circuits of the supplemental front airbags, pre-tensioner seat belt and supplementalside air bag (if so equipped) systems. The circuitsmonitored by the supplemental air bag warninglight are the diagnosis sensor unit, crash zonesensor, supplemental air bag modules, pre-tensioner seat belts and all related wiring.

When the ignition key is in the ON or STARTposition, the supplemental air bag warning light

illuminates for about 7 seconds and then turnsoff. This means the system is operational.

If any of the following conditions occur, thesupplemental front air bag, supplemental side airbag and pre-tensioner seat belt systems needservicing:

● The supplemental air bag warning light re-mains on after approximately 7 seconds.

● The supplemental air bag warning light flashesintermittently.

● The supplemental air bag warning light doesnot come on at all.

Under these conditions, the supplemental frontair bag, supplemental side air bag or pre-tensioner seat belt systems may not operateproperly. It must be checked and repaired. Takeyour vehicle to the nearest NISSAN dealer.

WARNING

If the supplemental air bag warning lightis on, it could mean that the supplementalfront air bag or supplemental side air bagsystem will not operate in an accident.

Repair and replacement procedureThe supplemental front air bags, pre-tensionerseat belts and supplemental side air bags (if so

equipped) are designed to inflate on a one-time-only basis. As a reminder, unless it is damaged,the supplemental air bag warning light remainsilluminated after inflation has occurred. Repairand replacement of these supplemental air bagsystems should be done only by a NISSANdealer.

When maintenance work is required on the ve-hicle, the supplemental front air bags, supple-mental side air bags (if so equipped), pre-tensioner seat belts and related parts should bepointed out to the person performing the mainte-nance. The ignition key should always be in theLOCK position when working under the hood orinside the vehicle.

WARNING

● Once a supplemental front air bag orsupplemental side air bag has inflated,the air bag module will not functionagain and must be replaced. Addition-ally, if any of the supplemental front airbags inflate, the activated pre-tensioner seat belts must also be re-placed. The air bag module and pre-tensioner seat belt system should bereplaced by a NISSAN dealer. The airbag module and pre-tensioner seat beltsystem cannot be repaired.

LRS0100



● The supplemental front air bag andsupplemental side air bag systemsshould be inspected by a NISSANdealer if there is any damage to thefront end or side portion of the vehicle,or replaced if the supplemental air baghas inflated.

● If you need to dispose of the supple-mental air bag, pre-tensioner seat beltsystem or scrap the vehicle, contact aNISSAN dealer. Correct supplementalair bag and pre-tensioner seat belt sys-tem disposal procedures are set forth inthe appropriate NISSAN ServiceManual. Incorrect disposal procedurescould cause personal injury. PRECAUTIONS ON SEAT BELT

USAGEIf you are wearing your seat belt properly ad-justed and you are sitting upright and well back inyour seat, your chances of being injured or killedin an accident and/or the severity of injury may begreatly reduced. NISSAN strongly encouragesyou and all of your passengers to buckle up everytime you drive, even if your seating position in-cludes a supplemental air bag.

Most U.S. states and Canadian provincesor territories specify that seat belts be wornat all times when a vehicle is being driven.0

SSS0136

SEAT BELTS



WARNING

● Every person who drives or rides in thisvehicle should use a seat belt at alltimes. Children should be properly re-strained in the rear seat and, if appro-priate, in a child restraint.

WARNING

● The seat belt should be properly ad-justed to a snug fit. Failure to do so mayreduce the effectiveness of the entirerestraint system and increase thechance or severity of injury in an acci-dent. Serious injury or death can occurif the seat belt is not worn properly.

SSS0134 SSS0016



WARNING

● Always route the shoulder belt overyour shoulder and across your chest.Never run the belt behind your back,under your arm or across your neck. Thebelt should be away from your face andneck, but not falling off your shoulder.

● Position the lap belt as low and snug aspossible AROUND THE HIPS, NOT THEWAIST. A lap belt worn too high couldincrease the risk of internal injuries inan accident.

● Be sure the seat belt tongue is securelyfastened to the proper buckle.

● Do not wear the seat belt inside out ortwisted. Doing so may reduce itseffectiveness.

● Do not allow more than one person touse the same seat belt.

● Never carry more people in the vehiclethan there are seat belts.

● If the seat belt warning light glows con-tinuously while the ignition is turnedON with all doors closed and all seatbelts fastened, it may indicate a mal-function in the system. Have the systemchecked by a NISSAN dealer.

● Once the pre-tensioner seat belt hasactivated, it cannot be reused and mustbe replaced together with the retractor.See your NISSAN dealer.

● Removal and installation of the pre-tensioner seat belt system componentsshould be done by a NISSAN dealer.

● All seat belt assemblies, including re-tractors and attaching hardware,should be inspected after any collisionby a NISSAN dealer. NISSAN recom-mends that all seat belt assemblies inuse during a collision be replaced un-less the collision was minor and thebelts show no damage and continue tooperate properly. Seat belt assembliesnot in use during a collision should alsobe inspected and replaced if eitherdamage or improper operation is noted.

● All child restraints and attaching hard-ware should be inspected after any col-lision. Always follow the restraintmanufacturer’s inspection instructionsand replacement recommendations.The child restraints should be replacedif they are damaged.

CHILD SAFETY

Children need adults to help protect them.They need to be properly restrained.

The proper restraint depends on the child’s size.Generally, infants up to about 1 year and lessthan 20 pounds (9 kg) should be placed in rearfacing child restraints. Front facing child re-straints are available for children who outgrowrear facing child restraints.

SSS0014



WARNING

Infants and children need special protec-tion. The vehicle’s seat belts may not fitthem properly. The shoulder belt maycome too close to the face or neck. Thelap belt may not fit over their small hipbones. In an accident, an improperly fit-ting seat belt could cause serious or fatalinjury. Always use appropriate childrestraints.

All U.S. states and Canadian provinces or terri-tories require the use of approved child restraintsfor infants and small children. See “Child Re-straints” later in this section.

In addition, there are many types of child re-straints available for larger children which shouldbe used for maximum protection.

NISSAN recommends that all pre-teensand children be restrained in the rear seat.According to accident statistics, childrenare safer when properly restrained in therear seat than in the front seat. This isespecially important because your vehiclehas a supplemental restraint system (Airbag system) for the front passenger. See“Supplemental restraint system” earlier inthis section.

Infants and small children

NISSAN recommends that infants and small chil-dren be placed in child restraints that comply withFederal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or Ca-nadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Youshould choose a child restraint that fits your ve-hicle and always follow the manufacturer’s in-structions for installation and use.

Larger children

Children who are too large for child restraintsshould be seated and restrained by the seat beltswhich are provided.

If the child’s seating position has a shoulder beltthat fits close to the face or neck, the use of abooster seat (commercially available) may helpovercome this. The booster seat should raise thechild so that the shoulder belt is properly posi-tioned across the top, middle portion of theshoulder and the lap belt is low on the hips. Thebooster seat should fit the vehicle seat and havea label certifying that it complies with FederalMotor Vehicle Safety Standards or Canadian Mo-tor Vehicle Safety Standards. Once the child hasgrown so the shoulder belt is no longer on or nearthe face and neck, use the shoulder belt withoutthe booster seat.

WARNING

Never let a child stand or kneel on anyseat and do not allow a child in the cargoareas while the vehicle is moving. Thechild could be seriously injured or killed inan accident or sudden stop.

PREGNANT WOMEN

NISSAN recommends that pregnant women useseat belts. The seat belt should be worn snug,and always position the lap belt as low as pos-sible around the hips, not the waist. Place theshoulder belt over your shoulder and across yourchest. Never run the lap/shoulder belt over yourabdominal area. Contact your doctor for specificrecommendations.

INJURED PERSONS

NISSAN recommends that injured persons useseat belts. Check with your doctor for specificrecommendations.



THREE-POINT TYPE SEAT BELTWITH RETRACTOR

WARNING

● Every person who drives or rides in thisvehicle should use a seat belt at alltimes.

● Do not ride in a moving vehicle whenthe seatback is reclined. This can bedangerous. The shoulder belt will notbe against your body. In an accident,you could be thrown into it and receiveneck or other serious injuries. Youcould also slide under the lap belt andreceive serious internal injuries.

● For the most effective protection whenthe vehicle is in motion, the seat shouldbe upright. Always sit well back in theseat and adjust the seat belt properly.

Fastening the seat belts

s1 Adjust the seat. See “Seats” earlier in thissection.

s2 Slowly pull the seat belt out of the retractorand insert the tongue into the buckle until youhear and feel the latch engage.

The retractor is designed to lock during asudden stop or on impact. A slow pullingmotion permits the seat belt to move, andallows you some freedom of movement inthe seat.

WRS0174 WRS0137



s3 Position the lap belt portion low and snugon the hips as shown.

s4 Pull the shoulder belt portion toward theretractor to take up extra slack. Make sure theshoulder belt is routed over your shoulderand is snug across your chest.

The front passenger seat belt and the rear three-point seat belts have a cinching mechanism forchild restraint installation. It is referred to as theautomatic locking mode.

When automatic locking mode is activated theseat belt cannot be withdrawn again until the seatbelt tongue is detached from the buckle and fullyretracted. Once retracted, the seat belt is in the

emergency locking mode. See “Child restraints”later in this section for more information.

The automatic locking mode should beused only for child restraint installation.During normal seat belt use by a passen-ger, the locking mode should not be acti-vated. If it is activated it may cause uncom-fortable seat belt tension.

WARNING

When fastening the seat belts, be certainthat the seatbacks are completely se-cured in the latched position. If they arenot completely secured, passengers maybe injured in an accident or sudden stop. Unfastening the seat belts

s1 To unfasten the seat belt, press the button onthe buckle. The seat belt automatically re-tracts.

Checking seat belt operation

Seat belt retractors are designed to lock seat beltmovement by two separate methods:

● When the seat belt is pulled quickly from theretractor.

● When the vehicle slows down rapidly.

To increase your confidence in the seat belts,check the operation as follows.

WRS0138 WRS0139



● Grasp the shoulder belt and pull forwardquickly. The retractor should lock and restrictfurther belt movement.

If the retractor does not lock during this check orif you have any questions about seat belt opera-tion, see a NISSAN dealer.

Center of rear seatSelecting correct set of seat belts:

The center seat belt buckle is identified by theword “CENTER.”The center seat belt tongue canbe fastened only into the center seat belt buckle.

Shoulder belt height adjustment (Forfront seats)

The shoulder belt anchor height should be ad-justed to the position best for you. (See “Precau-tions on seat belt usage” earlier in this section.)To adjust, pull out the adjustment button s1 andmove the shoulder belt anchor to the desiredposition s2 , so the belt passes over the center ofthe shoulder. The belt should be away from yourface and neck, but not falling off your shoulder.Release the adjustment button to lock the shoul-der belt anchor into position.

WRS0140 WRS0141



WARNING

● After adjustment, release the adjust-ment button and try to move the shoul-der belt anchor up and down to makesure it is securely fixed in position.

● The shoulder belt anchor height shouldbe adjusted to the position best for you.Failure to do so may reduce the effec-tiveness of the entire restraint systemand increase the chance or severity ofinjury in an accident.

SEAT BELT EXTENDERS

If, because of body size or driving position, it isnot possible to properly fit the lap-shoulder beltand fasten it, an extender is available which iscompatible with the installed seat belts. The ex-tender adds approximately 8 inches (200 mm) oflength and may be used for either the driver orfront passenger seating position. See a NISSANdealer for assistance if an extender is required.

WARNING

● Only NISSAN seat belt extenders, madeby the same company which made theoriginal equipment seat belts, shouldbe used with NISSAN seat belts.

● Adults and children who can use thestandard seat belt should not use anextender. Such unnecessary use couldresult in serious personal injury in theevent of an accident.

● Never use seat belt extenders to installchild restraints. If the child restraint isnot secured properly, the child could beseriously injured in a collision or a sud-den stop.

SEAT BELT MAINTENANCE● To clean the seat belt webbing, apply a

mild soap solution or any solution recom-mended for cleaning upholstery or carpet.Then wipe with a cloth and allow the seat beltsto dry in the shade. Do not allow the seat beltsto retract until they are completely dry.

● If dirt builds up in the shoulder belt guideof the seat belt anchors, the seat belts mayretract slowly. Wipe the shoulder belt guidewith a clean, dry cloth.

● Periodically check to see that the seatbelt and the metal components, such asbuckles, tongues, retractors, flexible wires andanchors, work properly. If loose parts, deterio-ration, cuts or other damage on the webbing isfound, the entire seat belt assembly should bereplaced.

PRECAUTIONS ON CHILDRESTRAINTS

WARNING

● Infants and small children should al-ways be placed in an appropriate childrestraint while riding in the vehicle.Failure to use a child restraint can re-sult in serious injury or death.

ARS1098

CHILD RESTRAINTS



WARNING

● Infants and small children should neverbe carried on your lap. It is not possiblefor even the strongest adult to resist theforces of a severe accident. The childcould be crushed between the adult andparts of the vehicle. Also, do not put thesame seat belt around both your childand yourself.

● Never install a rear-facing child re-straint in the front seat. An inflatingsupplemental front air bag could seri-ously injure or kill your child. A rear-facing child restraint must only be usedin the rear seat.

● NISSAN recommends that the child re-straint be installed in the rear seat. Ac-cording to accident statistics, childrenare safer when properly restrained inthe rear seat than in the front seat.

● An improperly installed child restraintcould lead to serious injury or death inan accident.

In general, child restraints are designed to beinstalled with a lap belt or the lap portion of athree-point type seat belt. In addition, this vehicleis equipped with a universal child restraint loweranchor system, referred to as the LATCH (LowerAnchors and Tether for Children) system. Somechild restraints include two rigid or webbing-mounted attachments that can be connected tothese lower anchors. For details, see the “LATCH(Lower Anchors and Tether for Children) system”later in this section.

Child restraints for infants and small children ofvarious sizes are offered by several manufactur-ers. When selecting any child restraint, keep thefollowing points in mind:

● Choose only a restraint with a label certifyingthat it complies with Federal Motor VehicleSafety Standard 213 or Canadian Motor Ve-hicle Safety Standard 213.

● Check the child restraint in your vehicle to besure it is compatible with the vehicle’s seat andseat belt system.

● If the child restraint is compatible with yourvehicle, place your child in the child restraintand check the various adjustments to be surethe child restraint is compatible with your child.Always follow all recommended procedures.

All U.S. states and provinces of Canadarequire that infants and small children berestrained in an approved child restraint atall times while the vehicle is being oper-ated.

WARNING

● Improper use of a child restraint canincrease the risk or severity of injury forboth the child and other occupants ofthe vehicle.

WRS0256



● Follow all of the child restraint manu-facturer’s instructions for installationand use. When purchasing a child re-straint, be sure to select one which willfit your child and vehicle. It may not bepossible to properly install some typesof child restraints in your vehicle.

● If the child restraint is not anchoredproperly, the risk of a child being in-jured in a collision or a sudden stopgreatly increases.

● Adjustable seatbacks should be posi-tioned to fit the child restraint, but asupright as possible.

● After attaching the child restraint, test itbefore you place the child in it. Tilt itfrom side to side. Try to tug it forwardand check to see if the belt holds therestraint in place. The child restraintshould not move more than 1 inch. If therestraint is not secure, tighten the beltas necessary, or put the restraint in an-other seat and test it again.

● For a front-facing child restraint, if theseat position where it is installed has athree-point type lap/shoulder belt,check to make sure the shoulder beltdoes not go in front of the child’s face orneck. If it does, put the shoulder beltbehind the child restraint. If you mustinstall a front facing child restraint inthe front seat, see “Installation on frontpassenger seat” later in this section.

● When your child restraint is not in use,keep it secured with a seat belt to pre-vent it from being thrown around incase of a sudden stop or accident.

CAUTION

Remember that a child restraint left in aclosed vehicle can become very hot.Check the seating surface and bucklesbefore placing your child in the childrestraint.

INSTALLATION ON REAR SEATCENTER OR OUTBOARDPOSITIONS

WARNING

● The three-point seat belt in your vehicleis equipped with an automatic lockingmode retractor which must be usedwhen installing a child restraint.

● Failure to use the retractor’s lockingmode will result in the child restraintnot being properly secured. The re-straint could tip over or otherwise beunsecured and cause injury to the childin a sudden stop or collision.



Front facingWhen you install a child restraint in the rear seat,follow these steps:

1. Position the child restraint on the seat. It canbe placed in a front facing direction, de-pending on the size of the child. Alwaysfollow the restraint manufacturer’s instruc-tions.

2. Route the seat belt tongue through the childrestraint and insert it into the buckle until youhear and feel the latch engage.

Be sure to follow the child restraint manu-facturer’s instructions for belt routing.

Front Facing (outboard) — step 1WRS0248

Front Facing (center) — step 1WRS0249

Front Facing — step 2WRS0250



3. Pull on the shoulder belt until all of the belt isfully extended. At this time, the seat beltretractor is in the automatic locking mode(child restraint mode). It reverts back toemergency locking mode when the seat beltis fully retracted.

4. Allow the seat belt to retract. Pull up on theshoulder belt to remove any slack in the belt.

5. Before placing the child in the child restraint,use force to tilt the child restraint from sideto side, and tug it forward to make sure thatit is securely held in place. It should not movemore than 1 inch.

6. Check that the retractor is in the automaticlocking mode by trying to pull more seat beltout of the retractor. If you cannot pull anymore belt webbing out of the retractor, theretractor is in the automatic locking mode.

7. Check to make sure that the child restraint isproperly secured prior to each use. If the beltis not locked, repeat steps 3 through 6.






After the child restraint is removed and the seatbelt is fully retracted, the automatic locking mode(child restraint mode) is canceled.

Rear facingWhen you install a child restraint in the rear seat,follow these steps:

1. Position the child restraint on the seat. Thedirection of the child restraint depends onthe type of the child restraint and the size ofthe child. Always follow the restraint manu-facturer’s instructions.

Rear Facing (outboard) — step 1WRS0261

Rear Facing (center) — step 1WRS0262


Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Sentra (b15)Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna)12/18/02—skoniecz X



3. Pull on the shoulder belt until all of the belt isfully extended. At this time, the seat beltretractor is in the automatic locking mode(child restraint mode). It reverts to emer-gency locking mode when the seat belt isfully retracted.

4. Allow the seat belt to retract. Pull up on theshoulder belt to remove any slack in the belt.

Rear Facing — step 2WRS0150






6. Check that the retractor is in the automaticlocking mode by trying to pull more seat beltout of the retractor. If you cannot pull anymore seat belt webbing out of the retractor,the retractor is in the automatic lockingmode.

7. Check to make sure that the child restraint isproperly secured prior to each use. If the beltis not locked, repeat steps 3 through 6.

After the child restraint is removed and the seatbelt fully retracted, the automatic locking mode(child restraint mode) is canceled.




WARNING

● Attach LATCH system compatible childrestraints only at the locations shown. Ifa child restraint is not secured properly,your child could be seriously injured orkilled in an accident.

● Do not secure a child restraint in thecenter rear seating position using theLATCH system anchors. The child re-straint will not be secured properly.

● The LATCH system anchors are de-signed to withstand only those loadsimposed by correctly fitted child re-straints. Under no circumstance arethey to be used for adult seat belts orharnesses.

Some child restraints include two rigid orwebbing-mounted attachments that can be con-nected to two anchors located at certain seatingpositions in your vehicle. This system is known asthe LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tether for Chil-dren) system. This system may also be referred toas the ISOFIX or ISOFIX compatible system.With this system, you do not have to use a vehicleseat belt to secure the child restraint. Your vehicleis equipped with special anchor points that areused with LATCH system compatible child re-straints. Check your child restraint for a labelWRS0154

LATCH ~LOWER ANCHORS ANDTETHER FOR CHILDREN! SYSTEM



stating that it is compatible with the LATCH sys-tem. This information may also be in the childrestraint owner’s manual. If you have such a childrestraint, refer to the illustration for the seatingpositions equipped with LATCH system anchorswhich can be used to secure the child restraint.

The LATCH system anchors are located at therear of the seat cushion near the seatback. Alabel is attached to the seat back to help youlocate the LATCH system anchors.

LATCH child restraints generally require the useof a top tether strap. See “Top tether strap childrestraint” later in this section for installation in-structions.

When installing a child restraint, carefully readand follow the instructions in this manual andthose supplied with the child restraint.

When you install a LATCH system compatiblechild restraint to the lower anchor attachments,follow these steps:

WARNING

Inspect the lower anchors by insertingyour fingers into the lower anchor areaand feeling to make sure there are noobstructions over the LATCH system an-chors, such as seat belt webbing or seatcushion material. The child restraint willnot be secured properly if the LATCH sys-tem anchors are obstructed.

1. To install the LATCH system compatiblechild restraint, insert the child restraintLATCH system anchor attachments into theanchor points on the seat. If the child re-straint is equipped with a top tether, see“Top tether strap child restraint” later in thissection for installation instructions.

2. After attaching the child restraint and beforeplacing the child in it, use force to tilt thechild restraint from side to side and tug itforward to make sure that the child restraintis securely held in place. It should not movemore than 1 inch.

3. Check to make sure that the child restraint isproperly secured prior to each use. TOP TETHER STRAP CHILD

RESTRAINTIf your child restraint has a top tether strap, it must besecured to 1 of the provided anchor points sA . First,secure the child restraint with the rear seat belt.

Type AWRS0155



Remove the anchor cover sB from the anchorpoint which is located directly behind the childseat.

Secure the top tether strap to the anchor bracket.Tighten the strap according to the manufactur-er’s instructions to remove any slack.

WARNING

Child restraint anchor points are designedto withstand only those loads imposed bycorrectly fitted child restraints. Under nocircumstances are they to be used foradult seat belts or harnesses.

Anchor point locationsAnchor points are located on the rear parcel shelffinisher.

If you have any questions when installing atop strap child restraint on the rear seat,consult your NISSAN dealer for details.

INSTALLATION ON FRONTPASSENGER SEAT

WARNING

● Never install a rear-facing child re-straint in the front passenger seat.Supplemental front air bags inflate withgreat force. A rear-facing child restraintcould be struck by the supplementalfront air bag in a crash and could seri-ously injure or kill your child.

Type BWRS0156

WRS0255



● NISSAN recommends that child re-straints be installed in the rear seat.However, if you must install a forward-facing child restraint in the front pas-senger seat, move the passenger seatto the rearmost position.

● A child restraint with a top tether strapshould not be used in the front passen-ger seat.

● The three-point seat belt in your vehicleis equipped with an automatic lockingmode retractor which must be usedwhen installing a child restraint.

● Failure to use the retractor’s lockingmode will result in the child restraintnot being properly secured. The re-straint could tip over or otherwise beunsecured and cause injury to the childin a sudden stop or collision.

If you must install a child restraint in the front seat,follow these steps:

1. Position the child restraint on the front pas-senger seat. It should be placed in afront-facing direction only. Move theseat to the rearmost position. Alwaysfollow the child restraint manufacturer’s in-structions. Child restraints for infantsmust be used in the rear-facing direc-tion and therefore must not be used inthe front seat.

WRS0256Front Facing — step 1

WRS0258





3. Pull on the shoulder belt until all of the belt isfully extended. At this time, the seat beltretractor is in the automatic locking mode(child restraint mode). It reverts to emer-gency locking mode when the seat belt isfully retracted.

4. Allow the seat belt to retract slightly. Pull upon the shoulder belt to remove any slack inthe belt.







6. Check that the retractor is in the automaticlocking mode by trying to pull more seat beltout of the retractor. If you cannot pull anymore belt webbing out of the retractor, theretractor is in the automatic locking mode.

7. Check to make sure the child restraint isproperly secured prior to each use. If theseat belt is not locked, repeat steps 3through 6.

After the child restraint is removed and the seatbelt is fully retracted, the automatic locking mode(child restraint mode) is canceled.




2 Instruments and controls

Instrument panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2Meters and gauges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Speedometer and odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3Tachometer (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4Engine coolant temperature gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5Fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Warning/indicator lights and audible reminders . . . . . . . 2-7Checking bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7Warning lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7Indicator lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9Audible reminders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-10

Security systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-11Nissan vehicle immobilizer system (NVIS)(if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-11Vehicle security system (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Windshield wiper and washer switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15Switch operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-15

Rear window defroster switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16Headlight and turn signal switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16

Headlight control switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Fog light switch (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18Hazard warning flasher switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-19Power outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-20Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-21

Sunglasses holder (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21Cup holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-21Glove box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-22Coin box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-22Console box (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-23Instrument panel storage (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . 2-23

Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-24Power windows (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24Manual windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-26

Sunroof (if so equipped). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-26Electric sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-26

Interior light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-27Map lights (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28Trunk light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-28


1. Headlight and turn signal switch(P. 2-16)

2. Meters/gauges (P. 2-3)3. Windshield wiper/washer switch

(P. 2-15)4. Heater/air conditioner control (P. 4-2)5. Storage compartment (P. 2-23)6. Hazard warning flasher switch (P. 2-19)7. Center ventilators (P. 4-2)8. Passenger supplemental air bag (P. 1-6)9. Glove box (P. 2-22)10. Pocket11. 12 volt DC/cigarette lighter (accessory)

(P. 2-20)12. 12 volt DC/cigarette lighter (accessory)

(if so equipped) (P. 2-20)13. Radio/CD player/CD changer (P. 4-10)14. Cruise control and main set switch

(P. 5-13)15. Tilt steering lock lever (P. 3-13)16. Trunk release Type B (P. 3-9)17. Fuel filler lid opening lever (P. 3-12)18. Driver supplemental air bag (P. 1-6)19. Hood release lever (P. 3-9)20. Fuse box cover/coin holder

(P. 8-31, 2-22)21. Trunk release Type A (P. 3-9)22. Instrument brightness control switch

(P. 2-18)23. Outside mirror control switch (P. 3-15)

WIC0433

INSTRUMENT PANEL

2-2 Instruments and controls


SPEEDOMETER AND ODOMETER

SpeedometerThe speedometer indicates vehicle speed inmiles per hour (MPH) and kilometers per hour(km/h).

OdometerThe odometer records the total distance the ve-hicle has been driven.

Type AWIC0227

Type BWIC0228

Type CWIC0229

METERS AND GAUGES

Instruments and controls 2-3


Trip odometerThe trip odometer records the distance of indi-vidual trips. Before each trip reset the trip odom-eter.

Push the reset button s1 to change the displayas follows:

ODO (odometer)→TRIP A→TRIP B→ODO

Push and hold the reset button s1 for more than1 second to reset either trip odometer.

TACHOMETER (if so equipped)The tachometer indicates engine speed in revo-lutions per minute (r/min). The red zone s1 isshown in the illustrations.

CAUTION

When engine speed approaches the redzone, shift to a higher gear. Operating theengine in the red zone may cause seriousengine damage.

WIC0230Type A

WIC0231

Type BWIC0232



ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATUREGAUGEThe gauge indicates the engine coolant tempera-ture. The engine coolant temperature is within thenormal range s1 when the gauge needle pointsbetween the C and the H on the gauge.

The engine coolant temperature varies with theoutside air temperature and driving conditions.

CAUTION

If the gauge indicates engine coolant tem-perature over the normal range, stop thevehicle as soon as safely possible. If theengine is overheated, continued opera-tion of the vehicle may seriously damagethe engine. See the “In case of emer-gency” section for immediate actionrequired.

FUEL GAUGE

The gauge indicates the approximate fuel levelin the tank.

The gauge may move slightly during braking,turning, acceleration, or going up or down hills.

The gauge needle returns to E (Empty) after theignition key is turned to OFF.

The low fuel warning light comes on when theamount of fuel in the tank is getting low.

Refill the fuel tank before the gauge regis-ters E (Empty).

Type AWIC0233

Type BWIC0234

Type AWIC0235



The indicates that the fuel filler lid islocated on the driver’s side of the vehicle.

CAUTION

● If the vehicle runs out of fuel,

the malfunction indicator lamp

(MIL) may come on. Refuel as soon aspossible. After a few driving trips,

the lamp should turn off. If the

lamp remains on after a few drivingtrips, have the vehicle inspected by aNISSAN dealer.

● For additional information, see “Mal-function indicator lamp (MIL)” later inthis section.

Type BWIC0236

Type CWIC0299



or Anti-lock brake warning light (ifso equipped)

Low fuel warning light Cruise SET switch indicator light (if soequipped)

or Brake warning light Low washer fluid warning light (if so equipped) High beam indicator light (Blue)

Charge warning light Seat belt warning light and chime Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL)

Door open warning light Supplemental air bag warning light Overdrive off indicator light (automatic trans-mission models only)

Engine oil pressure warning light CRUISE main switch indicator light (if soequipped)

Turn signal/hazard indicator lights

CHECKING BULBS

With all doors closed, apply the parking brakeand turn the ignition key to the ON positionwithout starting the engine. The following lightswill come on:

, , or , , ,

If equipped, the following lights come on brieflyand then go off:

or

If any light fails to come on, it may indicatea burned-out bulb or an open circuit in theelectrical system. Have the system repairedpromptly.

WARNING LIGHTSor Anti-lock brake

warning light (if soequipped)

If the light comes on while the engine is running,it may indicate the anti-lock brake system is notfunctioning properly. Have the system checkedby a NISSAN dealer.

Turn off the engine, and start it again byslowly turning the ignition key (quickly do-ing so may cause the ABS light to stay onwhen there is nothing wrong). If the lightstays on, have the system checked by aNISSAN dealer.

If an abnormality occurs in the system, the anti-lock function ceases, but the regular brakingsystem continues to operate.

If the light comes on while you are driving,contact a NISSAN dealer for repair.

or Brake warning lightThis light functions for both the parking brake andthe foot brake systems.

WARNING/INDICATOR LIGHTS ANDAUDIBLE REMINDERS



When the ignition key is in the ON position, thelight comes on when the parking brake is applied,and also warns of a low brake fluid level. If thelight comes on while the engine is running withthe parking brake not applied, stop the vehicleand perform the following:

1. Check the brake fluid level. Add brake fluidas necessary. See “Brake fluid” in the “Main-tenance and do-it-yourself” section of thismanual.

2. If the brake fluid level is correct, have thebrake system checked by a NISSAN dealer.

WARNING

● Your vehicle is equipped with an auto-matic engine cooling fan. It may comeon at any time without warning, even ifthe ignition key is in the OFF positionand the engine is not running. To avoidinjury, always disconnect the negativebattery cable before working near thefan.

● Pressing the brake pedal with the en-gine stopped and/or a low brake fluidlevel may increase your stopping dis-tance and braking will require greaterpedal effort as well as pedal travel.

● If the brake fluid level is below theMINIMUM or MIN mark on the brakefluid reservoir, do not drive until thebrake system has been checked at aNISSAN dealer.

Charge warning light

If this light comes on while the engine is running,it may indicate the charging system is not func-tioning properly. Turn the engine off and checkthe generator belt. If the belt is loose, broken,missing, or if the light remains on, see a NISSANdealer immediately.

CAUTION

Do not continue driving if the generatorbelt is loose, broken or missing.

Door open warning lightThis light comes on when any of the doors are notclosed securely while the ignition key is in the ONposition.

Engine oil pressure warninglight

This light warns of low engine oil pressure. If thelight flickers or comes on during normal driving,pull off the road in a safe area, stop the engineimmediately and call a NISSAN dealer.

The engine oil pressure warning light is notdesigned to indicate a low oil level. Use thedipstick to check the oil level. See “Engineoil” in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” sec-tion of this manual.

CAUTION

Running the engine with the engine oilpressure warning light on could cause se-rious damage to the engine almost imme-diately. Such damage is not covered bywarranty. Turn off the engine as soon as itis safe to do so.

