oil temperature NISSAN ALTIMA 2005 L31 / 3.G Owners Manual

2 Instruments and controls
Instrument panel...................................2-2
Meters and gauges ................................2-3
Speedometer and odometer .....................2-4
Trip computer (if so equipped) ...................2-5
Tachometer ....................................2-7
Engine coolant temperature gauge ...............2-8
Fuel gauge ....................................2-8
Engine oil pressure gauge .......................2-9
Voltmeter ..................................... 2-10
Fuel consumption gauge .......................2-10
Warning/indicator lights and audible reminders ......2-11
Checking bulbs ............................... 2-11
Warning lights ................................ 2-11
Indicator lights ................................ 2-14
Audible reminders ............................. 2-15
Security systems ................................. 2-16
Vehicle security system (if so equipped) ..........2-16
Nissan vehicle immobilizer system (NVIS) ........2-17
Windshield wiper and washer switch ...............2-19
Switch operation .............................. 2-19
Rear window and outside mirror (if so equipped)
defroster switch .................................. 2-20
Headlight and turn signal switch ....................2-21Xenon headlights (if so equipped)
...............2-21
Headlight control switch ........................ 2-21
Daytime running light system (Canada only) ......2-23
Instrument brightness control ...................2-24
Turn signal switch ............................. 2-24
Fog light switch (if so equipped) ................2-25
Hazard warning flasher switch .....................2-25
Horn ............................................ 2-26
Heated seat (if so equipped) .......................2-26
Traction control system (TCS) off switch
(if so equipped) .................................. 2-27
Power outlet ..................................... 2-27
Cigarette lighter and ashtray (if so equipped) ........2-28
Storage ......................................... 2-29
Map pockets .................................. 2-29
Seatback pockets (if so equipped) ..............2-29
Sunglasses holder ............................. 2-30
Cup holders .................................. 2-30
Glove box .................................... 2-31
Console box .................................. 2-31
Instrument panel storage (if so equipped) ........2-33
Covered storage box (if so equipped) ............2-34
Grocery hooks (if so equipped) .................2-34
ZREVIEW COPYÐ2005 Altima(l30)
Owners ManualÐUSA_English (nna)
06/29/04Ðtbrooks
X

8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Maintenance requirements..........................8-2
General maintenance ..............................8-2
Explanation of general maintenance items .........8-2
Maintenance precautions ...........................8-5
Engine compartment check locations ................8-6
Engine cooling system .............................8-8
Checking engine coolant level ...................8-8
Changing engine coolant ........................8-9
Engine oil .........................................8-9
Checking engine oil level ........................8-9
Changing engine oil ........................... 8-10
Changing engine oil filter .......................8-12
4-speed automatic transmission fluid ...............8-13
Temperature conditions for checking .............8-13
5-speed automatic transmission fluid ...............8-15
Power steering fluid ............................... 8-15
Brake and clutch fluid ............................. 8-15
Brake fluid .................................... 8-16
Clutch fluid ................................... 8-16
Window washer fluid ............................. 8-16
Window washer fluid reservoir ..................8-16
Battery .......................................... 8-17
Jump starting ................................. 8-18Drive belts
....................................... 8-19
Spark plugs ...................................... 8-20
Replacing spark plugs ......................... 8-20
Air cleaner ....................................... 8-21
In-cabin microfilter (if so equipped) ..............8-21
Windshield wiper blades .......................... 8-24
Cleaning ..................................... 8-24
Replacing .................................... 8-24
Parking brake and brake pedal .....................8-25
Checking parking brake ........................ 8-25
Checking brake pedal .......................... 8-25
Brake booster ................................. 8-26
Fuses ........................................... 8-26
Engine compartment ........................... 8-26
Passenger compartment .......................8-28
Keyfob battery replacement ........................8-29
Lights ........................................... 8-30
Headlights .................................... 8-30
Front park/turn/sidemarker light .................8-30
Fog lights (if so equipped) ......................8-30
Exterior and interior lights .......................8-31
Wheels and tires ................................. 8-38
Tire pressure .................................. 8-38
ZREVIEW COPYÐ2005 Altima(l30)
Owners ManualÐUSA_English (nna)
06/29/04Ðtbrooks
X

