4WD NISSAN PATHFINDER 1999 R50 / 2.G Owners Manual

Engine oil pressure warning light
Anti-lock brake warning light
(For Canada)
Malfunction indicator light (MIL)
Charge warning light
Automatic transmission park warning light
4WD indicator light
Door open warning light
Automatic transmission oil temperature
warning light
Nissan Communicator redial indicator
light (if so equipped)
Seat belt warning light and chime
Tire carrier open warning light
Nissan Communicator no service indica-
tor light (if so equipped)
Supplemental air bag warning light
Overdrive off indicator light
(Automatic transmission models only)
Nissan Communicator ªMaydayº emer-
gency button indicator light (if so
equipped)
Low washer fluid warning light
(Canada only)
Turn signal/hazard indicator lights
Nissan Communicator ªInformationº but-
ton indicator light (if so equipped)
or
Brake warning light
High beam indicator light
Anti-lock brake warning light
(Except for Canada)
Cruise indicator light
CHECKING BULBSApply the parking brake and turn the ignition
key to ON without starting the engine. The
following lights will come on:
,
,
or
,
,
The following lights come on briefly and then
go off:
,
or
,
,
,
,
,
If any light fails to come on, it may indicate a
burned-out bulb or an open circuit in the elec-
trical system. Have the system repaired
promptly.
WARNING LIGHTS
Engine oil pressure warning
light
This light warns of low engine oil pressure. If
the light flickers or comes on during normal
driving, pull off the road in a safe area, stop the
engineimmediatelyand call a NISSAN dealer
or other authorized repair shop.
WARNING/INDICATOR LIGHTS
AND CHIMES
Instruments and controls
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Operation
The Malfunction indicator light will come on in
one of two ways:
IMalfunction indicator light on steady Ð An
emission control system malfunction has
been detected. Have the vehicle inspected
by an authorized NISSAN dealer. You do
not need to have your vehicle towed to the
dealer.
IMalfunction indicator light blinking Ð An
engine misfire has been detected which
may damage the emission control system.
To reduce or avoid emission control system
damage:
* 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 cargo
being hauled or towed.
The malfunction indicator light may stop blink-
ing and come on steady.
Have the vehicle inspected by an authorized
NISSAN dealer. You do not need to have your
vehicle towed to the dealer.
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.
4WD indicator light
This light comes on when the transfer shift
control lever is in the 4H or 4L position.
Nissan Communicator redial
indicator light (if so equipped)
After turning the ignition key to the ON posi-
tion, the redial indicator light will illuminate for
up to 30 seconds and then turn off.
This indicator light comes on when the initial
connection is not successful. The Nissan
Communicator is attempting to redial to con-
tact the Communicator Response Center. The
redial indicator may blink before the button
indicator blinks. See ªNissan Communicatorº
later in this section.
Nissan Communicator no
service indicator light (if so
equipped)
After turning the ignition key to the ON posi-
tion, the no service indicator light will illuminate
for up to 30 seconds and then turn off.
This indicator light comes on when the cellular
phone is outside of cellular phone transmis-
sion range. The Nissan Communicator will not
be able to contact the Communicator Re-
sponse Center. See ªNissan Communicatorº
later in this section.
Nissan Communicator
ªMaydayº emergency button
indicator light (if so equipped)
After turning the ignition key to the ON posi-
tion, the ªMaydayº emergency button indicator
light will illuminate for up to 30 seconds and
then turn off if the system is operational.
This button indicator light comes on when the
ªMaydayº emergency button is pressed. When
the light is blinking, Nissan Communicator is
trying to acquire an available cellular channel.
When the light is ON, the system is connected
to a cell and is communicating information to
the Communicator Response Center. See
ªNissan Communicatorº later in this section.
