check engine NISSAN 350Z 2003 Z33 User Guide

The front seats are warmed by built-in heaters.
The switches located on the center console can
be operated independently of each other.
1. Start the engine.
2. Select heat range.
IFor low heat, press the
(Low) side
of the switch.
IFor high heat, press the(High) side
of the switch.
IFor no heat, the switch has a center OFF
position between low and high.
The indicator light in the switch will illuminatewhen low or high is selected.
The heater is controlled by a thermostat,
automatically turning the heater on and off.
The indicator light will remain on as long as
the switch is on.
3. When the vehicle's interior is warmed, or
before you leave the vehicle, be sure to turn
the switch to the OFF position (center).
CAUTION
IThe battery could run down if the
seat heater is operated while the en-
gine is not running.
IDo not use the seat heater for ex-
tended periods or when no one is
using the seat.
IDo not put anything on the seat
which insulates heat, such as a blan-
ket, cushion, seat cover, etc. Other-
wise, the seat may become over-
heated.
IDo not place anything hard or heavy
on the seat or pierce it with a pin or
similar object. This may result indamage to the heater.
IAny liquid spilled on the heated seat
should be removed immediately with
a dry cloth.
IWhen cleaning the seat, never use
gasoline, thinner, or any similar ma-
terials.
IIf any abnormalities are found or the
heated seat does not operate, turn
the switch off and have the system
checked by your NISSAN dealer.
SIC1966
HEATED SEATS (if so equipped)
Instruments and controls
2-25
Z
02.9.13/Z33-D/V5.0
X

could void the user's authority to operate
the equipment. This device complies with
Part 15 of the FCC Rules and RSS-210 of
Industry Canada. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) This de-
vice may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any inter-
ference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation of the
device.
1. Pull the hood lock release handle
q1
located
below the instrument panel; the hood will
then spring up slightly.
2. Raise the lever
q2
at the front of the hood
with your fingertips and raise the hood.
3. Insert the assist bar into the slot
q3
in the
front edge of the hood.
4. When closing the hood, reset the assist bar
to its original position, then slowly close the
hood and make sure it locks into place.
WARNING
IMake sure the hood is completely
closed and latched before driving.
Failure to do so could cause the hood
to fly open and result in an accident.
IIf you see steam or smoke coming
from the engine compartment, to
avoid injury do not open the hood.
SPA1506
HOOD
3-8
Pre-driving checks and adjustments
Z
02.9.13/Z33-D/V5.0
X

FUEL FILLER CAPThe fuel filler cap is a ratcheting type. Tighten the
cap clockwise until ratcheting clicks are heard.
Hang the string of the cap on the hook as shown
while refueling.
WARNING
IGasoline is extremely flammable and
highly explosive under certain condi-
tions. You could be burned or seri-
ously injured if it is misused ormishandled. Always stop the engine
and do not smoke or allow open
flames or sparks near the vehicle
when refueling.
IFuel may be under pressure. Turn the
cap a quarter turn, and wait for any
hissing sound to stop to prevent fuel
from spraying out and possible per-
sonal injury. Then remove the cap.
IDo not attempt to top off the fuel
tank after the fuel pump nozzle shutsoff automatically.
Continued refueling may cause fuel
overflow, resulting in fuel spray and
possibly a fire.
IUse only an original equipment type
fuel filler cap as a replacement. It has
a built-in safety valve needed for
proper operation of the fuel system
and emission control system. An in-
correct cap can result in a serious
malfunction and possible injury. It
could also cause the
malfunc-
tion indicator lamp to come on.
IDo not fill a portable fuel container in
the vehicle or trailer. Static electricity
can cause an explosion of flammable
liquid, vapor or gas in any vehicle or
trailer. To reduce the risk of serious
injury or death when filling portable
fuel containers:
Ð Always place the container on the
ground when filling.
Ð Do not use electronic devices
while filling.
SPA1509
Pre-driving checks and adjustments
3-11
Z
02.9.13/Z33-D/V5.0
X

