engine NISSAN 350Z 2008 Z33 Manual PDF
[x] Cancel search | Manufacturer: NISSAN, Model Year: 2008, Model line: 350Z, Model: NISSAN 350Z 2008 Z33Pages: 313
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Your new NISSAN has been designed to have
minimum maintenance requirements with long
service intervals to save you both time and
money. However, some day-to-day and regular
maintenance is essential to maintain your
NISSAN’s good mechanical condition, as well
as its emission and engine performance.
It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure that
scheduled maintenance, as well as general
maintenance, is performed.
As the vehicle owner, you are the only one who
can ensure that your vehicle receives the proper
maintenance care. You are a vital link in the
maintenance chain.
Scheduled maintenance:
For your convenience, both required and op-
tional scheduled maintenance items are de-
scribed and listed in your “NISSAN Service and
Maintenance Guide”. You must refer to that
guide to ensure that necessary maintenance is
performed on your NISSAN at regular intervals.
General maintenance:
General maintenance includes those items
which should be checked during normal day-to-
day operation. They are essential for proper
vehicle operation. It is your responsibility to
perform these procedures regularly as pre-
scribed.Performing general maintenance checks re-
quires minimal mechanical skill and only a few
general automotive tools.
These checks or inspections can be done by
yourself, a qualified technician or, if you prefer, a
NISSAN dealer.
Where to go for service:
If maintenance service is required or your vehicle
appears to malfunction, have the systems
checked and tuned by a NISSAN dealer.
NISSAN technicians are well-trained specialists
and are kept up to date with the latest service
information through technical bulletins, service
tips, and in-dealership training programs. They
are completely qualified to work on NISSAN
vehiclesbeforethey work on your vehicle,
rather than after they have worked on it.
You can be confident that a NISSAN dealer’s
service department performs the best job to
meet the maintenance requirements of your ve-
hicle — in a reliable and economic way.During the normal day-to-day operation of the
vehicle, general maintenance should be per-
formed regularly as prescribed in this section. If
you detect any unusual sounds, vibrations or
smells, be sure to check for the cause or have a
NISSAN dealer do it promptly. In addition, you
should notify a NISSAN dealer if you think that
repairs are required.
When performing any checks or maintenance
work, closely observe the “Maintenance precau-
tions” later in this section.
EXPLANATION OF GENERAL
MAINTENANCE ITEMSAdditional information on the following
items with “*” is found later in this section.Outside the vehicleThe maintenance items listed here should be
performed from time to time, unless otherwise
specified.
Doors and engine hood:Check that all doors
and the engine hood operate smoothly as well as
the trunk lid or back hatch. Also make sure that
all latches lock securely. Lubricate 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
MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS GENERAL MAINTENANCE8-2
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steering conditions, such as excessive free play,
hard steering or strange noises.
Warning lights and chimes:Make sure that all
warning lights and chimes are operating prop-
erly.
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 good quantity when operating the heater or air
conditioner.Under the hood and the vehicleThe maintenance items listed here should be
checked periodically (for example, each time you
check the engine oil or refuel).
Battery*:Check the fluid level in each cell. It
should be between the MAX and MIN lines.
Vehicles operated in high temperatures or under
severe conditions require frequent checks of the
battery fluid level.
Brake and clutch fluid levels*:Make sure that
the brake and clutch fluid levels are between the
MAX and MIN lines on the reservoir.
Engine coolant level*:Check the coolant level
when the engine is cold.Engine drive belts*:Make sure that no belt is
frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*:Check the level on the
dipstick after parking the vehicle on a level spot,
turning off the engine and waiting 10 minutes.
Exhaust system:Make sure there are no loose
supports, cracks or holes. If the sound of the
exhaust seems unusual or there is a smell of
exhaust fumes, immediately locate the trouble
and correct it. (See “Precautions when starting
and driving” in the “5. Starting and driving”
section for exhaust gas (carbon monoxide).)
Fluid leaks:Check under the vehicle for fuel,
oil, water or other fluid leaks after the vehicle has
been parked for a while. Water dripping from the
air conditioner after use is normal. If you should
notice any leaks or if gasoline fumes are evident,
check for the cause and have it corrected imme-
diately.
