window NISSAN MAXIMA 1997 A32 / 4.G Owner's Manual

Tire equipment
1. 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 rec-
ommends the use on all four wheels of
MUD & SNOW or ALL SEASON tires.
Please consult your 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 prov-
inces and states prohibit their use. Check
local, state and provincial laws before in-
stalling studded tires.
Skid and traction capabilities of studded
snow tires, on wet or dry surfaces, may be
poorer than that of non-studded snow tires.
3. Tire chains may be used if desired. Make
sure they are of proper size for the tires on
your vehicle and are installed according to
the chain manufacturer's suggestions. Use
of tire chains may be prohibited according
to location. Check the local laws before
installing tire chains. When installing tire
chains, make sure they are of proper size
for the tires on your vehicle and are in-stalled according to the chain manufactur-
er's suggestions.Use only SAE Class ªSº
chains.Other types may damage your
vehicle. Use chain tensioners when recom-
mended by the tire chain manufacturer to
ensure a tight fit. Loose end links of the tire
chain must be secured or removed to pre-
vent the possibility of whipping action dam-
age to the fenders or underbody. If pos-
sible, avoid fully loading your vehicle when
using tire chains. In addition, drive at a
reduced speed. Otherwise, your vehicle
may be damaged and/or vehicle handling
and performance may be adversely af-
fected.
Never install tire chains on a T-type spare
tire. Do not use tire chains on dry roads.
Special winter equipment
It is recommended that the following items be
carried in the vehicle during winter:
1. A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove
ice and snow from the windows and wiper
blades.
2. A sturdy, flat board to be placed under the
jack to give it firm support.
3. A shovel to dig the vehicle out of snow-
drifts.4. Extra window washer fluid to refill the res-
ervoir tank.
Driving on snow or ice
IWet ice (32ÉF, 0ÉC and freezing rain),
very cold snow or ice can be slick and
very hard to drive on. The vehicle will
have a lot less traction or ªgripº un-
der these conditions. Try to avoid
driving on wet ice until the road is
salted or sanded.
IWhatever the condition, drive with
caution. Accelerate and slow down
with care gently. If accelerating or
downshifting too fast, the drive
wheels will lose even more traction.
IAllow more stopping distance under
these conditions. Braking should be
started sooner than on dry pavement.
IAllow greater following distances on
slippery roads.
IWatch for slippery spots (glare ice).
These may appear on an otherwise
clear road in shaded areas. If a patch
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7. After starting your engine, carefully discon-
nect the negative cable and then the posi-
tive cable.
8. Replace the vent caps (if so equipped). Be
sure to dispose of the cloth used to cover
the vent holes as it may be contaminated
with corrosive acid.
IAutomatic transmission models can-
not be push started. This may cause
transmission damage.
IThree-way catalyst equipped models
should not be started by pushing
since the three-way catalyst may be
damaged.
INever try to start the vehicle by tow-
ing it; when the engine starts, the
forward surge could cause the ve-
hicle to collide with the tow vehicle.
If your vehicle is overheating (indicated by an
extremely high temperature gauge reading), or
if you feel a lack of engine power, detect
abnormal noise, etc., take the following steps:
IDo not continue to drive if your ve-
hicle overheats. Doing so could
cause a vehicle fire.
ITo avoid the danger of being scalded,
never remove the radiator cap while
the engine is still hot. When the radia-
tor cap is removed, pressurized hot
water will spurt out, possibly causing
serious injury.
IDo not open the hood if steam is
coming out.
1. Move the vehicle safely off the road, apply
the parking brake and move the gearshift
lever to neutral (automatic transmission to
ªPº).
Do not stop the engine.
2. Turn off the air conditioner switch. Open all
the windows, move the heater or air condi-
tioner temperature control to ªmaximum
PUSH STARTING IF YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS
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dealer can assist you in choosing the proper
product.
IWax your vehicle only after a thorough
washing. Follow the instructions supplied
with the wax.
IDo not use a wax containing any abrasives,
cutting compounds or cleaners that may
damage the vehicle finish.
IIf the surface does not polish easily, use a
ªroad tarº remover and wax again.
Machine compounding or aggressive pol-
ishing on a base coat/clear coat paint finish
may dull the finish or leave swirl marks.