Instruments and controls
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5 Starting and drivingPrecautions when starting and driving ...................... 5-2
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) .............................. 5-2
Three way catalyst .................................................... 5-3
On-pavement and offroad driving precautions.......... 5-3
Avoiding collision and rollover................................... 5-4
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving ............................ 5-4
Driving safety precautions ......................................... 5-4
Ignition switch............................................................ 5-6
Manual transmission ................................................. 5-6
Automatic transmission ............................................. 5-7
Key positions ............................................................. 5-7
Nissan vehicle immobiliser system ........................... 5-8
Before starting the engine ......................................... 5-8
Starting the engine .................................................... 5-8
Driving the vehicle ..................................................... 5-9
Automatic transmission ............................................. 5-9
Manual transmission ............................................... 5-13
Parking brake .......................................................... 5-15
Cruise control (if so equipped) ................................ 5-16
Precautions on cruise control.................................. 5-16Cruise control operations ........................................ 5-17
Break-in schedule ................................................... 5-18
Increasing fuel economy ......................................... 5-19
Using four wheel drive (4WD) ................................. 5-19
Transfer case shifting procedures........................... 5-21
Parking/parking on hills ........................................... 5-23
Power steering ........................................................ 5-24
Brake system .......................................................... 5-25
Braking precautions ................................................ 5-25
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) ................................. 5-25
Cold weather driving ............................................... 5-27
Freeing a frozen door lock ...................................... 5-27
Anti-freeze ............................................................... 5-27
Battery ..................................................................... 5-27
Draining of coolant water ........................................ 5-27
Tire equipment ........................................................ 5-27
Special winter equipment ........................................ 5-28
Driving on snow or ice ............................................ 5-28
Engine block heater (if so equipped) ...................... 5-28
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IMany hills are too steep for any ve-
hicle. If you drive up them, you may
stall. If you drive down them, you may
not be able to control your speed. If
you drive across them, you may roll
over.
IStay alert when driving to the top of a
hill. At the top there could be a drop-
off or other hazard that could cause
an accident.
IIf your engine stalls or you cannot
make it to the top of a steep hill, never
attempt to turn around. Your vehicle
could tip or roll over. Always back
straight down in reverse gear. Never
back down in neutral (N) or with the
clutch depressed, using only the
brake, as this could cause loss of
control.
IHeavy braking going down a hill
could cause your brakes to overheat
and fade, resulting in loss of control
and an accident. Apply brakes lightly
and use a low gear to control your
speed.
IUnsecured cargo can be thrownaround when driving over rough ter-
rain. Properly secure it so that it will
not be thrown forward and cause in-
jury to you or your passengers.
IAvoid raising the center of gravity by
loading things on the roof or equip-
ping the vehicle with tires larger than
specified in this manual. This could
cause your vehicle to rollover. Put
heavy loads in the cargo area as far
forward and as low as possible.
IDo not grip the inside or spokes of
the steering wheel when driving of-
froad. The steering wheel could jerk
and injure your hands. Instead drive
with your fingers and thumbs on the
outside of the rim.
IBefore operating the vehicle, ensure
that the driver and all passengers
have their seat belts fastened.
IAlways drive with the floor mats in
place as the floor may become very
hot.
ILower your speed when encounter-
ing strong crosswinds. With its
higher center of gravity, your NISSANis more affected by gusty side winds.
Slower speeds ensure better vehicle
control.
IDo not drive beyond the performance
of the tires even with 4WD.
Accelerating quickly, sharp steering
maneuvers or sudden braking may
cause loss of control.
IInstall the same size of winter tires on
all four wheels (such as studless
tires) or install tire chains to the rear
wheels when driving on slippery
roads (for example, after a snow) and
drive carefully using 4WD.
IBe sure to check the brakes immedi-
ately after driving in mud or water.
See ªBrake systemº later in this sec-
tion for wet brakes.
IAvoid parking your vehicle on steep
hills. If you get out of the vehicle and
it rolls forward, backward or side-
ways, you could be injured.
IWhenever you drive offroad through
sand, mud or water as deep as the
wheel hub, more frequent mainte-
Starting and driving
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IAccelerate slowly and smoothly. Maintain
cruising speeds with a constant accelerator
position.
IDrive at moderate speeds on the highway.
Driving at high speed will lower fuel
economy.
IAvoid unnecessary stopping and braking.
Maintain a safe distance behind other ve-
hicles.
IUse a proper gear range which suits road
conditions. On level roads, shift into high
gear as soon as possible.
IAvoid unnecessary engine idling.IKeep your engine tuned up.
IFollow the recommended periodic mainte-
nance schedule.
IKeep the tires inflated at the correct pres-
sure. Low pressure will increase tire wear
and waste fuel.
