power steering NISSAN 370Z COUPE 2012 Owners Manual

JVM0086X
VQ37VHR ENGINE MODEL1. Fuse/fusible link holder (P.8-22)
2. Battery (P.8-16)
3. Radiator filler cap (P.8-9)
4. Engine oil dipstick (P.8-11)
5. Engine oil filler cap (P.8-11)
6. Brake fluid reservoir (P.8-14)7. Clutch fluid reservoir (Manual Transmission
models) (P.8-14)
8. Power steering fluid reservoir (P.8-13)
9. Window washer fluid reservoir (P.8-15)
10. Air cleaner (P.8-19)
11. Drive belt location (P.8-18) 12. Engine coolant reservoir (P.8-9)
Illustrated table of contents0-13
ENGINE COMPARTMENT

3 Pre-driving checks and adjustments
Keys ........................................................................\
...................... 3-2Intelligent Key ....................................................................... 3-2
Valet hand-off ....................................................................... 3-3
Doors ........................................................................\
.................... 3-4 Locking with mechanical key ............................................ 3-4
Opening and closing windows with the
mechanical key ..................................................................... 3-4
Locking with inside lock knob .......................................... 3-5
Locking with power door lock switch ............................ 3-5
Automatic door locks ......................................................... 3-5
Intelligent Key system .............................................................. 3-6 Intelligent Key operating range ....................................... 3-8
Door locks/unlocks precaution ....................................... 3-8
Intelligent Key operation .................................................... 3-9
Battery saver system ....................................................... 3-11
Warning signals ................................................................ 3-11
Troubleshooting guide ..................................................... 3-12
Remote keyless entry system ............................................. 3-13 How to use remote keyless entry system .................. 3-13
Hood ........................................................................\
.................. 3-16
Rear hatch (Coupe models) ............................................... 3-16 Rear hatch opener switch .............................................. 3-17
Secondary rear hatch release ....................................... 3-18
Trunk lid (Roadster models) ................................................ 3-18 Trunk lid opener switch .................................................. 3-19 Trunk release power cancel switch ........................... 3-19
Interior trunk lid release ................................................ 3-19
Secondary trunk lid release ......................................... 3-20
Soft top (Roadster models) ................................................ 3-21 Before operating the top .............................................. 3-21
When operating the top ............................................... 3-23
Opening the top ............................................................. 3-25
Closing the top ............................................................... 3-25
Opening the top using the Intelligent Key ............... 3-26
Troubleshooting guide .................................................. 3-27
If the top does not open or close electrically ......... 3-28
Care of the soft top and the vehicle body .............. 3-32
Front, side and rear unique parts (NISMO models) ..... 3-32
Fuel-filler door ........................................................................\
3-34 Opening the fuel-filler door ......................................... 3-34
Fuel-filler cap .................................................................. 3-34
Tilt steering ........................................................................\
..... 3-36 Manual operation ............................................................ 3-36
Sun visors ........................................................................\
........ 3-36
Mirrors ........................................................................\
.............. 3-37
Inside mirror ..................................................................... 3-37
Outside mirrors ............................................................... 3-38
Vanity mirror ..................................................................... 3-39

5 Starting and driving
Precautions when starting and driving ................................ 5-2Exhaust gas (carbon monoxide) ...................................... 5-2
Three-way catalyst .............................................................. 5-3
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) .................... 5-3
Avoiding collision and rollover ......................................... 5-6
Off-road recovery ................................................................ 5-6
Rapid air pressure loss ...................................................... 5-6
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving ................................. 5-7
Push-button ignition switch .................................................... 5-8 Operating range for engine start function .................... 5-8
Push-button ignition switch operation ........................... 5-9
Push-button ignition switch positions ............................ 5-9
Emergency engine shut off ............................................ 5-10
Intelligent Key battery discharge .................................. 5-10
Before starting the engine ................................................... 5-11
Starting the engine ................................................................ 5-11
Driving the vehicle ................................................................. 5-12 Automatic transmission ................................................... 5-12
Manual Transmission ....................................................... 5-16
Parking brake ........................................................................\
.. 5-20
Cruise control ........................................................................\
. 5-21 Precautions on cruise control ....................................... 5-21
Cruise control operations ............................................... 5-22 Break-in schedule ................................................................. 5-23
Increasing fuel economy ...................................................... 5-23
Parking/parking on hills ........................................................ 5-24
Power steering ....................................................................... 5-25
Brake system ........................................................................\
.. 5-25 Braking precautions ...................................................... 5-25
Parking brake break-in .................................................. 5-26
Brake assist ........................................................................\
.... 5-26 Brake assist ..................................................................... 5-26
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) ............................... 5-26
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system ......................... 5-28
Performance dampers (NISMO models) ........................ 5-30
Cold weather driving ............................................................ 5-31
Freeing a frozen door lock ........................................... 5-31
Antifreeze ........................................................................\
. 5-31
Battery ........................................................................\
....... 5-31
Draining of coolant water ............................................. 5-31
Tire equipment ................................................................ 5-31
Special winter equipment ............................................ 5-31
Driving on snow or ice ................................................. 5-31
Engine block heater (if so equipped) ....................... 5-32