Removing spots
Remove tar and oil spots, industrial dust, in-
sects, and tree sap as quickly as possible from
the surface of the paint to avoid lasting dam-
age or staining. Special cleaning products are
available at your NISSAN dealer or any auto-
motive accessory store.
Underbody
In areas where road salt is used in winter, the
underbody must be cleaned regularly. This will
prevent dirt and salt from building up and
causing underbody and suspension corrosion.
Before the winter period and again in the
spring, the underseal must be checked and, if
necessary, re-treated.
Cleaning glass
When cleaning the rear window, it may be
easier to clean if the high-mounted stop light is
removed first.
Be careful when removing the high-mounted
stop light to reduce the risk of damaging the
high-mounted stop light wires.
The high-mounted stop light must be properly
reinstalled before driving your vehicle.
Use glass cleaner to remove smoke and dust
film from the glass surfaces. It is normal for
glass to become coated with a film after the
vehicle is parked in the hot sun. Glass cleaner
SAI0014
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Z01.2.1/A32-DX

and a soft cloth will easily remove this film.
When cleaning the inside of the window,
do not use sharp-edged tools, abrasive
cleaners or chlorine based disinfectant
cleaners. They could damage the rear
window defogger.
Cleaning aluminum alloy wheels
Wash regularly, especially during winter
months in areas where road salt is used. Saltcould discolor the wheel if not removed.
Chrome parts
Clean all chrome parts regularly with a non-
abrasive chrome polish to maintain the finish.
Cleaning interior
Occasionally remove loose dust from the inte-
rior trim, plastic parts and seats using a
vacuum cleaner or soft brush. Wipe the vinyl
and leather surfaces with a clean, soft cloth
dampened in mild soap solution, then wipe
clean with a dry soft cloth. Before using any
fabric protector, read the manufacturer's rec-
ommendations. Some fabric protectors con-
tain chemicals that may stain or bleach the
seat material.
INever use benzine, thinner, or any
similar material.
IThe leather seats should be regularly
coated with a leather wax like saddle
soap. Never use car wax.
INever use fabric protectors unless
recommended by the manufacturer.
SAI0002A
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7 Do-it-yourself operations
Maintenance precautions .......................................... 7-2
Engine cooling system .............................................. 7-5
Engine oil .................................................................. 7-7
Automatic transmission fluid ................................... 7-10
Power steering fluid ................................................ 7-11
Brake and clutch fluid ............................................. 7-12
Window washer fluid ............................................... 7-12
Battery ..................................................................... 7-13
Drive belts ............................................................... 7-15
Spark plug replacement .......................................... 7-15
Air cleaner filter ....................................................... 7-17
Wiper blades ........................................................... 7-18
Parking brake .......................................................... 7-19
Brake pedal ............................................................. 7-20
Brake booster .......................................................... 7-21
Clutch pedal ............................................................ 7-21
Fuses....................................................................... 7-21
Fusible links ............................................................ 7-23
Light bulbs ............................................................... 7-23
Wheels and tires ..................................................... 7-30
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Check the fluid level in the reservoir. If the fluid
is below the Min. line or the brake warning light
comes on, addDOT 3fluid up to the Max. line.
If fluid must be added frequently, the system
should be thoroughly checked by your NIS-
SAN dealer.
Use only new fluid. Old, inferior, or con-
taminated fluid may damage the brake
and clutch systems. The use of im-
proper fluids can damage the brake sys-
tem and affect the vehicle's stoppingability.
Do not spill the fluid on painted sur-
faces. This will damage the paint. If fluid
is spilled, wash with water.
Type A
Add fluid when the low washer fluid warning
light comes on. Add a washer solvent to the
water for better cleaning. In the winter season,
add a windshield washer anti-freeze. Follow
the manufacturer's instructions for the mixture
ratio.
SDI0119SDI0189
BRAKE AND CLUTCH FLUID WINDOW WASHER FLUID
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Type B
To check the fluid level, use your finger to plug
the center hole of the cap (as shown above),
then remove it from the tank. If there is no fluid
in the tube, add fluid. Add a washer solvent to
the water for better cleaning. In the winter
season, add a windshield washer anti-freeze.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the
mixture ratio.
Anti-freeze is poisonous and should be
stored carefully in marked containers
out of the reach of children.
Do not substitute engine anti-freeze
coolant for window washer solution.
This may result in damage to the paint.