IKeep the front wheels in correct alignment.
Improper alignment will cause increased
tire wear and lower fuel economy.
IAir conditioner operation lowers fuel
economy. Use the air conditioner only when
necessary.
IWhen cruising at highway speeds, it is
more economical to use the air conditioner
and leave the windows closed to reduce
drag.
I
Use 4H or 4L position only when neces-
sary. Four wheel drive operation lowers fuel
economy.2HÐ (2WD, high range) Only the rear wheels
are driven. Use when driving under the same
conditions as standard 2WD vehicle.
4HÐ (4WD, high range) Four wheels are
driven. Use when driving on roads where it is
difficult to drive in the 2H position (i.e., driving
at normal speeds on snow covered, icy, wet,
muddy or sandy roads).
The 4H position provides maximum power
and traction. Avoid excessive speed, as it
will cause loss of traction. Speed over 50
MPH (80 km/h) in 4H is not recommend.
4LÐ (4WD, low range) Four wheels are
SD0001
SSD0128
INCREASING FUEL ECONOMY
USING FOUR WHEEL DRIVE
(4WD)
Starting and driving
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models, they must also be the same size,
brand, construction and tread pattern on all
four wheels.
If you operate your vehicle in snowy or icy
conditions, NISSAN recommends the use of
SNOW or ALL SEASON tire on all four wheels.
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 studded
snow tires, on wet or dry surfaces, may be
poorer than that of non-studded snow tires.TIRE CHAINSUse of tire chains is 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 installed according to the
chain manufacturer's suggestions.Use only
SAE class S chains.Other types may dam-
age your vehicle. Use chain tensioners when
recommended by the tire chain manufacturer
to ensure a tight fit. Loose end links of the tire
chain must be secured or removed to prevent
the possibility of whipping action damage to
the fenders or underbody. If possible, 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 affected.
Do not use tire chains on dry roads.
Tire chains must be installed only on the
rear wheels and not on the front wheels.
Do not drive with tire chains on paved roads
which are clear of snow. Driving with chains in
such conditions can cause damage to the
various mechanisms of the vehicle due to
some overstress. When driving on clear paved
roads, be sure to change to 2WD.
CHANGING TIRES AND WHEELS
Tire rotationNISSAN recommends that tires be rotated
every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) for 2WD ve-
hicles and 3,750 miles (6,000 km) for 4WD
vehicles. However, the timing for tire rotation
may vary according to your driving habits and
road surface conditions.
See ªFlat tireº in the ª6. In case of emergencyº
section for tire replacing procedures.
SDI0724
8-28
Do-it-yourself
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Wheel nuts*:
When checking the tires, make sure no nuts
are missing, and check for any loose nuts.
Tighten if necessary.
Tire rotation*:
Tires should be rotated every 7,500 miles
(12,000 km) for 2WD vehicles and 3,750 miles
(6,000 km) for 4WD vehicles. However, the
timing for tire rotation may vary according to
your driving habits and road surface condi-
tions.
Wheel alignment and balance:
If the vehicle should pull to either side while
driving on a straight and level road, or if you
detect uneven or abnormal tire wear, there
may be a need for wheel alignment.
If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at normal
highway speeds, wheel balancing may be
needed.
Windshield wiper blades*:
Check for cracks or wear if they do not wipe
properly.
Doors and engine hood:
Check that all doors and the engine hood,
operate properly. Also ensure that all latches
lock securely. Lubricate hinges, latches, rollersand links if necessary. Make sure that the
secondary latch keeps the hood from opening
when the primary latch is released.
When driving in areas using road salt or other
corrosive materials, check lubrication fre-
quently.
Inside the vehicleLights*:
Make sure that the headlights, stop lights, tail
lights, turn signal lights, and other lights are all
operating properly and installed securely. Also
check headlight aim.INTERIOR MAINTENANCEThe maintenance items listed here should be
checked on a regular basis, such as when
performing periodic maintenance, cleaning the
vehicle, etc.
Warning lights and chimes:
Make sure that all warning lights and chimes
are operating properly.
Windshield wiper and washer*:
Check that the wipers and washer operate
properly and that the wipers do not streak.Windshield defroster:
Check that the air comes out of the defroster
outlets properly and in sufficient quantity when
operating the heater or air conditioner.