4. Push the ignition switch to the OFF position.
WARNING
If the engine is not running or is turned
off while driving, the power assist for
the steering will not work. Steering will
be harder to operate.
The power assisted steering uses a hydraulic
pump, driven by the engine, to assist steering.
If the engine stops or the drive belt breaks, you
will still have control of the vehicle. However,
much greater steering effort is needed, espe-
cially in sharp turns and at low speeds.
BRAKING PRECAUTIONS
The brake system has two separate hydraulic
circuits. If one circuit malfunctions, you will still
have braking at two wheels.
Vacuum assisted brakes
The brake booster aids braking by using engine
vacuum. If the engine stops, you can stop the
vehicle by depressing the brake pedal. However,
greater foot pressure on the brake pedal will be
required to stop the vehicle and the stopping
distance will be longer.
When the brake pedal is depressed slowly and
firmly, you may hear a clicking noise and feel a
slight pulsation. This is normal and indicates that
the Brake Assist System is operating.
Wet brakes
When the vehicle is washed or driven through
water, the brakes may get wet. As a result, your
braking distance will be longer and the vehicle
may pull to one side during braking.
To dry brakes, drive the vehicle at a safe speed
while lightly tapping the brake pedal to heat-up
the brakes. Do this until the brakes return to
normal. Avoid driving the vehicle at high speeds
until the brakes function correctly.
Starting and driving5-25
POWER STEERING BRAKE SYSTEM

5-28Starting and driving
The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system
uses various sensors to monitor driver inputs
and vehicle motion. Under certain driving con-
ditions, the VDC system helps to perform the
following functions.
.Controls brake pressure to reduce wheel
slip on one slipping drive wheel so power is
transferred to a non slipping drive wheel on
the same axle.
. Controls brake pressure and engine output
to reduce drive wheel slip based on vehicle
speed (traction control function) .
. Controls brake pressure at individual wheels
and engine output to help the driver maintain
control of the vehicle in the following
conditions:
— understeer (vehicle tends to not follow
the steered path despite increased
steering input)
— oversteer (vehicle tends to spin due to certain road or driving conditions) .
The VDC system can help the driver to maintain
control of the vehicle, but it cannot prevent loss
of vehicle control in all driving situations.
When the VDC system operates, the VDC
warning light
in the instrument panel flashes
so note the following:
. The road may be slippery or the system may
determine some action is required to help keep the vehicle on the steered path.
. You may feel a pulsation in the brake pedal
and hear a noise or vibration from under the
hood. This is normal and indicates that the
VDC system is working properly.
. Adjust your speed and driving to the road
conditions.
See “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warning
light” (P.2-14).
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the VDC
warning light
illuminates in the instrument
panel. The VDC system automatically turns off.
The VDC OFF switch is used to turn off the VDC
system. The VDC off indicator
illuminates to
indicate the VDC system is off. When the VDC
switch is used to turn off the system, the VDC
system still operates to prevent one drive wheel
from slipping by transferring power to a non
slipping drive wheel. The VDC warning light
flashes if this occurs. All other VDC functions
are off, and the VDC warning light
will not
flash. The VDC system is automatically reset to
on when the ignition switch is placed in the off
position then back to the on position.
See “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warning
light” (P.2-14) and “Vehicle Dynamic Control
(VDC) off indicator light” (P.2-16).
The computer has a built-in diagnostic feature
that tests the system each time you start the engine and move the vehicle forward or in
reverse at a slow speed. 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 a malfunction.
WARNING
.
The VDC system is designed to help
the driver maintain stability but
does not prevent accidents due to
abrupt steering operation at high
speeds or by careless or dangerous
driving techniques. Reduce vehicle
speed and be especially careful
when driving and cornering on slip-
pery surfaces and always drive care-
fully.
. Do not modify the vehicle’s suspen-
sion. If suspension parts such as
shock absorbers, struts, springs,
stabilizer bars, bushings and
wheels are not NISSAN recom-
mended for your vehicle or are
extremely deteriorated, the VDC
system may not operate properly.
This could adversely affect vehicle
handling performance, and the VDC
warning light
may illuminate.
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
SYSTEM

