warning NISSAN ALTIMA 2000 L30 / 2.G Owners Manual

Self-adjusting brakes
Your vehicle is equipped with self-adjusting
brakes.
The front (and rear, if equipped) disc-type
brakes self-adjust every time the brake
pedal is applied. The rear drum-type brakes
also self-adjust every time the brake pedal
is applied.
If the brake pedal goes down farther than
normal, it may be due to a lack of adjust-
ment of the rear drum brakes. To adjust,
apply the parking brake several times.
WARNING
See an authorized NISSAN dealer for a
brake system check if the brake pedal
height does not return to normal.
Brake pad wear indicators
The disc brake pads on your vehicle have
audible wear indicators. When a brake pad
requires replacement, it makes a high
pitched scraping or screeching sound when
the vehicle is in motion whether or not the
brake pedal is depressed. Have the brakes
checked as soon as possible if the wearindicator sound is heard.
Under some driving or climate conditions,
occasional brake squeak, squeal or other
noise may be heard. Occasional brake
noise during light to moderate stops is nor-
mal and does not affect the function or
performance of the brake system.
The rear drum brakes (if so equipped) do
not have audible wear indicators. Should
you ever hear an unusually loud noise from
the rear drum brakes, have them inspected
as soon as possible by an authorized
NISSAN dealer.
Proper brake inspection intervals should
be followed.For more information regard-
ing brake inspections, see the appropriate
maintenance schedule information in the
``Maintenance'' section of this manual.
BRAKE BOOSTER
Check the brake booster function as fol-
lows:
1. With the engine off, press and release
the brake pedal several times. When
brake pedal movement (distance of
travel) remains the same from one pedal
application to the next, continue on to the
next step.
2. While depressing the brake pedal, start
the engine. The pedal height should drop
a little.
3. With the brake pedal depressed, stop the
engine. Keep the pedal depressed for
about 30 seconds. The pedal height
should not change.
4. Run the engine for one minute without
depressing the brake pedal, then turn it
off. Depress the brake pedal several
times. The pedal travel distance will de-
crease gradually with each depression
as the vacuum is released from the
booster.
If the brakes do not operate properly, see an
authorized NISSAN dealer.
8-20Do-it-yourself
ZX

If you have a flat tire, see the ``In case of
emergency'' section of this manual.
TIRE PRESSURE
Maximum inflation pressure
Do not exceed the maximum inflation pres-
sures shown on the side wall of the tire.
Tire inflation pressure
Periodically check the tire pressure (including
the spare). Incorrect tire pressure may ad-
versely affect tire life and vehicle handling. Tire
pressure should be checked when tires are
COLD. Tires are considered COLD after the
vehicle has been parked for three or morehours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km).
COLD tire pressures are shown on the tire
placard affixed to the driver's door center pillar.
WARNING
cImproperly inflated tires can fail sud-
denly and cause an accident.
c
The vehicle weight capacity is indi-
cated on the tire placard. Do not load
your vehicle beyond this capacity.
Overloading your vehicle may result in
reduced tire life, unsafe operating
conditions due to premature tire fail-
ure, or unfavorable handling charac-
teristics and could also lead to a seri-
ous accident. Loading beyond the
specified capacity may also result in
failure of other vehicle components.
cBefore taking a long trip, or when-
ever you heavily load your vehicle,
use a tire pressure gauge to ensure
that the tire pressures are at the
specified level.
cDo not drive your vehicle over 85
MPH (140 km/h) unless it is equipped
with high speed rated tires. Driving
faster than 85 MPH (140 km/h) may
result in tire failure, loss of control
and possible injury.
TYPES OF TIRES
WARNING
When changing or replacing tires, be
sure all four tires are of the same type
(i.e., summer, all season or snow) and
construction. An authorized NISSAN
dealer may be able to help you with
information about tire type, size, speed
rating and availability. Replacement
tires may have a lower speed rating
than the factory equipped tires, and
may not match the potential maximum
vehicle speed. Never exceed the maxi-
mum speed rating of the tire.
