fuel NISSAN ALTIMA 1998 L30 / 2.G Owners Manual

Welcome To The World Of NISSAN
Your new Nissan is the result of our dedication to
produce the finest in safe, reliable and economi-
cal transportation. Your vehicle is the product of
a successful worldwide company that manufac-
tures cars and trucks in over 17 countries and
distributes them in 170 nations.
Nissan vehicles are designed and manufactured
by Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. which was founded in
Tokyo, Japan in 1933, and Nissan affiliates world
wide, collectively growing to become the fifth
largest automaker in the world. In addition to cars
and trucks, Nissan also makes textile machinery,
forklift trucks, marine engines, boats and other
products.
Nissan has made a substantial and growing
investment in North America, starting with the
opening of Nissan Motor Corporation U.S.A. in
1960 and continuing with the production of some
cars and trucks at one of the world's mostmodern manufacturing facilities, Nissan Motor
Manufacturing Corporation U.S.A. in Smyrna,
Tennessee, vehicle styling at Nissan Design
International in San Diego, California, and engi-
neering at Nissan Research and Development in
Farmington Hills, Michigan.
Nissan Motor Corporation U.S.A. and its dealers
indirectly employ about 60,000 Americans.
Nissan is also a substantial contributor to the
Canadian economy. Nissan Canada Inc., its sup-
pliers and over 170 dealers employ approxi-
mately 4,500 people. These include company
employees and the staffs of Nissan dealers all
across Canada. In addition, many Canadians
work for companies that supply Nissan and Nis-
san dealers with materials and services ranging
from the operation of port facilities and transpor-
tation services, to the supply of lubricants, parts
and accessories.Nissan pioneered the use of electronics and
computers in automobiles, and has led the indus-
try in improving both performance and fuel effi-
ciency through new engine designs and the use
of synthetic materials to reduce vehicle weight.
The company has also developed ways to build
quality into its vehicles at each stage of the
production process, both through extensive use
of automation and Ð most importantly Ð
through an awareness thatpeopleare the cen-
tral element in quality control.
From the time the parts arrived from our suppli-
ers until you took delivery of your new Nissan,
dozens of checks were made to ensure that only
the best job was being done in producing and
delivering your vehicle. Nissan also takes great
care to ensure that when you take your Nissan to
your dealer for maintenance, the service techni-
cian will perform his work according to the quality
standards that have been established by Nissan.
Safety has also been built into your Nissan. As
you know, seat belts are an integral part of the
safety systems that will help protect you and your
passengers in the event of a sudden stop or an
accident. We urge you to use the belts every time
you drive the vehicle.
The Nissan story of growth and achievement
reflects our major goal: to provide you, our
customer, with a vehicle that is built with quality
and craftsmanship Ð a product that we can be
proud to build and you can be proud to own.
AFW0001
The inside pages of this manual contain
a minimum of 50% recycled fibers,
including 10% post-consumer fibers.
ZX