Low fuel warning light

This light comes on when the fuel level in the fueltank is getting low. Refuel as soon as it is conve-nient, preferably before the fuel gauge reaches E(Empty). There will be a small reserve of fuelin the tank when the fuel gauge needlereaches E (Empty).

Low washer fluid warning light(if so equipped)

This light comes on when the washer fluid is at alow level. Add washer fluid as necessary. See the“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section of thismanual.



Seat belt warning light andchime

The light and chime remind you to fasten yourseat belts. The light illuminates whenever theignition key is turned to the ON or START positionand remains illuminated until the driver’s seat beltis fastened. At the same time, the chime soundsfor about 7 seconds unless the driver’s seat beltis securely fastened.

Refer to “Seat belts” in the “Seats, restraints andsupplemental air bag systems” section for pre-cautions on seat belt usage.

Supplemental air bag warninglight

When the ignition key is in the ON or STARTposition, the supplemental air bag warning lightilluminates for about 7 seconds and then turnsoff. This means the system is operational.

If any of the following conditions occur, thesupplemental front air bag, supplemental side airbag or pre-tensioner seat belt systems need ser-vicing and your vehicle must be taken to aNISSAN dealer:

● The supplemental air bag warning light re-mains on after approximately 7 seconds.

● The supplemental air bag warning light flashesintermittently.

● The supplemental air bag warning light doesnot come on at all.

Unless checked and repaired, the supplementalrestraint system (air bag system) and/or the pre-tensioner seat belts may not function properly.For additional details see “Supplemental restraintsystem” in the “Seats, restraints and supplemen-tal air bag systems” section of this manual.

WARNING

If the supplemental air bag warning lightis on, it could mean that the supplementalfront air bag or supplemental side air bagsystem (if so equipped) or pre-tensionerseat belt system will not operate in anaccident.

INDICATOR LIGHTS

Cruise main switch indicatorlight (if so equipped)

The light comes on when the cruise control mainswitch is pushed. The light goes out when themain switch is pushed again. When the cruisemain switch indicator light comes on, the cruisecontrol system is operational.

Cruise set switch indicatorlight (if so equipped)

The light comes on while the vehicle speed iscontrolled by the cruise control system. If the lightblinks while the engine is running, it may indicatethe cruise control system is not functioning prop-erly. Have the system checked by a NISSANdealer.

High beam indicator light(Blue)

This blue light comes on when the headlight highbeams are on and goes out when the low beamsare selected.

The high beam indicator light also comes onwhen the passing signal is activated.

Malfunction indicator lamp(MIL)

If this indicator lamp comes on steady or blinkswhile the engine is running, it may indicate apotential emission control malfunction.

The malfunction indicator lamp may also come onsteady if the fuel filler cap is loose or missing, or ifthe vehicle runs out of fuel. Check to make surethe fuel filler cap is installed and closed tightly,and that the vehicle has at least 3 gallons of fuelin the fuel tank.



After a few driving trips, the lamp shouldturn off if no other potential emission controlsystem malfunction exists.

Operation

The malfunction indicator lamp will come on inone of two ways:

● Malfunction indicator lamp on steady — Anemission control system malfunction has beendetected. Check the fuel filler cap. If the fuelfiller cap is loose or missing, tighten or installthe cap and continue to drive the vehicle.The lamp should turn off after a fewdriving trips. If the lamp does not turn offafter a few driving trips, have the vehicle in-spected by a NISSAN dealer. You do not needto have your vehicle towed to the dealer.

● Malfunction indicator lamp blinking — An en-gine misfire has been detected which maydamage the emission control system. To re-duce or avoid emission control system dam-age:

– do not drive at speeds above 45 MPH(72 km/h).

– avoid hard acceleration or deceleration.

– avoid steep uphill grades.

– if possible, reduce the amount of cargobeing hauled or towed.

The malfunction indicator lamp may stop blinkingand come on steady. Have the vehicle inspected bya NISSAN dealer. You do not need to have yourvehicle towed to the dealer.

CAUTION

Continued vehicle operation without hav-ing the emission control system checkedand repaired as necessary could lead topoor driveability, reduced fuel economy,and possible damage to the emission con-trol system.

Overdrive off indicator light(automatic transmission mod-els only)

This light comes on when the overdrive functionis OFF.

The automatic transmission overdrive function iscontrolled by the overdrive switch.

Turn signal/hazard indicatorlights

The appropriate light flashes when the turn signalswitch is activated.

Both lights flash when the hazard switch is turnedon.

AUDIBLE REMINDERSBrake pad wear warningThe disc brake pads have audible wear warnings.When a brake pad requires replacement, itmakes a high pitched scraping sound when thevehicle is in motion, whether or not the brakepedal is depressed. Have the brakes checked assoon as possible if the warning sound is heard.

Key reminder chimeA chime sounds if the driver’s door is openedwhile the key is left in the ignition switch. Removethe key and take it with you when leaving thevehicle.

Light reminder chimeWith the ignition switch in the OFF position, achime sounds when the driver’s door is opened ifthe headlights or parking lights are on.

Turn the headlight control switch off before leav-ing the vehicle.



Your vehicle has two types of security systems:

● NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System — NVIS(if so equipped)

● Vehicle security system (if so equipped)

NISSAN VEHICLE IMMOBILIZERSYSTEM (NVIS) (if so equipped)

The NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System (NVIS)will not allow the engine to start without the use ofa registered NVIS key.

If the engine fails to start using a registered NVISkey (for example, when interference is caused byanother NVIS key, an automated toll road device

or automatic payment device on the key ring),restart the engine using the following proce-dures:

1. Leave the ignition switch in the ON positionfor approximately 5 seconds.

2. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF or LOCKposition, and wait approximately 5 seconds.

3. Repeat steps 1 and 2.

4. Restart the engine while holding the device(which may have caused the interference)separate from the registered NVIS key.

If the no start condition re-occurs, NISSAN rec-ommends placing the registered NVIS key on aseparate key ring to avoid interference from otherdevices.

Statement related to Section 15 of FCCRules for NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer Sys-tem (CONT ASSY — IMMOBILIZER, ANTASSY — IMMOBILIZER)

This device complies with part 15 of theFCC Rules and RSS-210 of IndustryCanada. Operation is subject to the follow-ing two conditions;

(1) This device may not cause harmful in-terference, and (2) this device must accept

any interference received, including inter-ference that may cause undesired opera-tion of the device.

CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS NOT EX-PRESSLY APPROVED BY THE MANUFAC-TURER FOR COMPLIANCE COULD VOIDTHE USER’S AUTHORITY TO OPERATETHE EQUIPMENT.

LIC0301

SECURITY SYSTEMS



Security indicator light (NISSAN Ve-hicle Immobilizer System)

The security indicator light s1 is located on theinstrument panel near the windshield.

The security indicator light blinks every 3 sec-onds whenever the ignition switch is in theLOCK, OFF or ACC position. This function indi-cates the NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System(NVIS) is operational.

If the NVIS is malfunctioning, the light will remainon while the ignition key is in the ON position.

If the light still remains on and/or the en-gine will not start, see a NISSAN dealer for

NVIS service as soon as possible. Pleasebring all NVIS keys that you have whenvisiting your NISSAN dealer for service.

VEHICLE SECURITY SYSTEM (if soequipped)The vehicle security system provides visual andaudio alarm signals if parts of the vehicle aredisturbed.

Security indicator light (Vehicle secu-rity system)The security indicator light s1 is located on theinstrument panel near the windshield.

The security indicator light shows the status ofthe vehicle security system.

The light operates whenever the ignition switch isin the LOCK, OFF, or ACC position.

The vehicle security system has four phases. Foreach phase the operation of the security indicatorlight is different.

WIC0237 WIC0237



How to arm the vehicle security sys-tem

1. Close all windows. (The system can bearmed even if the windows are open.)

2. Remove the key from the ignition switch.

3. Close the hood, trunk lid and all doors. Lockall doors. The doors can be locked with thekey or with the keyfob.

Keyfob operation:

● Push the LOCK button on the keyfob. Alldoors lock. The hazard lights flash twiceand the horn beeps once to indicate alldoors are locked.

● When the LOCK button is pushed with alldoors locked, the hazard lights flash twiceand the horn beeps once as a reminderthat the doors are already locked.

The horn may or may not beep once.Refer to “Silencing the horn beep fea-ture” later in this section.

● Confirm that the SECURITY indicator lightcomes on. The SECURITY light stays on forabout 30 seconds. The vehicle security sys-tem is now pre-armed. After about 30 secondsthe vehicle security system automatically shiftsinto the armed phase. The SECURITY lightbegins to flash once every 3 seconds. If, dur-ing the 30-second pre-arm time period, thedoor is unlocked by the key or the keyfob, orthe ignition key is turned to ACC or ON, thesystem will not arm.

● If the key is turned slowly when lockingthe door, the system may not arm. Further-

more, if the key is turned excessively tothe unlock position, the system may bedisarmed when the key is removed. If theindicator light fails to glow for 30 seconds,unlock the door once and lock it again.

● Even when the driver and/or passengersare in the vehicle, the system will armwith all doors, hood and trunk lid closedand locked with the ignition key in theOFF position.

Vehicle security system activationThe vehicle security system will give the followingalarm:

● The headlights blink and the horn sounds in-termittently.

● The alarm automatically turns off after about50 seconds. However, the alarm reactivates ifthe vehicle is tampered with again. The alarmcan be shut off by unlocking a door or trunk lidwith the key, or by pressing the UNLOCKbutton on the keyfob.

The alarm is activated by:

● opening the door or trunk lid without using thekey or keyfob (even if the door is unlocked byreleasing the door inside lock switch) or open-ing the trunk lid by operating the opener lever.

● open the hood.

LIC0053



How to stop an activated alarmThe alarm stops only by unlocking a door or thetrunk lid with the key, or by pressing the UNLOCKbutton on the keyfob.

The alarm does not stop if the ignitionswitch is turned to ACC or ON.

Silencing the horn beep feature

If desired, the horn beep feature can be deacti-vated using the keyfob. The instructions are onthe back of the keyfob.

To deactivate: Press and hold both the LOCKand UNLOCK buttons at the same time for atleast 3 seconds.

The hazard lights will quickly flash 3 times toconfirm that the horn beep feature has beendeactivated.

To activate: Press and hold both the LOCK andUNLOCK buttons at the same time for at least 3seconds once more.

The hazard lights will quickly flash once and thehorn will sound once to confirm that the hornbeep feature has been reactivated.

Deactivating the horn feature does not silencethe horn if the alarm is triggered.

If the system does not operate as describedabove, have it checked by a NISSAN dealer.

WIC0238



1. Low speed2. High speed3. Wash

1. Intermittent2. Low speed3. High speed4. Wash5. Intermittent control6. Mist

SWITCH OPERATION

The ignition switch must be in the ON position forthe wipers or washer to be activated.

Push the lever down to operate the windshieldwipers. Pull the lever toward you to operate thewasher.

● Intermittent (if so equipped) — intermittentwiper operation.

● Low speed — continuous low speed opera-tion.

● High speed — continuous high speed opera-tion.

● Wash — pull the lever toward you to operatethe washer function. Operating the washerautomatically cycles the wipers several times.

● Intermittent control — intermittent wiper op-eration can be adjusted from 1-19 seconds byturning the time control knob.

● Mist — push the lever up to activate the mistfeature.

WARNING

In freezing temperatures the washer solu-tion may freeze on the windshield andobscure your vision which may lead to anaccident. Warm the windshield with thedefroster before you wash the windshield.

CAUTION

● Do not operate the washer continu-ously for more than 30 seconds.

Type AWIC0239

Type BWIC0240

WINDSHIELD WIPER AND WASHERSWITCH



● Do not operate the washer if the reser-voir tank is empty.

● Do not fill the window washer reservoirtank with washer fluid concentrates atfull strength. Some methyl alcoholbased washer fluid concentrates maypermanently stain the grille if spilledwhile filling the window washer reser-voir tank.

● Pre-mix washer fluid concentrates withwater to the manufacturer’s recom-mended levels before pouring the fluidinto the window washer reservoir tank.Do not use the window washer reservoirtank to mix the washer fluid concen-trate and water. To defrost the rear window glass, start the engine

and push the rear window defroster switch on.The rear window defroster indicator light on theswitch comes on. Push the switch again to turnthe defroster off.

The rear window defroster automatically turns offafter approximately 15 minutes.

CAUTION

When cleaning the inner side of the rearwindow, be careful not to scratch or dam-age the rear window defroster.

WIC0241

Type AWIC0242

REAR WINDOW DEFROSTERSWITCH

HEADLIGHT AND TURN SIGNALSWITCH



HEADLIGHT CONTROL SWITCH

Lighting

s1 When turning the switch to the posi-tion, the front parking, tail, license plate andinstrument panel lights come on.

s2 When turning the switch to the posi-tion, the headlights come on and all the otherlights remain on.

Headlight beam select

s1 To select the high beam function, push thelever forward. The high beam lights come onand the light illuminates.

s2 Pull the lever back to select the low beam.

s3 Pulling and releasing the lever flashes theheadlight high beams on and off.

Turn signal switchTurn signal

s1 Move the lever up or down to signal theturning direction. When the turn is com-pleted, the turn signals cancel automatically.

Lane change signal

s2 To signal a lane change, move the lever up ordown to the point where the indicator lightbegins to flash, but the lever does not latch.

Type BWIC0243 WIC0244 WIC0245



Instrument brightness control

The instrument brightness control operates whenthe headlight switch is in the orposition.

Turn the control to adjust the brightness of instru-ment panel lights.

Daytime running light system (Canadaonly)The headlights automatically illuminate at a re-duced intensity when the engine is started withthe parking brake released. The daytime runninglights operate with the headlight switch in theOFF position or in the position. Turn the

headlight switch to the position for fullillumination when driving at night.

If the parking brake is applied before the engine isstarted, the daytime running lights do not illumi-nate. The daytime running lights illuminate whenthe parking brake is released. The daytime run-ning lights will remain on until the ignition switchis turned off.

WARNING

When the daytime running light system isactive, tail lights on your vehicle are noton. It is necessary at dusk to turn on yourheadlights. Failure to do so could causean accident injuring yourself and others.

To turn the front fog lights on, rotate the switch tothe position.

To turn them off, rotate the switch to the OFFposition.

The headlight switch must be in the posi-tion (low beam headlights on) for the fog lights tooperate. The fog lights automatically turn offwhenever the highbeam headlight function is se-lected.

WIC0246 WIC0247

FOG LIGHT SWITCH (if so equipped)



Push the switch on to warn other drivers whenyou must stop or park under emergency condi-tions. All turn signal lights flash.

WARNING

● If stopping for an emergency, be sure tomove the vehicle well off the road.

● Do not use the hazard warning flasherswhile moving on the highway unlessunusual circumstances force you todrive so slowly that your vehicle mightbecome a hazard to other traffic.

● Turn signals do not work when the haz-ard warning flasher lights are on.

The flashers will operate with the ignition switchin any position.

Some state laws may prohibit the use ofthe hazard warning flasher switch whiledriving.

To sound the horn, push the center pad area ofthe steering wheel.

WARNING

Do not disassemble the horn. Doing socould affect proper operation of thesupplemental front air bag system. Tam-pering with the supplemental front air bagsystem may result in serious personalinjury.

WIC0248 WIC0249

HAZARD WARNING FLASHERSWITCH

HORN



The power outlets are for powering electricalaccessories such as cellular telephones. Theyare rated at 12 Volts 120 Watts maximum.

CAUTION

● Take care as the outlet and plug may behot during or immediately after use.

● This power outlet is not designed foruse with a cigarette lighter unit.

● Do not use with accessories that ex-ceed a 12 volt, 120W (10A) power draw.Do not use double adapters or morethan one electrical accessory.

● Use this power outlet with the enginerunning. (If the engine is stopped, thiscould result in a discharged battery.)

● Avoid using when the air conditioner,headlights or rear window defroster ison.

● Before inserting or disconnecting aplug, be sure the electrical accessorybeing used is turned OFF.

● Push the plug in as far as it will go. Ifgood contact is not made, the plug mayoverheat or the internal temperaturefuse may blow.

● When not in use, be sure to close thecap. Do not allow water to contact theoutlet.

Instrument panelWIC0250

Console (if so equipped)WIC0251

POWER OUTLET



SUNGLASSES HOLDER (if soequipped)

To open the sunglasses holder, push and release.

WARNING

The sunglasses case should not be usedwhile driving so full attention may begiven to vehicle operation.

CAUTION

● Do not use for anything other thansunglasses.

● Do not leave sunglasses in the sun-glasses holder while parking in directsunlight. The heat may damage thesunglasses.

CUP HOLDERS

FrontThe right side cup holder has an adapter that canbe removed to accommodate larger cups. Twistthe adapter to remove it.

WARNING

The cup holder should not be used whiledriving so full attention may be given tovehicle operation.

WIC0253 WIC0303

STORAGE



Rear (if so equipped)To open, pull the cup holder out fully. To close,push the cup holder in fully.

CAUTION

● Avoid abrupt starting and braking whenthe cup holder is being used to preventspilling the drink. If the liquid is hot, itcan scald you or your passenger.

● Use only soft cups in the cup holder.Hard objects can injure you in anaccident.

GLOVE BOXOpen the glove box by pulling the handle.

WARNING

Keep glove box lid closed while driving tohelp prevent injury in an accident or asudden stop.

COIN BOX

WARNING

The coin box should not be used whiledriving so full attention may be given tovehicle operation.

WIC0254 WIC0255 WIC0256



CONSOLE BOX (if so equipped)

WARNING

The center console box should not beused while driving so full attention may begiven to vehicle operation.

The console box can store compact discs. Abusiness card holder and a tissue holder are alsocontained within the console box.

To open the console box lid:

s1 Pull up on the lever.

s2 Lift the console lid.

INSTRUMENT PANEL STORAGE (ifso equipped)

To open the storage tray, push and release. Thestorage tray will automatically move to the openposition.

● The inside of the storage tray can get hot. Donot place objects inside which can melt or beeasily deformed.

WARNING

● The storage tray should not be usedwhile driving so full attention may begiven to vehicle operation.

● Keep the tray lid closed while driving tohelp prevent contents from becomingprojectiles causing injury in an accidentor during a sudden stop.

WIC0257

WIC0258



POWER WINDOWS (if so equipped)

WARNING

● Make sure that all passengers havetheir hands, etc. inside the vehicle whileit is in motion and before closing thewindows. Use the window lock switchto prevent unexpected use of the powerwindows.

● Do not leave children unattended insidethe vehicle. They could unknowingly ac-tivate switches or controls and becometrapped in a window. Unattended chil-dren could become involved in seriousaccidents. 1. Door lock/unlock button

2. Window lock button3. Front passenger side4. Right rear passenger side5. Left rear passenger side6. Driver side automatic switch

Driver’s side power window switchThe power windows operate only when the igni-tion switch is in the ON position.

To open the driver side window, push the driver’sside automatic switch down until the desiredwindow position is reached. To close the window,lift the switch up. The driver side control panel isequipped with switches to open or close all thewindows.

WIC0259

WINDOWS



Front passenger power window switchThe passenger window switch operates only thecorresponding passenger window. To open thewindow push the switch and hold it down s1 . Toclose the window, pull the switch up s2 .

Rear power window switchThe rear passenger window switches open orclose only the corresponding passenger window.To open the window, push the switch and hold itdown s1 . To close the window, pull the switch ups2 .

Locking passengers’ windowsWhen the window lock button is depressed, onlythe driver side window can be opened or closed.Push it again to cancel the window lock function.

Automatic operationTo fully open the driver window, press the driverwindow switch down to the second detent andrelease it; it need not be held. The window auto-matically opens all the way. To stop the window,lift the switch up while the window is opening.

WIC0260 WIC0261 WIC0262



MANUAL WINDOWSThe side windows can be opened or closed byturning the hand crank on each door.

ELECTRIC SUNROOF

This sunroof only operates with the ignitionswitch in the ON position.

NOTE:

If the battery is discharged or is discon-nected, the sunroof may not operate cor-rectly, and must be reset.

From any sunroof position (full open, partiallyopen, closed, partially vented and vented), pushand hold the button in the forward position untilthe sunroof vents in the full-up position. Thisresets the sunroof motor memory and now thesunroof will operate correctly.

Sliding the sunroof

To open the sunroof, push the switch towardDOWN/OPEN. Push the switch again to com-pletely open the sunroof.

To close the sunroof, push the switch towardUP/CLOSE.

Tilting the sunroof

Close the sunroof by pushing the switch towardUP/CLOSE. Release the switch, then push theUP/CLOSE switch to tilt the sunroof up.

To tilt the sunroof down, push the switch towardDOWN/OPEN.

Sun shade

Open and close the sun shade by sliding it for-ward or backward.

WARNING

● In an accident you could be thrown fromthe vehicle through an open sunroof.Always use seat belts and childrestraints.

WIC0263 AIC1145

SUNROOF (if so equipped)



● Do not allow anyone to stand up orextend any portion of their body out ofthe sunroof opening while the vehicle isin motion or while the sunroof isclosing.

CAUTION

● Remove water drops, snow, ice or sandfrom the sunroof before opening.

● Do not place heavy objects on the sun-roof or surrounding area.

The interior light has a three-position switch andoperates regardless of ignition switch position.

● When the switch is in the ON position s1 , theinterior light illuminates, regardless of doorposition.

● When the switch is in the center O or DOORposition, the interior light illuminates by open-ing a door.

● When the switch is in the OFF position s2 , theinterior light does not illuminate, regardless ofdoor position.

For information regarding the interior light bulbreplacement, refer to “Bulb replacement” in the“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section of thismanual.

CAUTION

Do not use for extended periods of timewith the engine stopped. This could resultin a discharged battery.

WIC0264

INTERIOR LIGHT



To turn the map lights on, press the switches. Toturn them off, press the switches again.

CAUTION

Do not use for extended periods of timewith the engine stopped. This could resultin a discharged battery.

The light illuminates when the trunk lid is opened.When the trunk lid is closed, the light goes off.For bulb replacement procedures, refer to “Bulbreplacement” in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section of this manual.

WIC0305

MAP LIGHTS (if so equipped) TRUNK LIGHT



3 Pre-driving checks and adjustments

Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System (NVIS)keys (if so equipped). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3Locking with key. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3Locking with inside lock knob . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4Locking with power door lock switch (if soequipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4Child safety rear door lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Remote keyless entry system (if so equipped). . . . . . . . . 3-5How to use remote keyless entry system . . . . . . . . . . 3-5Battery replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9Trunk lid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

Opener operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9Key operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-11Interior trunk lid release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Fuel filler lid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-12Opener operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-12Fuel filler cap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-12

Steering wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-13Tilt operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-13

Sun visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-14Vanity mirror (if so equipped). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-14Inside mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-14Outside mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-15Outside mirror remote control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15


1. Master keys (black) with transponderchip (if so equipped)

2. Valet key (red) with transponder chip(if so equipped)

3. Key number plate4. Transponder chip (if so equipped)A key number plate is supplied with your keys.Record the key number and keep it in a safe place(such as your wallet), not in the vehicle. If you loseyour keys, see a NISSAN dealer for duplicates byusing the key number. NISSAN does not recordkey numbers so it is very important to keep trackof your key number plate.

A key number is only necessary when you havelost all keys and do not have 1 to duplicate from.If you still have a key, your NISSAN dealer canduplicate it.

NISSAN VEHICLE IMMOBILIZERSYSTEM (NVIS) KEYS (if soequipped)

You can only drive your vehicle using the masteror valet keys which are registered to the NISSANVehicle Immobilizer System components in yourvehicle. These keys have a transponder chip inthe key head.

The master key can be used for all the locks.

The valet key cannot be used for the trunk lid lock.

To protect belongings when you leave a key withsomeone, give them the valet key only.

Never leave these keys in the vehicle.

NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System KEY —Master and Valet keys:

As many as five NVIS keys can be used with onevehicle. You should bring all NVIS keys that youhave to your NISSAN dealer for registration. Thisis because the registration process will erase thememory of all key codes previously registeredinto the NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System.After the registration process, these components

will only recognize keys coded into the NISSANVehicle Immobilizer System (NVIS) during regis-tration. Any key that is not given to your dealer atthe time of registration will no longer be able tostart your vehicle.

WPD0203

KEYS

3-2 Pre-driving checks and adjustments


WARNING

● Always have the doors locked whiledriving. Along with the use of seat belts,this provides greater safety in the eventof an accident by helping to preventpersons from being thrown from thevehicle. This also helps keep childrenand others from unintentionally open-ing the doors, and will help keep outintruders.

● Before opening any door, always lookfor and avoid oncoming traffic.

● Do not leave children unattended insidethe vehicle. They could unknowingly ac-tivate switches or controls. Unattendedchildren could become involved in seri-ous accidents.

LOCKING WITH KEY

ManualTo lock either the driver or passenger side door,turn the key toward the front of the vehicle s1 . Tounlock, turn it toward the rear s2 .

Power (if so equipped)

If your vehicle is equipped with the theftwarning system, the power door lock systemallows you to lock or unlock all doors at the sametime.

Turning the key toward the front s1 of the vehiclelocks all doors.

Turning the key 1 time toward the rear s2 of thevehicle unlocks that door. From that position,returning the key to neutral s3 (where the key canonly be removed and inserted) and turning ittoward the rear again s4 within 5 seconds un-locks all doors.

Driver’s sideWPD0107


DOORS

Pre-driving checks and adjustments 3-3


LOCKING WITH INSIDE LOCKKNOBTo lock the door without the key, move the insidelock knob to the lock position s1 , then close thedoor.

To unlock the door without the key, move theinside lock knob to the unlock position s2 .

LOCKING WITH POWER DOORLOCK SWITCH (if so equipped)To lock all the doors without a key, push the doorlock switch (driver or front passenger side), to thelock position s1 , then close the door. Whenlocking the door this way, be certain not to leavethe key inside the vehicle.

To unlock all the doors without a key, push thedoor lock switch (driver or front passenger side)to the unlock position s2 .

When the power door lock switch (driver or pas-senger side) is moved to the lock position withthe key in the ignition and any door open, all doorswill lock and then unlock automatically.

Inside lockWPD0109




CHILD SAFETY REAR DOOR LOCKChild safety locks help prevent the rear doorsfrom being opened accidentally, especially whensmall children are in the vehicle.

The child safety lock levers are located on theedge of the rear doors.

When the lever is in the lock position, thedoor can be opened only from the outside.

It is possible to lock/unlock all doors, turn theinterior light on, and activate the panic alarm byusing the keyfob from outside the vehicle.

Be sure to remove the key from the vehiclebefore locking the doors.

The keyfob can operate at a distance of approxi-mately 49 ft (15 m) from the vehicle. The effectivedistance depends upon the conditions aroundthe vehicle.

As many as 4 keyfobs can be used with onevehicle. For information concerning the purchaseand use of additional keyfobs, contact a NISSANdealer.

WARNING

Listed below are conditions or occur-rences which will damage the keyfob:

● Do not allow the keyfob to become wet.

● Do not drop the keyfob.

● Do not strike the keyfob sharply againstanother object.

● Do not place the keyfob for an extendedperiod in an area where temperaturesexceed 140°F (60°C).

HOW TO USE REMOTE KEYLESSENTRY SYSTEM

Locking doors1. Close all windows

2. Remove the key from the ignition switch.

3. Close the hood, trunk lid and all doors.

4. Push the LOCK button on the keyfob. All thedoors lock. The hazard lights flash twice andthe horn beeps once to indicate all doors arelocked.

● When the LOCK button is pushed with alldoors locked, the hazard lights flash twice and

WPD0019 WPD0111

REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM(if so equipped)



the horn beeps once as a reminder that thedoors are already locked.

● If a door is open and you push the LOCKbutton, the doors will lock but the horn will notbeep and the hazard lights will not flash.

The horn may or may not beep once. Refer to“Silencing the horn beep feature” later in thissection for details.

Unlocking doors

Push the UNLOCK button on the keyfob once.

● Only the driver’s door unlocks.

● The hazard indicator flashes once if all doorsare completely closed with the ignition key inany position except the ON position.

Push the UNLOCK button on the keyfob againwith 5 seconds.

● All doors unlock.

● The hazard indicator flashes once if all doorsare completely closed.

The interior lights can be turned off without wait-ing 30 seconds by inserting the key into theignition and turning to the ON or START position,locking the doors with the keyfob or pushing theinterior light switch to the OFF position.

WPD0112



Release the trunk lidPush the TRUNK button on the keyfob for longerthan 0.5 second. The trunk release button on thekeyfob will not operate when the ignition switch isin the ON position.

The trunk lid opens.

The trunk lid will not open with the trunk lidrelease cancel switch turned to OFF. It canbe opened only with the key. See “Trunklid” later in this section for cancel switchinformation.

Using the panic alarmIf you are near your vehicle and feel threatened,you may activate the panic alarm to call attentionby pushing and holding the PANIC button on thekeyfob for longer than 0.8 second.

The panic alarm and headlights will stay on for 25seconds.

The panic alarm stops when:

● it has run for 25 seconds, or

● the LOCK, UNLOCK, or the PANIC button ispushed on the keyfob.

Silencing the horn beep featureIf desired, the horn beep feature can be deacti-vated using the keyfob.To deactivate: Press and hold the LOCK andUNLOCK buttons for at least 3 seconds.The hazard lights will flash three times to confirmthat the horn beep feature has been deactivated.

To activate: Press and hold the LOCK and UN-LOCK buttons for at least 3 seconds once more.

The hazard lights will flash once and the horn willsound once to confirm that the horn beep featurehas been reactivated.

Deactivating the horn beep feature does not si-lence the horn if the alarm is triggered.

WPD0113 WPD0114 WPD0115



BATTERY REPLACEMENTReplace the battery in the keyfob as follows:

s1 Open the lid using a coin.

s2 Remove the battery.

s3 Install a new battery with the “+” facing down.

Recommended battery: Sanyo CR2025 orequivalent.

s4 Close the lid securely.

5. Press the LOCK button, then the UNLOCKbutton two or three times to check the key-fob operation.

If the battery is removed for any reasonother than replacement, perform step 5.

● An improperly disposed battery can hurtthe environment. Always confirm localregulations for battery disposal.

● The keyfob is water-resistant; however, ifit does get wet, immediately wipe com-pletely dry.

● The operational range of the keyfob ex-tends to approximately 49 ft (15 m) fromthe vehicle. This range may vary withconditions.

FCC Notice:Changes or modifications not expressly ap-proved by the manufacturer for compliancecould void the user’s authority to operatethe equipment.

This device complies with Part 15 of theFCC Rules and RSS-210 of IndustryCanada.

Operation is subject to the following twoconditions: (1) This device may not causeharmful interference, and (2) this devicemust accept any interference received, in-cluding interference that may cause undes-ired operation of the device.

WPD0116



WARNING

● Make sure the hood is completelyclosed and latched before driving. Fail-ure to do so could cause the hood to flyopen and result in an accident.

● If you see steam or smoke coming fromthe engine compartment, to avoid injurydo not open the hood.

1. Pull the hood lock release handle sA locatedbelow the driver side instrument panel; thehood springs up slightly.

2. Lift the lever sB at the front of the hood withyour fingertips and raise the hood.

3. Remove the support rod from the clamp.

4. Insert the support rod sC into the slot in thefront edge of the hood.

5. When closing the hood, return the supportrod to its original position, lower the hood toapproximately 12 inches above the latch andrelease it. This allows proper engagement ofthe hood latch.