d. You have had an accident involv-
ing damage to the exhaust system,
underbody, or rear of the vehicle.
THREE WAY CATALYSTThe three way catalyst is an emission control
device installed in the exhaust system. Exhaust
gases in the converter are burned at high tem-
peratures to help reduce pollutants.
WARNING
IThe exhaust gas and the exhaust sys-
tem are very hot. Keep people, ani-
mals or flammable materials away
from the exhaust system compo-
nents.
IDo not stop or park the vehicle over
flammable materials such as dry
grass, waste paper or rags. They may
ignite and cause a fire.
CAUTION
IDo not use leaded gasoline. Deposits
from leaded gasoline seriously re-
duce the three way catalyst's ability
to help reduce exhaust pollutants.
IKeep your engine tuned up. Malfunc-
tions in the ignition, fuel injection, or
electrical systems can cause overrich
fuel flow into the three way catalyst,
causing it to overheat. Do not keep
driving if the engine misfires, or if
noticeable loss of performance or
other unusual operating conditions
are detected. Have the vehicle in-
spected promptly by a NISSAN
dealer.
IAvoid driving with an extremely low
fuel level. Running out of fuel could
cause the engine to misfire, damag-
ing the three way catalyst.
IDo not race the engine while warm-
ing it up.
IDo not push or tow your vehicle to
start the engine.
LOW TIRE PRESSURE WARNING
SYSTEM (if so equipped)The low tire pressure warning system displays
pressure of all tires (except the spare tire) on the
trip computer by sending a signal from a sensor
that is installed in each wheel.
The low tire pressure warning system will acti-
vate only when the vehicle is driven at speeds
above 20 MPH (32 km/h). Also, this system may
not detect a sudden drop in tire pressure (for
example, a flat tire by catching something while
driving).
Frequently check the tire pressure indicator on
the trip computer and adjust pressure of each
tire properly. See ªTrip computerº in the ª2.
Instruments and controlsº section for the tire
pressure indicator.Flat tire warningIf the vehicle is being driven with a flat tire or
extremely low tire pressure (lower than 28 psi),
the low tire pressure warning light comes on,
and the chime sounds for about 10 seconds. On
the trip computer, the PSI indicator starts flash-
ing and the current display switches to the tire
pressure indicator.
For additional information regarding the above
warning, see ªTrip computerº and
Starting and driving
5-3
Z
02.9.13/Z33-D/V5.0
X

IMake sure the area around the vehicle is
clear.
IMaintenance items should be checked peri-
odically, for example, each time you check
engine oil.
ICheck that all windows and lights are clean.
IVisually inspect tires for their appearance and
condition. Also, check tires for proper infla-
tion.
ILock all doors.
IPosition seat and adjust head restraints.
IAdjust inside and outside mirrors.
IFasten seat belts and ask all passengers to
do likewise.
ICheck the operation of warning lights when
key is turned to the ON (3) position.1. Apply the parking brake.
2.Automatic transmission:
Move the selector lever to P (Park) or N
(Neutral). (P preferred.)
The starter is designed not to operate if the
selector lever is in one of the driving posi-
tions.
Manual transmission:
Move the shift lever to N (Neutral) position,
and depress the clutch pedal to the floor
while cranking the engine.
The starter is designed not to operate unless
the clutch pedal is fully depressed.
3. Crank the enginewith your foot off the
accelerator pedalby turning the ignition
key to START. Release the key when the
engine starts. If the engine starts, but fails to
run, repeat the above procedure.
IWhen the engine is very hard to start in
extremely cold weather or when restarting,
depress the accelerator pedal a little (ap-
proximately 1/5 to the floor) and hold it then
crank the engine. Release the key and the
accelerator pedal when the engine starts.
IWhen the engine is very hard to start be-
cause it is flooded, depress the acceleratorpedal all the way to the floor and hold it.
Crank the engine for 5 to 6 seconds. After
cranking the engine, release the accelerator
pedal. Crank the enginewith your foot off
the accelerator pedalby turning the igni-
tion key to START. Release the key when the
engine starts. If the engine starts, but fails to
run, repeat the above procedure.
CAUTION
Do not operate the starter for more than
15 seconds at a time. If the engine does
not start, turn the key off and wait 10
seconds before cranking again, other-
wise the starter could be damaged.
4.Warm-up
Allow the engine to idle for at least 30
seconds after starting. Drive at moderate
speed for a short distance first, especially in
cold weather.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE STARTING THE ENGINE5-8
Starting and driving
Z
02.9.13/Z33-D/V5.0
X

