coolant temperature NISSAN 350Z 2008 Z33 Owners Manual

1. Warning/Indicator lights (P.2-11)
2. Turn signal/hazard indicator lights (P.2-26)
3. Tachometer (P.2-5)
4. Speedometer (P.2-4)5. Instrument brightness control switch
(P.2-26)
6. Fuel gauge (P.2-6)
7. Engine coolant temperature gauge (P.2-5)8. Automatic transmission position indicator
(P.2-15, P.5-10) or Manual transmission up-
shift indicator (P.2-10, P.5-14)
9. Reset knob for trip odometer (P.2-4)
10. Odometer (Total/Twin trip) (P.2-4)
11. Trip computer setting switch (P.2-8)
12. Trip computer mode switch (P.2-8)
13. Trip computer (P.2-8)
14. Engine oil pressure gauge (P.2-7)
15. Volt meter (P.2-8)
SIC3329
Combination meter
SIC1948A
Triple meter
METERS AND GAUGES
Illustrated table of contents
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2 Instruments and controlsInstrument panel ................................................................... 2-2
Meters and gauges .............................................................. 2-3
Speedometer and odometer ........................................ 2-4
Tachometer ....................................................................... 2-5
Engine coolant temperature gauge ............................ 2-5
Fuel gauge ........................................................................ 2-6
Engine oil pressure gauge ........................................... 2-7
Volt meter ......................................................................... 2-8
Trip computer .................................................................. 2-8
Warning/indicator lights and audible reminders ........ 2-11
Checking bulbs ............................................................. 2-11
Warning lights ............................................................... 2-11
Indicator lights ............................................................... 2-15
Audible reminders ........................................................ 2-17
Security systems ................................................................ 2-18
Vehicle security system .............................................. 2-18
NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System ...................... 2-19
Windshield wiper and washer switch ........................... 2-21
Rear window wiper and washer switch
(Coupe models) .................................................................. 2-22
Rear window and outside mirror defroster switch .... 2-23
Headlight and turn signal switch ................................... 2-24
Xenon headlights .......................................................... 2-24
Headlight switch ........................................................... 2-24Daytime running light system (Canada only) ........ 2-25
Turn signal switch ........................................................ 2-26
Instrument brightness control ................................... 2-26
Hazard warning flasher switch ....................................... 2-27
Horn ....................................................................................... 2-27
Heated seats (if so equipped) ........................................ 2-28
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) off switch
(if so equipped) .................................................................. 2-29
Traction Control System (TCS) off switch
(if so equipped) .................................................................. 2-29
Clock ..................................................................................... 2-30
Adjusting the time ........................................................ 2-30
Power outlet ........................................................................ 2-31
Storage ................................................................................. 2-32
Instrument pocket (except for navigation system
equipped models) ........................................................ 2-32
Sunglasses holder (Coupe models) ........................ 2-32
Cargo net......................................................................... 2-33
Cup holders ................................................................... 2-33
Console box .................................................................. 2-35
Rear floor box ................................................................ 2-35
Rear parcel box ............................................................ 2-37
Stowing golf bags ......................................................... 2-37
Coat hook (Coupe models) ........................................ 2-38


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Combination meter:
1. Warning/Indicator lights
2. Turn signal/hazard indicator lights
3. Tachometer
4. Speedometer5. Instrument brightness control switch
(See “Headlight and turn signal switch” later
in this section.)
6. Fuel gauge
7. Engine coolant temperature gauge8. Automatic transmission position indicator or
Manual transmission shift up indicator
(See “Driving the vehicle” in the “5. Starting
and driving” section.)
9. Reset knob for trip odometer
10. Odometer (Total/Twin trip)
11. Trip computer setting switch
(See “Trip computer” later in this section.)
12. Trip computer mode switch
(See “Trip computer” later in this section.)
SIC3329
METERS AND GAUGES
Instruments and controls
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Changing the display:
Pushing the reset knob changes the display as
follows:
TRIP A→TRIP B→TRIP A
Resetting the trip odometer:
Pushing the reset knob for more than 1 second
resets the trip odometer to zero.
TACHOMETERThe tachometer indicates engine speed in revo-
lutions per minute (rpm). Do not rev engine into
the red zone
A.CAUTION
When engine speed approaches the red
zone, shift to a higher gear or reduce
engine speed. Operating the engine in
the red zone may cause serious engine
damage.
ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE
GAUGEThe gauge indicates the engine coolant tem-
perature.
The engine coolant temperature is within the
normal range
A
when the gauge needle points
within the zone shown in the illustration.
The engine coolant temperature will vary with the
outside air temperature and driving conditions.
SIC3328
SIC2371A
Instruments and controls
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CAUTION
If the gauge indicates a coolant tem-
perature near the hot (H) end of the
normal range, reduce vehicle speed to
decrease the temperature. If the gauge
is over the normal range, stop the ve-
hicle as soon as safely possible. If the
engine is overheated, continued opera-
tion of the vehicle may seriously dam-
age the engine. See “If your vehicle
overheats” in the “6. In case of emer-
gency” section for immediate action re-
quired.
FUEL GAUGEThe gauge indicates the approximate fuel level in
the tank.
The gauge may move slightly during braking,
turning, acceleration, or going up or down hill.
The gauge needle is designed to move to the E
(Empty) position when the ignition key is turned
to the OFF position.
Refill the fuel tank before the gauge regis-
ters the E (Empty) position.The low fuel warning light comes on when
the fuel tank is getting low. Refuel as soon
as it is convenient, preferably before the
gauge reaches the E position. There will be
a small reserve of fuel in the tank when the
fuel gauge needle reaches the E position.
The
indicates that the fuel-filler door is
located on the passenger’s side of the vehicle.
CAUTION