OPENER OPERATION

WARNING

● Do not drive with the trunk lid open. Thiscould allow dangerous exhaust gasesto be drawn into the vehicle. See “Ex-haust gas” in the “Starting and driving”section of this manual.

● Closely supervise children when theyare around cars to prevent them fromplaying and becoming locked in thetrunk where they could be seriously in-jured. Keep the car locked, with the rearseatback and trunk lid securely latchedwhen not in use, and prevent children’saccess to car keys.

WPD0117

HOOD TRUNK LID



Type A

The trunk lid opener lever is located on the out-side of the driver’s seat. To open the trunk lid, pullup the opener lever s1 . To close, push the trunklid down securely.

Type B

The trunk lid release is located on the instrumentpanel. To open the trunk, push the release in thedirection indicated in the illustration s1 . To closethe trunk lid, push it down securely.

Cancel leverWhen the lever is in the cancel position, the trunklid cannot be opened with the trunk lid openerlever. It can be opened only with the key.

WPD0118 WPD0198 WPD0021



KEY OPERATIONTo open the trunk lid, turn the key clockwise. Toclose the trunk lid, lower and push the trunk liddown securely.

INTERIOR TRUNK LID RELEASE

WARNING

Closely supervise children when they arearound cars to prevent them from playingand becoming locked in the trunk wherethey could be seriously injured. Keep thecar locked, with the rear seatback andtrunk lid securely latched when not in use,and prevent children’s access to car keys.

The interior trunk lid release mechanism providesa means of escape for children and adults in theevent they become locked inside the trunk.

To open the trunk from the inside, rotate theilluminated lever until the lock releases and pushup on the trunk lid. The release lever is made of amaterial that glows in the dark after a brief expo-sure to ambient light.

The handle is located inside the trunk compart-ment on the trunk lock at the center of the trunklid.

WPD0120

WPD0051



OPENER OPERATIONThe fuel filler opener lever is located on the out-side of the driver’s seat s1 . To open the fuel fillerlid, pull the opener lever up. To lock, close the fuelfiller lid securely.

FUEL FILLER CAPThe fuel filler cap is a ratcheting type. Turn thecap counterclockwise to remove. To tighten, turnthe cap clockwise until ratcheting clicks areheard.

WARNING

● Gasoline is extremely flammable andhighly explosive under certain condi-tions. You could be burned or seriouslyinjured if it is misused or mishandled.Always stop the engine and do notsmoke or allow open flames or sparksnear the vehicle when refueling.

● Fuel may be under pressure. Turn thecap a third turn, and wait for any “hiss-ing” sound to stop to prevent fuel fromspraying out and possibly causing per-sonal injury. Then remove the cap.

● Do not attempt to top off the fuel tankafter the fuel pump nozzle shuts offautomatically. Continued refueling maycause fuel overflow, resulting in fuelspray and possibly a fire.

● Use only an original equipment typefuel filler cap as a replacement. It has abuilt-in safety valve needed for properoperation of the fuel system and emis-sion control system. An incorrect capcan result in a serious malfunction andpossible injury. It could also cause themalfunction indicator lamp to come on.

● Never pour fuel into the throttle body toattempt to start your vehicle.

WPD0121 WPD0180

FUEL FILLER LID



● Do not fill a portable fuel container inthe vehicle or trailer. Static electricitycan cause an explosion of flammableliquid, vapor or gas in any vehicle ortrailer. To reduce the risk of seriousinjury or death when filling portable fuelcontainers:

– Always place the container on theground when filling.

– Do not use electronic devices whenfilling.

– Keep the pump nozzle in contactwith the container while you are fill-ing it.

– Use only approved portable fuel con-tainers for flammable liquid.

CAUTION

● If fuel is spilled on the vehicle body,flush it away with water to avoid paintdamage.

● Tighten until the fuel filler cap clicks.Failure to tighten the fuel filler cap

properly may cause the mal-

function indicator lamp (MIL) to illumi-

nate. If the lamp illuminates be-

cause the fuel filler cap is loose ormissing, tighten or install the cap andcontinue to drive the vehicle.

The lamp should turn off after a

few driving trips. If the lamp

does not turn off after a few drivingtrips, have the vehicle inspected by aNISSAN dealer.

● For additional information, see the“Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL)” inthe “Instruments and Controls” sectionearlier in this manual.

TILT OPERATIONPull the lock lever down sA and adjust the steer-ing wheel up or down sB to the desired position.

Push the lock lever up firmly to lock the steeringwheel in place.

WARNING

Do not adjust the steering wheel whiledriving. You could lose control of yourvehicle and cause an accident.

WPD0123

STEERING WHEEL



CAUTION

Do not store the sun visor before returningit to its original position.

VANITY MIRROR (if so equipped)To access the vanity mirror, pull the sun visordown and flip open the mirror cover. Some vanitymirrors are illuminated and turn on when themirror cover is open.

INSIDE MIRRORThe night position s1 reduces glare from theheadlights of vehicles behind you at night.

Use the day position s2 when driving in daylighthours.

WARNING

Use the night position only when neces-sary, because it reduces rear view clarity.

Driver’s side onlyWPD0124 WPD0125 WPD0126

SUN VISORS MIRRORS



OUTSIDE MIRRORSThe outside mirrors can be moved in any direc-tion for a better rear view.

OUTSIDE MIRROR REMOTECONTROL

Electric control type (if so equipped)

The outside mirror remote control only operateswhen the ignition switch is in the ACC or ONposition.

Rotate the control lever to select the right or leftmirror. Adjust the mirror to the desired position bymoving the control lever.

WARNING

Objects viewed in the outside mirror onthe passenger side are closer than theyappear. Be careful when moving to theright. Using only this mirror could causean accident. Use the inside mirror orglance over your shoulder to properlyjudge distances to other objects.

Heated mirrors (Canada only)The electric control type outside mirrors (if soequipped) can be heated to defrost, defog, orde-ice for improved visibility. Press the rear win-dow defogger switch to activate the heatingfunction. Press the switch again to deactivate, orthe heating function will automatically turn offafter approximately 15 minutes.

WPD0127



Manual control typeThe outside mirror can be moved in any directionfor a better rear view.

Objects viewed in the outside mirror on thepassenger side are closer than they appear.

LPD0029



4 Heater, air conditioner and audiosystems

Ventilators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2Heater and air conditioner (manual) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3Heater operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4Air conditioner operation (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . 4-5Air flow charts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Servicing air conditioner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9Audio system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-10

Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-10

FM radio reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-10AM radio reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-10Audio operation precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11FM-AM radio with compact disc (CD) player(if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-12Compact disc (CD) changer (if so equipped) . . . . . 4-17CD care and cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-19

Car phone or CB radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-19


0

Adjust air flow direction for the driver’s side s1 ,center s2 , and passenger side s3 ventilators bymoving the ventilator slide and/or ventilator as-semblies.

WARNING

● The air conditioner cooling function op-erates only when the engine is running.

● Do not leave children, impaired adults,or pets alone in your vehicle. They couldaccidentally injure themselves or oth-ers through inadvertent operation ofthe vehicle. Also, on hot, sunny days,temperatures in a closed vehicle couldquickly become high enough to causesevere or possibly fatal injuries topeople or animals.

● Do not use the recirculation mode forlong periods as it may cause the interiorair to become stale and the windows tofog up.

● Positioning of the heater and/or airconditioner controls should not bedone while driving so full attention maybe given to vehicle operation.

WHA0200

VENTILATORS HEATER AND AIR CONDITIONER(manual)

4-2 Heater, air conditioner and audio systems


1. Fan control dial2. Rear window defroster switch (if so

equipped)3. Air flow control dial4. Air conditioner button (if so equipped)5. Air recirculation button (if so equipped)6. Temperature control dial

CONTROLS

Fan control dial

The fan control dial turns the fan on and off, andcontrols fan speed.

Air flow control dial

The air flow control dial allows you to select theair flow outlets.

— Air flows from center and sideventilators.

— Air flows from center and sideventilators and foot outlets.

— Air flows mainly from foot outlets.— Air flows from defroster outlets

and foot outlets.— Air flows mainly from defroster

outlets.

The air flow control dial also has intermediatepositions which allow the air flow to be distrib-uted between two of the icon positions on the airflow control dial.

Temperature control dial

The temperature control dial allows you to adjustthe temperature of the outlet air.

Air recirculation button (if soequipped)

NOTE:

The air recirculation feature is availableonly on those vehicles equipped with airconditioning.

ON position (Indicator light on):Interior air is recirculated inside the vehicle.

Push the button to the on position when:

● driving on a dusty road.

● to prevent traffic fumes from entering the pas-senger compartment.

● for maximum cooling when using the air con-ditioner.

OFF position (Indicator light off):Outside air is drawn into the passenger compart-ment and distributed through the selected outlet.

WHA0201

Heater, air conditioner and audio systems 4-3


Use the off position for normal heater or air con-ditioner operation.

Air conditioner button (if soequipped)

The button is provided only on vehicles equippedwith an air conditioner.

Start the engine, turn the fan control dial to thedesired (1 - 4) position and push thebutton to turn on the air conditioner. The indicatorlight comes on when the air conditioner is oper-ating. To turn off the air conditioner, pushthe button again.

The air conditioner cooling function oper-ates only when the engine is running.

Rear window defroster switch

For more information about the rear window de-froster switch, see “Rear window defrosterswitch” in the “Instruments and controls” sectionof this manual.

HEATER OPERATION

Heating

This mode is used to direct heated air to the footoutlets. Some air also flows from the defrostoutlets.

1. Push the button (if so equipped) tothe off position for normal heating.

2. Turn the air flow control dial to theposition.

3. Turn the fan control dial to the desired posi-tion.

4. Turn the temperature control dial to the de-sired position between the middle and thehot position.

Ventilation

This mode directs outside air to the side andcenter ventilators.

1. Push the button (if so equipped) tothe off position.



4. Turn the temperature control dial to the de-sired position.

Defrosting or defogging

This mode directs the air to the defrost outlets todefrost/defog the windows.




● To quickly remove ice or fog from the windows,turn the fan control dial to 4 and the tempera-ture control lever to the full HOT position.

● When the position is selected, the airconditioner automatically turns on (however,the indicator light will not illuminate) if theoutside temperature is more than 36 - 37°F (2- 3°C). The air conditioning system will con-tinue to operate until the fan control dial isturned to OFF or the vehicle is shut off, even ifthe air flow control dial is turned to a positionother than the position. This dehumidi-fies the air which helps defog the windshield.The mode automatically turns off, allow-ing outside air to be drawn into the passengercompartment to further improve the defoggingperformance.

Bi-level heatingThis mode directs cooler air from the side andcenter vents and warmer air from the floor outlets.When the temperature control dial is moved to



the full hot or full cool position, the air betweenthe vents and the floor outlets is the same tem-perature.

1. Push the button (if so equipped) tothe off position.

2. Turn the air flow control dial tothe position.



Heating and defoggingThis mode heats the interior and defogs the wind-shield.


● When the position is selected,the function automatically cancels.Outside air is drawn into the passenger com-partment to improve the defogging perfor-mance.



● When the position is selected, the airconditioner automatically turns on (however,the indicator light will not illuminate) if theoutside temperature is more than 36 - 37°F (2- 3°C). The air conditioning system will con-tinue to operate until the fan control dial isturned to OFF or the vehicle is shut off, even ifthe air flow control dial is turned to a positionother than the position. This dehumidi-fies the air which helps defog the windshield.The mode automatically turns off, allow-ing outside air to be drawn into the passengercompartment to further improve the defoggingperformance.

Operating tips

Clear snow and ice from the wiper bladesand air inlet in front of the windshield. Thisimproves heater operation.

AIR CONDITIONER OPERATION (ifso equipped)

Start the engine, turn the fan control dial to thedesired (1 - 4) position, and push in thebutton to activate the air conditioner. When theair conditioner is on, cooling and dehumidifyingfunctions are added to the heater operation.

The air conditioner cooling function oper-ates only when the engine is running.

Cooling

This mode is used to cool and dehumidify the air.

1. Push the button to the off position.



4. Push the button. The indicator lightcomes on.


● For quick cooling when the outside tempera-ture is high, push the button to the onposition (indicator light on). Be sure to returnthe to the off position for normal cool-ing.

Dehumidified heating

This mode is used to heat and dehumidify the air.

1. Push the button to the off position.





4. Push the button. The indicator lightcomes on.


Dehumidified defogging

This mode is used to defog the windows anddehumidify the air.



3. Push on the air conditioner button. The indi-cator light comes on.

When the , or positions in betweenare selected, the air conditioner automaticallyturns on (however, the indicator light will notilluminate) if the outside temperature is more than45°F (7°C). The air conditioning system will con-tinue to operate until the vehicle is shut OFF, evenif the air flow control dial is turned to a positionother than the position. This dehumidifiesthe air which helps defog the windshield.The mode automatically turns off, allowingoutside air to be drawn into the passenger com-partment to further improve the defogging perfor-mance.


Operating tips● Keep the windows and sunroof closed while

the air conditioner is in operation.

● After parking in the sun, drive for 2 or 3 min-utes with the windows open to vent hot airfrom the passenger compartment. Then, closethe windows. This allows the air conditioner tocool the interior more quickly.

● The air conditioning system should beoperated for approximately 10 minutesat least once a month. This helps preventdamage to the system due to lack oflubrication.

● If the engine coolant temperature gaugeindicates engine coolant temperatureover the normal range, turn the air con-ditioner off. See “If your vehicle over-heats” in the “In case of emergency”section of this manual.

AIR FLOW CHARTSThe following charts show the button and dialpositions for MAXIMUM AND QUICK heating,cooling or defrosting. The air recirculationbutton should always be in the OFF posi-tion for heating and defrosting.



WHA0212 WHA0213



WHA0214 WHA0215



The air conditioner system in your NISSAN ve-hicle is charged with a refrigerant designed withthe environment in mind.

This refrigerant does not harm the earth’sozone layer.

Special charging equipment and lubricant is re-quired when servicing your NISSAN air condi-tioner. Using improper refrigerants or lubricantswill cause severe damage to your air conditionersystem. See “Air conditioner system refrigerantand lubricant recommendations” in the “Techni-cal and consumer information” section of thismanual.

A NISSAN dealer is able to service your “environ-mentally friendly” air conditioning system.

WARNING

The air conditioner system contains re-frigerant under high pressure. To avoidpersonal injury, any air conditioner ser-vice should be done only by an experi-enced technician with proper equipment.

WHA0216

SERVICING AIR CONDITIONER



RADIO

Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON positionand press the power on switch to turn the radioon. If you listen to the radio with the engine notrunning, the key should be turned to the ACCposition.

Radio reception is affected by station signalstrength, distance from radio transmitter, build-ings, bridges, mountains and other external influ-ences. Intermittent changes in reception qualitynormally are caused by these external influences.

Using a cellular phone in or near the ve-hicle may influence radio reception quality.

Radio reception

Your NISSAN radio system is equipped withstate-of-the-art electronic circuits to enhance ra-dio reception. These circuits are designed toextend reception range, and to enhance the qual-ity of that reception.

However there are some general characteristicsof both FM and AM radio signals that can affectradio reception quality in a moving vehicle, evenwhen the finest equipment is used. These char-acteristics are completely normal in a given re-ception area, and do not indicate any malfunctionin your NISSAN radio system.

Reception conditions will constantly change be-cause of vehicle movement. Buildings, terrain,signal distance and interference from other ve-hicles can work against ideal reception. De-scribed below are some of the factors that canaffect your radio reception.

FM RADIO RECEPTION

Range: FM range is normally limited to 25 - 30miles (40 - 48 km), with monaural (single chan-nel) FM having slightly more range than stereoFM. External influences may sometimes interferewith FM station reception even if the FM station iswithin 25 miles (40 km). The strength of the FMsignal is directly related to the distance betweenthe transmitter and receiver. FM signals follow aline-of-sight path, exhibiting many of the samecharacteristics as light. For example they willreflect off objects.

Fade and drift: As your vehicle moves away froma station transmitter, the signals will tend to fadeand/or drift.

Static and flutter: During signal interference frombuildings, large hills or due to antenna position(usually in conjunction with increased distancefrom the station transmitter) static or flutter canbe heard. This can be reduced by adjusting thetreble control to reduce treble response.

Multipath reception: Because of the reflectivecharacteristics of FM signals, direct and reflectedsignals reach the receiver at the same time. Thesignals may cancel each other, resulting in mo-mentary flutter or loss of sound.

AM RADIO RECEPTIONAM signals, because of their low frequency, canbend around objects and skip along the ground.In addition, the signals can be bounced off theionosphere and bent back to earth. Because ofthese characteristics, AM signals are also sub-ject to interference as they travel from transmitterto receiver.

Fading: Occurs while the vehicle is passingthrough freeway underpasses or in areas withmany tall buildings. It can also occur for severalseconds during ionospheric turbulence even inareas where no obstacles exist.

Static: Caused by thunderstorms, electricalpower lines, electric signs and even traffic lights.

AUDIO SYSTEM



AUDIO OPERATION PRECAUTIONS

Compact disc (CD) player

● Only use high quality 4.7 inches (12 cm)round discs that have the “COMPACT

disc DIGITAL AUDIO” logo on the disc orpackaging.

● During cold weather or rainy days, theplayer may malfunction due to the hu-midity. If this occurs, remove the CD anddehumidify or ventilate the player com-pletely.

● The player may skip while driving onrough roads.

● The CD player sometimes cannot func-tion when the compartment temperatureis extremely high. Decrease the tempera-ture before use.

● Do not expose the CD to direct sunlight.

● CDs that are of poor quality, dirty,scratched, covered with fingerprints, orthat have pin holes may not work prop-erly.

● The following CDs may not work prop-erly:

● Copy control compact discs (CCCD)

● Recordable compact discs (CD-R)

● Rewritable compact discs (CD-RW)

● Do not use the following CDs as theymay cause the CD player to malfunction:

● 3.1 in (8 cm) discs with an adapter

● CDs that are not round

● CDs with a paper label

● CDs that are warped, scratched, orhave abnormal edges

LHA0099



1. CD button2. ON·OFF/Volume control knob3. CD insert slot4. Audio button5. CD eject button

6. Radio manual tuning button/clock setbuttons

7. FF button8. REW button9. FF APS button10. RPT button

11. REW APS button12. Seek/Scan button13. Clock button14. Band select buttonFM-AM RADIO WITH COMPACTDISC (CD) PLAYER (if so equipped)ON·OFF/VOL control knob

Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position,then push the ON·OFF/VOL control knob. If youlisten to the radio with the engine not running,turn the key to the ACC position. The mode (radioor CD) that was playing immediately before thesystem was turned off resumes playing.

When no CD is loaded, the radio comes on.Pushing the ON·OFF/VOL control knob againturns the system off.

Turn the ON·OFF/VOL control knob to the rightto increase volume or to the left to decreasevolume

WHA0202



Adjusting tone quality and speaker balance

To adjust BAS/TRE or FAD/BAL (Bass/Treble orFader/Balance), press the AUDIO button untilthe desired mode (BAS, TRE, FAD, or BAL) ap-pears in the display. Press the orbutton to adjust Bass (BAS) and Treble (TRE) tothe desired level. Use the or buttonalso to adjust Fader (FAD) or Balance (BAL)modes. Fader (FAD) adjusts the sound level be-tween the front and rear speakers and Balance(BAL) adjusts the sound between the right andleft speakers.

Clock operation

Pressing the clock button alternates the clockand the radio/CD player options in the display.

Clock set

Depressing the clock and buttons to-gether sets hours. Depressing the clockand buttons together sets minutes.

Clock priority mode

In this mode the clock is shown in the display. Ifany radio or CD functions are activated, the radioor CD display illuminates for 10 seconds thenreturns to the clock mode.

LHA0033



NOTE:

After clock adjustment, the radio is in theclock priority mode.

FM-AM radio operationFM/AM band select

Push the button to change from AM to FM recep-tion.

The FM stereo indicator, ST, illuminates duringFM stereo reception. When the stereo broadcastsignal is weak, the radio automatically changesfrom stereo to monaural reception.

TUNE buttons

WARNING

The radio should not be tuned while driv-ing so full attention may be given to ve-hicle operation.

Use the and buttons for manual tun-ing. To move quickly through the channels, holdeither of the tune buttons down for more than 0.5seconds.

SEEK/SCAN button

SEEK tuning

Push the SEEK/SCAN tuning button forless than 1.5 seconds. SEEK tuning begins fromlow to high frequencies or high to low frequen-cies, depending on which button is pressed, andstops at the next broadcasting station. Once thehighest broadcasting station is reached, the ra-dio continues in the SEEK mode at the lowestbroadcasting station.

SCAN tuning

Push the SEEK/SCAN tuning button formore than 1.5 seconds. SCAN illuminates in thedisplay. SCAN tuning begins from low to highfrequencies or high to low frequencies, depend-ing on which button is pressed. SCAN tuningstops at each broadcasting station for 5 sec-onds. Pushing the button again during this 5second period stops SCAN tuning and the radioremains tuned to that station.

Station memory operations

6 stations can be set for the AM band. Twelvestations can be set for the FM band (6 for FM1, 6for FM2).

LHA0034



1. Push to select AM, FM1, or FM2. The se-lected band illuminates in the display.

2. Tune to the desired station.

3. Push the desired station select button formore than 1.5 seconds. For example, in theillustrations, ch2 is to be memorized. Theradio mutes when the select button ispushed.

4. When the indicator illuminates in the displayand the sound resumes, memorizing is com-plete.

5. Other station select buttons can be set inthe same manner.

If the battery cable is disconnected, or if the radiofuse opens, the radio memory is canceled. In thatcase, reset the desired stations.

Compact disc (CD) player operation

Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position,and carefully insert the compact disc into the slotwith the label side up. The compact disc is auto-matically pulled into the slot and starts to play.

If the radio is already operating, it automaticallyturns off and the compact disc begins to play.

CAUTION

Do not force a compact disc into the CDinsert slot. This could damage the CDand/or CD changer/player.

CD button

When the CD button is pushed with a compactdisc loaded and the radio playing, the radio turnsoff and the compact disc starts to play.

When this button is pushed while the compactdisc is playing, the compact disc stops playing.

FF (Fast Forward), REW(Rewind) buttons

When the or button is pushed whilethe compact disc is playing, the compact discplays at an increased speed while fast forwardingor rewinding. When the button is released, thecompact disc returns to normal play speed.

APS (Automatic ProgramSearch) FF, APS REW

When the button is pushed while the com-pact disc is playing, the selection following thepresent one starts to play from the beginning.Push the button several times to skip sev-eral selections. Each time the button is pushed,

the CD advances one selection. (When the lastselection on the compact disc is skipped, the firstselection is played.)

When the button is pushed, the selectionbeing played returns to the beginning. Pushthe button several times to skip back sev-eral selections. Each time the button is pushed,the CD moves back one selection.

Repeat/Random button

When the button is pushed while thecompact disc is playing, the play pattern changesas follows:

1: The current selection is repeated.

RANDOM: Selections are played at random, notfollowing the sequence on the compact disc. Thesame program may be repeated twice.

Normal (no symbol): All selections are played insequence.

When a new compact disc is inserted, theplay pattern automatically changes to the“Normal” play pattern.



CD EJECT button

When the button is pushed with a com-pact disc loaded, the compact disc ejects.

When the button is pushed while the com-pact disc is playing, the compact disc ejects andthe system turns off.

If the compact disc ejects and is not re-moved within 10 seconds, it is pulled backinto the slot.

DISC indicator light

CD IN appears in the display when a CD isloaded with the system ON.

1. APS (Automatic Program Search) FF,APS REW buttons

2. Display3. FF (Fast Forward), REW (Rewind) buttons4. Repeat button5. Disc eject button

6. Load indicator light7. Door8. Disc selection button9. Disc indication light10. Load indicator light11. Play/stop button

WHA0203



COMPACT DISC (CD) CHANGER (ifso equipped)

To use the CD changer, turn the ignition key tothe ACC or ON position.

Disc loading — single

CAUTION

Trying to load a CD with the CD doorclosed could damage the CD and/or CDchanger.

When a disc selection button is pressed for lessthan 1.5 seconds, the CD changer enters theOne Disc Loading Mode. The disc selection but-ton starts flashing green and both WAIT and thedisc selection button number flash in the displayuntil the door is opened. When the door hasopened, the display changes from WAIT to LOADand the load indicator lights flash green. Loadonly one CD at a time. After the CD is loaded, thedoor closes, the load indicator lights turn off andthe disc selection button turns a solid green. TheCD that was loaded starts to play automatically.

Disc loading — all

When a disc selection button is pressed forlonger than 1.5 seconds, the CD changer auto-matically changes to All Disc Loading Mode. Alldisc selection buttons start flashing orange, ex-

cept the disc selection button that was pushedinitially. This button flashes green and both WAITand the disc selection button number flash in thedisplay until the door is opened. When the dooropens, the display changes from WAIT to LOADand the load indicator lights flash green. Loadonly one CD at a time. After the CD is loaded, thedoor closes, the load indicator lights turn off andthe disc selection button turns a solid green.After all the CDs have been loaded, the CD thatwas loaded first starts to play.

Play/Stop button

Press the button while a CD is playing, theCD stops playing and the CD changer turns off.Press the button while the CD changer isoff, the last CD that was loaded starts to play.Press the button with no CDs loaded, theCD changer enters the One Disc Loading Mode.

FF (fast forward) REV (re-verse) buttons

When the or button is pushed whilethe CD is playing, the CD plays at an increasedspeed while fast forwarding or reversing. Whenthe button is released, the CD returns to normalplay speed.

APS (Automatic ProgramSearch), FF, APS REV

When the button is pushed while the CDis playing, the selection following the current onestarts to play from the beginning. Push thebutton several times to skip several selections.Each time the button is pushed, the CD advancesone selection. When the last selection on the CDis skipped, the first selection is played.

When the button is pushed, the currentselection returns to the beginning. Pushthe button several times to skip back sev-eral selections. Each time the button is pushed,the CD moves back one selection. Went the firstselection on the CD is skipped, the last selectionis played.

Repeat Button

When the button is pushed while a CD isplaying, the play pattern will change as follows.

ALL — All disc repeat: All CDs are playedrepeatedly in sequence.

BLANK (no symbol) — One disc repeat: Thecurrent CD is repeated.

1 — One track repeat: The current selection isrepeated.



ALL RANDOM — All disc random: Selectionsfrom all the CDs that are stored are played atrandom. The same program may be repeatedtwice. Pressing the button will select thenext random selection.

RANDOM — One disc random: Selectionsfrom the current CD are played at random. Thesame program may be repeated twice. Pressingthe button will select the next random se-lection.

When a new CD is inserted, the play patternautomatically changes to the “ALL” playpattern.

CD Eject — Single

When the button is pressed for less than1.5 seconds, then the current CD that is playing(or if the CD changer is off, the last CD that wasplayed) ejects. The disc indicator light startsflashing orange and both WAIT and the discselection button number flash in the display untilthe CD is ejected. When the CD is ejected, thedisc indicator light turns off and the display turnsfrom WAIT to EJECT. When the CD is removedfrom the unit, the CD changer automaticallychanges to One Disc Loading Mode so a newCD can be loaded into the empty holder. The discindicator light starts flashing green and bothLOAD and the disc selection button number ap-

pear in the display until a CD is loaded. One DiscLoading Mode cancels if another disc selectionbutton is pushed or by waiting longer than 15seconds to load a CD.

CD Eject — ALL

When the button is pressed for longer than1.5 seconds, the CD changer automaticallychanges to All Disc Eject Mode. The disc indica-tor light for the current CD (or the last CD thatwas played) starts flashing orange and bothWAIT and the disc selection button number flashin the display until the CD ejects. When the CDejects, the disc indicator light turns off and thedisplay turns from WAIT to EJECT. When the CDis removed from the unit, the next CD starts toeject. After all the CDs are ejected, the CDchanger turns off.

If a CD is ejected and is not removed within10 seconds, it will be pulled back into theslot.

CD CARE AND CLEANING● Handle a CD by its edges. Do not bend the

disc. Never touch the surface of the disc.

● Always place the discs in the storage casewhen they are not being used.

● To clean a disc, wipe the surface from thecenter to the outer edge using a clean, softcloth. Do not wipe the disc using a circularmotion.

● Do not use a conventional record cleaner oralcohol intended for industrial use.

LHA0049



● A new disc may be rough on the inner andouter edges. Remove the rough edges by rub-bing the inner and outer edges with the side ofa pen or pencil as illustrated.

ANTENNAThe antenna cannot be shortened, but can beremoved. When you need to remove the antenna,turn the antenna rod counterclockwise.

To install the antenna rod, turn the antenna clock-wise. Tighten the antenna rod to specificationusing a suitable tool such as an open-endwrench. The antenna rod tightening specificationis 3.4 - 3.6 N·m (30 - 32 in-lb). Do not use pliersto tighten the antenna as they can leave marks onthe antenna surface. The antenna rod cannot behand tightened to the proper specification.

CAUTION

Always properly tighten the antenna rodduring installation or the antenna rod maybreak during vehicle operation.

When installing a CB, ham radio or car phone inyour NISSAN, be sure to observe the followingcautions, otherwise the new equipment may ad-versely affect the MFI (Multiport Fuel Injection)system and other electronic parts.

WARNING

● A cellular telephone should not be usedwhile driving so full attention may begiven to vehicle operation. Some juris-dictions prohibit the use of cellular tele-phones while driving.

● If you must make a call while your ve-hicle is in motion, the hands free cellu-lar phone operational mode (if soequipped) is highly recommended. Ex-ercise extreme caution at all times sofull attention may be given to vehicleoperation.

● If a conversation in a moving vehiclerequires you to take notes, pull off theroad to a safe location and stop yourvehicle before doing so.

CAUTION

● Keep the antenna as far away as pos-sible from the Engine Control Module(ECM).

● Keep the antenna wire more than 8 in(20 cm) away from the Multiport FuelInjection harness. Do not route the an-tenna wire next to any harness.

● Adjust the antenna standing-wave ratioas recommended by the manufacturer.

● Connect the ground wire from the CBradio chassis to the body.

● For details, consult a NISSAN dealer.

CAR PHONE OR CB RADIO




MEMO

5 Starting and driving

Precautions when starting and driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2Exhaust gas (carbon monoxide) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2Three-way catalyst. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2Avoiding collision and rollover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Ignition switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4Automatic transmission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4Manual transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5Key positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System (NVIS)(if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Before starting the engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6Starting the engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6Driving the vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Automatic transmission (if so equipped). . . . . . . . . . . 5-7Manual transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Parking brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-13Cruise control (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13

Precautions on cruise control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13

Cruise control operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14Break-in schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-15Increasing fuel economy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15Parking/parking on hills. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-16Power steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-17Brake system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18

Brake precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)(if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18

Cold weather driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20Freeing a frozen door lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20Anti-freeze. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20Draining of coolant water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20Tire equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20Special winter equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21Driving on snow or ice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21Engine block heater (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21

Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Sentra (b15)Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna)12/20/02—cathy X

WARNING

● Do not leave children, impaired adults,or pets alone in your vehicle. They couldaccidentally injure themselves or oth-ers through inadvertent operation ofthe vehicle. Also, on hot, sunny days,temperatures in a closed vehicle couldquickly become high enough to causesevere or possibly fatal injuries topeople or animals.

● Closely supervise children when theyare around cars to prevent them fromplaying and becoming locked in thetrunk where they could be seriously in-jured. Keep the car locked, with the rearseatback and trunk lid securely latchedwhen not in use, and prevent children’saccess to car keys.

EXHAUST GAS (carbon monoxide)

WARNING

● Do not breathe exhaust gases; theycontain colorless and odorless carbonmonoxide. Carbon monoxide is danger-ous. It can cause unconsciousness ordeath.