IKeep the battery surface clean and dry. Any
corrosion should be washed off with a
solution of baking soda and water.
IMake certain the terminal connections are
clean and securely tightened.
IIf the vehicle is not to be used for 30 days or
longer, disconnect the ªÐº negative battery
terminal cable to prevent discharge.
IDo not expose the battery to flames
or electrical sparks. Hydrogen gas
generated by battery action is explo-
sive. Do not allow battery fluid to
contact your skin, eyes, fabrics, or
painted surfaces. After touching a
battery or battery cap, do not touch or
rub your eyes. Thoroughly wash your
hands. If the acid contacts your eyes,
skin or clothing, immediately flush
with water for at least 15 minutes and
seek medical attention.
IWhen working on or near a battery,
always wear suitable eye protection
and remove all jewelry.
IKeep the battery out of the reach of
SDI0497
BATTERY
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wheels and applying the parking brake,
transmission damage could occur.
IWhen going down a hill, shift into a lower
gear and use the engine braking effect.
When ascending a long grade, downshift
the transmission to a lower gear and reduce
speed to reduce chances of engine over-
loading and/or overheating.
IIf the engine coolant rises to an extremely
high temperature when the air conditioning
system is on, turn off the air conditioner.
Coolant heat can be additionally vented by
opening the windows, switching the fan
control to high and setting the temperature
control to the ªHOTº position.
ITrailer towing requires more fuel than nor-
mal circumstances.
IAvoid towing a trailer for the first 500 miles
(800 km).
IHave your vehicle serviced more often than
at intervals specified in the recommended
Maintenance Schedule.
IWhen making a turn, your trailer wheels will
be closer to the inside of the turn than your
vehicle wheels. To compensate for this,
make a larger than normal turning radius
during the turn.ICrosswinds and rough roads will adversely
affect vehicle/trailer handling, possibly
causing vehicle sway. When being passed
by larger vehicles, be prepared for possible
changes in crosswinds that could affect
vehicle handling. If swaying does occur,
firmly grip the steering wheel, steer straight
ahead, and immediately (but gradually) re-
duce vehicle speed. This combination will
help stabilize the vehicle. Never increase
speed.
IBe careful when passing other vehicles.
Passing while towing a trailer requires con-
siderably more distance than normal pass-
ing. Remember the length of the trailer
must also pass the other vehicle before you
can safely change lanes.
ITo maintain engine braking efficiency and
electrical charging performance, do not use
fifth gear (manual transmission) or over-
drive (automatic transmission).
IAvoid holding the brake pedal down too
long or too frequently. This could cause the
brakes to overheat, resulting in reduced
braking efficiency.
When towing a trailer, change oil in the
transmission more frequently.
See the Maintenance schedule.
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10 Index
A
Air bag system (See ªSupplemental restraint
systemº) .......................................................... 2-17
Air bag warning light (See ªSupplemental air bag
warning lightº) ................................................. 2-22
Air cleaner filter ............................................... 7-17
Air conditioner
Air conditioner operation ............................. 3-5
Air conditioner specification label.............. 9-12
Automatic air conditioner (If so equipped) .. 3-9
Air conditioning system refrigerant and lubricant
recommendations ............................................. 9-6
Air flow chart ..................................................... 3-6
Antenna........................................................... 3-28
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) (If so equipped) .. 4-
18
Audio main operation ...................................... 3-23
Automatic
Automatic air conditioner (If so equipped) .. 3-9
Automatic transmission fluid ..................... 7-10
Driving with automatic transmission............ 4-7
Avoiding collision and rollover .......................... 4-3
B
Battery............................................................. 7-13
Battery replacement.......................................... 2-7
Before starting the engine ................................ 4-6Brake
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) (If so
equipped)................................................... 4-18
Brake and clutch fluid................................ 7-12
Brake booster ............................................ 7-21
Brake pedal ............................................... 7-20
Brake system............................................. 4-17
Brake wear indicators ........................ 1-9, 7-20
Parking brake ................................... 4-12, 7-19
Break-in schedule ........................................... 4-15
C
Capacities and recommended fuel/lubricants... 9-2
Cargo (See ªVehicle loading
information) ..................................................... 9-13
Cassette tape player operation....................... 3-25
CB radio or car phone .................................... 3-29
Changing
Changing engine coolant ............................ 7-6
Changing engine oil .................................... 7-8
Changing oil filter ........................................ 7-9
Checking engine coolant level .......................... 7-5
Checking engine oil level .................................. 7-7
Child restraints for infants and small children .... 2-
31
Child safety rear door lock................................ 2-3
Cigarette lighter and ash trays ....................... 1-17
Cleaning exterior and interior ........................... 6-2
Clearing the programming information ........... 1-26Clock ............................................................... 1-22