Power steering fluid level* and lines:Check
the level in the reservoir tank with the engine off.
Check the lines for proper attachment, leaks,
cracks, etc.
Radiator and hoses:Check the front of the
radiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves,
etc., that may have accumulated. Make sure the
hoses have no cracks, deformation, deterioration
or loose connections.Underbody:The underbody is frequently ex-
posed to corrosive substances such as those
used on icy roads or to control dust. It is very
important to remove these substances, other-
wise rust will form on the floor pan, frame, fuel
lines and around the exhaust system. At the end
of winter, the underbody should be thoroughly
flushed with plain water, being careful to clean
those areas where mud and dirt may accumu-
late. For additional information, see “Cleaning
exterior” in the “7. Appearance and care” sec-
tion.
Window washer fluid*:Check that there is
adequate fluid in the tank.8-4
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When performing any inspection or maintenance
work on your vehicle, always take care to prevent
serious accidental injury to yourself or damage to
the vehicle. The following are general precau-
tions which should be closely observed.
WARNING
Park the vehicle on a level surface,
apply the parking brake securely and
block the wheels to prevent the ve-
hicle from moving. For manual trans-
mission models, move the shift lever
to N (Neutral) position. For automatic
transmission models, move the se-
lector lever to P (Park).
Be sure the ignition key is in the OFF
or LOCK position when performing
any parts replacement or repairs.
If you must work with the engine
running, keep your hands, clothing,
hair and tools away from moving
fans, belts and any other moving
parts.
It is advisable to secure or remove
any loose clothing and remove anyjewelry, such as rings, watches, etc.
before working on your vehicle.
Always wear eye protection when-
ever you work on your vehicle.
If you must run the engine in an
enclosed space such as a garage, be
sure there is proper ventilation for
exhaust gases to escape.
Never get under the vehicle while it is
supported only by a jack. If it is nec-
essary to work under the vehicle,
support it with safety stands.
Keep smoking materials, flame and
sparks away from the fuel tank and
battery.
On gasoline engine models with the
multiport fuel injection (MFI) system,
the fuel filter or fuel lines should be
serviced by a NISSAN dealer because
the fuel lines are under high pressure
even when the engine is off.
CAUTION
Do not work under the hood while
the engine is hot. Turn the engine off
and wait until it cools down.
Avoid contact with used engine oil
and coolant. Improperly disposed en-
gine oil, engine coolant and/or other
vehicle fluids can damage the envi-
ronment. Always conform to local
regulations for disposal of vehicle
fluid.
Never connect or disconnect the bat-
tery or any transistorized component
while the ignition switch is in the ON
position.
Never leave the engine or automatic
transmission related component har-
nesses disconnected while the igni-
tion switch is in the ON position.
This “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section
gives instructions regarding only those items
which are relatively easy for an owner to perform.
A genuine NISSAN Service Manual is also avail-
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
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1. Fuse/fusible link holder
2. Battery
3. Engine oil filler cap
4. Brake fluid reservoir
5. Clutch fluid reservoir (M/T models)
6. Window washer fluid reservoir
7. Power steering fluid reservoir
8. Air cleaner
9. Radiator filler cap
10. Engine drive belts
11. Engine coolant reservoir
12. Engine oil dipstick
Do not tamper with the strut tower bar
adjustment
A. The strut tower bar has
been adjusted to the most suitable posi-
tion at the factory.CAUTION
Tampering with the strut tower bar ad-
justment may cause a noise while driv-
ing or damage to the hood or engine.
SDI2050
ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS
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The engine cooling system is filled at the factory
with a high-quality, year-round, anti-freeze cool-
ant solution. The anti-freeze solution contains
rust and corrosion inhibitors, therefore additional
cooling system additives are not necessary.
WARNING
Never remove the radiator or coolant
reservoir cap when the engine is hot.
Wait until the engine and radiator
cool down. Serious burns could be
caused by high pressure fluid escap-
ing from the radiator. See precau-
tions in “If your vehicle overheats”
found in the “6. In case of emer-
gency” section of this manual.