● If you suspect that exhaust fumes areentering the vehicle, drive with all win-dows fully open, and have the vehicleinspected immediately.

● Do not run the engine in closed spacessuch as a garage.

● Do not park the vehicle with the enginerunning for any extended length of time.

● Keep the trunk lid closed while driving,otherwise exhaust gases could bedrawn into the passenger compart-ment. If you must drive with the trunk lidopen, follow these precautions:

1. Open all the windows.

2. Set the air recirculation but-ton (if so equipped) to off and the fancontrol dial to 4 (high) to circulatethe air.

● If electrical wiring or other cable con-nections must pass to a trailer throughthe seal on the trunk lid or the body,follow the manufacturer’s recommen-dation to prevent carbon monoxide en-try into the vehicle.

● The exhaust system and body should beinspected by a qualified mechanicwhenever:

a. The vehicle is raised for service.

b. You suspect that exhaust fumes areentering into the passengercompartment.

c. You notice a change in the sound ofthe exhaust system.

d. You have had an accident involvingdamage to the exhaust system, un-derbody, or rear of the vehicle.

THREE-WAY CATALYST

The three-way catalyst is an emission controldevice installed in the exhaust system. Exhaustgases in the three-way catalyst are burned athigh temperatures to help reduce pollutants.

WARNING

● The exhaust gas and the exhaust sys-tem are very hot. Keep people, animalsor flammable materials away from theexhaust system components.

● Do not stop or park the vehicle overflammable materials such as dry grass,waste paper or rags. They may igniteand cause a fire.

PRECAUTIONS WHEN STARTINGAND DRIVING

5-2 Starting and driving


CAUTION

● Do not use leaded gasoline. Depositsfrom leaded gasoline will seriously re-duce the three-way catalyst’s ability tohelp reduce exhaust pollutants.

● Keep your engine tuned up. Malfunc-tions in the ignition, fuel injection, orelectrical systems can cause overrichfuel flow into the three-way catalyst,causing it to overheat. Do not keep driv-ing if the engine misfires, or if notice-able loss of performance or other un-usual operating conditions aredetected. Have the vehicle inspectedpromptly by a NISSAN dealer.

● Avoid driving with an extremely low fuellevel. Running out of fuel could causethe engine to misfire, damaging thethree-way catalyst.

● Do not race the engine while warming itup.

● Do not push or tow your vehicle to startthe engine.

AVOIDING COLLISION ANDROLLOVER

WARNING

Failure to operate this vehicle in a safeand prudent manner may result in loss ofcontrol or an accident.

Be alert and drive defensively at all times. Obeyall traffic regulations. Avoid excessive speed,high speed cornering, or sudden steering ma-neuvers, because these driving practices couldcause you to lose control of your vehicle. As withany vehicle, loss of control could result in acollision with other vehicles or objects, orcause the vehicle to roll over, particularly ifthe loss of control causes the vehicle toslide sideways. Be attentive at all times, andavoid driving when tired. Never drive when underthe influence of alcohol or drugs (including pre-scription or over-the-counter drugs which maycause drowsiness). Always wear your seat beltas outlined in the “Seats, restraints and supple-mental air bag systems” section of this manual,and also instruct your passengers to do so.

Seat belts help reduce the risk of injury in colli-sions and rollovers. In a rollover crash, anunbelted person is significantly more likelyto die than a person wearing a seat belt.

DRINKING ALCOHOL/DRUGS ANDDRIVING

WARNING

Never drive under the influence of alcoholor drugs. Alcohol in the bloodstream re-duces coordination, delays reaction timeand impairs judgement. Driving afterdrinking alcohol increases the likelihoodof being involved in an accident injuringyourself and others. Additionally, if youare injured in an accident, alcohol canincrease the severity of the injury.

NISSAN is committed to safe driving. However,you must choose not to drive under the influenceof alcohol. Every year thousands of people areinjured or killed in alcohol-related accidents. Al-though the local laws vary on what is consideredto be legally intoxicated, the fact is that alcoholaffects all people differently and most peopleunderestimate the effects of alcohol.

Remember, drinking and driving don’t mix! Andthat is true for drugs, too (over-the-counter, pre-scription, and illegal drugs). Don’t drive if yourability to operate your vehicle is impaired by alco-hol, drugs, or some other physical condition.

Starting and driving 5-3


AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

On automatic transmission models, the ignitionlock is designed so the key cannot be turned toLOCK position and removed until the shift selec-tor lever is moved to the P (Park) position.

When removing the key from the ignition, makesure the shift selector lever is in the P (Park)position.

If the key cannot be turned to the LOCK position,proceed as follows to remove the key.

1. Move the shift selector lever into the P (Park)position.

2. Turn the ignition key slightly toward the ONposition.

3. Turn the key to the LOCK position.

4. Remove the key.

The shift selector lever is designed so it cannotmoved out of P (Park) and into any of the othergear positions if the ignition key is turned to OFFposition or if the key is removed from the switch.

The shift selector lever can be moved if theignition switch is in the ACC position. Thisallows the vehicle to be moved if the bat-tery is discharged. The shift selector levercan also be moved if the ignition switch isin the ON position and the foot brake pedalis depressed.

There is an OFF position between theLOCK and ACC positions. The OFF positionis indicated by a “1” on the key cylinder.When the ignition is in the OFF position,the steering wheel is not locked.

In order for the steering wheel to be locked, itmust be turned about 1/8 of a turn clockwisefrom the straight up position.

To lock the steering wheel, turn the key tothe LOCK position. Remove the key. Tounlock the steering wheel, insert the key

and turn it gently while rotating the steer-ing wheel slightly right and left.

WARNING

Never remove or turn the key to the LOCKposition while driving. The steering wheelwill lock. This may cause the driver to losecontrol of the vehicle and could result inserious vehicle damage or personal injury.

WSD0041

IGNITION SWITCH



MANUAL TRANSMISSION

The ignition switch includes an anti-theft steeringlock device.

The key can only be removed when the ignitionswitch is in the LOCK position.

On manual transmission models, to turn the igni-tion key to LOCK position from ACC or ONposition, turn the key to OFF, push the key in, thenturn the key to LOCK.

In order for the steering wheel to be locked, itmust be turned about 1/8 of a turn clockwisefrom the straight up position.

To lock the steering wheel, turn the key tothe LOCK position. Remove the key. Tounlock the steering wheel, insert the keyand turn it gently while rotating the steer-ing wheel slightly right and left.

WARNING

Never remove or turn the key to the LOCKposition while driving. The steering wheelwill lock. This may cause the driver to losecontrol of the vehicle and could result inserious vehicle damage or personal injury.

KEY POSITIONS

LOCK: Normal parking position (0)

OFF: (Manual transmission model) (1)

The engine can be turned off without locking thesteering wheel.

ACC: (Accessories) (2)

This position activates electrical accessoriessuch as the radio when the engine is not running.

ON: Normal operating position (3)

This position turns on the ignition system and theelectrical accessories.

START: (4)

This position starts the engine. As soon as theengine has started, release the key. It automati-cally returns to the ON position.

NISSAN VEHICLE IMMOBILIZERSYSTEM (NVIS) (if so equipped)The NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System (NVIS)will not allow the engine to start without the use ofthe registered NVIS key.

If the engine fails to start using the registeredNVIS key, it may be due to interference caused byanother NVIS key, an automated toll road deviceor automated payment device on the key ring.Restart the engine using the following proce-dures:

1. Leave the ignition switch in the ON positionfor approximately 5 seconds.

2. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF or LOCKposition and wait approximately 5 seconds.

3. Repeat step 1 and 2 again.

4. Restart the engine while holding the device(which may have caused the interference)separate from the registered NVIS key.

If this procedure allows the engine to start,NISSAN recommends placing the registeredNVIS key on a separate key ring to avoid interfer-ence from other devices.

WSD0042



● Make sure the area around the vehicle is clear.

● Check fluid levels such as engine oil, coolant,brake and clutch fluid, and window washerfluid as frequently as possible, or at leastwhenever you refuel.

● Check that all windows and lights are clean.

● Visually inspect tires for their appearance andcondition. Also check tires for proper inflation.

● Lock all doors.

● Position seat and adjust head restraints.

● Adjust inside and outside mirrors.

● Fasten seat belts and ask all passengers to dolikewise.

● Check the operation of warning lights whenthe key is turned to the ON (3) position. See“Warning/indicator lights and audible remind-ers” in the “Instruments and controls” sectionof this manual.

1. Apply the parking brake.

2. Automatic transmission:

Move the shift selector lever to P (Park) or N(Neutral). P (Park) is recommended.

The shift selector lever cannot bemoved out of P (Park) and into any ofthe other gear positions if the ignitionkey is turned to the OFF position or ifthe key is removed from the ignitionswitch.

The starter is designed not to operate ifthe shift selector lever is in any of thedriving positions.

Manual transmission:

Move the shift lever to N (Neutral). Depressthe clutch pedal to the floor while crankingthe engine.

The starter is designed not to operateunless the clutch pedal is fully de-pressed.

3. Crank the engine with your foot off theaccelerator pedal by turning the ignitionkey to START. Release the key when theengine starts. If the engine starts, but fails torun, repeat the above procedure.

● When the engine is very hard to start inextremely cold weather or when restart-ing, depress the accelerator pedal a little(approximately 1/5 to the floor) and hold itand then crank the engine. Release thekey and the accelerator pedal when theengine starts.

● When the engine is very hard to startbecause it is flooded, depress the accel-erator pedal all the way to the floor andhold it. Crank the engine for 5-6 seconds.After cranking the engine, release the ac-celerator pedal. Crank the engine withyour foot off the accelerator pedal byturning the ignition key to START. Releasethe key when the engine starts. If theengine starts, but fails to run, repeat theabove procedure.

CAUTION

Do not operate the starter for more than15 seconds at a time. If the engine doesnot start, turn the key off and wait 10seconds before cranking again, otherwisethe starter could be damaged.

4. Allow the engine to idle for at least 30 sec-onds after starting. Drive at moderate speedfor a short distance first, especially in coldweather.

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE STARTING THE ENGINE



AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (if soequipped)

WARNING

● Do not depress the accelerator pedalwhile shifting from P (Park) or N (Neu-tral) to R (Reverse), D (Drive), 2 or 1.Always depress the brake pedal untilshifting is completed. Failure to do socould cause you to lose control andhave an accident.

● Cold engine idle speed is high, so usecaution when shifting into a forward orreverse gear before the engine haswarmed up.

● Never shift to P (Park) or R (Reverse)while the vehicle is moving. This couldcause an accident.

CAUTION

● When stopping the vehicle on an uphillgrade, do not hold the vehicle by de-pressing the accelerator pedal. The footbrake should be used for this purpose.

● Do not downshift abruptly on slipperyroads. This may cause a loss of control.

The automatic transmission in your vehicle iselectronically controlled to produce maximumpower and smooth operation.

The recommended operating procedures for thistransmission are shown on the following pages.Follow these procedures for maximum vehicleperformance and driving enjoyment.

Starting the vehicle

1. After starting the engine, fully depress thefoot brake pedal before attempting to movethe shift selector lever out of the P (Park)position.

2. Keep the foot brake pedal depressed andmove the shift selector lever into a drivinggear.

3. Release the foot brake, then gradually startthe vehicle in motion.

The automatic transmission is designed sothe foot brake pedal MUST be depressedbefore shifting from P (Park) to any driveposition while the ignition switch is in theON position.

The shift selector lever cannot be movedout of P (Park) and into any of the othergear positions if the ignition key is turnedto the LOCK position or if the key is re-moved.

The shift selector lever can be moved if theignition switch is in the ACC position. Thisallows the vehicle to be moved if the bat-tery is discharged. The shift selector levercan also be moved if the ignition switch isin the ON position and the foot brake pedalis depressed.

DRIVING THE VEHICLE



To move the selector lever:

: Depress the button to shift

: Shift without depressing button

Shifting

Push the shift selector lever button to shift into P(Park), R (Reverse) or from D (Drive) to 2. Allother positions can be selected without pushingthe button.

WARNING

Apply the parking brake if the selectorlever is in any position while the engine isnot running. Failure to do so could causethe vehicle to move unexpectedly or rollaway and result in serious personal injuryor property damage.

P (Park):

Use this selector position when the vehicle isparked or when starting the engine. Make surethe vehicle is completely stopped. The brakepedal must be depressed and the selectorlever button pushed in to move the selectorlever from the N (Neutral) or any drive po-sition to P (Park). Apply the parking brake.When parking on a hill, apply the parking brakefirst, then shift the selector lever into the P (Park)position.

Shifting from P (Park)

If the ignition switch is in the ON position and thefoot brake pedal is depressed, but the shift se-lector lever still cannot be moved out of P (Park),follow these instructions.

1. Turn the ignition key to the LOCK position.


3. Reinsert the key and turn it to the ACCposition.

4. Depress the foot brake pedal and move theshift selector lever to N (Neutral).

5. Start the engine.

These instructions for starting the vehicle in N(Neutral) should only be used until service can beobtained at a NISSAN dealership.

R (Reverse):

Use this position to back up. Make sure thevehicle is completely stopped before selecting R(Reverse) position. The brake pedal must bedepressed and the selector lever buttonpushed in to move the selector lever from P(Park), N (Neutral) or any drive position to R(Reverse).

N (Neutral):

Neither forward nor reverse gear is engaged. Theengine can be started in this position. You mayshift to N (Neutral) and restart a stalled enginewhile the vehicle is moving.

D (Drive):

Use this position for all normal forward driving.

WSD0043



2 (Second gear):

Use this position for hill climbing or engine brak-ing on downhill grades.

Do not shift into the 2 position at speeds above60 MPH (96 km/h). Do not exceed 60 MPH (96km/h) in the 2 position.

1 (Low gear):

Use this position when climbing steep hills slowlyor driving slowing through deep snow, sand ormud, or for maximum engine braking on steepdownhill grades.

Do not shift into the 1 position at speeds above31 MPH (50 km/h). Do not exceed 31 MPH (50km/h) in the 1 position.

Shift lock release

If the battery is discharged, the shift selector levermay not be moved from the P (Park) position evenwith the brake pedal depressed and the shiftselector lever button pushed.

To move the shift selector lever, release the shiftlock and push the shift selector lever button. Theshift selector lever can be moved to N (Neutral).However, the steering wheel will be locked un-less the ignition switch is turned to the ON posi-tion.

To release the shift lock, complete the followingprocedure:

1. Turn the ignition key to the LOCK positionand remove the key.


3. Remove the shift lock cover sA .

4. Insert a small screwdriver in the shift lockslot, and push down sB .

5. Push the shift selector lever button sC andmove the shift selector lever to N (Neutral)position sD while holding down the shiftlock.

6. Turn the key to the ON position to unlock thesteering wheel. Now the vehicle may bemoved to the desired location.WSD0044



If the shift selector lever cannot be moved out ofP (Park), have a NISSAN dealer check the auto-matic transmission system as soon as possible.

Accelerator downshift— in D position —For passing or hill climbing, depress the accel-erator pedal to the floor. This shifts the transmis-sion down into a lower gear, depending on thevehicle speed.

Overdrive switch

Each time your vehicle is started, the transmis-sion is automatically “reset” to overdrive ON.

ON: With the engine running and theshift selector lever in the D (Drive)position, the transmission upshiftsinto Overdrive as vehicle speedincreases.

Overdrive does not engage until the enginehas reached operating temperature.

OFF: For driving up and down longslopes where engine braking is nec-essary push the Overdrive switchonce. The O/D OFF indicator lightin the instrument panel comes on atthis time.

When cruising at a low speed or climbing agentle slope, you may feel uncomfortable shiftshocks as the transmission shifts between thirdgear and Overdrive repeatedly. In this case, de-press the Overdrive switch to turn the Overdriveoff. The O/D OFF indicator light in the instrumentpanel comes on at this time.

When driving conditions change, depress theOverdrive switch to turn the Overdrive on.

Remember not to drive at high speeds for ex-tended periods of time with the Overdrive off.This reduces fuel economy.

MANUAL TRANSMISSION

WARNING

● Do not downshift abruptly on slipperyroads. This may cause a loss of control.

● Do not over-rev the engine when shift-ing to a lower gear. This may cause aloss of control or engine damage.

WSD0045



CAUTION

● Do not rest your foot on the clutch pedalwhile driving. This may cause clutchdamage.

● Fully depress the clutch pedal beforeshifting to help prevent transmissiondamage.

● Stop your vehicle completely beforeshifting into R (Reverse).

● When the vehicle is stopped with theengine running (for example, at a stoplight), shift to N (Neutral) and releasethe clutch pedal with the foot brakeapplied.

Shifting

To change gears, or when upshifting or down-shifting, depress the clutch pedal fully, shift intothe appropriate gear, then release the clutchslowly and smoothly.

To ensure smooth gear changes, fully depressthe clutch pedal before operating the shift lever. Ifthe clutch pedal is not fully depressed before thetransmission is shifted, a gear noise may beheard. Transmission damage could occur.

On the 5-speed manual transmission, you cannotshift directly from 5th gear into R (Reverse). Firstshift into N (Neutral), then into R (Reverse).

If it is difficult to move the shift lever into R(Reverse) or 1 (1st), shift into N (Neutral), thenrelease the clutch pedal. Depress the clutchpedal again and shift into R (Reverse) or 1 (1st).

Suggested upshift speedsThe following are suggested vehicle speeds forshifting into a higher gear. These suggestionsrelate to fuel economy and vehicle performance.Actual upshift speeds will vary according to roadconditions, the weather and individual drivinghabits.

5 - speedWSD0046

6 - speedWSD0047



For quick acceleration in low altitude areas (lessthan 4,000 ft [1,219 m]) and normal accelera-tion in high altitude areas (over 4,000 ft[1,219 m]):

GEAR CHANGE MPH (km/h)1st to 2nd 15 (24)2nd to 3rd 25 (40)3rd to 4th 40 (64)4th to 5th 45 (72)

For quick acceleration in high altitude areas (over4,000 ft [1,219 m]):

For QG18DE engine models:

Gear change MPH (km/h)1st to 2nd 15 (25)2nd to 3rd 35 (55)3rd to 4th 45 (75)4th to 5th 50 (80)

For QR25DE engine models: 5-speed

GEAR CHANGE MPH (km/h)1st to 2nd 15 (24)2nd to 3rd 25 (40)3rd to 4th 40 (65)4th to 5th 45 (75)

For QR25DE engine models: 6-speed

GEAR CHANGE MPH (km/h)1st to 2nd 15 (24)2nd to 3rd 25 (40)3rd to 4th 40 (65)4th to 5th 45 (75)5th to 6th 50 (80)

Suggested maximum speed in eachgearDownshift to a lower gear if the engine is notrunning smoothly, or if you need to accelerate.

Do not exceed the maximum suggested speed(shown below) in any gear. For level road driving,use the highest gear suggested for that speed.Always observe posted speed limits, and driveaccording to the road conditions, which will en-sure safe operation. Do not over-rev the enginewhen shifting to a lower gear as it may causeengine damage or loss of vehicle control.

QG18DE engine models:

GEAR MPH (km/h)1st 30 (50)2nd 55 (90)3rd 85 (135)4th —5th —

QR25DE engine models: 5-speed

GEAR CHANGE MPH (km/h)1st 35 (55)2nd 60 (95)3rd 85 (35)4th —5th —

QR25DE engine models: 6-speed

GEAR CHANGE MPH (km/h)1st 25 (45)2nd 50 (80)3rd 80 (130)4th —5th —6th —



WARNING

● Be sure the parking brake is fully re-leased before driving. Failure to do socan cause brake failure and lead to anaccident.

● Do not release the parking brake fromoutside the vehicle.

● Do not use the gear shift in place of theparking brake. When parking, be surethe parking brake is fully engaged.

● Do not leave children unattended in avehicle. They could release the parkingbrake and cause an accident.

To engage: Pull the lever up sA .To release:

1. Firmly apply the foot brake.

2. Manual transmission models:Place the shift lever in the N (Neutral) position.

Automatic transmission models:

Move the shift selector lever to the P (Park)position.

3. While pulling up on the parking brake leverslightly, push the button and lower com-pletely sB .

4. Before driving, be sure the brake warninglight goes out.

1. Cruise control main switch2. RES/ACCEL switch3. CANCEL switch4. SET/COAST switch

PRECAUTIONS ON CRUISECONTROL

● If the cruise control system malfunctions, itcancels automatically. The SET indicator lightin the instrument panel then blinks to warn thedriver.

● If the SET indicator light blinks, turn the cruisecontrol main switch off and have the systemchecked by a NISSAN dealer.

WSD0048 WSD0049

PARKING BRAKE CRUISE CONTROL (if so equipped)



● The SET indicator light may blink when thecruise control main switch is turned ON whilepushing the RES/ACCEL, SET/COAST, orCANCEL switch (located on the steeringwheel). To properly set the cruise control sys-tem, use the following procedures.

WARNING

Do not use the cruise control when drivingunder the following conditions:

● When it is not possible to keep thevehicle at a set speed.

● In heavy traffic or in traffic that varies inspeed.

● On winding or hilly roads.

● On slippery roads (rain, snow, ice, etc.).

● In very windy areas.

Doing so could cause a loss of vehiclecontrol and result in an accident.

CAUTION

On manual transmission models, do notshift into N (Neutral) without depressingthe clutch pedal when the cruise control isset. Should this occur, depress the clutchpedal and turn the main switch off imme-diately. Failure to do so may cause enginedamage.

CRUISE CONTROL OPERATIONSThe cruise control allows driving at a speed be-tween 25 - 90 MPH (40 - 144 km/h) withoutkeeping your foot on the accelerator pedal.

To turn on the cruise control, push the mainswitch. The CRUISE indicator light in the instru-ment panel comes on.

To set cruising speed, accelerate the vehicle tothe desired speed, push the SET/COAST switchand release it. The SET indicator light in theinstrument panel comes on. Take your foot off theaccelerator pedal. Your vehicle maintains the setspeed.

● To pass another vehicle, depress the ac-celerator pedal. When you release the pedal,the vehicle returns to the previously set speed.

● The vehicle may not maintain the set speedwhen going up or down steep hills. If thishappens, drive without the cruise control.

To cancel the preset speed, use one of thefollowing three methods.

● Push the CANCEL button; the SET indicatorlight in the instrument panel goes out.

● Tap the brake pedal; the SET indicator lightgoes out.

● Turn the main switch off. Both the CRUISEindicator light and SET indicator light in theinstrument panel go out.

The cruise control is automatically cancelled andthe SET light in the instrument panel goes out if:

● you depress the brake pedal while pushing theACCEL/RES or SET/COAST switch. The pre-set speed is deleted from memory.

● the vehicle slows down more than 8 MPH (13km/h) below the set speed.

● you depress the clutch pedal (manual trans-mission), or move the shift selector lever to N(Neutral) (automatic transmission).

To reset at a faster cruising speed, use oneof the following three methods.

● Depress the accelerator pedal. When the ve-hicle attains the desired speed, push and re-lease the SET/COAST switch.



● Push and hold the RES/ACCEL switch. Whenthe vehicle attains the speed you desire, re-lease the switch.

● Push and release the RES/ACCEL switch.Each time you do this, the set speed increasesby about 1 MPH (1.6 km/h).

To reset at a slower cruising speed, use oneof the following three methods.

● Lightly tap the brake pedal. When the vehicleattains the desired speed, push theCOAST/SET switch and release it.

● Push and hold the SET/COAST switch. Re-lease the switch when the vehicle slows to thedesired speed.

● Push and release the SET/COAST switch.Each time you do this, the set speed de-creases by about 1 MPH (1.6 km/h).

To resume the preset speed, push and re-lease the RES/ACCEL switch. The vehicle re-turns to the last set cruising speed when thevehicle speed is over 25 MPH (40 km/h).

During the first 1,200 miles (2,000 km), followthese recommendations to obtain maximum en-gine performance and ensure the future reliabilityand economy of your new vehicle. Failure tofollow these recommendations may result inshortened engine life and reduced engine perfor-mance.

● Avoid driving for long periods at constantspeed, either fast or slow, and do not run theengine over 4,000 rpm.

● Do not accelerate at full throttle in any gear.

● Avoid quick starts.

● Avoid hard braking as much as possible.

● Do not tow a trailer for the first 500 miles (800km).

● Accelerate slowly and smoothly. Maintaincruising speeds with a constant acceleratorposition.

● Drive at moderate speeds on the highway.Driving at high speed lowers fuel economy.

● Avoid unnecessary stopping and braking.Maintain a safe distance behind other vehicles.

● Use a proper gear range which suits roadconditions. On level roads, shift into high gearas soon as possible.

● Avoid unnecessary engine idling.

● Keep your engine tuned up.

● Follow the recommended periodic mainte-nance schedule.

● Keep the tires inflated to the correct pressure.Low tire pressure increases tire wear and low-ers fuel economy.

● Keep the front wheels in correct alignment.Improper alignment increases tire wear andlowers fuel economy.

● Air conditioner operation lowers fuel economy.Use the air conditioner only when necessary.

● When cruising at highway speeds, it is moreeconomical to use the air conditioner andleave the windows closed to reduce drag.

BREAK-IN SCHEDULE INCREASING FUEL ECONOMY



● Use the recommended viscosity engine oil.See “Engine oil and oil filter recommendation”in “Technical and consumer information” laterin this manual.

0

WARNING

● Do not stop or park the vehicle overflammable materials such as dry grass,waste paper or rags. They may igniteand cause a fire.

● Safe parking procedures require thatboth the parking brake be set and thetransmission placed into P (Park) forautomatic transmission models or in anappropriate gear for manual transmis-sion models. Failure to do so couldcause the vehicle to move unexpectedlyor roll away and result in an accident.Make sure the shift lever has beenpushed as far forward as it can go andcannot be moved without depressingthe foot brake pedal.

● Never leave the engine running whilethe vehicle is unattended.

WSD0050

PARKING/PARKING ON HILLS



● Do not leave children unattended insidethe vehicle. They could unknowingly ac-tivate switches or controls. Unattendedchildren could become involved in seri-ous accidents.

1. Firmly apply the parking brake.

2. Manual transmission models:

Place the shift lever in the R (Reverse) posi-tion. When parking on an uphill grade, placethe shift lever in 1st gear.

Automatic transmission models:

Move the shift selector lever to the P (Park)position.

3. To help prevent the vehicle from rolling intotraffic when parked on an incline, it is a goodpractice to turn the wheels as illustrated.

● HEADED DOWNHILL WITH CURB: sA

Turn the wheels into the curb and move thevehicle forward until the curb side wheel gen-tly touches the curb.

● HEADED UPHILL WITH CURB: sB

Turn the wheels away from the curb and movethe vehicle back until the curb side wheelgently touches the curb.

● HEADED UPHILL OR DOWNHILL, NOCURB: sC

Turn the wheels toward the side of the road sothe vehicle will move away from the center ofthe road if it moves.

4. Turn the ignition key to the LOCK positionand remove the key.

The power assisted steering is designed to use ahydraulic pump, driven by the engine, to assiststeering.

If the engine stops or the drive belt breaks, youwill still have control of the vehicle. However,much greater steering effort is needed, especiallyin sharp turns and at low speeds.

WARNING

If the engine is not running or is turned offwhile driving, the power assist for thesteering will not work. Steering will bemuch harder to operate.

POWER STEERING



The brake system has two separate hydrauliccircuits. If one circuit malfunctions, you will stillhave braking at two wheels.

BRAKE PRECAUTIONS

Vacuum assisted brakes

The brake booster aids braking by using enginevacuum. If the engine stops, you can stop thevehicle by depressing the brake pedal. However,greater foot pressure on the brake pedal will berequired to stop the vehicle and stopping dis-tance will be longer.

Using the brakes

Avoid resting your foot on the brake pedal whiledriving. This will overheat the brakes, wear out thebrake linings and pads faster, and reduce gasmileage.

To help reduce brake wear and to prevent thebrakes from overheating, reduce speed anddownshift to a lower gear before going down aslope or long grade. Overheated brakes mayreduce braking performance and could result inloss of vehicle control.

WARNING

● While driving on a slippery surface, becareful when braking, accelerating ordownshifting. Abrupt braking or accel-erating could cause the wheels to skidand result in an accident.

● If the engine is not running or is turnedoff while driving, the power assist forthe brakes will not work. Braking will beharder.

Wet brakes

When the vehicle is washed or driven throughwater, the brakes may get wet. As a result, yourbraking distance will be longer and the vehiclemay pull to one side during braking.

To dry the brakes, drive the vehicle at a safespeed while lightly pressing the brake pedal toheat up the brakes. Do this until the brakes returnto normal. Avoid driving the vehicle at highspeeds until the brakes function correctly.

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS)(if so equipped)The anti-lock brake system controls the brakes ateach wheel so the wheels do not lock whenbraking abruptly or when braking on slippery sur-faces. The system detects the rotation speed at

each wheel and varies the brake fluid pressure toprevent each wheel from locking and sliding. Bypreventing wheel lockup, the system helps thedriver maintain steering control and helps to mini-mize swerving and spinning on slippery surfaces.

Using the system

Depress the brake pedal and hold it down.

WARNING

Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing somay result in increased stoppingdistances.

Normal operation

The anti-lock brake system does not operate atspeeds below 3 - 6 MPH (5 - 10 km/h). (Thespeeds vary according to road conditions.)

When driving, the anti-lock brake system con-trols the wheels so they will not lock when brak-ing abruptly or when braking on a slippery road.Thus, difficult steering and swerving of the ve-hicle due to locked wheels is minimized. Thesystem detects the wheel rotation rate and elec-tronically controls the pressure applied to eachbrake. Slight vibration on the brake pedal accom-panied by noise usually occurs while the ABSsystem is operating. Such vibration and noiseencountered during abrupt braking is not a prob-

BRAKE SYSTEM



lem, but indicates that the system is functioningproperly. However, the pulsation may indicatethat road conditions are hazardous and extra careis required while driving.

Self-test feature

The anti-lock brake system consists of electronicsensors and hydraulic solenoids controlled by acomputer. The computer has a built-in diagnosticfeature that tests the system each time you startthe engine and move the vehicle at a low speed inforward or reverse. When the self-test occurs,you may hear a ‘‘clunk’’ noise and/or feel a pulsa-tion in the brake pedal. This is normal and is notan indication of any malfunction. If the computersenses any malfunction, it switches the anti-lockbrake system off and turns on the ABS brakewarning light on the instrument panel. The brakesystem then operates normally, but without anti-lock assistance.

If a malfunction occurs in the system, the anti-lock function will not operate, but the standardvehicle brake system will continue to operatenormally. The ABS brake warning light will thencome on.

If the light comes on during the self-test or whiledriving, take the vehicle to a NISSAN dealer forrepair.

WARNING

● The anti-lock brake system is a sophis-ticated device, but it cannot prevent ac-cidents resulting from careless or dan-gerous driving techniques. It can helpmaintain vehicle control during brakingon slippery surfaces, but remember thatthe stopping distance on slippery sur-faces will be longer than on normalsurfaces even with the anti-lock brakesystem. Stopping distances may alsobe longer on rough, gravel or snow cov-ered roads, or if you are using tirechains. Tire type and condition may alsoaffect braking effectiveness. Alwaysmaintain a safe distance from the ve-hicle in front of you. Ultimately, the re-sponsibility for safety of self and othersrests in the hands of the driver.

● Tire type and condition of tires may alsoaffect braking effectiveness.

● When replacing tires, install the speci-fied size of tires on all four wheels.

● When installing a spare tire, make sureit is the proper size and type as speci-fied on the tire placard. For tire placardlocation information, refer to “Tire plac-ard” in the “Technical and consumerinformation” section of this manual.