2 Instruments and controls
Meters and gauges ................................................2-2
Speedometer and odometer ..................................2-3
Tachometer ............................................................2-3
Engine coolant temperature gauge and fuel
gauge .....................................................................2-4
Warning/indicator lights and chimes ......................2-5
Theft warning (if so equipped) ...............................2-9
Windshield wiper and washer switch ...................2-11
Rear window defogger switch ..............................2-11
Headlight and turn signal switch ..........................2-12
Daytime running light system (Canada only) .......2-13
Instrument brightness control ...............................2-13
Front fog light switch (if so equipped)..................2-14Hazard warning flasher switch .............................2-14
Cigarette lighter (accessory) and ash tray ...........2-15
Cup holder ............................................................2-16
Power windows ....................................................2-17
Automatic power window switch ..........................2-17
Passenger power windows ..................................2-18
Sunroof (if so equipped).......................................2-18
If the sunroof does not close ...............................2-19
Storage compartment for garage door
transmitter (if so equipped) ..................................2-20
Interior light...........................................................2-21
Map light (if so equipped) ....................................2-22
Trunk light.............................................................2-22
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Engine coolant temperature gauge
The gauge indicates the engine coolant
temperature.
The engine coolant temperature varies with
the outside air temperature and driving con-
ditions.
CAUTION
If the gauge indicates engine coolant
temperature over the normal range,
stop the vehicle as soon as safely pos-
sible. If the engine is overheated, con-
tinued operation of the vehicle may
seriously damage the engine. See the
``In case of emergency'' section for
immediate action required.
Fuel gauge
The gauge indicates theapproximatefuel
level in the tank.
The gauge may move slightly during brak-
ing, turning, acceleration, or going up or
down hills.
The gauge needle remains in approximately
the same position even when the ignition
key is turned to OFF.
The indicator light comes on when the
amount of fuel in the tank is getting low.
Refill the fuel tank before the gauge
registers E (Empty).
CAUTION
If the vehicle is driven with the fuel level
very low, the malfunction indicator
light may come on. Refuel as soon as
possible. After driving for a while, the
light should remain off. If the light re-
mains on, have the vehicle inspected
by an authorized NISSAN dealer.
For additional information, see the
``Malfunction indicator light (MIL)'' later
in this section.
AIC0077
ENGINE COOLANT
TEMPERATURE GAUGE AND
FUEL GAUGE
2-4Instruments and controls
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Key reminder chime
A chime sounds if the driver's door is
opened while the key is left in the ignition
switch. Remove the key and take it with you
when leaving the vehicle.
Light reminder chime
A chime sounds when the driver's door is
opened if the headlight switch is turned on
(ignition switch is turned OFF).
Turn the headlight switch OFF when leaving
the vehicle.
Malfunction indicator light
(MIL)
If the malfunction indicator light comes on
steady or blinks while the engine is running,
it may indicate a potential emission control
problem.
The malfunction indicator light may also
come on steady or blink if the fuel filler cap
has not been closed tightly or if the fuel tank
is nearly empty. Check to make sure the
fuel cap is secure and that you have at least
three gallons of fuel in the fuel tank.
After driving for a while, the light should
remain off if no other potential emission
control system problem exists.
Operation
The malfunction indicator light will come on
in one of two ways:
1. Malfunction indicator light on steady - An
emission control system malfunction has
been detected. Have the vehicle in-
spected by an authorized NISSAN
dealer. You do not need to have your
vehicle towed to the dealer.
2. Malfunction indicator light blinking - An
engine misfire has been detected which
may damage the emission control sys-
tem. To reduce or avoid emission control
system damage:
cdo not drive at speeds above 45 MPH
(72 km/h).
cavoid hard acceleration or decelera-
tion.
cavoid steep uphill grades.
cif possible, reduce the amount of cargo
being hauled or towed.
The malfunction indicator light may stop
blinking and come on steady. Have the
vehicle inspected by an authorized NISSAN
dealer. You do not need to have your ve-
hicle towed to the dealer.
CAUTION
Continued vehicle operation without
having the emission control system
checked and repaired as necessary
could lead to poor driveability, reduced
fuel economy, and possible damage to
the emission control system.
Some conditions may cause the malfunc-
tion indicator light to come on steady or
blink. Examples are as follows:
cvehicle ran out of fuel, which caused the
engine to misfire.
cfuel filler cap was left off or improperly
installed, allowing fuel to evaporate into
the atmosphere.
If you suspect that you experienced one or
both of the above conditions, drive the ve-
hicle to an authorized NISSAN dealer and
have the vehicle inspected. Avoid any un-
necessary diagnosis during the service by
informing the dealer of the condition that
may have occurred.
2-8Instruments and controls
ZX

3 Pre-driving checks and adjustments
Key .........................................................................3-2
Door locks ..............................................................3-2
Manual door lock ....................................................3-2
Power door lock .....................................................3-3
Child safety rear door lock .....................................3-4
Multi-remote control system (if so equipped).........3-4
Battery replacement ...............................................3-7
Hood release ..........................................................3-8Glove box ...............................................................3-9
Trunk lid lock operation ..........................................3-9
Fuel filler lid lock operation ..................................3-11
Fuel filler cap ........................................................3-11
Tilting steering wheel ...........................................3-13
Outside mirror remote control ..............................3-13
Inside mirror .........................................................3-13
Vanity mirror (if so equipped)...............................3-14
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Opener lever operation
The fuel filler lid opener lever is located on
the outside of the driver's seat. To open the
fuel filler lid, push the opener lever down. To
lock, close the fuel filler lid securely.
FUEL FILLER CAP
The fuel filler cap is a screw-on ratcheting
type. Tighten the cap clockwise until ratch-
eting clicks are heard.
APD1009APD1007
FUEL FILLER LID LOCK
OPERATION
Pre-driving checks and adjustments3-11
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WARNING
cGasoline is extremely flammable and
highly explosive under certain con-
ditions. You could be burned or se-
riously injured if it is misused or
mishandled. Always stop the engine
and do not smoke or allow open
flames or sparks near the vehicle
when refueling.
c
Fuel may be under pressure. Turn the
cap one-half turn, and wait for any
``hissing'' sound to stop to prevent
fuel from spraying out and possible
personal injury. Then remove the cap.
cDo not attempt to top off the fuel
tank after the fuel pump nozzle shuts
off automatically. Continued refuel-
ing may cause fuel overflow, result-
ing in fuel spray and possibly fire.
cUse only a genuine NISSAN fuel filler
cap as a replacement. It has a built-in
safety valve needed for proper op-
eration of the fuel system and emis-
sion control system. An incorrect
cap can result in a serious malfunc-
tion and possible injury.
cNever pour fuel into the throttle body
to attempt to start your vehicle.
CAUTION
cIf fuel is spilled on the car body,
flush it away with water to avoid
paint damage.
cTighten until the cap clicks. Failure
to tighten the fuel cap properly may
cause the
malfunction indica-
tor light (MIL) to illuminate. If this
occurs, securely close the fuel filler
cap. After driving for a while, the
light should remain off. If the light
remains on, have the vehicle in-
spected by an authorized NISSAN
dealer.
For additional information, see the
``Malfunction indicator light (MIL)'' in
the ``Instruments and controls'' sec-
tion.Put the fuel filler cap on the cap holder while
refueling.
APD1006
3-12Pre-driving checks and adjustments
ZX