The radiator is equipped with a pres-
sure type radiator cap. To prevent
engine damage, use only a genuine
NISSAN radiator cap.
Outside temperature
down to
Anti-
freezeDeminer-
alized
water/
distilled
water °C °F
−35 −30 50% 50%
CAUTION
When adding or replacing coolant, be
sure to use only a Genuine NISSAN
Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (green) or
equivalent with the proper mixture ratio
of 50% anti-freeze and 50% demineral-
ized water/distilled water. The use of
other types of coolant solutions may
damage your engine cooling system.
CHECKING ENGINE COOLANT
LEVELCheck the coolant level in the reservoir tank
when the engine is cold. If the coolant level is
below MIN
1, add coolant up to the MAX
2
level. If the reservoir tank is empty, check the
coolant level in the radiatorwhen the engine is
cold.If there is insufficient coolant in the radia-
tor, fill the radiator with coolant up to the filler
opening and also add it to the reservoir tank up
to the MAX
2
level.
Tighten the cap securely after adding engine
coolant.
SDI2051
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM8-8
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If the engine cooling system frequently
requires coolant, have it checked by a
NISSAN dealer.CHANGING ENGINE COOLANTContact a NISSAN dealer if replacement is
required.
Major cooling system repairs should be per-
formed by a NISSAN dealer. The service
procedures can be found in the appropriate
NISSAN Service Manual.
Improper servicing can result in reduced
heater performance and engine overheating.
WARNING
To avoid being scalded, never change
the coolant when the engine is hot.
Never remove the radiator cap when
the engine is hot. Serious burns
could be caused by high pressure
fluid escaping from the radiator.
Avoid direct skin contact with used
coolant. If skin contact is made, wash
thoroughly with soap or hand cleaner
as soon as possible.Keep coolant out of reach of children
and pets.
Engine coolant must be disposed of properly.
Check your local regulations.
CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply
the parking brake.
2. Start the engine and let it idle until it reaches
the operating temperature.
3. Turn off the engine.Wait more than 10
minutes for the oil to drain back into the
oil pan.
4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean. Rein-
sert it all the way.
SDI2045
ENGINE OIL
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5. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil
level. It should be between the H and L marks
1. If the oil level is below the L mark
2,
remove the oil filler cap and pour recom-
mended oil through the opening.Do not
overfill
3.
6. Recheck oil level with the dipstick.
It is normal to add some oil between oil
maintenance intervals or during the
break-in period, depending on the severity
of operating conditions.
CAUTION
Oil level should be checked regularly.
Operating the engine with an insuffi-
cient amount of oil can damage the
engine, and such damage is not covered
by warranty.CHANGING ENGINE OIL AND
FILTERChange the engine oil and filter according to the
maintenance log shown in the “NISSAN Service
and Maintenance Guide”.
Vehicle set-up1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply
the parking brake.
2. Start the engine and let it idle until it reaches
the operating temperature.
3. Turn the engine off and wait more than 10
minutes.
4. Raise and support the vehicle using a suit-
able floor jack and safety jack stands.
Place the safety jack stands under the vehicle
jack-up points.
A suitable adapter should be attached to the
jack stand saddle.
5. Remove the plastic engine undercover.
a. Remove the small plastic clip at the center
point of the undercover.
b. Then remove the other bolts that hold the
undercover in place.
CAUTION
Make sure the correct lifting and sup-
port points are used to avoid vehicle
damage.
Engine oil and filter1. Place a large drain pan under the drain plug
1.
2. Remove the oil filler cap.
3. Remove the drain plug with a wrench and
completely drain the oil.
WARNING
Prolonged and repeated contact with
used engine oil may cause skin
cancer.
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Try to avoid direct skin contact with
used oil. If skin contact is made,
wash thoroughly with soap or hand
cleaner as soon as possible.
Keep used engine oil out of reach of
children.
CAUTION
Be careful not to burn yourself, as the
engine oil is hot.
Waste oil must be disposed of properly.
Check your local regulations.
Perform steps 4 to 7 when the engine oil filter
change is needed.
