check engine light NISSAN ALTIMA 2003 L31 / 3.G Owners Manual

2 Instruments and controls
Instrument panel...................................2-2
Meters and gauges................................2-3
Speedometer and odometer.....................2-3
Trip computer..................................2-4
Tachometer....................................2-5
Engine coolant temperature gauge...............2-6
Fuel gauge....................................2-7
Warning/indicator lights and audible reminders.......2-8
Checking bulbs................................2-8
Warning lights.................................2-8
Indicator lights................................2-10
Audible reminders.............................2-12
Security systems.................................2-12
Nissan vehicle immobilizer system (NVIS)........2-12
Vehicle security system (if so equipped)..........2-14
Windshield wiper and washer switch...............2-16
Switch operation..............................2-16
Rear window defroster switch......................2-17
Headlight and turn signal switch....................2-18
Xenon headlights..............................2-18
Headlight control switch........................2-19
Daytime running light system (Canada only)......2-21
Instrument brightness control...................2-22Turn signal switch.............................2-22
Fog light switch (if so equipped)................2-22
Hazard warning flasher switch.....................2-24
Horn............................................2-24
Heated seat (if so equipped).......................2-25
Traction control system (TCS) off switch
(if so equipped)..................................2-26
Power outlet.....................................2-26
Storage.........................................2-27
Seatback pockets (if so equipped)..............2-27
Seatback side pockets (if so equipped)..........2-27
Sunglasses holder.............................2-28
Cup holders..................................2-28
Glove box....................................2-29
Console box..................................2-30
Covered storage box...........................2-31
Cargo net (if so equipped)......................2-32
Windows........................................2-33
Power windows...............................2-33
Sunroof (if so equipped)...........................2-35
Electric sunroof...............................2-35
Interior light......................................2-36
Map lights.......................................2-37
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orAnti-lock brake warning lightLow washer fluid warning lightHigh beam indicator light (Blue)
orBrake warning lightSeat belt warning light and chimeMalfunction indicator lamp (MIL)
Charge warning lightSupplemental air bag warning lightSlip indicator light
Door open warning lightTrunk lid open warning lightTraction control system off indicator light
Engine oil pressure warning lightCRUISE main switch indicator light
(if so equipped)Turn signal/hazard indicator lights
Low fuel warning lightCruise SET switch indicator light
(if so equipped)
CHECKING BULBS
With all doors closed, apply the parking brake
and turn the ignition key to the ON position
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
electrical system. Have the system repaired
promptly.
WARNING LIGHTS
orAnti-lock brake
warning light (if so
equipped)
If the light comes on while the engine is running,
it may indicate the anti-lock brake system is not
functioning properly. Have the system checked
by a NISSAN dealer.Turn off the engine, and start it again by
slowly turning the ignition key (quickly do-
ing so may cause the ABS light to stay on
when there is nothing wrong) . If the light
stays on, have the system checked by a
NISSAN dealer.
If an abnormality occurs in the system, the anti-
lock function ceases, but the regular braking
system continues to operate.
If the light comes on while you are driving,
contact a NISSAN dealer for repair.
WARNING/INDICATOR LIGHTS AND
AUDIBLE REMINDERS
2-8Instruments and controls
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orBrake warning light
This light functions for both the parking brake and
the foot brake systems.
When the ignition key is in the ON position, the
light comes on when the parking brake is applied,
and also warns of a low brake fluid level. If the
light comes on while the engine is running with
the parking brake not applied, stop the vehicle
and perform the following:
1. Check the brake fluid level. Add brake fluid
as necessary. See “Brake and clutch fluid” in
the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” sec-
tion of this manual.
2. If the brake fluid level is correct, have the
brake system checked by a NISSAN dealer.
WARNING
cYour brake system may not be working
properly if the warning light is on. Driv-
ing could be dangerous. If you judge it
to be safe, drive carefully to the nearest
service station for repairs. Otherwise,
have your vehicle towed because driv-
ing it could be dangerous.cPressing the brake pedal with the en-
gine stopped and/or a low brake fluid
level may increase your stopping dis-
tance and braking will require greater
pedal effort as well as pedal travel.
cIf the brake fluid level is below the
MINIMUM or MIN mark on the brake
fluid reservoir, do not drive until the
brake system has been checked at a
NISSAN dealer.