shift mode. Shift range can be selected manu-
ally.
In the manual shift mode, the shift range is
displayed on the position indicator in the meter.
Shift ranges up or down one by one as follows:M1®
¬
M2®
¬
M3®
¬
M4®
¬
M5
M5 (5th):
Use this position for all normal forward driving.M4 (4th):
For driving up or down long slopes where engine
braking would be advantageous.M3 (3rd) and
M2 (2nd):
Use for hill climbing or engine braking on down-
hill grades.
M1 (1st):
Use this position when climbing steep hills
slowly or driving slowly through deep snow,
sand or mud, or for maximum engine braking on
steep downhill grades.
IRemember not to drive at high speeds for
extended periods of time in lower than
M4
range. This reduces the fuel economy.
IWhen shifting up, move the selector lever to
the + (up) side. (Shifts to higher range.)IWhen shifting down, move the selector lever
to the þ (down) side. (Shifts to lower range.)
IMoving the selector lever to the same side
twice will shift the ranges in succession.
However, if this motion is rapidly done, the
second shifting may not be completed prop-
erly.
IIn the manual shift mode, the transmis-
sion automatically shifts down to 1st
gear before the vehicle comes to a stop.
When accelerating again, it is necessary
to shift up to the desired range.
IWhen canceling the manual shift mode, re-
turn the selector lever to the D position. The
transmission returns to the normal driving
mode.
IIn the manual shift mode, the transmis-
sion may not shift to the selected gear.
This helps maintain driving performance
and reduces the chance of vehicle dam-
age or loss of control.
Accelerator downshift
Ð In D position ÐFor passing or hill climbing, fully depress the
accelerator pedal to the floor. This shifts the
transmission down into the lower gear, depend-
ing on the vehicle speed.
Fail-safeWhen the fail-safe operation occurs, the next
time the key is turned to the ON position, the
warning light will blink for approximately 8
seconds after coming on for 2 seconds. While
the vehicle can be driven under these circum-
stances please note that the gears in the auto-
matic transmission will be locked in 4th gear.
If the vehicle is driven under extreme con-
ditions, such as excessive wheel spinning
and subsequent hard braking, the fail-safe
system may be activated. This will occur
even if all electrical circuits are functioning
properly. In this case, turn the ignition key
OFF and wait for 3 seconds. Then turn the
key back to the ON position. The vehicle
should return to its normal operating con-
dition. If it does not return to its normal
operating condition, have your NISSAN
dealer check the transmission and repair if
necessary.
Starting and driving
5-11
Z
02.9.13/Z33-D/V5.0
X

Shift lock releaseIf the battery charge is low or discharged, the
select lever may not be moved from the P (Park)
position even with the brake pedal depressed.
To move the select lever, depress the brake
pedal, apply the parking brake, and push the
shift lock release button by using a suitable tool
as shown. The select lever can be moved to N
(Neutral). This allows the vehicle to be moved if
the battery is discharged.
If the lever cannot be moved out of P (Park), have
your NISSAN dealer check the automatic trans-
mission system as soon as possible.
MANUAL TRANSMISSION
ShiftingTo change gears, or when up shifting or down
shifting fully depress the clutch pedal, shift into
the appropriate gear then slowly and smoothly
release the clutch.
Start the vehicle in 1st gear and shift to 2nd, 3rd,
4th and 5th up to 6th gear in sequence accord-
ing to the vehicle speed.
To back up, depress the shift lever and then
move it to the R (Reverse) position after stop-
ping the vehicle completely.If it is difficult to move the shift lever into R
(Reverse) or 1 (Low gear), shift into N (Neutral),
then release the clutch pedal and shift into R or
1 again.
WARNING
IDo not downshift abruptly on slip-
pery roads. This may cause a loss of
control.
IDo not over-rev the engine when
shifting to a lower gear. This may
cause a loss of control or engine
damage.
CAUTION
IDo not rest your foot on the clutch
pedal while driving. This may damage
the clutch.
IStop your vehicle completely before
shifting into R (Reverse).
IWhen the vehicle is stopped for a
period of time, for example at a stop
SSD0277
SSD0287
5-12
Starting and driving
Z
02.9.13/Z33-D/V5.0
X