● Refer to “Wheels and tires” in the“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” sec-tion of this manual.



FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCK

To prevent a door lock from freezing, apply de-icer through the key hole. If the lock becomesfrozen, heat the key before inserting it into the keyhole.

ANTI-FREEZE

In the winter when it is anticipated that the tem-perature will drop below 32°F (0°C), check theanti-freeze (ethylene glycol base) to assureproper winter protection. For details, see ‘‘Enginecooling system’’ in the ‘‘Maintenance and do-it-yourself’’ section of this manual.

BATTERY

If the battery is not fully charged during extremelycold weather conditions, the battery fluid mayfreeze and damage the battery. To maintain maxi-mum efficiency, the battery should be checkedregularly. For details, see ‘‘Battery’’ in the ‘‘Main-tenance and do-it-yourself’’ section of thismanual.

DRAINING OF COOLANT WATER

If the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-freeze, drain the cooling system, including theengine block. Refill before operating the vehicle.

For details, see ‘‘Changing engine coolant’’ in the‘‘Maintenance and do-it-yourself’’ section of thismanual.

TIRE EQUIPMENT1. SUMMER tires have a tread designed to

provide superior performance on dry pave-ment. However, the performance of thesetires will be substantially reduced in snowyand icy conditions. If you operate your ve-hicle on snowy or icy roads, NISSAN recom-mends the use of MUD & SNOW or ALLSEASON TIRES on all four wheels. Pleaseconsult a NISSAN dealer for the tire type,size, speed rating and availability informa-tion.

2. For additional traction on icy roads, studdedtires may be used. However, some U.S.states and Canadian provinces prohibit theiruse. Check local, state and provincial lawsbefore installing studded tires.

Skid and traction capabilities of studdedsnow tires on wet or dry surfaces may bepoorer than that of non-studded snow tires.

3. Tire chains may be used.

Use of tire chains may be prohibited ac-cording to location. Check the local lawsbefore installing tire chains. When install-ing tire chains, make sure they are of

proper size for the tires on your vehicleand are installed according to the chainmanufacturer’s suggestions. Use onlySAE Class “S” chains. Class “S”chains are used on vehicles with re-stricted wheel well clearance. Vehiclesthat can use Class “S” chains are de-signed to meet the minimum clearancesbetween the tire and the closest vehiclesuspension or body component requiredto accommodate the use of a winter trac-tion device (tire chains or cables). Theminimum clearances are determined us-ing the factory equipped tire size. Othertypes may damage your vehicle. Usechain tensioners when recommended bythe tire chain manufacturer to ensure atight fit. Loose end links of the tire chainmust be secured or removed to preventthe possibility of whipping action damageto the fenders or underbody. If possible,avoid fully loading your vehicle when us-ing tire chains. In addition, drive at a re-duced speed. Otherwise, your vehiclemay be damaged and/or vehicle handlingand performance may be adversely af-fected.

Never install tire chains on spare tires. Donot use tire chains on dry roads.

COLD WEATHER DRIVING



SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENT

It is recommended that the following items becarried in the vehicle during winter:

● A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to removeice and snow from the windows and wiperblades.

● A sturdy, flat board to be placed under the jackto give it firm support.

● A shovel to dig the vehicle out of snowdrifts.

● Extra window washer fluid to refill the reservoirtank.

DRIVING ON SNOW OR ICE

WARNING

● Wet ice (32°F, 0°C and freezing rain),very cold snow or ice can be slick andvery hard to drive on. The vehicle willhave much less traction or “grip” underthese conditions. Try to avoid driving onwet ice until the road is salted orsanded.

● Whatever the condition, drive with cau-tion. Accelerate and slow down withcare. If accelerating or downshifting toofast, the drive wheels will lose evenmore traction.

● Allow more stopping distance underthese conditions. Braking should bestarted sooner than on dry pavement.

● Allow greater following distances onslippery roads.

● Watch for slippery spots (glare ice).These may appear on an otherwiseclear road in shaded areas. If a patch ofice is seen ahead, brake before reach-ing it. Try not to brake while on the ice,and avoid any sudden steeringmaneuvers.

● Do not use the cruise control on slip-pery roads.

● Snow can trap dangerous exhaustgases under your vehicle. Keep snowclear of the exhaust pipe and fromaround your vehicle.

ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (if soequipped)

An engine block heater to assist in extreme coldtemperature starting is available through aNISSAN dealer.

WARNING

Do not use your heater with an un-grounded electrical system or two-pronged (cheater) adapters. You can beinjured by an electrical shock if you use anungrounded connection.




MEMO

6 In case of emergency

Flat tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2Changing a flat tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

Jump starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7Push starting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9If your vehicle overheats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10

Towing your vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-11Towing recommended by Nissan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-11Vehicle recovery (freeing a stuck vehicle) . . . . . . . . . 6-12Flat towing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-12


CHANGING A FLAT TIRE

If you have a flat tire, follow the instructions be-low.

Stopping the vehicle

1. Safely move the vehicle off the road andaway from traffic.

2. Turn on the hazard warning flashers.

3. Park on a level surface and apply the parkingbrake. Shift the manual transmission into R(Reverse), or the automatic transmissioninto P (Park).

4. Turn off the engine.

5. Raise the hood to warn other traffic and tosignal professional road assistance person-nel that you need assistance.

6. Have all passengers get out of the vehicleand stand in a safe place, away from trafficand clear of the vehicle.

WARNING

● Make sure the parking brake is securelyapplied and the manual transmission isshifted into R (Reverse), or the auto-matic transmission into P (Park).

● Never change tires when the vehicle ison a slope, ice or slippery areas. This ishazardous.

● Never change tires if oncoming traffic isclose to your vehicle. Wait for profes-sional road assistance.

Blocking wheelsPlace suitable blocks s1 at both the front andback of the wheel diagonally opposite the flat tires2 to prevent the vehicle from rolling when it isjacked up.

WARNING

Be sure to block the wheel as the vehiclemay move and result in personal injury.

WCE0044

FLAT TIRE

6-2 In case of emergency


Getting the spare tire and tools1. Open the trunk. Lift the trunk floor carpeting

and spare tire cover. Remove the tool bagsA (which contains the jack rod and wheelnut wrench) and the spare tire. If necessary,use the flat end of the jack rod sB as shownto loosen the spare tire hold-down bolt sC .

2. To remove the jack, turn the jack screwcounterclockwise. Use the tapered end ofthe jack rod to loosen the jack from its stor-age position.

WCE0045 WCE0046

In case of emergency 6-3


Removing bolt-on wheel cover (if soequipped)

CAUTION

Do not use your hands to pry off wheelcaps or wheel covers. Doing so could re-sult in personal injury.

Wheel cover attachment to the wheel is made byone of the wheel lug nuts. This wheel lug nutneeds to be removed before the wheelcover can be removed from the wheel.

Jacking up vehicle and removing thedamaged tire

WARNING

● Never get under the vehicle while it issupported only by the jack.

● Use only the jack provided with yourvehicle to lift the vehicle. Do not use thejack provided with your vehicle on othervehicles. The jack is designed for liftingonly your vehicle during a tire change.

WCE0055 WCE0006



● Use the correct jack-up points. Neveruse any other part of the vehicle for jacksupport.

● Never jack up the vehicle more thannecessary.

● Never use blocks on or under the jack.

● Do not start or run engine while vehicleis on the jack. It may cause the vehicleto move.

● Do not allow passengers to stay in thevehicle while it is on the jack.

● Never run the engine with a wheel(s) offthe ground. It may cause the vehicle tomove. Always refer to the proper illustrations for the

correct placement and jack-up points for yourspecific vehicle model and jack type.

Carefully read the caution label attached tothe jack body and the following instruc-tions.

1. Loosen each wheel nut one or two turns byturning counterclockwise with the wheel nutwrench. Do not remove the wheel nutsuntil the tire is off the ground.

2. Place the jack directly under the jack-uppoint as illustrated so the top of the jackcontacts the vehicle at the jack-up point.Align the jack head between the twonotches in the front or the rear as shown.Also fit the groove of the jack head betweenthe notches as shown.

The jack should be used on firm andlevel ground.

3. To lift the vehicle, securely hold the jack leverand rod with both hands as shown. Carefullyraise the vehicle until the tire clears theground. Remove the wheel nuts, and thenremove the tire.

SCE0002



Installing the spare tire

The spare tire is designed for emergencyuse. See specific instructions under theheading “Wheels and tires” in the “Mainte-nance and do-it-yourself” section of thismanual.

1. Clean any mud or dirt from the surface be-tween the wheel and hub.

2. Carefully put the spare tire on and tightenthe wheel nuts finger tight.

3. With the wheel nut wrench, tighten wheelnuts alternately and evenly as illustrated untilthey are tight.

4. Lower the vehicle slowly until the tiretouches the ground. Then, with the wheelnut wrench, tighten the wheel nuts securelyin the sequence illustrated (sA , sB , sC , sD ).Lower the vehicle completely.

WARNING

● Incorrect wheel nuts or improperlytightened wheel nuts can cause thewheel to become loose or come off.This could cause an accident.

● Do not use oil or grease on the wheelstuds or nuts. This could cause the nutsto become loose.

● Retighten the wheel nuts when the ve-hicle has been driven for 600 miles(1,000 km) (also in cases of a flat tire,etc.).

As soon as possible, tighten the wheel nutsto the specified torque with a torquewrench.

Wheel nut tightening torque:80 ft-lb (108 N·m)

The wheel nuts must be kept tightened tospecification at all times. It is recom-mended that wheel nuts be tightened tospecification at each lubrication interval.

Adjust tire pressure to the COLD pressure.

COLD pressure: After vehicle has beenparked for three hours or more or drivenless than 1 mile (1.6 km).

COLD tire pressures are shown on the tireplacard affixed to the driver’s door centerpillar.

5. Securely store the flat tire in the vehicle.

WCE0048



6. Install the jack in its storage area and tightenthe jack screw clockwise.

7. Place the spare tire cover and the trunk floorcarpeting over the damaged tire.

8. Close the trunk.

WARNING

● Always make sure that the spare tireand jacking equipment are properly se-cured after use. Such items can becomedangerous projectiles in an accident orsudden stop.

● The spare tire is designed for emer-gency use. See specific instructions un-der the heading “Wheels and tires” inthe “Maintenance and do-it-yourself”section of this manual.

To start your engine with a booster battery, theinstructions and precautions below must be fol-lowed.

WARNING

● If done incorrectly, jump starting canlead to a battery explosion, resulting insevere injury or death. It could alsodamage your vehicle.

● Explosive hydrogen gas is alwayspresent in the vicinity of the battery.Keep all sparks and flames away fromthe battery.

● Do not allow battery fluid to come intocontact with eyes, skin, clothing orpainted surfaces. Battery fluid is a cor-rosive sulfuric acid solution which cancause severe burns. If the fluid shouldcome into contact with anything, imme-diately flush the contacted area withwater.

● Keep battery out of the reach ofchildren.

● The booster battery must be rated at 12volts. Use of an improperly rated batterycan damage your vehicle.

WCE0049

JUMP STARTING



● Whenever working on or near a battery,always wear suitable eye protectors (forexample, goggles or industrial safetyspectacles) and remove rings, metalbands, or any other jewelry. Do not leanover the battery when jump starting.

● Do not attempt to jump start a frozenbattery. It could explode and cause se-rious injury.

● Your vehicle has an automatic enginecooling fan. It could come on at anytime. Keep hands and other objectsaway from it.

WARNING

Always follow the instructions below.Failure to do so could result in damage tothe charging system and cause personalinjury.

1. If the booster battery is in another vehicle,position the two vehicles to bring their bat-teries near each other.

Do not allow the two vehicles to touch.

2. Apply the parking brake. Move the shift leverto N (Neutral) (manual transmission) or to P(Park) (automatic transmission). Switch offall unnecessary electrical systems (lights,heater, air conditioner, etc.).

3. Remove vent caps on the battery (if soequipped). Cover the battery with an oldcloth to reduce explosion hazard.

4. Connect jumper cables in the sequence il-lustrated (sA , sB , sC , sD ).

WCE0054



CAUTION

● Always connect positive (1) to positive(1) and negative (2) to body ground (forexample, strut mounting bolt, enginelift bracket, etc.) — not to the battery.

● Make sure the jumper cables do nottouch moving parts in the engine com-partment and that the cable clamps donot contact any other metal.

5. Start the engine of the booster vehicle andlet it run for a few minutes.

6. Keep the engine speed of the booster ve-hicle at about 2,000 rpm, and start the en-gine of the vehicle being jump started.

WARNING

Do not keep the starter motor engaged formore than 10 seconds. If the engine doesnot start right away, turn the key off andwait 3 to 4 seconds before trying again.

7. After starting the engine, carefully discon-nect the negative cable and then the positivecable.

8. Replace the vent caps (if so equipped). Besure to dispose of the cloth used to coverthe vent holes as it may be contaminatedwith corrosive acid.

WARNING

● Automatic transmission models cannotbe push-started or tow-started. Thismay cause transmission or other ve-hicle damage.

● Three-way catalyst equipped modelsshould not be started by pushing. Thethree-way catalyst may be damaged.

● Never try to start the vehicle by towingit. When the engine starts, the forwardsurge could cause the vehicle to collidewith the tow vehicle.

PUSH STARTING



If your vehicle is overheating (indicated by anextremely high temperature gauge reading), or ifyou feel a lack of engine power, detect abnormalnoise, etc. take the following steps.

WARNING

● Do not continue to drive if your vehicleoverheats. Doing so could cause a ve-hicle fire.

● To avoid the danger of being scalded,never remove the radiator cap while theengine is still hot. When the radiatorcap is removed, pressurized hot waterwill spurt out, possibly causing seriousinjury.

● Do not open the hood if steam is com-ing out.

1. Move the vehicle safely off the road, applythe parking brake and move the shift lever toN (Neutral) (manual transmission) or to P(Park) (automatic transmission).

Do not stop the engine.

2. Turn off the air conditioner (if so equipped).Open all the windows, move the heater or airconditioner temperature control to maximumhot and fan control to high speed.

3. Get out of the vehicle. Look and listen forsteam or coolant escaping from the radiatorbefore opening the hood. (If steam or cool-ant is escaping, turn off the engine.) Waituntil no steam or coolant can be seen beforeproceeding.

4. Open the engine hood.

WARNING

If steam or water is coming from the en-gine, stand clear to prevent gettingburned.

5. Visually check drive belts for damage orlooseness. Also check if the cooling fan isrunning. The radiator hoses and radiatorshould not leak water. If coolant is leaking,the water pump belt is missing or loose, orthe cooling fan does not run, stop the en-gine.

WARNING

Be careful not to allow your hands, hair,jewelry or clothing to come into contactwith, or get caught in, engine belts or theengine cooling fan. The engine coolingfan can start at any time when the coolanttemperature is high.

6. After the engine cools down, check the cool-ant level in the reservoir tank with the enginerunning. Add coolant to the reservoir tank ifnecessary. Have your vehicle repaired at aNISSAN dealer.

IF YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS



When towing your vehicle, all State (Provincial inCanada) and local regulations for towing must befollowed. Incorrect towing equipment could dam-age your vehicle. Towing instructions are avail-able from a NISSAN dealer. Local service opera-tors are generally familiar with the applicable lawsand procedures for towing. To assure propertowing and to prevent accidental damage to yourvehicle, NISSAN recommends having a serviceoperator tow your vehicle. It is advisable to havethe service operator carefully read the followingprecautions:

WARNING

● Never ride in a vehicle that is beingtowed.

● Never get under your vehicle after it hasbeen lifted by a tow truck.

CAUTION

● When towing, make sure that the trans-mission, axles, steering system andpowertrain are in working condition. Ifany unit is damaged, dollies must beused.

● Always attach safety chains beforetowing.

TOWING RECOMMENDED BYNISSANNISSAN recommends that your vehicle be towedwith the driving (front) wheels off the ground orplace the vehicle on a flat bed truck as illustrated.

WARNING

● Never tow automatic transmissionmodels with the front wheels on theground or four wheels on the ground(forward or backward), as this maycause serious and expensive damage tothe transmission. If it is necessary totow the vehicle with the rear wheelsraised always use towing dollies underthe front wheels.

ACE0511

ACE1001

TOWING YOUR VEHICLE



● When towing automatic transmissionmodels with the front wheels on towingdollies, or when towing manual trans-mission models with the front wheelson the ground:

● Turn the ignition key to the OFF posi-tion, and secure the steering wheel ina straight-ahead position with a ropeor similar device. Never secure thesteering wheel by turning the ignitionkey to the LOCK position. This maydamage the steering lock mechanism.

● Move the gearshift lever to the N(Neutral) position.

● When towing automatic or manual trans-mission models with the rear wheels onthe ground (if you do not use towing dol-lies): Always release the parking brake.

VEHICLE RECOVERY (freeing a stuckvehicle)

WARNING

● Stand clear of a stuck vehicle.

● Do not spin your tires at high speed. Thiscould cause them to explode and resultin serious injury. Parts of your vehiclecould also overheat and be damaged.

CAUTION

● Tow chains or cables must be attachedonly to the main structural members ofthe vehicle.

● Pulling devices should be routed sothey do not touch any part of the sus-pension, steering, brake or coolingsystems.

● Always pull the cable straight out fromthe front or rear of the vehicle. Neverpull the vehicle at an angle.

● Pulling devices such as ropes or canvasstraps are not recommended for use invehicle towing or recovery.

FLAT TOWINGTowing your vehicle with all four wheels on theground is sometimes called flat towing. Thismethod is sometimes used when towing a vehiclebehind a recreational vehicle, such as a motorhome.

CAUTION

● Failure to follow these guidelines canresult in severe transmission damage.

● Whenever flat towing your vehicle, al-ways tow forward, never backward.

Automatic Transmission

CAUTION

● DO NOT tow any automatic transmis-sion vehicle with all four wheels on theground (flat towing). Doing so WILLDAMAGE internal transmission partsdue to lack of transmission lubrication.

● For emergency towing procedures referto “Towing Recommended by Nissan”earlier in this chapter.

To tow a vehicle equipped with an automatictransmission, an appropriate vehicle dolly MUSTbe placed under the towed vehicle’s drivewheels. Always follow the dolly manufacturer’srecommendations when using their product.

Manual Transmission● Always tow with the manual transmission in

Neutral.

● After towing 500 miles, start and idle the en-gine with the transmission in Neutral for twominutes. Failure to idle the engine after every500 miles of towing may cause damage to thetransmission’s internal parts.



7 Appearance and care

Cleaning exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2Washing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2Waxing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2Removing spots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2Underbody . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3Aluminum alloy wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3Chrome parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3

Cleaning interior. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4

Floor mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

Corrosion protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5Most common factors contributing to vehiclecorrosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5Environmental factors influence the rate ofcorrosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5To protect your vehicle from corrosion . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5


In order to maintain the appearance of your ve-hicle, it is important to take proper care of it.

In the following cases, please wash your vehicleas soon as possible to protect the paint surface:

● after a rainfall to prevent possible damage fromacid rain.

● after driving on coastal roads.

● when contaminants such as soot, bird drop-pings, tree sap, metal particles or bugs get onthe paint surface.

● when dust or mud builds up on the surface.

Whenever possible, store or park your vehicleinside a garage or in a covered area.

When it is necessary to park outside, park in ashady area or protect the vehicle with a bodycover.

Be careful not to scratch the paint surfacewhen putting on or removing the bodycover.

WASHINGWash dirt off with a wet sponge and plenty ofwater. Clean the vehicle thoroughly using a mildsoap, a special vehicle soap or general purposedishwashing liquid mixed with clean, lukewarm(never hot) water.

CAUTION

● Do not wash the vehicle with stronghousehold soap, strong chemical deter-gents, gasoline or solvents.

● Do not wash the vehicle in direct sun-light or while the vehicle body is hot, asthe surface may become water-spotted.

● Avoid using tight-napped or roughcloths, such as washing mitts. Caremust be taken when removingcaked-on dirt or other foreign sub-stances so the paint surface is notscratched or damaged.

Rinse the vehicle thoroughly with plenty of cleanwater.

Inside flanges, seams and folds on the doors,hatches and hood are particularly vulnerable tothe effects of road salt. Therefore, these areasmust be cleaned regularly. Take care that thedrain holes in the lower edge of the door areopen. Spray water under the body and in thewheel wells to loosen the dirt and wash awayroad salt.

A damp chamois can be used to dry the vehicle toavoid water spots.

WAXING

Regular waxing protects the paint surface andhelps retain new vehicle appearance. After wax-ing, polishing is recommended to removebuilt-up residue and to avoid a “weathered” ap-pearance.

A NISSAN dealer can assist you in choosing theproper product.

● Wax your vehicle only after a thorough wash-ing. Follow the instructions supplied with thewax.

● Do not use a wax containing any abrasives,cutting compounds or cleaners that may dam-age the vehicle finish.

● If the surface does not polish easily, use a“road tar” remover and wax again.

Machine compounding or aggressive polishingon a base coat/clear coat paint finish may dull thefinish or leave swirl marks.

REMOVING SPOTSRemove tar and oil spots, industrial dust, insects,and tree sap as quickly as possible from thesurface of the paint to avoid lasting damage orstaining. Special cleaning products are availableat a NISSAN dealer or any automotive accessorystore.

CLEANING EXTERIOR

7-2 Appearance and care


UNDERBODYIn areas where road salt is used in winter, it isnecessary to clean the underbody regularly inorder to prevent dirt and salt from building up andcausing the acceleration of corrosion on the un-derbody and suspension. Before the winter pe-riod and again in the spring, the underseal mustbe checked and, if necessary, retreated.

GLASS

When cleaning the rear window, it may be easierto clean if the high-mounted stop light is removedfirst.

Be careful when removing the high-mountedstop light to reduce the risk of damaging thehigh-mounted stop light wires.

To remove the high-mounted stop light:

s1 Push toward rear of vehicle.

s2 Lift to remove.

The high-mounted stop light must be properlyreinstalled before driving your vehicle.

Use glass cleaner to remove smoke and dust filmfrom the glass surfaces. It is normal for glass tobecome coated with a film after the vehicle isparked in the hot sun. Glass cleaner and a softcloth will easily remove this film.

CAUTION

When cleaning the inside of the windows,do not use sharp-edged tools, abrasivecleaners or chlorine-based disinfectantcleaners. They could damage the electri-cal conductors, radio antenna elements orrear window defroster elements.

ALUMINUM ALLOY WHEELSWash the wheels regularly, especially during win-ter months in areas where road salt is used. If notremoved, road salt could discolor the wheels.

CHROME PARTSClean all chrome parts regularly with a non-abrasive chrome polish to maintain the finish.

WAI0005

Appearance and care 7-3


Occasionally remove loose dust from the interiortrim, plastic parts and seats using a vacuumcleaner or soft brush. Wipe the vinyl and leathersurfaces with a clean, soft cloth dampened inmild soap solution, then wipe clean with a dry,soft cloth. Before using any fabric protector, readthe manufacturer’s recommendations. Some fab-ric protectors contain chemicals that may stain orbleach the seat material.

Use a cloth dampened only with water to cleanthe meter and gauge lens.

CAUTION

● Never use benzine, thinner or any simi-lar material.

● Never use fabric protectors unless rec-ommended by the manufacturer.

● Do not use glass or plastic cleaner onmeter or gauge lens covers. It may dam-age the lens cover.

FLOOR MATSThe use of genuine NISSAN floor mats can ex-tend the life of your vehicle carpet and make iteasier to clean the interior. No matter whatmats are used, be sure they are fitted foryour vehicle and are properly positioned inthe footwell to prevent interference withpedal operation. Mats should be maintainedwith regular cleaning and replaced if they be-come excessively worn.

Floor mat positioning aid (driver’s sideonly)This vehicle includes a front floor mat bracket toact as a floor mat positioning aid. NISSAN floormats have been specially designed for your ve-hicle model. The driver’s side floor mat has agrommet hole incorporated in it. Position the matby placing the floor mat bracket hook through thefloor mat grommet hole while centering the mat inthe footwell.

Periodically check to make certain the mats areproperly positioned.

WAI0006

CLEANING INTERIOR



SEAT BELTSThe seat belts can be cleaned by wiping themwith a sponge dampened in a mild soap solution.Allow the belts to dry completely in the shadebefore using them. See “Seat belt maintenance”in the “Seats, restraints and supplemental air bagsystems” section of this manual.

WARNING

Do not allow wet seat belts to roll up in theretractor. NEVER use bleach, dye orchemical solvents to clean the seat belts,since these materials may severelyweaken the seat belt webbing.

MOST COMMON FACTORSCONTRIBUTING TO VEHICLECORROSION

1. The accumulation of moisture-retaining dirtand debris in body panel sections, cavities,and other areas.

2. Damage to paint and other protective coat-ings caused by gravel and stone chips orminor traffic accidents.

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORSINFLUENCE THE RATE OFCORROSION

MoistureAccumulation of sand, dirt and water on the ve-hicle body underside can accelerate corrosion.Wet floor coverings will not dry completely insidethe vehicle, and should be removed for drying toavoid floor panel corrosion.

Relative humidityCorrosion will be accelerated:

● in areas of high relative humidity.

● in areas where the temperatures stay abovefreezing.

● where atmospheric pollution exists.

● where road salt is used.

TemperatureHigh temperatures accelerate the rate of corro-sion to those parts which are not well ventilated.

Air pollutionIndustrial pollution, the presence of salt in the airin coastal areas, or heavy road salt use acceler-ates the corrosion process. Road salt also accel-erates the disintegration of paint surfaces.

TO PROTECT YOUR VEHICLEFROM CORROSION● Wash and wax your vehicle often to keep the

vehicle clean.

● Always check for minor damage to the paintand repair it as soon as possible.

● Keep drain holes at the bottom of the doorsopen to avoid water accumulation.

● Check the underbody for accumulation ofsand, dirt or salt. If present, wash with water assoon as possible.

CORROSION PROTECTION

Appearance and care 7-5


CAUTION

● NEVER remove dirt, sand or other de-bris from the passenger compartmentby washing it out with a hose. Removedirt with a vacuum cleaner or broom.

● Never allow water or other liquids tocome in contact with electronic compo-nents inside the vehicle as this maydamage them.

Chemicals used for road surface de-icing areextremely corrosive. They accelerate corrosionand deterioration of underbody componentssuch as the exhaust system, fuel and brake lines,brake cables, floor pan and fenders.

In winter, the underbody must be cleanedperiodically.

For additional protection against rust and corro-sion, which may be required in some areas, con-sult a NISSAN dealer.



8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself

Maintenance requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2General maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

Explanation of general maintenance items . . . . . . . . . 8-2Maintenance precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5Engine compartment check locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7Engine cooling system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9

Checking engine coolant level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9Changing engine coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10

Engine oil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-12Checking engine oil level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12Changing engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13Changing engine oil filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14

Automatic transmission fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15Temperature conditions for checking. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-16

Power steering fluid. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-18Brake and clutch fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-18

Brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-19Clutch fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-19

Window washer fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-20Window washer fluid reservoir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-20

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-20Jump starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-22

Drive belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-22Spark plugs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-23

Replacing spark plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-23Air cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-24

In-cabin Microfilter (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-25Windshield wiper blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-28

Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-28Replacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-28

Parking brake and brake pedal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-29Checking parking brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-29Checking brake pedal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-29Brake booster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-30

Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-31Engine compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-31Passenger compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-32

Keyfob battery replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-33Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-34

Headlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-34Fog lights (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-35Exterior and interior lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-36

Wheels and tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-39Tire pressure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-39Types of tires. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-40Tire chains. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-41Changing wheels and tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-42


Your new NISSAN has been designed to haveminimum maintenance requirements with longerservice intervals to save you both time andmoney. However, some day-to-day and regularmaintenance is essential to maintain your NIS-SAN’s good mechanical condition, as well as itsemission and engine performance.

It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure thatthe scheduled maintenance, as well as generalmaintenance, is performed.

As the vehicle owner, you are the only one whocan ensure that your vehicle receives propermaintenance. You are a vital link in the mainte-nance chain.

Scheduled maintenance

For your convenience, both required and optionalscheduled maintenance items are described andlisted in your “NISSAN Service and MaintenanceGuide.” You must refer to that guide to ensurethat necessary maintenance is performed on yourNISSAN at regular intervals.

General maintenance

General maintenance includes those items whichshould be checked during normal day-to-day op-eration of the vehicle. They are essential if yourvehicle is to continue to operate properly. It isyour responsibility to perform these maintenanceprocedures regularly as prescribed.

Performing general maintenance checks requiresminimal mechanical skill and only a few generalautomotive tools.

These checks or inspections can be done by you,a qualified technician, or, if you prefer, a NISSANdealer.

Where to go for service

If maintenance service is required or your vehicleappears to malfunction, have the systemschecked and corrected by a NISSAN dealer.

NISSAN technicians are well-trained specialistswho are kept up-to-date with the latest serviceinformation through technical bulletins, servicetips, and in-dealership training programs. Theyare completely qualified to work on NISSAN ve-hicles before they work on your vehicle, ratherthan after they have worked on it.

You can be confident that a NISSAN dealer’sservice department performs the best job to meetthe maintenance requirements on your vehicle —in a reliable and economic way.

During the normal day-to-day operation of thevehicle, general maintenance should be per-formed regularly as prescribed in this section. Ifyou detect any unusual sounds, vibrations orsmells, be sure to check for the cause or have aNISSAN dealer do it promptly. In addition, youshould notify a NISSAN dealer if you think thatrepairs are required.

When performing any checks or maintenancework, closely observe the “Maintenance precau-tions” later in this section.

EXPLANATION OF GENERALMAINTENANCE ITEMS

Additional information on the followingitems with “*” is found later in this section.

Outside the vehicle

The maintenance items listed here should beperformed from time to time, unless otherwisespecified.

Tires* Check the pressure with a gauge at leastonce a month and always prior to long distancetrips. If necessary, adjust the pressure in all tires,including the spare, to the pressure specified.Check carefully for damage, cuts or excessivewear.

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS GENERAL MAINTENANCE

8-2 Maintenance and do-it-yourself


Wheel nuts* When checking the tires, makesure no wheel nuts are missing, and check for anyloose wheel nuts. Tighten if necessary.

Tire rotation* Tires should be rotated every7,500 miles (12,000 km).

Wheel alignment and balance If the vehicleshould pull to either side while driving on astraight and level road, or if you detect uneven orabnormal tire wear, there may be a need for wheelalignment.

If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at normalhighway speeds, wheel balancing may beneeded.

● For additional information regarding tires, referto “Important Tire Safety Information” (US) or“Tire Safety Information” (Canada) in the War-ranty Information Booklet .

Windshield Clean the windshield on a regularbasis. Check the windshield at least every sixmonths for cracks or other damage. Have a dam-aged windshield repaired by a qualified repairfacility.

Windshield wiper blades* Check for cracks orwear if they do not wipe properly.

Doors and hood Check that the doors andhood operate properly. Also ensure that alllatches lock securely. Lubricate hinges, latches,

latch pins, rollers and links as necessary. Makesure that the secondary latch keeps the hoodfrom opening when the primary latch is released.

When driving in areas using road salt or othercorrosive materials, check lubrication frequently.

Lights* Clean the headlights on a regular basis.Make sure that the headlights, stop lights, taillights, turn signal lights, and other lights are alloperating properly and installed securely. Alsocheck headlight aim.

Inside the vehicleThe maintenance items listed here should bechecked on a regular basis, such as when per-forming periodic maintenance, cleaning the ve-hicle, etc.

Warning lights and chimes Make sure allwarning lights and chimes are operating properly.