8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Maintenance requirement ........................................................ 8-3Scheduled maintenance .................................................... 8-3
General maintenance ......................................................... 8-3
Where to go for service .................................................... 8-3
General maintenance ............................................................... 8-3 Explanation of maintenance items ................................... 8-3
Maintenance precautions ........................................................ 8-6
Engine compartment check locations .................................. 8-8 VQ37VHR engine model .................................................. 8-8
Engine cooling system ............................................................. 8-9
Checking engine coolant level ...................................... 8-10
Changing engine coolant ............................................... 8-10
Engine oil ........................................................................\
......... 8-11
Checking engine oil level ............................................... 8-11
Changing engine oil and filter ....................................... 8-11
Automatic transmission fluid ............................................... 8-13
Power steering fluid ............................................................... 8-13
Brake and clutch fluid ........................................................... 8-14 Brake fluid ........................................................................\
.. 8-14
Clutch fluid (Manual transmission models) ............... 8-15
Window washer fluid ............................................................ 8-15
Battery ........................................................................\
............... 8-16 Jump starting ..................................................................... 8-17 Variable voltage control system ......................................... 8-18
Drive belts ........................................................................\
....... 8-18
Spark plugs ........................................................................\
..... 8-19
Replacing spark plugs .................................................. 8-19
Air cleaner ........................................................................\
....... 8-19
Windshield wiper blades ..................................................... 8-20
Cleaning ........................................................................\
... 8-20
Replacing ........................................................................\
. 8-21
Brakes ........................................................................\
.............. 8-22 Self-adjusting brakes .................................................... 8-22
Brake pad wear warning .............................................. 8-22
Fuses ........................................................................\
................ 8-22 Engine compartment ..................................................... 8-22
Passenger compartment .............................................. 8-24
Intelligent Key battery replacement ................................... 8-25
Lights ........................................................................\
................ 8-27
Coupe ........................................................................\
....... 8-27
Roadster ........................................................................\
... 8-28
Headlights ........................................................................\
8-29
Exterior and interior lights ............................................ 8-29
Wheels and tires ................................................................... 8-31 Tire pressure ................................................................... 8-31
Tire labeling ..................................................................... 8-34

Windshield defroster:Check that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly and
in sufficient quantity when operating the heater
or air conditioner.
Windshield wiper and washer*: Check that
the wipers and washer operate properly and that
the wipers do not streak.
Under the hood and vehicle
The 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 condition 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
reservoirs.
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 after parking
the vehicle on a level spot and turning off the
engine. Wait more than 15 minutes for the oil to
drain back into the oil pan. 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 have the exhaust
system inspected by a NISSAN dealer. (See
“Precautions when starting and driving” (P.5-2)
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
immediately.
Power steering fluid level* and lines: Check
the level 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, rot 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” (P.7-2).
Windshield washer fluid*:
Check that there is
adequate fluid in the reservoir.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-5

8-8Maintenance and do-it-yourself
JVM0086X
VQ37VHR ENGINE MODEL1. Fuse/fusible link holder
2. Battery
3. Radiator filler cap
4. Engine oil dipstick
5. Engine oil filler cap
6. Brake fluid reservoir7. Clutch fluid reservoir (Manual Transmission
models)
8. Power steering fluid reservoir
9. Window washer fluid reservoir
10 Air cleaner
11. Drive belt location 12. Engine coolant reservoir
ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS

c. Insert the clip through the undercoverinto the hole in the frame, then push the
center of the clip in to lock the clip in
place.
d. Install the bolts that hold the undercover in place. Be careful not to strip the bolts
or over-tighten them.
2. Lower the vehicle carefully to the ground.
3. Dispose of waste oil and filter properly.
WARNING
. Prolonged and repeated contact
with used engine oil may cause skin
cancer.
. 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. When checking or replacement is required, we
recommend a NISSAN dealer for servicing.
CAUTION
.
Use only Genuine NISSAN Matic S
ATF. Do not mix with other fluids.
. Using automatic transmission fluid
other than Genuine NISSAN Matic S
ATF will cause deterioration in dri-
veability and automatic transmis-
sion durability, and may damage
the automatic transmission, which
is not covered by the NISSAN new
vehicle limited warranty.
SDI1765A
Check the fluid level in the reservoir.
The fluid level should be checked with the
engine off using the HOT range (
*1:HOT
MAX.,
*2: HOT MIN.) at fluid temperatures of
122 to 1768F (50 to 808C) or using the COLD
range (
*3: COLD MAX.,*4: COLD MIN.) at
fluid temperatures of 32 to 868F(0to30 8C) .
If the fluid is below the MIN line, add Genuine
NISSAN PSF or equivalent. Remove the cap
and fill through the opening.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-13
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID POWER STEERING FLUID

8-18Maintenance and do-it-yourself
CAUTION
.Do not ground accessories directly
to the battery terminal. Doing so will
bypass the variable voltage control
system and the vehicle battery may
not charge completely.
. Use electrical accessories with the
engine running to avoid discharging
the vehicle battery.
The variable voltage control system measures
the amount of electrical discharge from the
battery and controls voltage generated by the
generator.
SDI2119
VQ37VHR engine
1. Power steering fluid pump
2. Alternator
3. Crankshaft pulley
4. Air conditioner compressor
5. Drive belt auto-tensioner
WARNING
Be sure the ignition switch is in the OFF
or LOCK position before servicing drive
belts. The engine could rotate unex-
pectedly. 1. Visually inspect the belt for signs of unusual
wear, cuts, fraying or looseness. If the belt is
in poor condition or loose, have it replaced
or adjusted by a NISSAN dealer.
2. Have the belt condition checked regularly.
VARIABLE VOLTAGE CONTROL
SYSTEM DRIVE BELTS