Charge warning light
If this light comes on while the engine is running,
it may indicate the charging system is not func-
tioning properly. Turn the engine off and check
the generator belt. If the belt is loose, broken,
missing, or if the light remains on, see a NISSAN
dealer immediately.
CAUTION
Do not continue driving if the generator
belt is loose, broken or missing.
Door open warning light
This light comes on when any of the doors are not
closed securely while the ignition key is in the ON
position.
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 engine
immediatelyand call a NISSAN dealer.
The engine oil pressure warning light is not
designed to indicate a low oil level. Use the
dipstick to check the oil level.See “Engine
oil” in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” sec-
tion of this manual.
CAUTION
Running the engine with the engine oil
pressure warning light on could cause se-
rious damage to the engine almost imme-
diately. Such damage is not covered by
warranty. Turn off the engine as soon as it
is safe to do so.
Low fuel warning light
This light comes on when the fuel level in the fuel
tank is getting low. Refuel as soon as it is conve-
nient, preferably before the fuel gauge reaches E
(Empty) .There will be a small reserve of fuel
in the tank when the fuel gauge needle
reaches E (Empty) .
Instruments and controls2-9
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Low washer fluid warning light
This light comes on when the washer fluid is at a
low level. Add washer fluid as necessary. See the
“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section of this
manual.
Seat belt warning light and
chime
The light and chime remind you to fasten your
seat belts. The light illuminates whenever the
ignition key is turned to the ON or START position
and remains illuminated until the driver’s seat belt
is fastened. At the same time, the chime sounds
for about 7 seconds unless the driver’s seat belt
is securely fastened.
Refer to “Seat belts” in the “Seats, restraints and
supplemental air bag systems” section for pre-
cautions on seat belt usage.
Supplemental air bag warning
light
When the ignition key is in the ON or START
position, the supplemental air bag warning light
illuminates for about 7 seconds and then turns
off. This means the system is operational.
If any of the following conditions occur, the
supplemental front air bag, supplemental side air
bag (if so equipped) , curtain side-impact airbags, and pre-tensioner seat belt systems need
servicing and your vehicle must be taken to a
NISSAN dealer:
cThe supplemental air bag warning light re-
mains on after approximately 7 seconds.
cThe supplemental air bag warning light
flashes intermittently.
cThe supplemental air bag warning light does
not come on at all.
Unless checked and repaired, the supplemental
restraint system (air bag system) and/or the pre-
tensioner seat belts may not function properly.
For additional details see “Supplemental restraint
system” in the “Seats, restraints and supplemen-
tal air bag systems” section of this manual.
WARNING
If the supplemental air bag warning light
is on, it could mean that the supplemental
front air bag, supplemental side air bag,
curtain side-impact air bag systems (if so
equipped) and/or pre-tensioner seat belt
systems will not operate in an accident.
Trunk lid open warning light
This light comes on when the trunk lid is not
securely closed while the ignition key is in the ON
position.
INDICATOR LIGHTS
Cruise main switch indicator
light (if so equipped)
The light comes on when the cruise control main
switch is pushed. The light goes out when the
main switch is pushed again. When the cruise
main switch indicator light comes on, the cruise
control system is operational.
Cruise set switch indicator
light (if so equipped)
The light comes on while the vehicle speed is
controlled by the cruise control system. If the light
blinks while the engine is running, it may indicate
the cruise control system is not functioning prop-
erly. Have the system checked by a NISSAN
dealer.
High beam indicator light
(Blue)
This blue light comes on when the headlight high
beams are on and goes out when the low beams
are selected.
The high beam indicator light also comes on
when the passing signal is activated.
2-10Instruments and controls
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Malfunction indicator lamp
(MIL)
If this indicator lamp comes on steady or blinks
while the engine is running, it may indicate a
potential emission control malfunction.
The malfunction indicator lamp may also come on
steady if the fuel filler cap is loose or missing, or if
the vehicle runs out of fuel. Check to make sure
the fuel filler cap is installed and closed tightly,
and that the vehicle has at least 3 gallons of fuel
in the fuel tank.
After a few driving trips, the
lamp should
turn off if no other potential emission control
system malfunction exists.