All Season tires
NISSAN specifies All Season tires on some
models to provide good performance for
use all year around, including snowy and icy
road conditions. All Season Tires are iden-
tified by ALL SEASON and/or M&S on the
tire sidewall. Snow tires have better snow
traction than All Season tires and may be
more appropriate in some areas.
DI1033M
WHEELS AND TIRES
8-34Do-it-yourself
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CHANGING TIRES AND WHEELS
Tire rotation
Tires should be rotated every 7,500 miles
(12,000 km).
See ``Flat tire'' in the ``In case of emergency''
section for tire replacing procedures.
As soon as possible, tighten the wheel
nuts to the specified torque with a nut
tightening torque:
72 to 87 ft-lb (98 to 118 Nzm)The wheel nuts must be kept tightened to
specifications at all times. It is recom-
mended that wheel nuts be tightened to
specification at each rotation interval.
WARNING
cAfter rotating the tires, check and
adjust the tire pressure.
cRetighten the wheel nuts when the
vehicle has been driven for 600 miles
(1,000 km) (also in cases of a flat tire,
etc.).
cDo not include the spare tire in the
tire rotation.
Tire wear and damage
WARNING
cTires should be periodically in-
spected for wear, cracking, bulging,
or objects caught in the tread. If
excessive wear, cracks, bulging, or
deep cuts are found, the tire(s)
should be replaced.
cThe original tires have a built-in
tread wear indicator. When the wear
indicator is visible, the tire(s) should
be replaced.
ADI1115DI1035M
8-36Do-it-yourself
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cImproper service of the spare tire
may result in serious personal in-
jury. If it is necessary to repair the
spare tire, contact an authorized
NISSAN dealer.
Replacing wheels and tires
When replacing a tire, use the same size,
tread design, speed rating and load carrying
capacity as originally equipped. Recom-
mended types and sizes are shown in
``wheels/tire size'' in the ``Technical and con-
sumer information'' section of this manual.
WARNING
c
The use of tires other than those rec-
ommended, or the mixed use of tires
of different brands, construction (bias,
bias-belted, radial), or tread patterns
can adversely affect the ride, braking,
handling, ground clearance, body-to-
tire clearance, tire chain clearance,
speedometer calibration, headlight
aim and bumper height. Some of these
effects may lead to accidents and
could result in serious personal injury.cIf the wheels are changed for any rea-
son, always replace with wheels which
have the same off-set dimension.
Wheels of a different off-set could
cause pre-mature tire wear, degrade
vehicle handling characteristics
and/or interference with the brake
discs/drums. Such interference can
lead to decreased braking efficiency
and/or early brake pad/shoe wear. Re-
fer to ``Wheel/tire size'' in the ``Techni-
cal and consumer information'' sec-
tion of this manual for wheel off-set
dimensions.
cDo not install a deformed wheel or
tire even if it has been repaired. Such
wheels or tires could have unknown
structural damage and could fail
without warning.
cThe use of retread tires is not recom-
mended.
Wheel balance
Unbalanced wheels may affect vehicle han-
dling and tire life. Even with regular use,
wheels can get out of balance. Therefore,
they should be balanced as required.
Wheel balance service should be per-
formed with the wheels off the vehicle. Spin
balancing the front wheels on the vehicle
could lead to transmission damage.
Care of wheels
cWash the wheels when washing the ve-
hicle to maintain their appearance.
cClean the inner side of the wheels when
the wheel is changed or the underside of
the vehicle is washed.
cDo not use abrasive cleaners when
washing the wheels.
cInspect wheel rims regularly for dents or
corrosion. Such damage may cause loss
of pressure or poor seal at the tire bead.
cNISSAN recommends waxing the road
wheels to protect against road salt in
areas where it is used during winter.