4. Loosen the oil filter with an oil filter wrench2. Remove the oil filter by turning it by hand.
5. Wipe the engine oil filter mounting surface
with a clean rag.
CAUTION
Be sure to remove any old gasket mate-
rial remaining on the mounting surface
of the engine. Failure to do so could
lead to engine damage.
6. Coat the gasket on the new filter with clean
engine oil.
7. Screw in the oil filter clockwise until a slight
resistance is felt, then tighten additionally
more than 2/3 turn.
Oil filter tightening torque:
11 to 15 ft-lb
(14.7 to 20.5 N⋅m)
8. Clean and re-install the drain plug and a new
washer. Securely tighten the drain plug with a
wrench.
Drain plug tightening torque:
22 to 29 ft-lb
(29 to 39 N⋅m)
Do not use excessive force.
9. Refill engine with recommended oil and in-
stall the cap securely.
CAUTION
The dipstick must be inserted in place to
prevent oil spillage from the dipstick
hole while filling the engine with oil.
See “Capacities and recommended fuel/
lubricants” in the “9. Technical and consumer
information” section for drain and refill capac-
ity. The drain and refill capacity depends on
the oil temperature and drain time. Use these
specifications for reference only. Always use
the dipstick to determine the proper amount
of oil in the engine.
10. Start the engine and check for leakage
around the drain plug and the oil filter.
Correct as required.
11. Turn the engine off and wait more than 10
minutes. Check the oil level with the dip-
stick. Add engine oil if necessary.After the operation1. Install the engine undercover into position as
outlined in the following steps.
a. Pull the center of the small plastic clip out.
b. Hold the engine undercover into position.
c. Insert the clip through the undercover into the
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CLUTCH FLUIDCheck the fluid level in the reservoir. If the fluid
level is below the MIN line
2, add Genuine
NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid or
equivalentDOT 3fluid up to the MAX line
1.
If fluid is added frequently, the system should be
thoroughly checked by a NISSAN dealer.Add fluid when the low washer fluid warning light
comes on.
Add a washer solvent to the washer fluid for
better cleaning. In the winter season, add a
windshield washer anti-freeze. Follow the manu-
facturer’s instructions for the mixture ratio.
Recommended fluid is Genuine NISSAN Wind-
shield Washer Concentrate Cleaner & Anti-
freeze or equivalent.
WARNING
Anti-freeze is poisonous and should be
stored carefully in marked containers
out of the reach of children.
CAUTION
Do not substitute engine anti-freeze
coolant for window washer solution.
This may result in damage to the
paint.
Do not fill the window washer reser-
voir tank with washer fluid concen-
trates at full strength. Some methyl
alcohol based washer fluid concen-
trates may permanently stain the
grille if spilled while filling the win-
dow washer reservoir tank.
Pre-mix washer fluid concentrates
with water to the manufacturer’s rec-
ommended levels before pouring the
fluid into the window washer reser-
voir tank. Do not use the window
SDI1906
SDI2053
WINDOW WASHER FLUID
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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 min-
utes and seek medical attention.
Do not operate the vehicle if the fluid
in the battery is low. Low battery fluid
can cause a higher load on the bat-
tery which can generate heat, reduce
battery life, and in some cases lead
to an explosion.
When working on or near a battery,
always wear suitable eye protection
and remove all jewelry.
Battery posts, terminals and related
accessories contain lead and lead
compounds. Wash hands after han-
dling.
Keep the battery out of the reach of
children.Check the fluid level in each cell. It should be
between the UPPER LEVEL
1
and LOWER
LEVEL
2lines.
If it is necessary to add fluid, add only distilled
water to bring the level to the indicator in each
filler opening.Do not overfill.
Vehicles operated in high temperatures or under
severe conditions require frequent checks of the
battery fluid level.
1. Remove the cell plugs
A.
2. Add distilled water up to the UPPER LEVEL
line
1.
3. Tighten cell plugs.
JUMP STARTINGIf jump starting is necessary, see “Jump starting”
in the “6. In case of emergency” section. If the
engine does not start by jump starting, the
battery may have to be replaced. Contact a
NISSAN dealer.
DI0137MA
SDI1480
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