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
sufficient quantity when operating the heater or
air conditioner.
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) .
Automatic transmission fluid level* Check
the level after putting the selector lever in P with
the engine idling at operating temperature.
Battery* Check the fluid level in each cell. It
should be between the MAX and MIN lines. Ve-
hicles 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 level is between the
MIN and MAX lines on the reservoir.
Engine coolant level* Check the coolant level
when the engine is cold.
Engine drive belts* Make sure the drive belts
are not frayed, worn, cracked or oily. Engine oil level*
Check the level after parking
the vehicle on a level surface with the engine off.
Wait more than 10 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 the
carbon monoxide warning in the “Starting and
driving” section of this manual.
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 when the fluid is cold, 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 from the
underbody, otherwise rust may form on the floor
pan, frame, fuel lines and exhaust system. At the
end of winter, the underbody should be thor-
oughly flushed with plain water, in those areas
where mud and dirt may have accumulated. See
the “Appearance and care” section of this
manual.
Windshield washer fluid* Check that there is
adequate fluid in the reservoir.
8-4Maintenance and do-it-yourself
ZREVIEW COPYÐ2005 Altima (l30)
Owners ManualÐUSA_English (nna)
06/28/04Ðtbrooks
X

CHANGING ENGINE COOLANT
A NISSAN dealer can change the engine coolant.
The service procedure can be found in the
NISSAN Service Manual.
Improper servicing can result in reduced
heater performance and engine overheat-
ing.
WARNING
cTo avoid the danger of being scalded,
never change the coolant when the en-
gine is hot.
c Never remove the radiator cap when the
engine is hot. Serious burns could be
caused by high pressure fluid escaping
from the radiator.
c Avoid direct skin contact with used
coolant. If skin contact is made, wash
thoroughly with soap or hand cleaner
as soon as possible.
c Keep coolant out of the reach of chil-
dren and pets.
Engine coolant must be disposed of properly.
Check your local regulations.
CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
2. Start the engine and let it idle until it reaches 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. Re-
insert it all the way.
QR25DE
WDI0211
VQ35DE
WDI0212
ENGINE OIL
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-9
ZREVIEW COPYÐ2005 Altima (l30)
Owners ManualÐUSA_English (nna)
06/28/04Ðtbrooks
X

5. Remove the dipstick again and check the oillevel. It should be between the H (High) and
L (Low) marks
sB. This is the normal oper-
ating oil level range. If the oil level is below
the L (Low) mark
sA, remove the oil filler cap
and pour recommended oil through the
opening. Do not overfill
sC. 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. Op-
erating the engine with an insufficient
amount of oil can damage the engine, and
such damage is not covered by warranty.
CHANGING ENGINE OIL
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
2. Start the engine and let it idle until it reaches operating temperature, then turn it off.
3. Remove the oil filler cap by turning it coun- terclockwise.
4. Place a large drain pan under the drain plug.
Type A
WDI0213
Type B
WDI0214
QR25DE
WDI0215
8-10Maintenance and do-it-yourself
ZREVIEW COPYÐ2005 Altima (l30)
Owners ManualÐUSA_English (nna)
06/28/04Ðtbrooks
X

5. Remove the drain plug with a wrench byturning it counterclockwise and completely
drain the oil.
If the oil filter is to be changed, remove and
replace it at this time. See “Changing engine
oil filter” later in this section.
WARNING
c Prolonged and repeated contact with
used engine oil may cause skin cancer. c
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.
c Keep used engine oil out of reach of
children.
CAUTION
Be careful not to burn yourself. The engine
oil may be hot.
c Waste oil must be disposed of prop-
erly.
c Check your local regulations.
6. Clean and reinstall the drain plug and a new washer. Securely tighten the drain plug with
a wrench. Do not use excessive force.
Drain plug tightening torque: 22 - 29 ft-lb (29 - 39 N·m)
7. Refill engine with recommended oil through the oil filler opening, then install the oil filler
cap securely.
See “Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants” in the “Technical and con-
sumer information” section of this manual for
drain and refill capacity. 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 when the proper
amount of oil is in the engine.
8. Start the engine. Check for leakage around the drain plug and oil filter. Correct as re-
quired.
9. Turn the engine off and wait more than 10 minutes. Check the oil level with the dipstick.
Add engine oil if necessary.
VQ35DE
WDI0216
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-11
ZREVIEW COPYÐ2005 Altima (l30)
Owners ManualÐUSA_English (nna)
06/28/04Ðtbrooks
X