Operation
The malfunction indicator lamp will come on in
one of two ways:
cMalfunction indicator lamp on steady — An
emission control system malfunction has
been detected. Check the fuel filler cap. If
the fuel filler cap is loose or missing, tighten
or install the cap and continue to drive the
vehicle. The
lamp should turn off after
a few driving trips. If thelamp does
not turn off after a few driving trips, have the
vehicle inspected by a NISSAN dealer. Youdo not need to have your vehicle towed to
the dealer.
cMalfunction indicator lamp blinking — An
engine misfire has been detected which may
damage the emission control system. To re-
duce or avoid emission control system dam-
age:
– 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 lamp may stop blinking
and come on steady. Have the vehicle inspected by
a NISSAN dealer. You do not need to have your
vehicle towed to the dealer.
CAUTION
Continued vehicle operation without hav-
ing the emission control system checked
and repaired as necessary could lead to
poor driveability, reduced fuel economy,
and possible damage to the emission con-
trol system.
Slip indicator light (if so
equipped)
This indicator light will blink when the traction
control system is limiting wheel spin. Slippery
road conditions may exist if the slip indicator
blinks on. If this happens, adjust your driving
accordingly.
The slip indicator light also comes on when you
turn the ignition key to the ON position. The light
will turn off after about 2 seconds if the system is
operational. If the light does not come on or go
off, have the traction control system checked by a
NISSAN dealer.
The system operates in all transmission shift lever
positions, but the system can upshift the trans-
mission only as high as the indicated shift lever
position.
Traction control system off
indicator light
After turning the ignition key to the ON position,
the light will illuminate. The light will turn off after
about 2 seconds if the traction control system
(TCS) is operational.
If the light stays on or comes on when you are
driving, it may indicate the traction control system
is not functioning properly. Have the system
checked by a NISSAN dealer.
Instruments and controls2-11
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The light comes on when the traction control off
switch is pushed to OFF. This indicates the trac-
tion control system is not operating.
Push the traction control off switch again or re-
start the engine and the system will operate nor-
mally. See “Traction control” in the “Starting and
driving” section of this manual.
Turn signal/hazard indicator
lights
The appropriate light flashes when the turn signal
switch is activated.
Both lights flash when the hazard switch is turned
on.
AUDIBLE REMINDERS
Brake pad wear warning
The disc brake pads have audible wear warnings.
When a brake pad requires replacement, it
makes a high pitched scraping 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 warning sound is heard.
Key reminder chime
A chime sounds if the driver’s door is opened
while the key is left in the ignition switch. Remove
the key and take it with you when leaving the
vehicle.
Light reminder chime
With the ignition switch in the OFF position, a
chime sounds when the driver’s door is opened if
the headlights or parking lights are on.
Turn the headlight control switch off before leav-
ing the vehicle.
Your vehicle has two types of security systems:
cNISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System—NVIS
cVehicle security system (if so equipped)
NISSAN VEHICLE IMMOBILIZER
SYSTEM (NVIS)
The NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System (NVIS)
will not allow the engine to start without the use of
a registered NVIS key.
LIC0301
SECURITY SYSTEMS
2-12Instruments and controls
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The front seats are warmed by built-in heaters (if
so equipped) . The switches are located on the
center console.
1. Start the engine.
2. Push the low or high position of the switch,
as desired, depending on the temperature.
The indicator light in the switch will illumi-
nate.
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 seat is warmed or before you
leave the vehicle, be sure to turn the switch
off.
CAUTION
cDo not use the seat heater for extended
periods or when no one is using the
seat.
cDo not put anything on the seat which
insulates heat, such as a blanket, cush-
ion, seat cover, etc. Otherwise, the seat
may become overheated.
cDo not place anything hard or heavy on
the seat or pierce it with a pin or similar
object. This may result in damage to the
heater.
cAny liquid spilled on the heated seat
should be removed immediately with a
dry cloth.
cWhen cleaning the seat, never use
gasoline, benzine, thinner, or any simi-
lar materials.
cIf any abnormalities are found or the
heated seat does not operate, turn the
switch off and have the system checked
by your NISSAN dealer.cThe battery could run down if the seat
heater is operated while the engine is
not running.