Spare tire (TEMPORARY USE
ONLY spare tire)
Observe the following precautions if the
TEMPORARY USE ONLY spare tire must
be used, otherwise your vehicle could be
damaged or involved in an accident:
Do-it-yourself
8-37
ZX

WARNING
cThe spare tire should be used for
emergency use only. It should be
replaced with the standard tire at the
first opportunity to avoid possible
tire or differential damage.
cDrive carefully while the TEMPO-
RARY USE ONLY spare tire is in-
stalled. Avoid sharp turns and
abrupt braking while driving.
cPeriodically check spare tire infla-
tion pressure. Always keep the pres-
sure of the TEMPORARY USE ONLY
spare tire at 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 bar).
cWith the TEMPORARY USE ONLY
spare tire installed do not drive the
vehicle at speeds faster than 50 MPH
(80 km/h).
cWhen driving on roads covered with
snow or ice, the TEMPORARY USE
ONLY spare tire should be used on
the rear wheels and the original tire
used on the front wheels (drive
wheels). Use tire chains only on the
front (original) tires.cTire tread of the TEMPORARY USE
ONLY spare tire will wear at a faster
rate than the standard tire. Replace
the spare tire as soon as the tread
wear indicators appear.
cDo not use the spare tire on other
vehicles.
cDo not use more than one spare tire
at the same time.
cDo not tow a trailer when the TEM-
PORARY USE ONLY spare tire is
installed.CAUTION
cDo not use tire chains on the TEM-
PORARY USE ONLY spare tire. Tire
chains will not fit properly and may
cause damage to the vehicle.
cBecause the TEMPORARY USE
ONLY spare tire is smaller than the
original tire, ground clearance is re-
duced. To avoid damage to the ve-
hicle, do not drive over obstacles.
Also, do not drive the vehicle
through an automatic car wash since
it may get caught.
8-38Do-it-yourself
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Tires* ÐCheck the pressure with a gauge
periodically when at a service station, in-
cluding the spare, and adjust to the speci-
fied pressure if necessary. Check carefully
for damage, cuts or excessive wear.
Wheel nuts* ÐWhen checking the tires,
make sure no wheel nuts are missing, and
check for any loose wheel nuts. Tighten if
necessary.
Tire rotation* ÐTires should be rotated
every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).
Wheel alignment and balance ÐIf the
vehicle should pull to either side while driv-
ing on a straight and level road, or if you
detect uneven or abnormal tire wear, there
may be a need for a wheel alignment.
If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at
normal highway speeds, wheel balancing
may be needed.Windshield wiper blades* ÐCheck for
cracks or wear if they do not wipe properly.
Doors and engine hood ÐCheck that all
doors and the hood operate properly. Also
ensure all latches lock securely. Lubricate
hinges, latches, rollers and links if neces-
sary. Make sure 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
frequently.
Lights* ÐMake sure the headlights, stop
lights, tail lights, turn signal lights, and other
lights are all operating properly and installed
securely. Also check headlight aim.
INTERIOR MAINTENANCE
The maintenance items listed here should
be checked on a regular basis, such as
when performing periodic maintenance,
cleaning the vehicle, etc.
Additional information on the following
items with an ``*'' is found in the ``Do-it-
yourself'' section of this manual.Warning lights and chimes ÐMake sure
all warning lights and buzzers/chimes are
operating properly.
Windshield wiper and washer* ÐCheck
that the wipers and washer operate properly
and that the wipers do not streak.
Windshield defroster ÐCheck that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly
and in sufficient quantity when operating the
heater or air conditioner.
Steering wheel ÐCheck for changes in
the steering conditions, such as excessive
freeplay, hard steering or strange noises.
Seats ÐCheck seat position controls such
as seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to
ensure they operate smoothly and all
latches lock securely in every position.
Check that the head restraints move up and
down smoothly and the locks (if so
equipped) hold securely in all latched posi-
tions.
Seat belts ÐCheck that all parts of the seat
belt system (for example, buckles, anchors,
adjusters and retractors) operate properly
and smoothly, and are installed securely.