Microphone installed model
If equipped with a genuine cellular phone,
your NISSAN features a non-directional
microphone in the steering column cover,
so it is not necessary to look at or speak
directly into the microphone when calling.
To do so could detract from the driving
operation and cause an accident. See the
manual for car phone operation.
Pre-wired and antenna for phone
installed model
Some models are pre-wired to accept the
genuine NISSAN cellular phone. In addition,
the same model has the phone antenna
built into the rear glass window.
When installing a CB, ham radio or car
phone in your NISSAN, be sure to observe
the following cautions, otherwise the new
equipment may adversely affect the MFI
(Multiport Fuel Injection) system and other
electronic parts.
CAUTION
cKeep the antenna as far as possible
away from the Engine Control Mod-
ule.
cAlso keep the antenna wire more
than 8 inches (20 cm) away from the
MFI harness. Do not route the an-
tenna wire next to any harness.
cAdjust the antenna standing-wave
ratio as recommended by the manu-
facturer.
cConnect the ground wire from the
CB radio chassis to the body.
cFor details, consult an authorized
NISSAN dealer.
CB RADIO OR CAR PHONE
Heater, air conditioner and audio systems4-27
ZX

5 Starting and driving
Precautions when starting and driving ...................5-2
Exhaust gas (carbon monoxide) ............................5-2
Three way catalyst .................................................5-2
Avoiding collision and rollover................................5-3
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving .........................5-3
Ignition switch .........................................................5-4
Manual transmission ..............................................5-4
Automatic transmission ..........................................5-4
Before starting the engine ......................................5-5
Driving with automatic transmission (if so
equipped) ...............................................................5-6
Overdrive switch .....................................................5-8Driving with manual transmission ..........................5-9
Starting the engine ...............................................5-10
Parking brake operation .......................................5-11
Cruise control .......................................................5-12
Break-in schedule ................................................5-14
Increasing fuel economy ......................................5-14
Parking/parking on hills ........................................5-15
Power steering system .........................................5-16
Brake system........................................................5-16
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) (if so
equipped) .............................................................5-17
Cold weather driving ............................................5-18
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CAUTION
c
Do not use leaded gasoline. Deposits
from leaded gasoline seriously re-
duce the three way catalyst's ability
to help reduce exhaust pollutants.
cKeep your engine tuned up. Malfunc-
tions in the ignition, fuel injection, or
electrical systems can cause over-
rich fuel flow into the catalyst, caus-
ing it to overheat. Do not keep driv-
ing if the engine misfires, or if
noticeable loss of performance or
other unusual operating conditions
are detected. Have the vehicle in-
spected promptly by an authorized
NISSAN dealer.
cAvoid driving with an extremely low
fuel level. Running out of fuel could
cause the engine to misfire, damag-
ing the three way catalyst.
cDo not race the engine while warm-
ing it up.
cDo not push or tow your vehicle to
start the engine.
AVOIDING COLLISION AND
ROLLOVER
WARNING
Failure to operate this vehicle in a safe
and prudent manner may result in loss
of control or an accident.
Be alert and drive defensively at all times.
Obey all traffic regulations. Avoid excessive
speed, high speed cornering, or sudden
steering maneuvers, because these driving
practices could cause you to lose control of
your vehicle.As with any vehicle, loss of
control could result in a collision with
other vehicles or objects, or cause the
vehicle to roll over, particularly if the
vehicle slides sideways.Be attentive at all
times, and avoid driving when tired. Never
drive when under the influence of alcohol or
drugs (including prescription or over-the-
counter drugs which may cause drowsi-
ness). Always wear your seat belt as out-
lined in the ``Seat belts'' section of this
manual, and also instruct your passengers
to do so.
DRINKING ALCOHOL/DRUGS
AND DRIVING
WARNING
Never drive under the influence of alco-
hol or drugs. Alcohol in the bloodstream
reduces coordination, delays reaction
time and impairs judgement. Driving after
drinking alcohol increases the likelihood
of being involved in an accident injuring
yourself and others. Additionally, if you
are injured in an accident, alcohol can
increase the severity of the injury.
Nissan is committed to safe driving. How-
ever, you must choose not to drive under
the influence of alcohol. Every year thou-
sands of people are injured or killed in
alcohol related accidents. Although the local
laws vary on what is considered to be
legally intoxicated, the fact is that alcohol
affects all people differently and most
people underestimate the effects of alcohol.
Remember, drinking and driving don't mix!
And that's true for drugs, too (over the
counter, prescription, and illegal drugs).
Don't drive if your ability to operate your
vehicle is impaired by alcohol, drugs, or
some other physical condition.
Starting and driving
5-3
ZX