Windshield wiper and washer* Check thatthe wipers and washer operate properly and thatthe wipers do not streak.

Windshield defroster Check that the aircomes out of the defroster outlets properly and insufficient quantity when operating the heater orair conditioner.

Steering wheel Check for changes in the steer-ing system, such as excessive freeplay, hardsteering or strange noises.

Seats Check seat position controls such as seatadjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to ensure theyoperate smoothly and all latches lock securely inevery position. Check that the head restraintsmove up and down smoothly and the locks (if soequipped) hold securely in all latched positions.

Seat belts Check that all parts of the seat beltsystem (for example, buckles, anchors, adjustersand retractors) operate properly and smoothly,and are installed securely. Check the belt web-bing for cuts, fraying, wear or damage.

Accelerator pedal Check the pedal for smoothoperation and make sure the pedal does not bindor require uneven effort. Keep the floor mat awayfrom the pedal.

Clutch pedal* Make sure the pedal operatessmoothly and check that it has the proper freetravel.

Brakes Check that the brakes do not pull thevehicle to one side when applied.

Brake pedal and booster* Check the pedal forsmooth operation and make sure it has the properdistance under it when depressed fully. Checkthe brake booster function. Be certain to keep thefloor mat away from the pedal.

Maintenance and do-it-yourself 8-3


Parking brake* Check that the lever has theproper travel and confirm that your vehicle is heldsecurely on a fairly steep hill with only the parkingbrake applied.

Automatic transmission P (Park) positionmechanism Check that the lock release buttonon the shift selector lever operates properly andsmoothly. On a fairly steep hill check that yourvehicle is held securely with the selector lever inthe P position without applying any brakes.

Under the hood and vehicleThe maintenance items listed here should bechecked periodically (for example, each time youcheck the engine oil or refuel).

Windshield washer fluid* Check that there isadequate fluid in the reservoir.

Engine oil level* Check the level after parkingthe vehicle on a level surface with the engine off.Wait more than 10 minutes for the oil to drainback into the oil pan.

Brake and clutch fluid levels* Make sure thatthe brake and clutch fluid level is between theMIN and MAX lines on the reservoir.

Power steering fluid level* and lines Checkthe level when the fluid is cold, with the engineoff. Check the lines for proper attachment, leaks,cracks, etc.

Automatic transmission fluid level* Checkthe level after putting the selector lever in P withthe engine idling at operating temperature.

Engine coolant level* Check the coolant levelwhen the engine is cold.

Radiator and hoses Check the front of theradiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves,etc., that may have accumulated. Make sure thehoses have no cracks, deformation, rot or looseconnections.

Engine drive belts* Make sure the drive beltsare not frayed, worn, cracked or oily.

Battery* Check the fluid level in each cell. Itshould be between the MAX and MIN lines. Ve-hicles operated in high temperatures or undersevere conditions require frequent checks of thebattery fluid level.

Exhaust system Make sure there are no loosesupports, cracks or holes. If the sound of theexhaust seems unusual or there is a smell ofexhaust fumes, immediately have the exhaustsystem inspected by a NISSAN dealer. See thecarbon monoxide warning in the “Starting anddriving” section of this manual.

Underbody The underbody is frequently ex-posed to corrosive substances such as thoseused on icy roads or to control dust. It is veryimportant to remove these substances from the

underbody, otherwise rust may form on the floorpan, frame, fuel lines and exhaust system. At theend of winter, the underbody should be thor-oughly flushed with plain water, in those areaswhere mud and dirt may have accumulated. Seethe “Appearance and care” section of thismanual.

Fluid leaks Check under the vehicle for fuel, oil,water or other fluid leaks after the vehicle hasbeen parked for a while. Water dripping from theair conditioner after use is normal. If you shouldnotice any leaks or if gasoline fumes are evident,check for the cause and have it corrected imme-diately.



When performing any inspection or maintenancework on your vehicle, always take care to preventserious accidental injury to yourself or damage tothe 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 andblock the wheels to prevent the vehiclefrom moving. For manual transmissionmodels, move the shift lever to N (Neu-tral). For automatic transmission mod-els, move the selector lever to P (Park).

● Be sure the ignition key is in the OFF orLOCK position when performing anyparts replacement or repairs.

● Never leave the engine or automatictransmission related component har-nesses disconnected while the ignitionswitch is in the ON position.

● Never connect or disconnect the batteryor any transistorized component whilethe ignition switch is in the ON position.

● Your vehicle is equipped with an auto-matic engine cooling fan. It may comeon at any time without warning, even ifthe ignition key is in the OFF positionand the engine is not running. To avoidinjury, always disconnect the negativebattery cable before working near thefan.

● If you must work with the engine run-ning, keep your hands, clothing, hairand tools away from moving fans, beltsand any other moving parts.

● It is advisable to secure or remove anyloose clothing and remove any jewelry,such as rings, watches, etc. beforeworking on your vehicle.

● Always wear eye protection wheneveryou work on your vehicle.

● If you must run the engine in an en-closed space such as a garage, be surethere is proper ventilation for exhaustgases to escape.

● Never get under the vehicle while it issupported only by a jack. If it is neces-sary to work under the vehicle, supportit with safety stands.

● Keep smoking materials, flame andsparks away from the fuel tank andbattery.

● On gasoline engine models with themultiport fuel injection (MFI) system,the fuel filter or fuel lines should beserviced by a NISSAN dealer becausethe fuel lines are under high pressureeven when the engine is off.

CAUTION

● Do not work under the hood while theengine is hot. Turn the engine off andwait until it cools down.

● Avoid contact with used engine oil andcoolant. Improperly disposed engineoil, engine coolant and/or other vehiclefluids can damage the environment. Al-ways conform to local regulations fordisposal of vehicle fluid.

This “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” sectiongives instructions regarding only those itemswhich are relatively easy for an owner to perform.

A genuine NISSAN service manual is also avail-able. See “Owner’s Manual/Service Manual or-der information” in the “Technical and consumerinformation” section of this manual.

MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS



You should be aware that incomplete or improperservicing may result in operating difficulties orexcessive emissions, and could affect warrantycoverage. If in doubt about any servicing,have it done by a NISSAN dealer.



QG18DE engine

1. Engine oil filler cap2. Spark plug caps3. Brake fluid reservoir4. Clutch fluid reservoir (M/T model)5. Air cleaner6. Battery7. Fuse/Fusible link holds8. Radiator cap9. Engine oil dipstick10. Windshield washer fluid reservoir11. Coolant reservoir12. Power steering fluid reservoir

NOTE:

Engine cover removed for clarity.

WDI0024

ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECKLOCATIONS



QR25DE engine

1. Engine oil filler cap2. Spark plug caps3. Brake fluid reservoir4. Clutch fluid reservoir (M/T model)5. Air cleaner6. Battery7. Fuel/Fusible link holds8. Radiator cap9. Engine oil dipstick10. Windshield washer fluid reservoir11. Coolant reservoir12. Power steering fluid reservoir

NOTE:

Engine cover removed for clarity.

LDI0108



The engine cooling system is filled at the factorywith a high-quality, year-round, anti-freeze cool-ant solution. The anti-freeze solution containsrust and corrosion inhibitors; therefore, additionalengine cooling system additives are not neces-sary.

WARNING

● Never remove the radiator cap when theengine is hot. Serious burns could becaused by high pressure fluid escapingfrom the radiator.

● The radiator is equipped with a pres-sure type radiator cap. To prevent en-gine damage, use only a genuineNISSAN radiator cap.

Outside temperaturedown to

GenuineNISSAN

Anti-freezecoolant orequivalent

Demineral-ized or dis-tilled water

°C °F

-35 -30 50% 50%

CAUTION

When adding or replacing coolant, be sureto use only a Genuine Nissan Anti-Freezecoolant (green) or equivalent with theproper mixture ratio of 50% anti-freezeand 50% demineralized or distilled water.The use of other types of coolant solu-tions or coolant colors, such as orange,may damage the engine cooling system.

CHECKING ENGINE COOLANTLEVELCheck the coolant level in the reservoir whenthe engine is cold. If the coolant level is belowthe MIN level, add coolant to the MAX level. If thereservoir is empty, check the coolant level in theradiator when the engine is cold. If there isinsufficient coolant in the radiator, fill the radiatorwith coolant up to the filler opening and also addit to the reservoir up to the MAX level.

If the cooling system frequently requirescoolant, have it checked by a NISSANdealer.

WDI0168

ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM



CHANGING ENGINE COOLANTMajor cooling system repairs should be per-formed by a NISSAN dealer. The service proce-dures can be found in the NISSAN ServiceManual.

Improper servicing can result in reducedheater performance and engine overheat-ing.

WARNING

● To avoid the danger of being scalded,never change the coolant when the en-gine is hot.

● Never remove the radiator cap when theengine is hot. Serious burns could becaused by high pressure fluid escapingfrom the radiator.

● Avoid direct skin contact with usedcoolant. If skin contact is made, washthoroughly with soap or hand cleaneras soon as possible.

● Keep coolant out of the reach of chil-dren and pets.

Engine coolant must be disposed of prop-erly. Check your local regulations.

1. Open the radiator drain plug by turning itcounterclockwise.

QG18DE engineWDI0169

QR25DE engineWDI0170



2. Open the drain plug on the engine block.

3. Open the radiator cap to drain the coolant.

● Waste coolant must be disposed of prop-erly.

● Check your local regulations.

4. Flush the cooling system by running freshwater through the radiator.

5. Close the drain plugs on the radiator and theengine block securely.

6. See the “Technical and consumer informa-tion” section for cooling system capacity. Fillthe radiator slowly with the proper mixture ofcoolant and water. Fill the reservoir tank upto the MAX level.

7. For QG18DE engine only, open and closethe air release plug(s) to release air. Then fillthe radiator again and install the radiatorcap.

8. Start the engine, and warm it up until itreaches normal operating temperature.Then race the engine two or three timesunder no load. Watch the engine coolanttemperature gauge for signs of overheating.

9. Stop the engine. After it completely coolsdown, refill the radiator up to the filler open-ing. Fill the reservoir tank up to the MAXlevel.

10. For QG18DE engine only, open and closethe air release plug(s) to release air. Then fillthe radiator again and install the radiatorcap.

11. Check the drain plugs on the radiator andthe engine block for any sign of leakage. ForQG18DE only, also check the air releaseplug for any sign of leakage.





CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply

the parking brake.

2. Start the engine and let it idle until it reachesoperating temperature.

3. Turn off the engine. Wait more than 10minutes for the oil to drain back intothe oil pan.

4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean. Re-insert it all the way.

5. Remove the dipstick again and check the oillevel. It should be between the H (High) andL (Low) marks sB . This is the normal oper-ating oil level range. If the oil level is belowthe L (Low) mark sA , remove the oil filler capand pour recommended oil through theopening. Do not overfill sC .



Type AWDI0175

ENGINE OIL


Z REVIEW COPY:—2003 Sentra (b15)Owners Manual (owners)—USA English (nna)01/04/03—tmchalpi X

6. Recheck oil level with the dipstick.

It is normal to add some oil between oilmaintenance intervals or during thebreak-in period, depending on the severityof operating conditions.

CAUTION

Oil level should be checked regularly. Op-erating the engine with an insufficientamount of oil can damage the engine, andsuch damage is not covered by warranty.

CHANGING ENGINE OIL1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply

the parking brake.

2. Start the engine and let it idle until it reachesoperating temperature, then turn it off.

3. Remove the oil filler cap by turning it coun-terclockwise.

4. Place a large drain pan under the drain plug.

5. Remove the drain plug with a wrench byturning it counterclockwise and completelydrain the oil.

If the oil filter is to be changed, remove andreplace it at this time. See “Changing engineoil filter” later in this section.

WARNING

● Prolonged and repeated contact withused engine oil may cause skin cancer.

Type BWDI0176





● Try to avoid direct skin contact withused oil. If skin contact is made, washthoroughly with soap or hand cleaneras soon as possible.

● Keep used engine oil out of reach ofchildren.

CAUTION

Be careful not to burn yourself. The engineoil may be hot.

● Waste oil must be disposed of properly.

● Check your local regulations.

6. Clean and reinstall the drain plug and a newwasher. Securely tighten the drain plug witha wrench. Do not use excessive force.

Drain plug tightening torque:22 - 29 ft-lb (29 - 39 N·m)

7. Refill engine with recommended oil throughthe oil filler opening, then install the oil fillercap securely.

See “Capacities and recommendedfuel/lubricants” in the “Technical and con-sumer information” section of this manual fordrain and refill capacity.

The drain and refill capacity depends on theoil temperature and drain time. Use these

specifications for reference only. Always usethe dipstick to determine when the properamount of oil is in the engine.

8. Start the engine. Check for leakage aroundthe drain plug and oil filter. Correct as re-quired.

9. Turn the engine off and wait more than 10minutes. Check the oil level with the dipstick.Add engine oil if necessary.

CHANGING ENGINE OIL FILTER1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply

the parking brake.

2. Turn the engine off.

3. Place a large drain pan under the oil filter.

4. Loosen the oil filter with an oil filter wrenchby turning it counterclockwise. Then removethe oil filter by turning it by hand.




CAUTION

Be careful not to burn yourself. The engineoil may be hot.

5. Wipe the engine oil filter mounting surfacewith a clean rag.

Be sure to remove any old gasket materialremaining on the mounting surface of theengine.

6. Coat the gasket on the new filter with cleanengine oil.

7. Screw on the oil filter until a slight resistanceis felt, then tighten an additional 2/3 turn.

8. Start the engine and check for leakagearound the oil filter. Correct as required.

9. Turn the engine off and wait more than 10minutes. Check the oil level. Add engine oil ifnecessary.

WARNING

● When the engine is running, keephands, jewelry and clothing away fromany moving parts such as the coolingfan and drive belts.

● Automatic transmission fluid is poison-ous and should be stored carefully inmarked containers out of the reach ofchildren.


AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID



TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS FORCHECKING

● The fluid level should be checked using theHOT range on the dipstick after the followingconditions have been met:

– The engine should be warmed up to op-erating temperature.

– The vehicle should be driven at least 5minutes.

– The automatic transmission fluid shouldbe warmed to 122 - 176°F (50 - 80°C).

● The fluid can be checked at fluid temperaturesof 86 - 122°F (30 - 50°C) using the COLDrange on the dipstick after the engine iswarmed up and before driving. However, thefluid should be re-checked using the HOTrange.

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and setthe parking brake.

2. Start the engine and then move the shiftselector lever through each gear range, end-ing in P (Park).

3. Check the fluid level with the engine idling.





4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean withlint-free paper.

5. Reinsert the dipstick into the dipstick tubeas far as it will go.

6. Remove the dipstick and note the reading. Ifthe automatic transmission fluid level iswithin the normal operating range sB , noadditional fluid is required. If the fluid level islow sA add fluid through the dipstick tube.

CAUTION

DO NOT OVERFILL. Use ONLY NISSANMatic ‘D’ (Continental U.S. and Alaska) orCanada NISSAN Automatic TransmissionFluid. Dexron™ III/Mercon™ or equivalentmay also be used. Outside the continentalUnited States and Alaska contact aNISSAN dealership for more informationregarding suitable fluids, including rec-ommended brand(s) of Dexron™III/Mercon™ automatic transmission fluid.

NOTE:

If the vehicle has been driven for a longtime at high speeds, or in city traffic in hotweather, or if it is being used to pull atrailer, the fluid level cannot be read accu-rately. You should wait until the fluid hascooled down (about 30 minutes) beforechecking fluid level.

WDI0183



0

The fluid level should be checked using the HOTMAX range on the power steering fluid reservoirat fluid temperatures of 122° - 176°F (50° -80°C) or using the COLD MAX range on thepower steering fluid reservoir at fluid tempera-tures of 32° - 86°F (0° - 30°C).

If the fluid is below the MIN line, add GenuineNISSAN PSF II fluid. Remove the cap and fillthrough the opening.

CAUTION

● DO NOT OVERFILL.

● Recommended fluid is GenuineNISSAN PSF or equivalent.

For further brake and clutch fluid specificationinformation, refer to “Capacities and recom-mended fuel/lubricants” in the “Technical andconsumer information” section of this manual.

WARNING

Use only new fluid from a sealed con-tainer. Old, inferior or contaminated fluidmay damage the brake and clutch sys-tems. The use of improper fluids can dam-age the brake system and affect the vehi-cle’s stopping ability.

CAUTION

Do not spill the fluid on any painted sur-faces. This will damage the paint. If fluid isspilled, immediately wash the surfacewith water.

Type AWDI0255

Type BWDI0256

POWER STEERING FLUID BRAKE AND CLUTCH FLUID



BRAKE FLUIDCheck the brake fluid level in the reservoir. If thefluid level is below the MIN line or the brakewarning light comes on, add Genuine NISSANSuper Heavy Duty Brake Fluid or equivalent DOT3 fluid up to the MAX line. If fluid must be addedfrequently, the system should be checked by aNISSAN dealer.

CLUTCH FLUID

Check the clutch fluid level in the reservoir(manual transmissions only). If the fluid level isbelow the MIN line, add Genuine NISSAN SuperHeavy Duty Brake Fluid or equivalent DOT 3 fluidup to the MAX line. If fluid must be added fre-quently, the system should be checked by aNISSAN dealer.

For further brake and clutch fluid specificationinformation, refer to “Capacities and recom-mended fuel/lubricants” in the “Technical andconsumer information” section of this manual.

WARNING

Use only new fluid from a sealed con-tainer. Old, inferior or contaminated fluidmay damage the brake and clutch sys-tems. The use of improper fluids can dam-age the brake system and affect the vehi-cle’s stopping ability.

CAUTION

Do not spill the fluid on any painted sur-faces. This will damage the paint. If fluid isspilled, immediately wash the surfacewith water.

WDI0185 WDI0186



WINDOW WASHER FLUIDRESERVOIR

Fill the window washer fluid reservoir periodically.Add window washer fluid when the light comeson (if so equipped).

To fill the window washer fluid reservoir, lift thecap off the reservoir tank and pour the windowwasher fluid into the tank opening.

Add a washer solvent to the washer for bettercleaning. In the winter season, add a windshieldwasher antifreeze. Follow the manufacturer’s in-structions for the mixture ratio.

Refill the reservoir more frequently when drivingconditions require an increased amount of win-dow washer fluid.

CAUTION

● Do not substitute engine anti-freezecoolant for window washer solution.This may result in damage to the paint.

● Do not fill the window washer reservoirtank with washer fluid concentrates atfull strength. Some methyl alcoholbased washer fluid concentrates maypermanently stain the grille if spilledwhile filling the window washer reser-voir tank.

● Pre-mix washer fluid concentrates withwater to the manufacturer’s recom-mended levels before pouring the fluidinto the window washer reservoir tank.Do not use the window washer reservoirtank to mix the washer fluid concen-trate and water.

● Keep the battery surface clean and dry. Anycorrosion should be washed off with a solutionof baking soda and water.

● Make certain the terminal connections areclean and securely tightened.

● If the vehicle is not to be used for 30 days orlonger, disconnect the negative (-) battery ter-minal cable to prevent discharge.

WARNING

● Do not expose the battery to flames orelectrical sparks. Hydrogen gas gener-ated by the battery is explosive. Do notallow battery fluid to contact your skin,eyes, fabrics or painted surfaces. Aftertouching a battery or battery cap, do nottouch or rub your eyes. Thoroughlywash your hands. If the acid contactsyour eyes, skin or clothing, immediatelyflush with water for at least 15 minutesand seek medical attention.

● Do not operate the vehicle if the fluid inthe battery is low. Low battery fluid cancause a higher load on the batterywhich can generate heat, reduce bat-tery life, and in some cases lead to anexplosion.

WDI0187

WINDOW WASHER FLUID BATTERY



● When working on or near a battery, al-ways wear suitable eye protection andremove all jewelry.

● Battery posts, terminals and related ac-cessories contain lead and lead com-pounds. Wash hands after handling.

● Keep battery out of the reach ofchildren.

1. Remove the battery caps with a screwdriveras shown.

If the battery is equipped with pry-off typecaps, use a cloth to protect the battery case.

Type AWDI0224

Type BWDI0188



2. Check the fluid level in each cell. If it isnecessary to add fluid , add only distilledwater to bring the level up to the bottom ofthe filler opening. Do not overfill.

Vehicles operated in high temperatures or undersevere conditions require frequent checks of thebattery fluid level.

JUMP STARTINGIf jump starting is necessary, see “Jump starting”in the “In case of emergency” section of thismanual. If the engine does not start by jumpstarting, the battery may have to be replaced.Contact a NISSAN dealer.

1. Power steering oil pump2. Water pump3. Idler pulley4. Generator5. A/C compressor6. Crankshaft pulley

: Tension checking points

WARNING

Be sure the ignition key is in the OFF orLOCK position. The engine could rotateunexpectedly.

LDI0302


DRIVE BELTS



1. Visually inspect each belt for signs of un-usual wear, cuts, fraying or looseness. If thebelt is in poor condition or is loose, have itreplaced or adjusted by a NISSAN dealer.

2. Have the belts checked regularly for condi-tion and tension in accordance with themaintenance schedule found in the“NISSAN Service and Maintenance Guide”.

1. Power steering fluid pump2. Water pump3. Generator4. A/C compressor5. Crankshaft pulley6. Auto tensioner

REPLACING SPARK PLUGS

WARNING

Be sure the engine and ignition switch areoff and that the parking brake is engagedsecurely.

CAUTION

Be sure to use the correct socket to re-move the spark plugs. An incorrect socketcan damage the spark plugs.

QR25DE engineWDI0192 WDI0193

SPARK PLUGS



Platinum-tipped spark plugs

It is not necessary to replace platinum-tippedspark plugs as frequently as conventional typespark plugs because they last much longer. Fol-low the maintenance schedule, but do not reusethe spark plugs by cleaning or regapping.

● Always replace spark plugs with recom-mended or equivalent ones.

1. Remove the engine cover.

2. Disconnect the ignition coil connectors. Re-move the ignition coil bolts.

3. Disconnect the spark plug cables from thespark plugs.

When disconnecting, always holdthe boots — not the cables. Mark allcables to identify their original loca-tions.

4. Remove the spark plugs with a spark plugsocket.

The plug socket has a rubber seal that holdsthe spark plug so it does not fall when it ispulled out. Make sure each spark plug issnugly fitted into the spark plug socket.

5. Fit the new plugs, one at a time, into thespark plug socket and install them. Useonly the specified spark plugs. Turneach plug several full turns by hand, thentighten with the spark plug socket to thecorrect torque. Do not overtighten.

Spark plug tightening torque:14 - 22 ft-lb (20 - 29 N·m)

6. Holding the boot, reconnect each high ten-sion cable to its proper spark plug by push-ing it on until you feel a snap.

7. Iinstall the ignition coil bolts.

Ignition coil bolt tightening torque:33 - 44 in-lb (3.8 - 5.0 N·m)

Connect the ignition coil connector.

8. Install the engine cover.

The air cleaner filter should not be cleaned andreused. Replace it according to the maintenanceintervals shown in the “NISSAN Service andMaintenance Guide.” When replacing the filter,wipe the inside of the air cleaner filter housingand the cover with a damp cloth.

WDI0005 ADI0631

AIR CLEANER



WARNING

● Operating the engine with the aircleaner removed can cause you or oth-ers to be burned. The air cleaner notonly cleans the air, it stops the flame ifthe engine backfires. If it isn’t there, andthe engine backfires, you could beburned. Do not drive with the air cleanerremoved, and be careful when workingon the engine with the air cleanerremoved.

● Never pour fuel into the throttle body orattempt to start the engine with the aircleaner removed. Doing so could resultin serious injury.

IN-CABIN MICROFILTER (if soequipped)The in-cabin microfilter restricts the entry of air-borne dust and pollen particles and reducessome objectionable outside odors. The filter islocated behind the glove box. Refer to the“NISSAN Service and Maintenance Guide” forchange intervals.

To change the filter, perform the following proce-dure:

1. Remove the glove box door by removing thetwo lower hinge pins.

2. Remove the two screws securing the glovebox frame.

3. Remove the two screws securing the glovebox door latch. Remove the latch by pulling itdown.

4. Remove the glove box frame by pulling itaway from the instrument panel to disen-gage the retaining clips.

LDI0139 LDI0140



5. Remove the filter cover from the intake unitby disengaging the two hook tabs at thebottom of the cover. Remove the filter.

NOTE: The filter is marked “UP” with an arrow.The end of the filter with the arrow should face therear of the vehicle.

6. Slide the filter into the housing.

LDI0141 LDI0142



NOTE: Make sure the filter sits on top of the twosupporting tabs on the housing.

7. Replace the cover by inserting the uppertabs inside the housing slot and pushing thehook tabs until they snap onto the housinglip.

8. Install the glove box frame and latch.

9. Install the glove box door.

10. Fill out the date information and the smallreplacement label and attach it to the glovebox lid.

LDI0143



CLEANING

If your windshield is not clear after using thewindshield washer or if a wiper blade chatterswhen running, wax or other material may be onthe blade or windshield.

Clean the outside of the windshield with a washersolution or a mild detergent. Your windshield isclean if beads do not form when rinsing with clearwater.

Clean each blade by wiping it with a cloth soakedin a washer solution or a mild detergent. Thenrinse the blades with clear water. If your wind-shield is still not clear after cleaning the bladesand using the wiper, replace the blades.

CAUTION

Worn windshield wiper blades can dam-age the windshield and impair drivervision.

REPLACING

Replace the wiper blades if they are worn.

s1 Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield.

s2 Push the release tab, then move the wiperblade down the wiper arm to remove.

s3 Remove the wiper blade.

4. Insert the new wiper blade onto the wiperarm until it clicks into place.

CAUTION

● After wiper blade replacement, returnthe wiper arm to its original position;otherwise it may be damaged when thehood is opened.

● Make sure the wiper blades contact theglass; otherwise the arms may be dam-aged from wind pressure.

WDI0194

WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES



If you wax the surface of the hood, be careful notto let wax get into the washer nozzle s1 . This maycause clogging or improper windshield washeroperation. If wax gets into the nozzle, remove itwith a needle or small pin s2 .

CHECKING PARKING BRAKEFrom the released position, pull the parking brakelever up slowly and firmly. If the number of clicks isout of the range listed, see a NISSAN dealer.

● 6 - 7 clicks under pulling force of 44 lb (196N).

CHECKING BRAKE PEDAL

With the engine running, check the distance Abetween the upper surface of the pedal and themetal floor. If it is out of the range shown, see aNISSAN dealer.

Distance A: under depressing force of 110lb (490 N)

AutomaticTransmission

ManualTransmission

3 1/2 in (90 mm) or more

WDI0195

WDI0196 WDI0197

PARKING BRAKE AND BRAKE PEDAL



Self-adjusting brakes

Your vehicle is equipped with self-adjustingbrakes.

The front (and rear, if so equipped) disc-typebrakes self-adjust every time the brake pedal isapplied. The rear drum-type brakes also self-adjust every time the brake pedal is applied.

If the brake pedal goes down farther than normal,it may be due to a lack of adjustment of the reardrum brakes. To adjust, apply the parking brakeseveral times.

WARNING

See a NISSAN dealer for a brake systemcheck if the brake pedal height does notreturn to normal.

Brake pad wear indicatorsThe disc brake pads on your vehicle have audiblewear indicators. When a brake pad requires re-placement, a high pitched scraping or screech-ing sound will be heard when the vehicle is inmotion. The noise will be heard whether or not thebrake pedal is depressed. Have the brakeschecked as soon as possible if the wear indicatorsound is heard.

Under some driving or climate conditions, occa-sional brake squeak, squeal or other noise may

be heard. Occasional brake noise during light tomoderate stops is normal and does not affect thefunction or performance of the brake system.

The rear drum brakes (if so equipped) do nothave audible wear indicators. Should you everhear an unusually loud noise from the rear drumbrakes, have them inspected as soon as possibleby a NISSAN dealer.

Proper brake inspection intervals shouldbe followed. For more information regardingbrake inspections, see the appropriate mainte-nance schedule information in the “NISSAN Ser-vice and Maintenance Guide”.

BRAKE BOOSTER

Check the brake booster function as follows:

1. With the engine off, press and release thebrake pedal several times. When brakepedal movement (distance of travel) remainsthe same from one pedal application to thenext, continue on to the next step.

2. While depressing the brake pedal, start theengine. The pedal height should drop a little.

3. With the brake pedal depressed, stop theengine. Keep the pedal depressed for about30 seconds. The pedal height should notchange.

4. Run the engine for one minute without de-pressing the brake pedal, then turn it off.Depress the brake pedal several times. Thepedal travel distance will decrease graduallywith each depression as the vacuum is re-leased from the booster.

If the brakes do not operate properly, have thebrakes checked by a NISSAN dealer.



ENGINE COMPARTMENT

CAUTION

Never use a fuse of a higher amperagerating than specified on the fuse boxcover. This could damage the electricalsystem or cause a fire.

If any electrical equipment does not come on,check for an open fuse.

1. Be sure the ignition switch and the headlightswitch are OFF.


3. Remove the fuse box cover by pushing thetab and lifting the cover up.

4. Remove the fuse with the fuse puller. Thefuse puller is located in the center of the fuseblock in the passenger compartment.

5. If the fuse is open, replace it with a new fuse.

6. If a new fuse also opens, have the electricalsystem checked and repaired by a NISSANdealer.

Fusible linksIf the electrical equipment does not operate andfuses are in good condition, check the fusiblelinks. If any of these fusible links are melted,replace with only genuine NISSAN parts.

WDI0199 WDI0200

FUSES



PASSENGER COMPARTMENT

CAUTION

Never use a fuse of a higher amperagerating than specified on the fuse boxcover. This could damage the electricalsystem or cause a fire.

If any electrical equipment does not operate,check for an open fuse.

1. Be sure the ignition switch and the headlightswitch are OFF.

2. Remove the coin box sA .

3. Remove the fuse with the fuse puller sB . Thefuse puller is located in the center of the fuseblock.

4. If the fuse is open, replace it with a knowngood fuse.

5. If a new fuse also opens, have the electricalsystem checked and repaired by a NISSANdealer.

6. Install the coin box.

WDI0201



Replace the battery in the keyfob as follows:

s1 Open the lid using a coin.

s2 Remove the battery.

s3 Install a new battery with the “+” facingdown.

Recommended battery: Sanyo CR2025 orequivalent.

s4 Close the lid securely.

5. Press the LOCK button, then the UNLOCKbutton two or three times to check the key-fob operation.

If the battery is removed for any reasonother than replacement, perform step 5.

● An improperly disposed battery can hurtthe environment. Always confirm localregulations for battery disposal.

● The keyfob is water-resistant; however,if it does get wet, immediately wipe com-pletely dry.

● The operational range of the keyfob ex-tends to approximately 49 ft (15 m) fromthe vehicle. This range may vary withconditions.

FCC Notice:Changes or modifications not expressly ap-proved by the manufacturer for compliancecould void the user’s authority to operatethe equipment.

This device complies with Part 15 of theFCC Rules and RSS-210 of IndustryCanada.

Operation is subject to the following twoconditions: (1) This device may not causeharmful interference, and (2) this devicemust accept any interference received, in-cluding interference that may cause undes-ired operation of the device.

WPD0116

KEYFOB BATTERY REPLACEMENT



HEADLIGHTS

The headlight is a semi-sealed beam type whichuses a replaceable headlight (halogen) bulb. Abulb can be replaced from inside the enginecompartment without removing the headlight as-sembly.

CAUTION

● High pressure halogen gas is sealedinside the halogen bulb. The bulb maybreak if the glass envelope is scratchedor the bulb is dropped.