Check the belt webbing for cuts, fraying,
wear or damage.
Maintenance
9-3
ZX

Accelerator pedal ÐCheck the pedal for
smooth operation and make sure the pedal
does not catch or require uneven effort.
Keep the floor mat away from the pedal.
Clutch pedal* ÐMake sure the pedal
operates smoothly and check that it has the
proper free travel.
Brakes ÐCheck that the brakes do not pull
the vehicle to one side when applied.
Brake pedal and booster* ÐCheck the
pedal for smooth operation and make sure it
has the proper distance under it when de-
pressed fully. Check the brake booster func-
tion. Be certain to keep the floor mat away
from the pedal.
Parking brake* ÐCheck that the lever has
the proper travel and confirm that your
vehicle is held securely on a fairly steep hill
with only the parking brake applied.
Automatic transmission P position
mechanism ÐOn a fairly steep hill check
that your vehicle is held securely with the
shift selector lever in the P (Park) position
without applying any brakes.Under the hood and vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should
be checked periodically, such as each time
you check the engine oil or refuel.
Additional information on the items
marked with an ª*º can be found in the
ªDo-it-yourself'' section of this manual.
Windshield washer fluid* ÐCheck that
there is adequate fluid in the tank.
Engine oil level* ÐCheck the level after
parking the vehicle on a level surface, with
the engine off. Wait a few minutes for the oil
to drain back into the oil pan.
Brake and (if so equipped) clutch fluid
levels* ÐMake sure that the brake and
clutch fluid level are between the MIN and
MAX lines on each reservoir.
Power steering fluid level* and lines Ð
Check the level when the fluid is cold and
with the engine off. Check the lines for
proper attachment, leaks, cracks, etc.
Automatic transmission fluid level* Ð
Check the level after putting the shift selec-
tor lever in P (Park) with the engine idling at
operating temperature.Engine coolant level* ÐCheck the cool-
ant level when the engine is cold.
Radiator and hoses ÐCheck the front of
the radiator and clean off any dirt, insects,
leaves, etc., that may have accumulated.
Make sure the hoses have no cracks, de-
formation, rot or loose connections.
Engine drive belts* ÐMake sure the drive
belts are not frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Battery* ÐCheck the fluid level in each
cell. It should be between the MAX and MIN
lines.
Exhaust system ÐMake sure there are no
cracks, holes, loose joints or supports. If the
sound of the exhaust seems unusual or
there is a smell of exhaust fumes, immedi-
ately have the exhaust system inspected by
a qualified individual. (See the carbon mon-
oxide warning in the ``Starting and driving''
section of this manual.)
Underbody ÐThe underbody is frequently
exposed to corrosive substances such as
those used on icy roads or to control dust. It
is very important to remove these sub-
stances from the underbody, otherwise rust
may form on the floor pan, frame, fuel lines
9-4Maintenance
ZX

Use the following steps to mount the license
plate:
1. Make a hole in each plastic finisher at the
location mark (small dimple) using a 0.31
in (8 mm) drill. To avoid damaging the
threads behind the finisher, apply only
light pressure to the drill.2.Mount the license plate bracket using two of
the four8 mm slotted hex head screws.
3. Use the remaining two8 mm slotted hex
head screwsto mount the license plate
to the license plate bracket.
WARNING
cIt is extremely dangerous to ride in a
cargo area inside the vehicle. In a
collision, people riding in these ar-
eas are more likely to be seriously
injured or killed.
cDo not allow people to ride in any
area of the vehicle that is not
equipped with seats and seat belts.
c
Be sure everyone in the vehicle is in a
seat with their seat belt properly fas-
tened.