If the vehicle runs out of fuel, the
malfunction indicator light
(MIL) may come on. Refuel as soon
as possible. After a few driving trips,
the
light should turn off. If the
light remains on after a few driving
trips, have the vehicle inspected by a
NISSAN dealer.

For additional information, see “Mal-
function indicator light (MIL)” later in
this section.
SIC2556
2-6
Instruments and controls


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air is recirculated. (When the air recirculation
mode is selected with the A/C indicator off while
the fan speed control dial is in the AUTO
position, the air conditioner will turn on.)
When the
indicator light is on, the outside
air is drawn into the passenger compartment.

When the air intake button is pushed for
longer than 1.5 seconds, both indicator lights
(
and
) will flash twice, and then
the intake air will be controlled automatically.
During this AUTO mode, the indicator light of
the currently selected mode illuminates.

When the air flow control dial is in the
or
position, the air recirculation
mode does not activate.
Air flow controlTurning the air flow control dial selects the air
outlet to:
: Air flows from center and side ventila-
tors.: Air flows from center and side ventila-
tors and foot outlets.: Air flows mainly from foot outlets.: Air flows from defroster and foot out-
lets.: Air flows mainly from defroster outlets.
To turn the system offTurn the fan speed control dial to the OFF
position.OPERATING TIPSWhen the engine coolant temperature and out-
side air temperature are low, the air flow from the
foot outlets may not operate for a maximum of
150 seconds. However, this is not a malfunction.
After the coolant temperature warms up, the air
flow from the foot outlets will operate normally.
Sensor
A
on the instrument panel helps main-
tain a constant temperature; do not put anything
on or around this sensor.
SAA0603
Display screen, heater, air conditioner and audio systems
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4. Before driving, be sure the brake warning
light goes out.
WARNING

Be sure the parking brake is fully
released before driving. Failure to do
so can cause brake failure and lead
to an accident.

Do not release the parking brake
from outside the vehicle.

Do not use the gear shift in place of
the parking brake. When parking, be
sure the parking brake is fully en-
gaged.

Do not leave children unattended in a
vehicle. They could release the park-
ing brake and cause an accident.
WARNING
Do not use the cruise control when driv-
ing under the following conditions:

When it is not possible to keep the
vehicle at a set speed.

In heavy traffic or in traffic that varies
in speed.

On winding or hilly roads.

On slippery roads (rain, snow, ice,
etc.).

In very windy areas.
Doing so could cause a loss of vehicle
control and result in an accident.
CAUTION
On manual transmission models, do not
shift into N (Neutral) without depressing
the clutch pedal when the cruise control
is set. Should this occur, depress the
clutch pedal and turn the main switch
off immediately. Failure to do so maycause engine damage.
PRECAUTIONS ON CRUISE
CONTROL
If the cruise control system malfunctions, it
cancels automatically. The SET indicator light
on the meter panel then blinks to warn the
driver.

If the engine coolant temperature becomes
excessively high, the cruise control system
will be canceled automatically.

If the SET indicator light blinks, turn the
cruise control MAIN (ON⋅OFF) switch off and
have the system checked by a NISSAN
dealer.

The SET indicator light may blink when the
cruise control MAIN switch is turned on while
pushing the RES/ACCEL, COAST/SET, or
CANCEL switch. To properly set the cruise
control system, perform the preceding steps
in the order indicated.
CRUISE CONTROL (if so
equipped)
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Starting and driving


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FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCKTo prevent a door lock from freezing, apply
deicer or glycerin to it through the key hole. If the
lock becomes frozen, heat the key before insert-
ing it into the key hole.ANTI-FREEZEIn the winter when it is anticipated that the
temperature will drop below 32°F (0°C), check
anti-freeze to assure proper winter protection.
For additional information, see “Engine Cooling
System” in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-
yourself” section.BATTERYIf the battery is not fully charged during extremely
cold weather conditions, the battery fluid may
freeze and damage the battery. To maintain
maximum efficiency, the battery should be
checked regularly. For additional information,
see “Battery” in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-
yourself” section.DRAINING OF COOLANT WATERIf the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-
freeze, drain the cooling system by opening the
drain plug located under the radiator. Refill
before operating the vehicle. See “Engine cool-
ing system” in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-
yourself” section for changing engine coolant.
TIRE EQUIPMENT1. SUMMER tires are of a tread design to
provide superior performance on dry pave-
ment. However, the performance of these
tires will be substantially reduced in snowy
and icy conditions. If you operate your vehicle
on snowy or icy roads, NISSAN recommends
the use of MUD & SNOW or ALL SEASON
tires on all four wheels. Consult a NISSAN
dealer for the tire type, size, speed rating and
availability information.
2. For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tires may be used. However, some provinces
and states prohibit their use. Check local,
state and provincial laws before installing
studded tires.
Skid and traction capabilities of stud-
ded snow tires, on wet or dry surfaces,
may be poorer than that of non-studded
snow tires.
3. Tire chains may be used. For details, see
“Tire chains” in the “8. Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section of this manual.
SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENTIt is recommended that the following items be
carried in the vehicle during winter:

a scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove
ice and snow from the windows and wiper
blades.