● When handling the bulb, do not touchthe glass envelope.

● DO NOT TOUCH THE BULB

● Use the same number and wattage asoriginally installed:

Wattage 65/55Bulb No. HB5/9007*

*: Always check with the Parts Depart-ment at a NISSAN dealer for the latestparts information.

● Do not leave the bulb out of the head-light reflector for a long period of timeas dust, moisture and smoke may enterthe headlight body and affect the per-formance of the headlight.

● Aiming is not necessary after replacingthe bulb. When aiming adjustment isnecessary, contact a NISSAN dealer.

WDI0202

LIGHTS



Removing the headlight bulb


2. Disconnect the negative (-) battery cable.

3. Disconnect the electrical connector from therear end of the bulb.

4. Rotate the bulb retaining ring counterclock-wise and remove sA .

5. Pull out the headlight bulb and socket as anassembly. Do not shake or rotate the bulbwhen removing it. Do not touch the glassenvelope sB .

Replacing the headlight bulb

1. Insert the bulb and socket assembly into theheadlight.

DO NOT TOUCH THE BULB.

2. Install and tighten the bulb retaining ring.

3. Push the electrical connector into the bulbplastic base until it snaps and stops.

4. Connect the negative (-) battery cable.

5. Close the hood.

CAUTION

Aiming is not necessary after replacingthe bulb. When aiming adjustment is nec-essary, contact a NISSAN dealer.

Adjusting the headlight aimIf the headlights need aiming adjustment, pleasesee a NISSAN dealer.

FOG LIGHTS (if so equipped)

Replacing the fog light bulb

CAUTION

● High pressure halogen gas is sealedinside the halogen bulb. The bulb maybreak if the glass envelope is scratchedor the bulb is dropped.

● When handling the bulb, do not touchthe glass envelope.



1. Disconnect the negative (-) battery cable.

2. Remove screw.

3. Disconnect connector.

4. Push the fog light assembly toward the frontof the vehicle and pull out to expose the rearof the assembly.

5. Rotate the bulb cover sA counterclockwiseand remove.

6. Lift the spring retainer sB .

7. Remove the fog light bulb from housing sC .

8. Disconnect the electrical connector sD .

EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR LIGHTS

Item Wattage (W) Bulb No.*

Headlights 65/55 9007(HB5)

Parking and turnsignal light

8/27 3157AK

Fog light (if soequipped)

55 H3

Map light (if soequipped)

8 68

Interior light 8 68

Rear combinationlight

Turn 27 1156A

Stop/tail 27/8 1157

High-mounted stoplight

Inside 18 921

Spoiler (if soequipped)

See a NISSANdealer for as-

sistance

License plate light 5 194

Backup light 18 921

Trunk light 3.4 158

*: Always check with the Parts Department at aNISSAN dealer for the latest parts information.

WDI0204



1. Map lights (if so equipped)2. Interior light3. Front combination light4. Front fog light (if so equipped)5. High-mounted stoplight6. License plate lights7. Stoplight in rear spoiler (if so equipped)8. Backup lights9. Rear combination light

Indicates bulb removalIndicates bulb replacement

WDI0205

WDI0257



Replacement proceduresAll other lights are either type A, B, C or D. Whenreplacing a bulb, first remove the lens and/orcover.

Use a cloth s1 to protect the interior light hous-ing.

Interior lightWDI0206

Trunk light (if so equipped)WDI0207



Loosen the connector by turning it counterclock-wise s1 .

If you have a flat tire, see the “In case ofemergency” section in this manual.

TIRE PRESSURE

Maximum inflation pressure

Do not exceed the maximum inflation pressuresshown on the sidewall of the tire s1 .

Tire inflation pressure

Check the tire pressure (including the spare) atleast once a month and always prior to longdistance trips. Incorrect tire pressure may ad-versely affect tire life and vehicle handling. Tirepressure should be checked when tires are

License plate lightWDI0208

Backup lightWDI0209 WDI0210

WHEELS AND TIRES



COLD. Tires are considered COLD after thevehicle has been parked for three or more hours,or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km) at moderatespeeds. COLD tire pressures are shown on thetire placard affixed to the driver’s side rear doorpillar.

WARNING

● Improperly inflated tires can fail sud-denly and cause an accident.

● The vehicle weight capacity is indicatedon the F.M.V.S.S. certification label. Donot load your vehicle beyond this ca-pacity. Overloading your vehicle mayresult in reduced tire life, unsafe oper-ating conditions due to premature tirefailure, or unfavorable handling charac-teristics and could also lead to a seri-ous accident. Loading beyond thespecified capacity may also result infailure of other vehicle components.

● Before taking a long trip, or wheneveryou heavily load your vehicle, use a tirepressure gauge to ensure that the tirepressures are at the specified level.

● Do not drive your vehicle over 85 MPH(137 km/h) unless it is equipped withhigh speed rated tires. Driving fasterthan 85 MPH (137 km/h) may result intire failure, loss of control and possibleinjury.

● For additional information regardingtires, refer to Important Tire Safety In-formation (US) or Tire Safety Informa-tion (Canada) in the Warranty Informa-tion Booklet.

TYPES OF TIRES

WARNING

● When changing or replacing tires, besure all four tires are of the same type(i.e., Summer, All Season or Snow) andconstruction. A NISSAN dealer may beable to help you with information abouttire type, size, speed rating and avail-ability. Replacement tires may have alower speed rating than the factoryequipped tires, and may not match thepotential maximum vehicle speed.Never exceed the maximum speed rat-ing of the tire.


All season tires

NISSAN specifies All Season tires on some mod-els to provide good performance all year, includ-ing snowy and icy road conditions. All Seasontires are identified by ALL SEASON and/or M&Son the tire sidewall. Snow tires have better snowtraction than All Season tires and may be moreappropriate in some areas.

Summer tires

NISSAN specifies summer tires on some modelsto provide superior performance on dry roads.Summer tire performance is substantially re-duced in snow and ice. Summer tires do not havethe tire traction rating “M&S” on the tire sidewall.

If you plan to operate your vehicle in snowy or icyconditions, NISSAN recommends the use ofSNOW tires or ALL SEASON tires on all fourwheels.

Snow tiresIf snow tires are needed, it is necessary to selecttires equivalent in size and load rating to the



original equipment tires. If you do not, it canadversely affect the safety and handling of yourvehicle.

Generally, snow tires have lower speed ratingsthan factory equipped tires and may not matchthe potential maximum vehicle speed. Never ex-ceed the maximum speed rating of the tire.

If you install snow tires, they must be the samesize, brand, construction and tread pattern on allfour wheels.

For additional traction on icy roads, studded tiresmay be used. However, some U.S. states andCanadian provinces prohibit their use. Checklocal, state and provincial laws before installingstudded tires. Skid and traction capabilities ofstudded snow tires on wet or dry surfaces may bepoorer than that of non-studded snow tires.

TIRE CHAINSTire chains/cables cannot be installed onP215/45ZR17 size tires. Installation of tirechains/cables on P215/45ZR17 size tireswill cause damage to the vehicle. If youplan to use tire chains/cables, you shouldinstall P195/55R16 size tires on your ve-hicle.

Use of tire chains may be prohibited according tolocation. Check the local laws before installingtire chains. When installing tire chains, make sure

they are the proper size for the tires on yourvehicle and are installed according to the chainmanufacturer’s suggestions. Use only SAEclass “S” chains. Class 9S9 chains are used onvehicles with restricted wheel well clearance.Vehicles that can use Class “S” chains are de-signed to meet the minimum clearances betweenthe tire and the closest vehicle suspension orbody component required to accommodate theuse of a winter traction device (tire chains orcables). The minimum clearances are determinedusing the factory equipped tires. Other types maydamage your vehicle. Use chain tensioners whenrecommended by the tire chain manufacturer toensure a tight fit. Loose end links of the tire chainmust be secured or removed to prevent the pos-sibility of whipping action damage to the fendersor underbody. If possible, avoid fully loading yourvehicle when using tire chains. In addition, driveat a reduced speed. Otherwise, your vehicle maybe damaged and/or vehicle handling and perfor-mance may be adversely affected.

Tire chains must be installed only on thefront wheels and not on the rear wheels.

Never install tire chains on a TEMPORARY USEONLY spare tire.

Do not use tire chains on dry roads. Driving withchains in such conditions can cause damage tothe various mechanisms of the vehicle due tosome overstress.



CHANGING WHEELS AND TIRES

Tire rotation

NISSAN recommends rotating the tires every7,500 miles (12,000 km).

See “Flat tire” in the “In case of emergency”section of this manual for tire replacing proce-dures.

As soon as possible, tighten the wheel nutsto the specified torque with a torquewrench.

Wheel nut tightening torque:80 ft-lb (108 N·m)

The wheel nuts must be kept tightened tospecifications at all times. It is recom-mended that wheel nuts be tightened tospecification at each tire rotation interval.

WARNING

● After rotating the tires, check and ad-just the tire pressure.

● Retighten the wheel nuts when the ve-hicle has been driven for 600 miles(1,000 km) (also in cases of a flat tire,etc.).

● Do not include the spare tire in the tirerotation.


1. Wear indicator2. Location mark

Tire wear and damage

WARNING

● Tires should be periodically inspectedfor wear, cracking, bulging or objectscaught in the tread. If excessive wear,cracks, bulging or deep cuts are found,the tire(s) should be replaced.

WDI0258 WDI0259



● The original tires have built-in treadwear indicators. When the wear indica-tors are visible, the tire(s) should bereplaced.

● Improper service of the spare tire mayresult in serious personal injury. If it isnecessary to repair the spare tire, con-tact a NISSAN dealer.


Replacing wheels and tires

When replacing a tire, use the same size, treaddesign, speed rating and load carrying capacityas originally equipped. Recommended types andsizes are shown in “Wheels/tire size” in the“Technical and consumer information” section ofthis manual.

WARNING

● The use of tires other than those recom-mended or the mixed use of tires ofdifferent brands, construction (bias,bias-belted or radial), or tread patternscan adversely affect the ride, braking,handling, ground clearance, body-to-tire clearance, tire chain clearance,speedometer calibration, headlight aimand bumper height. Some of these ef-fects may lead to accidents and couldresult in serious personal injury.

● If the wheels are changed for any rea-son, always replace with wheels whichhave the same off-set dimension.Wheels of a different off-set couldcause premature tire wear, degrade ve-hicle handling characteristics and/orinterference with the brakediscs/drums. Such interference canlead to decreased braking efficiencyand/or early brake pad/shoe wear. Re-fer to “Wheel/tire size” in the “Techni-cal and consumer information” sectionof this manual for wheel off-setdimensions.

● Do not install a deformed wheel or tireeven if it has been repaired. Suchwheels or tires could have structuraldamage and could fail without warning.

● The use of retread tires is notrecommended.


Wheel balance

Unbalanced wheels may affect vehicle handlingand tire life. Even with regular use, wheels can getout of balance. Therefore, they should be bal-anced as required.

Wheel balance service should be per-formed with the wheels off the vehicle.Spin balancing the wheels on the vehiclecould lead to mechanical damage.

● For additional information regardingtires, refer to “Important Tire Safety In-formation” (US) or “Tire Safety Informa-tion” (Canada) in the Warranty Informa-tion Booklet .



Care of wheels

● Wash the wheels when washing the vehicle tomaintain their appearance.

● Clean the inner side of the wheels when thewheel is changed or the underside of the ve-hicle is washed.

● Do not use abrasive cleaners when washingthe wheels.

● Inspect wheel rims regularly for dents or cor-rosion. Such damage may cause loss of pres-sure or poor seal at the tire bead.

● NISSAN recommends waxing the road wheelsto protect against road salt in areas where it isused during winter.

Spare tire (TEMPORARY USE ONLYspare tire)

Observe the following precautions if the TEM-PORARY USE ONLY spare tire must be used.Otherwise, your vehicle could be damaged orinvolved in an accident:

WARNING

● The spare tire should be used for emer-gency use only. It should be replacedwith the standard tire at the first oppor-tunity to avoid possible tire or differen-tial damage.

● Drive carefully while the TEMPORARYUSE ONLY spare tire is installed. Avoidsharp turns and abrupt braking whiledriving.

● Periodically check spare tire inflationpressure. Always keep the pressure ofthe TEMPORARY USE ONLY spare tireat 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 bar).

● With the TEMPORARY USE ONLY sparetire installed do not drive the vehicle atspeeds faster than 50 MPH (80 km/h).

● When driving on roads covered withsnow or ice, the TEMPORARY USEONLY spare tire should be used on therear wheels and the original tire usedon the front wheels (drive wheels). Usetire chains only on the front (original)tires.

● Tire tread of the TEMPORARY USEONLY spare tire will wear at a faster ratethan the standard tire. Replace thespare tire as soon as the tread wearindicators appear.

● Do not use the spare tire on othervehicles.

● Do not use more than one spare tire atthe same time.

● Do not tow a trailer when the TEMPO-RARY USE ONLY spare tire is installed.

CAUTION

● Do not use tire chains on a TEMPO-RARY USE ONLY spare tire. Tire chainswill not fit properly and may cause dam-age to the vehicle.

● Because the TEMPORARY USE ONLYspare tire is smaller than the originaltire, ground clearance is reduced. Toavoid damage to the vehicle, do notdrive over obstacles. Also, do not drivethe vehicle through an automatic carwash since it may get caught.



9 Technical and consumer information

Capacities and recommended fuel/lubricants . . . . . . . . . 9-2Fuel recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3Engine oil and oil filter recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5Recommended SAE viscosity number . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6Air conditioner system refrigerant andlubricant recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6

Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7Wheels and tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8Dimensions and weights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8

When traveling or registering your vehicle inanother country . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-9Vehicle identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-9

Vehicle identification number (VIN) plate . . . . . . . . . . 9-9Vehicle identification number(chassis number) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-9Engine serial number. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10F.M.V.S.S. certification label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10

Emission control information label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-11Tire placard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-11Air conditioner specification label. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-11

Installing front license plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-12Vehicle loading information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-12

Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-12Determining vehicle load capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-13Loading tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-13

Towing a trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-14Maximum load limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-14Towing load/specification chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-15Towing safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-15

Uniform tire quality grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-17Emission control system warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-18Reporting safety defects (US only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-18Readiness for inspection/maintenance (I/M) test . . . . . 9-19Owner’s manual/service manual order information . . . . 9-20

In the event of a collision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20


The following are approximate capacities. The actual refill capacities may be a little different. When refilling, follow the proceduredescribed in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section to determine the proper refill capacity.

Capacity (Approximate) Recommended Fluids and LubricantsUS measure Imp measure Liter

Fuel 13–1/4 gal 11 gal 50 Unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of at least 87 AKI (RON 91)*1Engine oil *7

Drain and RefillWith oil filter change QG18DE 2–7/8 qt 2–3/8 qt 2.7 • API Certification Mark *2 *3

• API grade SG/SH, Energy Conserving I & II or API grade SJ or SL, EnergyConserving *2 *3• ILSAC grade GF-1, GF-II & GF-III*2 *3

QR25DE 4–1/8 qt 3–3/8 qt 3.9Without oil filter change QG18DE 2–5/8 qt 2–1/4 qt 2.5

QR25DE 3–7/8 qt 3–1/4 qt 3.7Cooling system

Without reservoirManual transmission: QR25DE 6–1/2 qt 5–3/8 qt 6.1

50% Genuine NISSAN Anti-freeze coolant or equivalent50% Demineralized or distilled water

QG18DE 6–3/8 qt 5–1/4 qt 6.0Automatic transmission: QR25DE 6–3/8 qt 5–1/4 qt 6.0

QG18DE 6–1/4 qt 5–1/4 qt 5.9Manual transmission gear oil RS5F70A/V 3–1/8 qt 2–5/8 qt 3.0 API GL-4, Viscosity SAE 75W-85 only

RS5F51A,RS6F51H

2–3/8 qt 2.0 qt 2.3

Automatic transmission fluid Refill to the proper level according to the instructionsin the “Do-it-yourself” section.

NISSAN Matic ‘D’ (Continental U.S. and Alaska) or Canada NISSAN Auto-matic Transmission Fluid.*4

Power steering fluid (PSF) Genuine NISSAN PSF or equivalent.*8Brake and clutch fluid Genuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid*5 or equivalentMulti-purpose grease — — — NLGI No. 2 (Lithium Soap base)Air conditioning system refrigerant — — — HFC-134a (R-134a)*6Air conditioning system lubricants — — — NISSAN A/C System Lubricant Type R or equivalent*6

*1: For further details, see “Fuel recommendation.”*2: For further details, see “Engine oil and oil filter recommendations.”*3: For further details, see “Recommended SAE engine oil viscosity.”*4: Dexron™ III/Mercon™ or equivalent may also be used. Outside the Continental United States and Alaska contact an authorized NISSAN dealership for more information regarding suitable fluids,including recommended brand(s) of Dexron™ III/Mercon™ Automatic Transmission Fluid.*5: Available in mainland USA through your authorized NISSAN dealer.*6: For further details, see “Air conditioner specification label.”*7: For further details, see “Changing engine oil.”*8: For Canada, NISSAN Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), Dexron™ III/Mercon™, or equivalent ATF may also be used.

CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDEDFUEL/LUBRICANTS

9-2 Technical and consumer information


FUEL RECOMMENDATION

For 1.8L/2.5L engines

Use unleaded regular gasoline with an octanerating of at least 87 AKI (Anti-Knock Index) num-ber (Research octane number 91).

For SE-R SPEC V

Use unleaded regular gasoline with an octanerating of at least 87 AKI (Anti-Knock Index) num-ber (Research octane number 91).

For improved vehicle performance, NISSAN rec-ommends the use of unleaded premium gasolinewith an octane rating of at least 91 AKI number(Research octane number 96).

CAUTION

Using a fuel other than that specifiedcould adversely affect the emission con-trol system, and may also affect the war-ranty coverage.

Under no circumstances should a leadedgasoline be used, because this will dam-age the three-way catalyst.

Reformulated gasolineSome fuel suppliers are now producing reformu-lated gasolines. These gasolines are speciallydesigned to reduce vehicle emissions. NISSAN

supports efforts towards cleaner air and sug-gests that you use reformulated gasoline whenavailable.

Gasoline containing oxygenatesSome fuel suppliers sell gasoline containing oxy-genates such as ethanol, MTBE and methanolwith or without advertising their presence.NISSAN does not recommend the use of fuels ofwhich the oxygenate content and the fuel com-patibility for your NISSAN cannot be readily de-termined. If in doubt, ask your service stationmanager.

If you use oxygenate-blend gasoline, please takethe following precautions as the usage of suchfuels may cause vehicle performance problemsand/or fuel system damage.

● The fuel should be unleaded and have anoctane rating no lower than that recom-mended for unleaded gasoline.

● If an oxygenate-blend other than metha-nol blend is used, it should contain nomore than 10% oxygenate. (MTBE may,however, be added up to 15%.)

● If a methanol blend is used, it shouldcontain no more than 5% methanol (me-thyl alcohol, wood alcohol). It shouldalso contain a suitable amount of appro-priate cosolvents and corrosion inhibi-

tors. If not properly formulated with ap-propriate cosolvents and corrosioninhibitors, such methanol blends maycause fuel system damage and/or ve-hicle performance problems. At thistime, sufficient data is not available toensure that all methanol blends are suit-able for use in NISSAN vehicles.

If any driveability problems such as engine stall-ing and difficult hot-starting are experienced afterusing oxygenate-blend fuels, immediatelychange to a non-oxygenate fuel or a fuel with alow blend of MTBE.

Take care not to spill gasoline during refu-eling. Gasoline containing oxygenates cancause paint damage.

Aftermarket fuel additives

NISSAN does not recommend the use of any fueladditives (for example, fuel injector cleaner, oc-tane booster, intake valve deposit removers, etc.)which are sold commercially. Many of these ad-ditives intended for gum, varnish or deposit re-moval may contain active solvents or similar in-gredients that can be harmful to the fuel systemand engine.

Technical and consumer information 9-3


Octane rating tips

In most parts of North America, you should useunleaded gasoline with an octane rating of atleast 87 AKI (Anti-Knock Index) number. How-ever, you may use unleaded gasoline with anoctane rating as low as 85 AKI (Anti-Knock Index)number in high altitude areas [over 4,000 ft(1,219 m)] such as: Colorado, Montana, NewMexico, Utah, Wyoming, northeastern Nevada,southern Idaho, western South Dakota, westernNebraska, and the part of Texas which is directlysouth of New Mexico.

Using unleaded gasoline with an octanerating lower than stated above can causepersistent, heavy “spark knock.” (“Sparkknock” is a metallic rapping noise.) If se-vere, this can lead to engine damage. If youdetect a persistent heavy spark knock evenwhen using gasoline of the stated octanerating, or if you hear steady spark knockwhile holding a steady speed on levelroads, have a NISSAN dealer correct thecondition. Failure to correct the conditionis misuse of the vehicle, for which NISSANis not responsible.

Incorrect ignition timing may result in sparkknock, after-run and/or overheating, which maycause excessive fuel consumption or engine

damage. If any of the above symptoms are en-countered, have your vehicle checked at aNISSAN dealer.

However, now and then you may noticelight spark knock for a short time whileaccelerating or driving up hills. This is not acause for concern, because you get thegreatest fuel benefit when there is lightspark knock for a short time under heavyengine load.



ENGINE OIL AND OIL FILTERRECOMMENDATION

Selecting the correct oil

It is essential to choose engine oil with the cor-rect quality and viscosity to ensure satisfactoryengine life and performance. NISSAN recom-mends the use of a low friction oil (energy con-serving oil) in order to improve fuel economy andconserve energy. Oils which do not have thespecified quality label should not be used as theycould cause engine damage.

Only those engine oils with the American Petro-leum Institute (API) CERTIFICATION MARK on

the front of the container should be used. Thistype of oil supersedes the existing API SG, SH, orSJ and Energy Conserving I & II categories.

If you cannot find engine oil with the API CERTI-FICATION MARK, use an API grade SG/SH,Energy Conserving I & II or API grade SJ or SL,Energy Conserving oil. An oil with a single desig-nation SG or SH, or in combination with othercategories (for example, SG/CC or SG/CD) mayalso be used if one with the API CERTIFICATIONMARK cannot be found. An ILSAC grade GF-I,GF-II & GF-III oil can also be used.

NISSAN recommends mineral based oils. Theseoils must, however, meet the API quality and SAEviscosity ratings specified for your vehicle.

Oil additivesNISSAN does not recommend the use of oiladditives. The use of an oil additive is not neces-sary when the proper oil type is used and main-tenance intervals are followed.

Oil which may contain foreign matter or has beenpreviously used should not be used.

Oil viscosityThe engine oil viscosity or thickness changeswith temperature. Because of this, it is importantto select the engine oil viscosity based on thetemperatures at which the vehicle will be oper-ated before the next oil change. The chart “Rec-ommended SAE viscosity number” shows therecommended oil viscosities for the expectedambient temperatures. Choosing an oil viscosityother than that recommended could cause seri-ous engine damage.

Selecting the correct oil filterYour new NISSAN vehicle is equipped with ahigh-quality genuine NISSAN oil filter. When re-placing, use a genuine NISSAN oil filter or itsequivalent for the reason described in “Changeintervals”.

WTI0033



Change intervalsThe oil and oil filter change intervals for yourengine are based on the use of the specifiedquality oils and filters. Using engine oil and filtersthat are not of the specified quality, or exceedingrecommended oil and filter change intervalscould reduce engine life. Damage to the enginecaused by improper maintenance or use of incor-rect oil and filter quality and/or viscosity is notcovered by the NISSAN new vehicle warranty.

Your engine was filled with a high-quality engineoil when it was built. You do not have to changethe oil before the first recommended changeinterval. Oil and filter change intervals dependupon how you use your vehicle.

Operation under the following conditions mayrequire more frequent oil and filter changes:

● repeated short distance driving at cold outsidetemperatures

● driving in dusty conditions

● extensive idling

● towing a trailer RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITYNUMBER● SAE 5W-30 viscosity oil is preferred for all

temperatures. SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40viscosity oils may be used if the ambienttemperature is above 0°F (-18°C).

AIR CONDITIONER SYSTEMREFRIGERANT AND LUBRICANTRECOMMENDATIONSThe air conditioner system in your NISSANvehicle must be charged with the refriger-ant HFC-134a (R-134a) and the lubricant,NISSAN A/C system oil Type R or the exactequivalents.

CAUTION

The use of any other refrigerant or lubri-cant will cause severe damage to the airconditioning system and will require thereplacement of all air conditioner systemcomponents.

The refrigerant HFC-134a (R-134a) in yourNISSAN vehicle does not harm the earth’s ozonelayer. Although this refrigerant does not affect theearth’s atmosphere, certain government regula-tions require the recovery and recycling of anyrefrigerant during automotive air conditioner sys-tem service. A NISSAN dealer has the trainedtechnicians and equipment needed to recoverand recycle your air conditioner system refriger-ant.

Contact a NISSAN dealer when servicing your airconditioner system.

ATI1028



ENGINEModel QG18DE QR25DE

Type Gasoline, 4-cycle, DOHC Gasoline, 4-cycle, DOHCCylinder arrangement 4-cylinder in-line 4-cylinder in-lineBore x Stroke in (mm) 3.150 x 3.465 (80. x 88.0) 3.504 x 3.937 (89.0 x 100.0)Displacement cu in (cm3) 107.94 (1,769) 151.8 (2488)Firing order 1–3–4–2 1–3–4–2

Idle speed rpmIgnition timing degree (B.T.D.C.) at idle speed

degree/rpm See the “Emission Control label” on the underside of the hood.CO percentage at idle speed[No air]

%

Platinum-tipped type Platinum-tipped typeSpark plug Hot PLFR4A-11 *1 PLFR4A-11 *1

Standard PLFR5A-11 *1 PLFR5A-11 *1Cold PLFR6A-11 *1 PLFR6A-11 *1

Camshaft operation Timing chain Timing chain

Spark plug gap (Nominal) in (mm) 0.043 (1.1) 0.043 (1.1)

Generator belt size 0.843 x 32.28, (21.4 x 820)Width x Length in (mm) 0.843 x 44.09, (21.4 x 1,120)*2 0.843 x 88.46, (21.4 x 2247)

*1: Always check with the Parts Department at a NISSAN dealer for the latest parts information.*2: With air conditioner

The spark ignition system of this vehicle meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

SPECIFICATIONS



WHEELS AND TIRES

WheelsDimension

Offsetin (mm)

Road wheel

15” steel w/bolt-on cover 15 x 6JJ

15” aluminum alloy 15 x 6JJ 1.77 (45)



Conventional tire size

P195/60R/15 15 x 6JJ

P195/55R/16 16 x 6JJ

P215/45ZR17 17 x 7JJ

Spare tire size

T125/70*14 14 x 4T

T125/70*15 15 x 4T

T135/80*15 15 x 4T

*: “R” or “D” depending on tire manufacturer

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS

SENTRA

Overall length in (mm) 177.5 (4508)

Overall width in (mm) 67.3 (1710)

Overall height in (mm) 55.5 (1410)

Front tread 15/16 inch in (mm) 58.1 (1475)

17 inch in (mm) 57.7 (1466)

Rear tread 15/16 inch in (mm) 57.3 (1455)

17 inch in (mm) 56.9 (1446)

Wheelbase in (mm) 99.8(2,535)

Gross vehicleweight rating

lb (kg) See the “F.M.V.S.S.certification la-bel” on the centerpillar between thedriver’s side frontand rear doors.

Front lb (kg)

Rear lb (kg)



When planning to drive your NISSAN ve-hicle in another country, you should first findout if the fuel available is suitable for your vehi-cle’s engine.

Using fuel with an octane rating that is too lowmay cause engine damage. All gasoline vehiclesmust be operated with unleaded gasoline. There-fore, avoid taking your vehicle to areas whereappropriate fuel is not available.

When transferring the registration of yourvehicle to another country, state, provinceor district, it may be necessary to modify thevehicle to meet local laws and regulations.

The laws and regulations for motor vehicle emis-sion control and safety standards vary accordingto the country, state, province or district; there-fore, vehicle specifications may differ.

When any vehicle is to be taken into an-other country, state, province or districtand registered, its modifications, transpor-tation, and registration are the responsibil-ity of the user. NISSAN is not responsiblefor any inconvenience that may result.

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(VIN) PLATEThe vehicle identification number (VIN) plate isattached as shown. This number is the identifica-tion for your vehicle and is used in the vehicleregistration.

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(chassis number)The vehicle identification number is located asshown.

TI1050M LTI0007

WHEN TRAVELING OR REGISTERINGYOUR VEHICLE IN ANOTHERCOUNTRY

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION



ENGINE SERIAL NUMBERThe number is stamped on the engine as shown.

F.M.V.S.S. CERTIFICATION LABELThe Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (F.M-.V.S.S.) certification label is affixed as shown.This label contains valuable vehicle information,such as: Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR),Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR), month andyear of manufacture, Vehicle Identification Num-ber (VIN), etc. Review it carefully.

QG18DE engine

WTI0042

QR25DE engineWTI0043 WTI0012



EMISSION CONTROLINFORMATION LABELThe emission control information label is at-tached as shown.

TIRE PLACARDThe cold tire pressure is shown on the tire plac-ard. The tire placard is located as shown.

AIR CONDITIONER SPECIFICATIONLABELThe air conditioner specification label is affixed asshown.

WTI0044 WTI0045 WTI0046



Use the following steps to mount the front licenseplate:

s1 Make holes on the plastic finisher at thelocation mark (small dimple) using a 0.31 in(8 mm) drill. Apply light pressure to the drill.Install the license plate holder using the twoscrews provided with the holder.

s2 Mount the license plate using two M6-14mm bolts.

License plate bolt tightening torque:3.8 - 4.7 ft-lb (5.10 - 6.37 N·m)

CAUTION

● It is extremely dangerous to ride in acargo area inside a vehicle. In a colli-sion, people riding in these areas aremore likely to be seriously injured orkilled.

● Do not allow people to ride in any areaof your vehicle that is not equipped withseats and seat belts.

● Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in aseat and using a seat belt properly.

TERMS

It is important to familiarize yourself with the fol-lowing terms before loading your vehicle:

● Curb Weight (actual weight of your vehicle) -vehicle weight including: standard and op-tional equipment, fluids, emergency tools, andspare tire assembly. This weight does notinclude passengers and cargo.

● GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) - curb weightplus the combined weight of passengers andcargo.

● GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) - maxi-mum total weight (load) limit specified for thevehicle.WTI0047

INSTALLING FRONT LICENSE PLATE VEHICLE LOADING INFORMATION



● GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) - maxi-mum weight (load) limit specified for the frontor rear axle.

DETERMINING VEHICLE LOADCAPACITY

The load capacity of this vehicle is determined byweight, not by available cargo space. For ex-ample, a luggage rack, bike carrier, cartop carrieror similar equipment does not increase load car-rying capacity of your vehicle.

To determine vehicle load capacity:

Vehicle weight can be determined by using acommercial-grade scale, found at places such asa truck stop, gravel quarry, grain elevator, or ascrap metal recycling facility.

1. Determine the curb weight of your vehicle.

2. Compare the curb weight amount to theGVWR specified for your vehicle to deter-mine how much more weight your vehiclecan carry.

3. After loading (cargo and passengers), re-weigh your vehicle to determine if eitherGVWR or GAWR for your vehicle is ex-ceeded. If GVWR is exceeded, removecargo as necessary. If either the front or rearGAWR is exceeded, shift the load or removecargo as necessary.

LOADING TIPS

● The GVW must not exceed GVWR or GAWRas specified on the F.M.V.S.S. certification la-bel.