LIC0136
HEATED SEAT (if so equipped)
Instruments and controls2-25
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s1Pull the hood lock release handle located
below the driver side instrument panel; the
hood springs up slightly.
s2Lift the lever at the front of the hood with your
fingertips and raise the hood.
s3Remove the support rod from the clamp.
s4Insert the support rod into the slot on the
passenger side fender ledge.5. When closing the hood, return the support
rod to its original position, lower the hood to
approximately 12 inches above the latch and
release it. This allows proper engagement of
the hood latch.
WARNING
cMake sure the hood is completely
closed and latched before driving. Fail-
ure to do so could cause the hood to fly
open and result in an accident.
cIf you see steam or smoke coming from
the engine compartment, to avoid injury
do not open the hood.
LPD0072
HOOD
3-10Pre-driving checks and adjustments
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cMake sure the area around the vehicle is
clear.
cCheck fluid levels such as engine oil, cool-
ant, brake and clutch fluid, and window
washer fluid as frequently as possible, or at
least whenever you refuel.
cCheck that all windows and lights are clean.
cVisually inspect tires for their appearance
and condition. Also check tires for proper
inflation.
cLock all doors.
cPosition seat and adjust head restraints.
cAdjust inside and outside mirrors.
cFasten seat belts and ask all passengers to
do likewise.
cCheck the operation of warning lights when
the key is turned to the ON (3) position. See
“Warning/indicator lights and audible re-
minders” in the “Instruments and controls”
section of this manual.1. Apply the parking brake.
2.Automatic transmission:
Move the shift selector lever to P (Park) or N
(Neutral) . P (Park) is recommended.
The shift selector lever cannot be
moved out of P (Park) and into any of
the other gear positions if the ignition
key is turned to the OFF position or if
the key is removed from the ignition
switch.
The starter is designed not to operate if
the shift selector lever is in any of the
driving positions.
Manual transmission:
Move the shift lever to N (Neutral) . Depress
the clutch pedal to the floor while cranking
the engine.
The starter is designed not to operate
unless the clutch pedal is fully de-
pressed.
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.cWhen the engine is very hard to start in
extremely cold weather or when restart-
ing, depress the accelerator pedal a little
(approximately 1/5 to the floor) and hold it
and then crank the engine. Release the
key and the accelerator pedal when the
engine starts.
cWhen the engine is very hard to start
because it is flooded, depress the accel-
erator pedal all the way to the floor and
hold it. Crank the engine for 5-6 seconds.
After cranking the engine, release the ac-
celerator pedal. 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.
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, otherwise
the starter could be damaged.
4. Allow the engine to idle for at least 30 sec-
onds after starting. Drive at moderate speed
for a short distance first, especially in cold
weather.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE STARTING THE ENGINE
5-6Starting and driving
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1 (Low gear):
Use this position when climbing steep hills slowly
or slow driving through deep snow, sand or mud,
or for maximum engine braking on steep downhill
grades.
Do not shift into the 1 position at speeds above
37 MPH (60 km/h) . Do not exceed 37 MPH (60
km/h) in the 1 position.
Shift lock release
If the battery is discharged, the shift selector lever
may not be moved from the P (Park) position even
with the brake pedal depressed.
To move the shift selector lever, release the shift
lock. The shift selector lever can be moved to N
(Neutral) . However, the steering wheel will be
locked unless the ignition switch is turned to the
ON position. This allows the vehicle to be moved
if the battery is discharged.
To push the shift lock release, complete the fol-
lowing procedure:1. Turn the ignition key to the LOCK position
and remove the key
2. Apply the parking brake.
3. Remove the shift lock release cover as
shown.
4. Insert a small screwdriver in the shift lock
release slot and push down.
5. Move the shift selector lever to the N (Neu-
tral) position while holding down the shift
lock release.
6. Turn the key to the ON position to unlock the
steering wheel. Now the vehicle may be
moved to the desired location.
If the shift selector lever cannot be moved out of
P (Park) , have a NISSAN dealer check the auto-
matic transmission system as soon as possible.
WARNING
If the selector lever cannot be moved from
the P (Park) position while the engine is
running and the brake pedal is depressed,
the stop lights may not work. Malfunction-
ing stop lights could cause an accident
injuring yourself and others.
LSD0024
Starting and driving5-9
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