TERMS
It is important to familiarize yourself with the
following terms before loading your vehicle:
c
Curb Weight (actual weight of your ve-
hicle) - vehicle weight including: standard
and optional equipment, fluids, emergency
tools, and spare tire assembly. This weight
does notinclude passengers and cargo.
cGVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) - curb
weight plus the combined weight of pas-
sengers and cargo.
cGVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) -
WTI0002
INSTALLING FRONT LICENSE
PLATEVEHICLE LOADING
INFORMATION
Technical and consumer information10-13
ZX

maximum total weight (load) limit speci-
fied for the vehicle.
cGAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) -
maximum weight (load) limit specified for
the front or rear axle.
DETERMINING VEHICLE LOAD
CAPACITY
The load capacity of this vehicle is determined
by weight, not by available cargo space. For
example, a luggage rack, bike carrier, cartop
carrier or similar equipment does not increase
load carrying capacity of your vehicle.
To determine vehicle load capacity:
Vehicle weight can be determined by using
a commercial-grade scale, found at places
such as a truck stop, gravel quarry, grain
elevator, or a scrap metal recycling facility.
1)
Determine the curb weight of your vehicle.
2) Compare the curb weight amount to the
GVWR specified for your vehicle to de-
termine how much more weight your
vehicle can carry.
3) After loading (cargo and passengers),
re-weigh your vehicle to determine if
either GVWR or GAWR for your vehicle
is exceeded. If GVWR is exceeded, re-move cargo as necessary. If either the
front or rear GAWR is exceeded, shift the
load or remove cargo as necessary.
LOADING TIPS
cThe GVW must not exceed GVWR or
GAWR as specified on the FMVSS Cer-
tification Label.
cDo not load the front and rear axle to the
GAWR. Doing so will exceed the GVWR.
WARNING
c
Properly secure all cargo to help pre-
vent it from sliding or shifting. Do not
place cargo higher than the seat-
backs. In a sudden stop or collision,
unsecured cargo could cause per-
sonal injury.
cDo not load your vehicle any heavier
than the GVWR or the maximum
front and rear GAWRs. If you do,
parts of your vehicle can break, or it
can change the way your vehicle
handles. This could result in loss of
control and cause personal injury.cOverloading can shorten the life of
the vehicle. Failures caused by over-
loading are not covered by the vehi-
cle's warranty.
10-14Technical and consumer information
ZX

Your new vehicle was designed to be used
primarily to carry passengers and cargo. Re-
member that towing a trailer will place addi-
tional loads on your vehicle's engine, drive
train, steering, braking and other systems.
A Nissan Trailer Towing Guide (U.S. only)
containing information on trailer towing ability
and the special equipment required may be
obtained from an authorized NISSAN dealer.
MAXIMUM LOAD LIMITS
Maximum trailer loads:
Never allow the total trailer load to exceed
1,000 lb (454 kg). The total trailer load
equals trailer weight plus its cargo weight.
Towing loads greater than 1,000 lb (454 kg)
or using improper towing equipment could
adversely affect vehicle handling, braking
and performance.
The ability of your vehicle to tow a trailer is
not only related to the maximum trailer
loads, but also the places you plan to tow.
Tow weights appropriate for level highway
driving may have to be reduced on very
steep grades or in low traction situations (for
example, on slippery boat ramps).
WARNING
Vehicle damage and/or personal injury
resulting from improper towing proce-
dures are not covered by NISSAN warran-
ties. A NISSAN Trailer Towing Guide (U.S.
only) containing information on trailer
towing ability and the special equipment
required may be obtained from an autho-
rized NISSAN dealer.
Tongue load:
Keep the tongue load between 9 and 11%
of the total trailer load. If the tongue load
becomes excessive, rearrange cargo to al-
low for proper tongue load.
Maximum gross vehicle weight/
maximum gross axle weight:
The gross vehicle weight of the towing
vehicle must not exceed the gross vehicle
weight rating (GVWR) shown on the
F.M.V.S.S. certification label. The gross ve-
hicle weight equals the combined weight of
the unloaded vehicle, passengers, luggage,
TI1011MTI1012M
TOWING A TRAILER
Technical and consumer information10-15
ZX