● Do not load the front and rear axle to theGAWR. Doing so will exceed the GVWR.

WARNING

● Properly secure all cargo with ropes orstraps to help prevent it from sliding orshifting. Do not place cargo higher thanthe seatbacks. In a sudden stop or col-lision, unsecured cargo could causepersonal injury.

● Do not load your vehicle any heavierthan the GVWR or the maximum frontand rear GAWRs. If you do, parts of yourvehicle can break, tire damage couldoccur, or it can change the way yourvehicle handles. This could result inloss of control and cause personalinjury.

● Overloading can shorten the life of thevehicle. Failures caused by overloadingare not covered by the vehicle’swarranty.



Your new vehicle was designed to be used pri-marily to carry passengers and cargo. Rememberthat towing a trailer places additional loads onyour vehicle’s engine, drive train, steering, brak-ing and other systems.

A Nissan Trailer Towing Guide (U.S. only) isavailable from a NISSAN dealer. This guide in-cludes information on trailer towing ability and thespecial equipment required for proper towing.

MAXIMUM LOAD LIMITS

Maximum trailer loads

Never allow the total trailer load to exceed thevalue specified in the Towing Load/SpecificationChart found later in this section. The total trailerload equals trailer weight plus its cargo weight.Towing loads greater than specified or usingimproper towing equipment could adversely af-fect vehicle handling, braking and performance.

The ability of your vehicle to tow a trailer is notonly related to the maximum trailer loads, but alsothe places you plan to tow. Tow weights appro-priate for level highway driving may have to bereduced on very steep grades or in low tractionsituations (for example, on slippery boat ramps).

WARNING

Vehicle damage and/or personal injury re-sulting from improper towing proceduresare not covered by NISSAN warranties. ANISSAN Trailer Towing Guide (U.S. only)containing information on trailer towingability and the special equipment requiredmay be obtained from a NISSAN dealer.

Tongue loadKeep the tongue load between 9 - 11 percent ofthe total trailer load within the maximum tongueload limits shown in the following TowingLoad/Specification Chart. If the tongue load be-comes excessive, rearrange cargo to allow forproper tongue load.

CA0009

TOWING A TRAILER



Maximum gross vehicleweight/maximum gross axle weightThe gross vehicle weight of the towing vehiclemust not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating(GVWR) shown on the F. M. V. S. S. certificationlabel. The gross vehicle weight equals the com-bined weight of the unloaded vehicle, passen-gers, luggage, hitch, trailer tongue load and anyother optional equipment. In addition, front or reargross axle weight must not exceed the gross axleweight rating (GAWR) shown on the F. M. V. S. S.certification label.

TOWING LOAD/SPECIFICATIONCHART

TOWING LOAD / SPECIFICATION CHART

UNIT: lb (kg)

MAXIMUM TOWINGLOAD

1,000 (454)

MAXIMUM TONGUELOAD

110 (49)

TOWING SAFETY

Trailer hitch

Choose a proper hitch for your vehicle and trailer.A genuine NISSAN trailer hitch is available fromyour NISSAN dealer (Canada only). Make surethe trailer hitch is securely attached to the ve-hicle, to help avoid personal injury or propertydamage due to sway caused by crosswinds,rough road surfaces or passing trucks.

CAUTION

● Do not use axle-mounted hitches.

● The hitch should not be attached to oraffect the operation of the impact-absorbing bumper.

● Do not modify the vehicle exhaust sys-tem, brake system, etc. to install atrailer hitch.

● To reduce the possibility of additionaldamage if your vehicle is struck fromthe rear, where practical, remove thehitch and/or receiver when not in use.

● After the hitch is removed, seal the boltholes to prevent exhaust fumes, wateror dust from entering the passengercompartment.

● Regularly check that all trailer hitchmounting bolts are securely mounted.

Tire pressures

● When towing a trailer, inflate the vehicle tiresto the recommended cold tire pressure indi-cated on the tire placard.

● Trailer tire condition, size, load rating andproper inflation pressure should be in accor-dance with the trailer and tire manufacturer’sspecifications.

Safety chains

Always use suitable safety chains between yourvehicle and the trailer. Safety chains should becrossed and should be attached to the hitch, not

TI1012M



to the vehicle bumper or axle. Be sure to leaveenough slack in the chains to permit turningcorners.

Trailer lights

Trailer lights should comply with federal and/orlocal regulations. When wiring the vehicle fortowing, connect the stop and tail light pickup intothe vehicle electrical circuit.

Trailer brakesIf your trailer is equipped with a braking system,make sure it conforms to federal and/or localregulations and that it is properly installed.

WARNING

Never connect a trailer brake system di-rectly to the vehicle brake system.

Pre-towing tips● Be certain your vehicle maintains a level posi-

tion when a loaded and/or unloaded trailer ishitched. Do not drive the vehicle if it has anabnormal nose-up or nose-down condition;check for improper tongue load, overload,worn suspension or other possible causes ofeither condition.

● Always secure items in the trailer to preventload shift while driving.

● Be certain your rear view mirrors conform to allfederal, state or local regulations. If not, installany mirrors required for towing before drivingthe vehicle.

Trailer towing tips

In order to gain skill and an understanding of thevehicle’s behavior, you should practice turning,stopping and backing up in an area which is freefrom traffic. Steering stability and braking perfor-mance will be somewhat different than undernormal driving conditions.

● Always secure items in the trailer to preventload shift while driving.

● Avoid abrupt starts, acceleration or stops.

● Avoid sharp turns or lane changes.

● Always drive your vehicle at a moderate speed.

● Always block the wheels on both vehicle andtrailer when parking. Parking on a slope is notrecommended; however, if you must do so,and if your vehicle is equipped with an auto-matic transmission, first block the wheels andapply the parking brake, and then move thetransmission shift selector lever into the P(Park) position. If you move the shift selectorlever to the P (Park) position before blockingthe wheels and applying the parking brake,transmission damage could occur.

● When going down a hill, shift into a lower gearand use the engine braking effect. When go-ing up a long grade, downshift the transmis-sion to a lower gear and reduce speed toreduce chances of engine overloading and/oroverheating. However, for long steep grades,do not stay in 1st or 2nd gear when drivingabove 35 MPH (56 km/h).

● If the engine coolant rises to an extremely hightemperature when the air conditioner systemis on, turn off the air conditioner. Coolant heatcan be additionally vented by opening the win-dows, switching the fan control to high andsetting the temperature control to the HOTposition.

● Trailer towing requires more fuel than normalcircumstances.

● Avoid towing a trailer for your vehicle’s first500 miles (805 km).

● Have your vehicle serviced more often than atintervals specified in the recommended Main-tenance Schedule in the “NISSAN Serviceand Maintenance Guide”.

● When making a turn, your trailer wheels will becloser to the inside of the turn than your vehiclewheels. To compensate for this, make a largerthan normal turning radius during the turn.



● Crosswinds and rough roads will adverselyaffect vehicle/trailer handling, possibly caus-ing vehicle sway. When being passed bylarger vehicles, be prepared for possiblechanges in crosswinds that could affect ve-hicle handling. If swaying does occur, firmlygrip the steering wheel, steer straight ahead,and immediately (but gradually) reduce vehiclespeed. This combination will help stabilize thevehicle. Never increase speed.

● Be careful when passing other vehicles. Pass-ing while towing a trailer requires considerablymore distance than normal passing. Remem-ber, the length of the trailer must also pass theother vehicle before you can safely changelanes.

● To maintain engine braking efficiency andelectrical charging performance, do not use5th gear (manual transmission) or overdrive(automatic transmission).

● Avoid holding the brake pedal down too longor too frequently. This could cause the brakesto overheat, resulting in reduced braking effi-ciency.

When towing a trailer, transmissionoil/fluid should be changed more fre-quently. For additional information, see the“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” sectionearlier in this manual.

DOT (Department of Transportation) QualityGrades: All passenger car tires must conform tofederal safety requirements in addition to thesegrades.

Quality grades can be found where applicable onthe tire sidewall between tread shoulder andmaximum section width. For example:

Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A

Treadwear

Treadwear grade is a comparative rating basedon tire wear rate when tested under controlledconditions on specified government test courses.For example, a tire graded 150 would wear oneand a half (1-1/2) times as well on the govern-ment course as a tire graded 100. However,relative tire performance depends on actual driv-ing conditions, and may vary significantly due tovariations in driving habits, service practices anddifferences in road characteristics and climate.

Traction AA, A, B and C

The traction grades, from highest to lowest, areAA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent thetire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as mea-sured under controlled conditions on specifiedgovernment test surfaces of asphalt and con-crete. A tire marked C may have poor tractionperformance.

WARNING

The traction grade assigned to your ve-hicle tires is based on straight-aheadbraking traction tests and does not in-clude acceleration, cornering, hydroplan-ing or peak traction characteristics.

Temperature A, B and C

Temperature grades are A (the highest), B, andC. They represent a tire’s resistance to heatbuild-up, and its ability to dissipate heat whentested under controlled conditions on a specifiedindoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high tem-perature can cause tire material to degenerate,reducing tire life. Excessive temperatures canlead to sudden tire failure. Grade C correspondsto a performance level which all passenger cartires must meet under the Federal Motor VehicleSafety Standard No. 109. Grades A and B rep-resent higher levels of performance on laboratorytest wheels than the minimum required by law.

UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING



WARNING

The temperature grade for this tire is es-tablished for a tire that is properly inflatedand not overloaded. Excessive speed,under-inflation, or excessive loading, ei-ther separately or in combination, cancause heat build-up and possible tirefailure.

Your NISSAN vehicle is covered by the followingemission warranties:

For US

1. Emission Defects Warranty

2. Emissions Performance Warranty

Details of these warranties may be found withother vehicle warranties in your Warranty Infor-mation Booklet which comes with your NISSANvehicle. If you did not receive a Warranty Informa-tion Booklet, or it is lost, you may obtain a re-placement by writing to:

● Nissan North America, Inc.Consumer Affairs DepartmentP.O. Box 191Gardena, CA 90248-0191

For Canada

Emission Control System Warranty

Details of these warranties may be found withother vehicle warranties in your Warranty Infor-mation Booklet which comes with your NISSANvehicle. If you did not receive a Warranty Informa-tion Booklet, or it is lost, you may obtain a re-placement by writing to:

● Nissan Canada Inc.5290 Orbitor DriveMississauga, Ontario, L4W 4Z5

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect whichcould cause a crash or could cause injury ordeath, you should immediately inform the Na-tional Highway Traffic Safety Administration(NHTSA) in addition to notifying NISSAN.

If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it mayopen an investigation, and if it finds that a safetydefect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order arecall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSAcannot become involved in individual problemsbetween you, your dealer, or NISSAN.

To contact NHTSA, you may call the Auto SafetyHotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236. You mayalso write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Trans-portation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can alsoobtain other information about motor vehiclesafety from the Hotline.

You may notify NISSAN by contacting our Con-sumer Affairs Department, toll-free, at 1-800-NISSAN-1.

In Hawaii call 1-808-836-0888.

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMWARRANTY

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (USonly)



Due to legal requirements in some states andCanadian Provinces, your vehicle may be re-quired to be in what is called the “ready condi-tion” for an Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) test ofthe emission control system.

The vehicle is set to the “ready condition” when itis driven through certain driving patterns. Usually,the ready condition can be obtained by ordinaryusage of the vehicle.

If a powertrain system component is repaired orthe battery is disconnected, the vehicle may bereset to a “not ready” condition. Before taking theI/M test, drive the vehicle through the followingpattern to set the vehicle to the ready condition. Ifyou cannot or do not want to perform the drivingpattern, a NISSAN dealer can conduct it for you.

WARNING

Always drive the vehicle in a safe andprudent manner according to traffic con-ditions and obey all traffic laws.

1. Start the engine when the engine coolanttemperature gauge needle points to C. Al-low the engine to idle until the gauge needlepoints between the C and H (normal oper-ating temperature).

2. Accelerate the vehicle to 55 MPH (88km/h), then quickly release the acceleratorpedal completely and keep it released for atleast 6 seconds.

3. Quickly depress the accelerator pedal for amoment, then drive the vehicle at a speed of53 - 60 MPH (86 - 96 km/h) for at least 5minutes.

4. Stop the vehicle.

5. Accelerate the vehicle to 35 MPH (55 km/h)and maintain the speed for 20 seconds.

6. Repeat steps 4 through 5 at least threetimes.

7. Accelerate the vehicle to 55 MPH (88 km/h)and maintain the speed for at least 3 min-utes.

8. Stop the vehicle. Place the transmission se-lector lever in the P (Park) or N (Neutral)position.

9. Turn the engine off.

10. Repeat steps 1 - 8 at least one more time.

If steps 1 through 7 are interrupted, repeat thepreceding step. Any safe driving mode is accept-able between steps. Do not stop the engine untilstep 7 is completed.

READINESS FOR INSPECTION/MAINTENANCE (I/M) TEST



A genuine NISSAN Service Manual is the bestsource of service and repair information for yourvehicle. Filled with wiring diagrams, illustrationsand step-by-step diagnostic and adjustment pro-cedures, this manual is the same one used by thefactory trained technicians working at NISSANdealerships. Also available are genuine NISSANOwner’s Manuals, and genuine NISSAN Serviceand Owner’s Manuals for older NISSAN models.

For USA

For current pricing and availability of genuineNISSAN Service Manuals for the 2000 modelyear and later contact:

Tweddle Litho Company1-800-639-8841www.nissan-techinfo.com

For current pricing and availability of genuineNISSAN Service Manuals for the 1999 modelyear and prior, see a NISSAN dealer, or contact:

DDS Distribution Service, Ltd.20770 Westwood RoadStrongsville, OH 441361-800-247-5321

For current pricing and availability of genuineNISSAN Owner’s Manuals for the 2003 modelyear and prior, see a NISSAN dealer, or contact:

DDS Distribution Service, Ltd.20770 Westwood RoadStrongsville, OH 441361-800-247-5321

For Canada

To purchase a copy of a genuine NISSAN Ser-vice Manual or Owner’s Manual please contactyour nearest NISSAN dealer. For the phone num-ber and location of a NISSAN dealer in your areacall the NISSAN Information Center at 1-800-387-0122 and a bilingual NISSAN representa-tive will assist you.

Also available are genuine NISSAN Service andOwner’s Manuals for older NISSAN models.

IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION

Unfortunately, accidents do occur. In this unlikelyevent, there is some important information youshould know.

Many insurance companies routinely authorizethe use of non-genuine collision parts in order tocut costs, among other reasons.

Insist on the use of genuine NISSANcollision parts!If you want your vehicle to be restored using partsmade to NISSAN’s original exacting specifica-tions – if you want to help it to last and hold itsresale value, the solution is simple. Tell yourinsurance agent and your repair shop toonly use Genuine NISSAN Collision Parts.NISSAN does not warrant non-NISSAN parts,nor does NISSAN’s warranty apply to damagecaused by a non-genuine part.

Using Genuine NISSAN Parts can help protectyour personal safety, preserve your warranty pro-tection and maintain the resale value of yourvehicle. And if your vehicle was leased, usingGenuine NISSAN Parts may prevent or limit un-necessary excess wear and tear expenses at theend of your lease.

NISSAN designs its hoods with crumple zones tominimize the risk that the hood will penetrate thewindshield of your vehicle in an accident. Non-genuine (imitation) parts may not provide suchbuilt in safeguards. Also, non-genuine parts oftenshow premature wear, rust and corrosion.

OWNER’S MANUAL/SERVICEMANUAL ORDER INFORMATION



Why should you take a chance?In over 40 states, the law says you must beadvised if non-genuine parts are used to repairyour vehicle. And some states have enacted lawsthat restrict insurance companies from authoriz-ing the use of non-genuine collision parts duringthe new vehicle warranty. These laws help pro-tect you, so you can take action to protect your-self.

It’s your right!If you should need further information visit us at:www.nissanusa.com.




MEMO

10 Index

A

Air bag (See supplemental restraintsystem) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6Air bag warning light . . . . . . . . . . .1-17, 2-9Air cleaner housing filter . . . . . . . . . . . .8-24Air conditioner

Air conditioner operation. . . . . . . . . . .4-5Air conditioner service . . . . . . . . . . . .4-9Air conditioner specification label . . . . .9-11Air conditioner system refrigerant andlubrication recommendations . . . . . . . .9-6Heater and air conditioner controls . . . . .4-2Servicing air conditioner . . . . . . . . . . .4-9

Air flow charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-6Alarm system(See vehicle security system) . . . . . . . . .2-11Anchor point locations . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-35Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-19Anti-lock brake system (ABS) . . . . . . . . .5-18Anti-lock brake warning light . . . . . . . . . .2-7Audible reminders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-10Audio system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-10

Compact Disc (CD) changer . . . . . . .4-17Compact disc (CD) player . . . . . . . . .4-15FM-AM radio with compact disc (CD)player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-12Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-10

AutomaticAutomatic power window switch . . . . .2-25Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) . . . .8-15

Driving with automatic transmission. . . . .5-7Transmission selector lever lock release . .5-9

B

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-20Charge warning light . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8

Battery replacement(See remote keyless entry system) . . . . . . .3-8Before starting the engine . . . . . . . . . . . .5-6Belts (See drive belts) . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-22Brake

Anti-lock brake system (ABS) . . . . . . .5-18Brake booster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-30Brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-18Brake light (See stop light) . . . . . . . . .8-36Brake pedal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-29Brake system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18Brake warning light . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7Brake wear indicators . . . . . . . .2-10, 8-30Parking brake check . . . . . . . . . . . .8-29Parking brake operation . . . . . . . . . .5-13Self-adjusting brakes . . . . . . . . . . . .8-30

Break-in schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-15Bulb check/instrument panel . . . . . . . . . .2-7Bulb replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-36

C

Capacities and recommended fuel/lubricants . .9-2

Car phone or CB radio . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-19Cargo (See vehicle loading information) . . .9-12CD changer (See audio system). . . . . . . .4-17CD player (See audio system) . . . . . . . . .4-15Check engine indicator light(See malfunction indicator light). . . . . . . . .2-9Child restraint with top tether strap . . . . . .1-34Child restraints . . . . . . .1-20, 1-21, 1-25, 1-33

Precautions on child restraints . . . . . . .1-25Child safety rear door lock . . . . . . . . . . . .3-5Chimes, audible reminders . . . . . . . . . . .2-10Cleaning exterior and interior . . . . . . . . . .7-2Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-13Clutch

Clutch fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-19Coin box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-22Cold weather driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20Compact disc (CD) player . . . . . . . . . . .4-15Console box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-23Controls

Heater and air conditioner controls . . . . .4-2Coolant

Capacities and recommendedfuel/lubricants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-2Changing engine coolant. . . . . . . . . .8-10Checking engine coolant level. . . . . . . .8-9Engine coolant temperature gauge . . . . .2-5

Corrosion protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-5Cruise control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-13Cup holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-21


D

Daytime running light system (Canada only). .2-18Defogger switch

Rear window defogger switch . . . . . . .2-16Door locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3Door open warning light . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8Drive belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-22Driving

Cold weather driving . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20Driving with automatic transmission. . . . .5-7Driving with manual transmission . . . . .5-10Precautions when starting and driving . . .5-2

E

Economy - fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-15Emission control information label . . . . . . .9-11Emission control system warranty . . . . . . .9-18Engine

Before starting the engine . . . . . . . . . .5-6Capacities and recommendedfuel/lubricants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-2Changing engine coolant. . . . . . . . . .8-10Changing engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . .8-13Changing engine oil filter . . . . . . . . . .8-14Checking engine coolant level. . . . . . . .8-9Checking engine oil level . . . . . . . . . .8-12Engine compartment check locations. . . .8-9Engine coolant temperature gauge . . . . .2-5Engine cooling system . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9Engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-12Engine oil and oil filter recommendation . .9-5Engine oil pressure warning light . . . . . .2-8

Engine oil viscosity . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-5Engine serial number . . . . . . . . . . . .9-10Starting the engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-6

Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) . . . . . . . .5-2

F

Flashers (See hazard warningflasher switch). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-19Flat tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-2Floor mat positioning aid . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-4Fluid

Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) . . . .8-15Brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-18Capacities and recommendedfuel/lubricants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-2Clutch fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-19Engine coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9Engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-12Power steering fluid. . . . . . . . . . . . .8-18Window washer fluid . . . . . . . . . . . .8-20

F.M.V.S.S. certification label . . . . . . . . . .9-10Folding rear seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-4Front fog light switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-18Front seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2Fuel

Capacities and recommendedfuel/lubricants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-2Fuel economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-15Fuel filler cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-12Fuel filler lid lock opener lever . . . . . . .3-12Fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5Fuel octane rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-4Fuel recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . .9-3

Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-31

Fusible links . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-31

G

GaugeEngine coolant temperature gauge . . . . .2-5Fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4Trip odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4

General maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-2Glove box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-22

H

Hazard warning flasher switch . . . . . . . . .2-19Head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5Headlight aiming adjustment . . . . . . . . . .8-35Headlight and turn signal switch. . . . . . . .2-16Headlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-34Heater

Heater and air conditioner controls . . . . .4-2Heater operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-4

Hood release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-9Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-19

I

Ignition switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-4Immobilizer system . . . . . . . . . .2-11, 3-2, 5-5Important vehicle information label. . . . . . .9-10In-cabin microfilter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-25

10-2


Increasing fuel economy . . . . . . . . . . . .5-15Indicator lights and audible reminders(See warning/indicator lights andaudible reminders) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7Inside mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-14Instrument brightness control . . . . . . . . .2-18Instrument panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2Interior light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-27Interior trunk lid release. . . . . . . . . . . . .3-11

J

Jump starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7

K

Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-2Keyless entry system (See remote keylessentry system) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-5

L

LabelsAir conditioner specification label . . . . .9-11Emission control information label . . . . .9-11Engine serial number . . . . . . . . . . . .9-10F.M.V.S.S. certification label . . . . . . . .9-10Vehicle identification number (VIN) plate . .9-9Warning labels (for SRS). . . . . . . . . .1-16

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tether for Children)System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-33License plate

Installing the license plate . . . . . . . . .9-12

LightAir bag warning light . . . . . . . . .1-17, 2-9Brake light (See stop light) . . . . . . . . .8-36Bulb check/instrument panel . . . . . . . .2-7Bulb replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-36Charge warning light . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8Front fog light switch . . . . . . . . . . . .2-18Headlight aiming adjustment . . . . . . . .8-35Headlight and turn signal switch. . . . . .2-16Headlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-34Interior light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-27Light bulbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-34Low washer fluid warning light . . . . . . .2-8Spotlights (See map light) . . . . . . . . .2-28Trunk light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-28Warning/indicator lights and audiblereminders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7

LockChild safety rear door lock . . . . . . . . . .3-5Door locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3Fuel filler lid lock opener lever . . . . . . .3-12Power door locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4Trunk lid lock opener lever . . . . . . . . . .3-9

Low fuel warning light . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8Luggage (See vehicle loading information) . .9-12

M

MaintenanceGeneral maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . .8-2Inside the vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-3Maintenance precautions . . . . . . . . . .8-5Outside the vehicle. . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-2Seat belt maintenance . . . . . . . . . . .1-25Under the hood and vehicle . . . . . . . . .8-4

Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) . . . . . . . .2-9Manual front seat adjustment . . . . . . . . . .1-2Manual windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-26Map lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-28Meters and gauges. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3Mirror

Inside mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-14Outside mirror control . . . . . . . . . . .3-15Vanity mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-14

Multi-remote control system(See remote keyless entry system) . . . . . . .3-5Multi-remote controller battery replacement .8-33

N

Nissan vehicle immobilizer system(NVIS). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-11, 3-2, 5-5

O

Octane rating (See fuel octane rating) . . . . .9-4Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3Oil

Capacities and recommendedfuel/lubricants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-2Changing engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . .8-13Changing engine oil filter . . . . . . . . . .8-14Checking engine oil level . . . . . . . . . .8-12Engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-12Engine oil and oil filter recommendation . .9-5Engine oil viscosity . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-5

Outside mirror control . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-15Overdrive switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-10

10-3


OverheatIf your vehicle overheats . . . . . . . . . .6-10

Owner’s manual order form . . . . . . . . . .9-20Owner’s manual/service manual orderinformation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-20

P

ParkingParking brake check . . . . . . . . . . . .8-29Parking brake operation . . . . . . . . . .5-13Parking/parking on hills . . . . . . . . . . .5-16

PowerPower door locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4Power outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-20Power steering fluid. . . . . . . . . . . . .8-18Power steering system . . . . . . . . . . .5-17Power windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-24Rear power windows . . . . . . . . . . . .2-25

PrecautionsMaintenance precautions . . . . . . . . . .8-5Precautions on child restraints . . . . . . .1-25Precautions on seat belt usage . . . . . .1-18Precautions on supplemental restraintsystem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6Precautions when starting and driving . . .5-2

Push starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-9

R

RadioCar phone or CB radio . . . . . . . . . . .4-19Compact Disc (CD) changer . . . . . . .4-17

FM-AM radio with compact disc (CD)player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-12

Readiness for inspection maintenance(I/M) test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-19Rear power windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-25Rear seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-4Rear window defogger switch . . . . . . . . .2-16Refrigerant recommendation . . . . . . . . . .9-6Registering your vehicle in another country. . .9-9Remote keyless entry system . . . . . . . . . .3-5Reporting safety defects (US only) . . . . . .9-18

S

SafetyChild safety rear door lock . . . . . . . . . .3-5Reporting safety defects (US only) . . . .9-18

Seat adjustmentFront manual seat adjustment . . . . . . . .1-2

Seat beltPrecautions on seat belt usage . . . . . .1-18Seat belt extenders . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-25Seat belt maintenance . . . . . . . . . . .1-25Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-18Shoulder belt height adjustment . . . . . .1-24Three-point type with retractor. . . . . . .1-22

Seat belt warning light . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-9Seats

Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2Front seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2Manual front seat adjustment . . . . . . . .1-2Rear seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-4

Self-adjusting brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-30Service manual order form . . . . . . . . . . .9-20

Servicing air conditioner . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-9Shift lock release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-9Shifting

Automatic transmission . . . . . . . . . . .5-8Manual transmission . . . . . . . . . . . .5-11

Shoulder belt height adjustment . . . . . . . .1-24Spark plug replacement . . . . . . . . . . . .8-23Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3Spotlights (See map light) . . . . . . . . . . .2-28SRS warning label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-16Starting

Before starting the engine . . . . . . . . . .5-6Jump starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7Precautions when starting and driving . . .5-2Push starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-9Starting the engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-6

SteeringPower steering fluid. . . . . . . . . . . . .8-18Power steering system . . . . . . . . . . .5-17Tilting steering wheel . . . . . . . . . . . .3-13

Stop light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-36Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-21Storage tray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-23Sunglasses case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-21Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-26Supplemental restraint system

Precautions on supplemental restraintsystem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6

Supplemental restraint system(Supplemental air bag system) . . . . . . . . .1-6Switch

Automatic power window switch . . . . .2-25Front fog light switch . . . . . . . . . . . .2-18Hazard warning flasher switch . . . . . . .2-19Headlight and turn signal switch. . . . . .2-16

10-4


Ignition switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-4Overdrive switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-10Rear window defogger switch . . . . . . .2-16Windshield wiper and washer switch . . .2-15

T

Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4Three-way catalyst . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-2Tilting steering wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-13Tire

Flat tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-2Spare tire. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3, 8-44Tire chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-41Tire placard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-11Tire pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-39Tire rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-42Types of tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-40Uniform tire quality grading. . . . . . . . .9-17Wheels and tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-39

TowingFlat towing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-12Tow truck towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-11Trailer towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-14

TransmissionAutomatic transmission fluid (ATF) . . . .8-15Driving with automatic transmission. . . . .5-7Driving with manual transmission . . . . .5-10Selector lever lock release. . . . . . . . . .5-9

Travel (See registering your vehicle inanother country) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-9Trip odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4Trunk access through the rear seat . . . . . . .1-4Trunk lid lock opener lever . . . . . . . . . . . .3-9Trunk light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-28

Turn signal switch (See headlight andturn signal switch) . . . . . . . . . . . .2-16, 2-17

U

Uniform tire quality grading. . . . . . . . . . .9-17

V

Vanity mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-14Vehicle identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-9Vehicle identification number (VIN) (Chassis num-ber) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-9Vehicle identification number (VIN) plate . . . .9-9Vehicle loading information. . . . . . . . . . .9-12Vehicle recovery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-12Vehicle security system. . . . . . . . . . . . .2-11Ventilators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2

W

WarningAir bag warning light . . . . . . . . .1-17, 2-9Anti-lock brake warning light . . . . . . . .2-7Brake warning light . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7Door open warning light . . . . . . . . . . .2-8Hazard warning flasher switch . . . . . . .2-19Low fuel warning light . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8Seat belt warning light . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8Vehicle security system. . . . . . . . . . .2-11Warning labels (for SRS). . . . . . . . . .1-16Warning/indicator lights and audiblereminders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7

Wheels and tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-39When traveling or registering your vehicle inanother country . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-9Window washer fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-20Windows

Locking passengers’ windows . . . . . . .2-25Manual windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-26Power windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-24Rear power windows . . . . . . . . . . . .2-25

Windshield wiper and washer switch . . . . .2-15Wiper

Windshield wiper and washer switch . . .2-15Wiper blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-28

10-5


MEMO

MEMO

MEMO

RECOMMENDED FUEL:For 1.8L/2.5L engines

Use unleaded regular gasoline with an octanerating of at leat 87 AKI (Anti-Knock Index) num-ber (Research octane number 91).

For SE-R SPEC V

Use unleaded regular gasoline with an octanerating of at leat 87 AKI (Anti-Knock Index) num-ber (Research octane number 91).

For improved performance, NISSAN recom-mends the use of unleaded premium gasolinewith an octane rating of at least 91 AKI number(Research octane number 96).

CAUTION

● Using a fuel other than that specifiedcould adversely affect the emissioncontrol system, and may also affect thewarranty coverage.

● Under no circumstances should aleaded gasoline be used, because thiswill damage the three-way catalyst.

For additional information, see “Capacities andrecommended fuel/lubricants in the “Technicaland consumer information” section.

RECOMMENDED ENGINE OIL:● API Certification Mark

● API grade SG/SH Energy Conserving I & II orAPI grade SJ or SL Energy Conserving

● ILSAC grade GF-1, GF-II & GF-III

● 5W-30 Viscosity preferred

See “Engine oil and oil filter recommendation” inthe “Technical and consumer information” sec-tion of this manual.

TIRE COLD PRESSURE:See tire placard.

RECOMMENDED NEW VEHICLEBREAK-IN PROCEDURE:During the first 1,200 miles (2,000 km) of vehicleuse, follow the recommendations outlined in the“BREAK-IN SCHEDULE” information found inthe “Starting and driving” section of this manual.Follow these recommendations for the future re-liability and economy of your new vehicle. Failureto follow these recommendations may result invehicle damage or shortened engine life.

GAS STATION INFORMATION


1. Engine coolant 8-8

2. Window washer fluid 8-19

3. Engine oil 8-11

4. Passenger supplemental air bag 1-6

5. Driver supplemental air bag 1-6

6. Spare tire 6-2

7. Fuel recommendation 9-3

8. Seat belts 1-18

9. Door locks 3-3

10. Seats 1-2

11. Fuel filler lid release 3-13

12. Trunk lid release 3-10

13. Meters and gauges 2-3

14. Hood release 3-10

15. Audio system 4-10, Heater/Air conditioner4-2

WGS0014

QUICK REFERENCE


Automotive

2003 SENTRA OWNER'S MANUAL