Clutch pedal .................................................... 7-21
Cold weather driving ....................................... 4-19
Compact disc (CD) player operation .............. 3-26
Controls............................................................. 3-3
Coolant
Changing engine coolant ............................ 7-6
Checking engine coolant level .................... 7-5
Engine coolant temperature gauge ............. 1-4
Corrosion protection ......................................... 6-5
Cruise control.................................................. 4-13
Cup holder ...................................................... 1-19
D
Defogger switch
Rear window and outside mirror defogger
switch......................................................... 1-13
Dimensions and weights ................................... 9-9
Door lock operation .......................................... 2-6
Door locks ......................................................... 2-2
Door unlock operation ...................................... 2-6
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving ................... 4-4
Drive belts ....................................................... 7-15
Driving
Cold weather driving ................................. 4-19
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving .............. 4-4
Driving with automatic transmission............ 4-7
Driving with manual transmission ............. 4-10
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Precautions when starting and driving ........ 4-2
E
Economy hints ................................................ 4-15
Emission control information label .................. 9-11
Emission control system warranty .................. 9-19
Engine ............................................................... 9-8
Before starting the engine ........................... 4-6
Changing engine coolant ............................ 7-6
Changing engine oil .................................... 7-8
Checking engine coolant level .................... 7-5
Checking engine oil level ............................ 7-7
Engine coolant temperature gauge ............. 1-4
Engine cooling system ................................ 7-5
Engine oil..................................................... 7-7
Engine oil and oil filter
recommendation .......................................... 9-4
Engine serial number ................................ 9-11
Starting the engine ...................................... 4-6
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) ...................... 4-2
Explanation of maintenance items.................. 8-10
F
Flat tire .............................................................. 5-2
Fluid
Automatic transmission fluid ..................... 7-10
Brake and clutch fluid................................ 7-12
Power steering fluid................................... 7-11
Window washer fluid ................................. 7-12
FM/AM radio with cassette player .................. 3-12
FM-AM radio with cassette player .................. 3-16FM-AM radio with cassette player and
compact disc player ........................................ 3-22
F.M.V.S.S. certification label........................... 9-11
Foldable outside mirrors ................................. 2-39
Front fog light switch (If so equipped) ............ 1-15
Front personal light ......................................... 1-23
Fuel
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants .............................................. 9-2
Fuel filler cap ............................................. 2-10
Fuel filler lid lock ....................................... 2-10
Fuel gauge .................................................. 1-5
Fuel recommendation.................................. 9-2
Fuses .............................................................. 7-21
Fusible links .................................................... 7-23
G
Gauge
Engine coolant temperature gauge ............. 1-4
Fuel gauge .................................................. 1-5
Meters and gauges ..................................... 1-3
General maintenance ....................................... 8-3
Glove box lock .................................................. 2-8
H
Hazard warning flasher switch........................ 1-16
Head restraint ................................................. 2-15
Headlight and turn signal switch..................... 1-14
Headlights ....................................................... 7-23
Heated seats (If so equipped) ........................ 1-16
Heater operation ............................................... 3-4Hood release .................................................... 2-8
I
If your vehicle is ever stolen ........................... 1-26
If your vehicle overheats .................................. 5-9
Ignition switch ................................................... 4-4
Injured persons ............................................... 2-26
Inside mirror .................................................... 2-40
Installing license plate .................................... 9-12
Instrument brightness control ......................... 1-15
Integrated HomeLink
transmitter
(If so equipped).......................................... 1-24
Interior light ..................................................... 1-22
J
Jump starting ........................................... 5-7, 7-14
K
Key .................................................................... 2-2
L
License plate
Installing license plate ............................... 9-12
Light
Front fog light switch (If so
equipped)................................................... 1-15
Front personal light ................................... 1-23
Headlight and turn signal switch ............... 1-14
Headlights.................................................. 7-23
Interior light................................................ 1-22
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Z01.2.1/A32-DX