a sturdy, flat board to be placed under the
jack to give it firm support.

a shovel to dig the vehicle out of snow-drifts.

extra window washer fluid to refill the reser-
voir tank.DRIVING ON SNOW OR ICE
WARNING

Wet ice (32°F, 0°C and freezing rain),
very cold snow or ice can be slick and
very hard to drive on. The vehicle will
have much less traction or “grip” un-
der these conditions. Try to avoid
driving on wet ice until the road is
salted or sanded.

Whatever the condition, drive with
caution. Accelerate and slow down
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
Starting and driving
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with care. If accelerating or down-
shifting too fast, the drive wheels will
lose even more traction.

Allow more stopping distance under
these conditions. Braking should be
started sooner than on dry pavement.

Allow greater following distances on
slippery roads.

Watch for slippery spots (glare ice).
These may appear on an otherwise
clear road in shaded areas. If a patch
of ice is seen ahead, brake before
reaching it. Try not to brake while on
the ice, and avoid any sudden steer-
ing maneuvers.

Do not use cruise control on slippery
roads.

Snow can trap dangerous exhaust
gases under your vehicle. Keep snow
clear of the exhaust pipe and from
around your vehicle.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (if so
equipped)Engine block heaters are available through
NISSAN dealers to assist in cold temperature
starting. The engine block heater should be used
when the outside temperature is 20°F (−7°C) or
lower.
To use the engine block heater:
1. Turn the engine off.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the engine block
heater cord.
3. Plug the engine block heater cord into a
grounded 3-wire, 3-pronged extension cord.
4. Plug the extension cord into a Ground Fault
Interrupt (GFI) protected, grounded 110-volt
AC (VAC) outlet.
5. The engine block heater must be plugged in
for at least2-4hours, depending on outside
temperatures, to properly warm the engine
coolant. Use an appropriate timer to turn the
engine block heater on.
6. Before starting the engine, unplug and prop-
erly store the cord to keep it away from
moving parts.
WARNING

Do not use your engine block heater
with an ungrounded electrical system
or a 2-pronged adapter. You can be
seriously injured by an electrical
shock if you use an ungrounded con-
nection.

Disconnect and properly store the
engine block heater cord before
starting the engine. Damage to the
cord could result in an electrical
shock and can cause serious injury.

Use a heavy-duty 3-wire, 3-pronged
extension cord rated for at least 10 A.
Plug the extension cord into a
Ground Fault Interrupt (GFI) pro-
tected, grounded 110-VAC outlet.
Failure to use the proper extension
cord or a grounded outlet can result
in a fire or electrical shock and cause
serious personal injury.
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Starting and driving


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windows, and move the temperature control
to maximum hot and the fan control to high
speed.
3. If engine overheating is caused by climbing a
long hill on a hot day, run the engine at a fast
idle (approximately 1,500 rpm) until the tem-
perature gauge indication returns to normal.
4. Get out of the vehicle. Look and listen for
steam or coolant escaping from the radiator
before opening the hood. (If steam or coolant
is escaping, turn off the engine.) Do not open
the hood further until no steam or coolant can
be seen.
5. Open the engine hood.
WARNING
If steam or water is coming from the
engine, stand clear to prevent getting
burned.
6. Visually check if the cooling fan is running.
The radiator hoses and radiator should not
leak water.
If coolant is leaking or the cooling fan does
not run, stop the engine.
WARNING

Be careful not to allow your hands,
hair, jewelry or clothing to come into
contact with, or get caught in, engine
belts or the engine cooling fan.

The engine cooling fan can start at
any time when the coolant tempera-
ture is high.
7. After the engine cools down, check the cool-
ant level in the reservoir tank with the engine
running. Add coolant to the reservoir tank if
necessary. Have your vehicle repaired at a
NISSAN dealer.When towing your vehicle, all State (Provincial in
Canada) and local regulations for towing must
be followed. Incorrect towing equipment could
damage your vehicle. Towing instructions are
available from a NISSAN dealer. Local service
operators are generally familiar with the appli-
cable laws and procedures for towing. To assure
proper towing and to prevent accidental damage
to your vehicle, NISSAN recommends having a
service operator tow your vehicle. It is advisable
to have the service operator carefully read the
following precautions.
WARNING

Never ride in a vehicle that is being
towed.

Never get under your vehicle after it
has been lifted by a tow truck.
CAUTION

When towing, make sure that the
transmission, axles, steering system
and powertrain are in working condi-TOWING YOUR VEHICLE
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In case of emergency


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