4. Before driving, be sure the brake warning
light goes out.
WARNING
IBe sure the parking brake is fully
released before driving. Failure to do
so can cause brake failure and lead
to an accident.
IDo not release the parking brake
from outside the vehicle.
IDo not use the gear shift in place of
the parking brake. When parking, be
sure the parking brake is fully en-
gaged.
IDo 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:
Iwhen it is not possible to keep the
vehicle at a set speed.
Iin heavy traffic or in traffic that varies
in speed.
Ion winding or hilly roads.
Ion slippery roads (rain, snow, ice,
etc.).
Iin 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
CONTROLIIf the cruise control system malfunctions, it
cancels automatically. The SET indicator light
on the meter panel then blinks to warn the
driver.
IIf the SET indicator light blinks, turn the
cruise control main switch off and have the
system checked by your NISSAN dealer.
IThe SET indicator light may blink when the
cruise control main switch is turned on while
pushing the RES/ACCEL, COAST/
SET, or CANCEL switch (located on the
steering wheel). To properly set the cruise
control system, perform the preceding steps
in the order indicated.
CRUISE CONTROL (if so
equipped)
Starting and driving
5-15
Z
02.9.13/Z33-D/V5.0
X

While the actuator is working, you may feel a
pulsation in the brake pedal and hear a noise or
vibration from the actuator under the hood. This
is normal and indicates that the anti-lock system
is working properly. However, the pulsation may
indicate that road conditions are hazardous and
extra care is required while driving.Self-test featureThe anti-lock brake system consists of electronic
sensors, electric pumps, and hydraulic solenoids
controlled by a computer. The computer has a
built-in diagnostic feature that tests the system
each time you start the engine and move the
vehicle at a low speed in forward or reverse.
When the self-test occurs, you may hear a clunk
noise and/or feel a pulsation in the brake pedal.
This is normal and is not an indication of any
malfunction. If the computer senses any mal-
function, it switches the anti-lock brake system
OFF and turns on the ABS warning light in the
dashboard. The brake system will then behave
normally, but without anti-lock assistance.
If the light comes on during the self check, or
while you are driving, you should take your
vehicle to your NISSAN dealer for repair at your
earliest convenience.
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 help
maintain vehicle control during braking
on slippery surfaces, but remember that
the stopping distance on slippery sur-
faces will be longer than on normal
surfaces, even with the anti-lock sys-
tem. Stopping distances may also be
longer on rough, gravel or snow covered
roads, or if you are using tire chains.
Always maintain a safe distance from
the vehicle in front of you. Ultimately,
the responsibility for safety of yourself
and others rests in the hands of the
driver.
Tire type and condition of tires may also
affect braking effectiveness.
IWhen replacing tires, install the
specified size for the front and rear
tires.IWhen installing a spare tire, make
sure it is the proper size and type as
specified on the tire placard. See
ªVehicle identificationº in the ª9.
Technical and consumer informationº
section for tire placard location.
Starting and driving
5-21
Z
02.9.13/Z33-D/V5.0
X

FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCKTo prevent a door lock from freezing, apply
de-icer or glycerin to it through the key hole. If
the lock becomes frozen, heat the key before
inserting it into the key hole.ANTI-FREEZEIn the winter when it is anticipated that the
temperature will drop below 32ÉF (0ÉC), check
anti-freeze to assure proper winter protection.
For additional information, see ªEngine Cooling
Systemº in the ª8. Maintenance and do-it-
yourselfº 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 ªBatteryº in the ª8. Maintenance and do-it-
yourselfº 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 ªEngine cool-
ing systemº in the ª8. Maintenance and do-it-
yourselfº 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. 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 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.
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 loca-
tion. 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 tothe chain manufacturer's suggestions.Use
only SAE Class S chains.Class ªSº chains
are used on vehicles with restricted tire to
vehicle clearance. Vehicles that can use
Class ªSº chains are designed to meet the
SAE standard minimum clearances between
the tire and the closest vehicle suspension or
body component required to accommodate
the use of a winter traction device (tire chains
or cables). The minimum clearances are de-
termined using the factory equipped tire size.
Other types may damage 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 addi-
tion, drive at a reduced speed. Otherwise,
your vehicle may be damaged and/or vehicle
handling and performance may be adversely
affected.
Never install tire chains on a T-type spare tire.
Do not use tire chains on dry roads.
SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENTIt is recommended that the following items be
carried in the vehicle during winter:
Ia scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove
COLD WEATHER DRIVING5-24
Starting and driving
Z
02.9.13/Z33-D/V5.0
X