Steering wheel:
Check for changes in the steering conditions,
such as excessive freeplay, hard steering or
strange noises.
Seats:
Check seat position controls such as seat
adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to ensure
they operate smoothly and that all latches lock
securely in every position. Check that the head
restraints move up and down smoothly and
that the locks (if so equipped) hold securely in
all latched positions.
Seat belts:
Check that all parts of the seat belt system
(e.g. buckles, anchors, adjusters and retrac-
tors) operate properly and smoothly, and are
installed securely. Check the belt webbing for
cuts, fraying, wear or damage.
Accelerator pedal:
Check the pedal for smooth operation and
make sure the pedal does not catch or require
Maintenance
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Child safety ..................................................... 1-24
Child safety rear door lock................................ 3-4
Chimes ............................................................ 2-14
Cigarette lighter (accessory) and ashtray....... 2-25
Circuit breaker, Fusible link ............................ 8-21
Cleaning exterior and interior ........................... 7-3
Clutch
Clutch pedal .............................................. 8-20
Fluid ........................................................... 8-11
Cold weather driving ....................................... 5-27
Compact Disc (CD) player (See audio
system) ........................................................... 4-23
Compact disc (CD) player operation .............. 4-12
Compass display .............................................. 2-7
Console box .................................................... 2-28
Controls
Audio controls............................................ 4-12
Audio controls (rear).................................. 4-12
Audio controls (steering wheel)................. 4-12
Heater and air conditioner controls ............. 4-3
Heater and air conditioner controls
(automatic)................................................... 4-9
Coolant
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................... 10-2
Changing engine coolant ............................ 8-5
Checking engine coolant level .................... 8-4
Corrosion protection ......................................... 7-4
Cruise control.................................................. 5-16
Cup holders .................................................... 2-26
DDaytime running light system ......................... 2-20Defogger switch, Glass hatch and outside mirror
defogger switch............................................... 2-18
Dimensions and weights ............................... 10-10
Door ajar warning light.................................... 2-10
Drive belts ....................................................... 8-14
Driving
Cold weather driving ................................. 5-27
Driving with manual transmission ............. 5-13
On-pavement and offroad driving ............... 5-3
Precautions when starting and driving ........ 5-2
E
Economy, Fuel ................................................ 5-19
Emission control information label ................ 10-12
Emission control system warranty ................ 10-18
Engine
Before starting the engine ........................... 5-8
Block heater .............................................. 5-28
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................... 10-2
Changing engine coolant ............................ 8-5
Changing engine oil .................................... 8-8
Changing engine oil filter ............................ 8-9
Checking engine coolant ............................. 8-4
Checking engine oil level ............................ 8-7
Coolant temperature gauge ........................ 2-4
Engine compartment check locations ......... 8-3
Engine cooling system ................................ 8-4
Engine oil..................................................... 8-7
Engine oil and oil filter recommendation... 10-6
Engine oil viscosity .................................... 10-6
Engine serial number .............................. 10-12
Engine specifications................................. 10-9If your engine overheats ........................... 6-10
Starting the engine ...................................... 5-8
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) ...................... 5-2
F
F.M.V.S.S. certification label......................... 10-12
Filter, Air cleaner housing filter ....................... 8-16
Flashers (See hazard warning flasher
switch) ............................................................. 2-22
Flat tire .............................................................. 6-2
Floor mat cleaning ............................................ 7-4
Fluid
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) ............. 8-9
Brake and clutch fluid................................ 8-11
Brake fluid ................................................. 8-11
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................... 10-2
Engine coolant............................................. 8-4
Engine oil..................................................... 8-7
Power steering fluid................................... 8-11
Window washer fluid ................................. 8-12
Fog light switch ............................................... 2-22
Four wheel drive (4WD).................................. 5-19
Front manual seat adjustment .......................... 1-2
Fuel
Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants ................................................... 10-2
Filler cap .................................................... 3-13
Filler lid ...................................................... 3-12
Filler lid and cap ........................................ 3-12
Filler lid opener lever................................. 3-12
Fuel economy ............................................ 5-19
Fuel octane rating ..................................... 10-4
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