ENGINE OIL AND OIL FILTER
RECOMMENDATION
Selecting the correct oil
It is essential to choose engine oil with the cor-
rect quality and viscosity to ensure satisfactory
engine life and performance. NISSAN recom-
mends the use of a low friction oil (energy con-
serving oil) in order to improve fuel economy and
conserve energy. Oils which do not have the
specified quality label should not be used as they
could cause engine damage.
Only those engine oils with the American Petro-
leum Institute (API) CERTIFICATION MARK onthe front of the container should be used. This
type of oil supersedes the existing API SG, SH, or
SJ and Energy Conserving II categories.
If you cannot find engine oil with the API CERTI-
FICATION MARK, use API grade SL Energy
Conserving oil. An oil with a single designation
SL, or in combination with other categories (for
example, SL/CF) may also be used if one with the
API CERTIFICATION MARK cannot be found. An
ILSAC grade GF-III oil can also be used.
NISSAN recommends mineral based oils. These
oils must, however, meet the API quality and SAE
viscosity ratings specified for your vehicle.
Oil additives
NISSAN does not recommend the use of oil
additives. The use of an oil additive is not neces-
sary when the proper oil type is used and main-
tenance intervals are followed.
Oil which may contain foreign matter or has been
previously used should not be used.
Oil viscosity
The engine oil viscosity or thickness changes
with temperature. Because of this, it is important
to select the engine oil viscosity based on the
temperatures at which the vehicle will be oper-
ated before the next oil change. The chart “Rec-
ommended SAE viscosity number” shows the
recommended oil viscosities for the expected
ambient temperatures. Choosing an oil viscosity
other than that recommended could cause seri-
ous engine damage.
Selecting the correct oil filter
Your new NISSAN vehicle is equipped with a
high-quality genuine NISSAN oil filter. When re-
placing, use a genuine NISSAN oil filter or its
equivalent for the reason described in “Change
intervals”.
WTI0082
Technical and consumer information9-5
ZREVIEW COPYÐ2005 Altima
(l30)
Owners ManualÐUSA_English (nna)
06/28/04Ðtbrooks
X

Change intervals
The oil and oil filter change intervals for your
engine are based on the use of the specified
quality oils and filters. Using engine oil and filters
that are not of the specified quality, or exceeding
recommended oil and filter change intervals
could reduce engine life. Damage to the engine
caused by improper maintenance or use of incor-
rect oil and filter quality and/or viscosity is not
covered by the NISSAN new vehicle warranty.
Your engine was filled with a high-quality engine
oil when it was built. You do not have to change
the oil before the first recommended change
interval. Oil and filter change intervals depend
upon how you use your vehicle.
Operation under the following conditions may
require more frequent oil and filter changes:c repeated short distance driving at cold out-
side temperatures
c driving in dusty conditions
c extensive idling
c towing a trailer
RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY
NUMBER
cSAE 5W-30 viscosity oil is preferred for all
temperatures. SAE 10W-30 or SAE
10W-40 viscosity oils may be used if the
ambient temperature is above 0°F (-18°C) .
AIR CONDITIONER SYSTEM
REFRIGERANT AND LUBRICANT
RECOMMENDATIONS
The air conditioner system in your NISSAN
vehicle must be charged with the refriger-
ant HFC-134a (R-134a) and the lubricant,
NISSAN A/C system oil DH-PS or the exact
equivalents.
CAUTION
The use of any other refrigerant or lubri-
cant will cause severe damage to the air
conditioning system and will require the
replacement of all air conditioner system
components.
The refrigerant HFC-134a (R-134a) in your
NISSAN vehicle does not harm the earth’s ozone
layer. Although this refrigerant does not affect the
earth’s atmosphere, certain government regula-
tions require the recovery and recycling of any
refrigerant during automotive air conditioner sys-
tem service. A NISSAN dealer has the trained
technicians and equipment needed to recover
and recycle your air conditioner system refriger-
ant.
Contact a NISSAN dealer when servicing your air
conditioner system.
ATI1028
9-6Technical and consumer information
ZREVIEW COPYÐ2005 Altima (l30)
Owners ManualÐUSA_English (nna)
06/28/04Ðtbrooks
X

then move the transmission shift selector
lever into the P (Park) position. If you move
the shift selector lever to the P (Park) posi-
tion before blocking the wheels and applying
the parking brake, transmission damage
could occur.
c When going down a hill, shift into a lower
gear and use the engine braking effect.
When going up a long grade, downshift the
transmission to a lower gear and reduce
speed to reduce chances of engine over-
loading and/or overheating.
c If the engine coolant rises to an extremely
high temperature when the air conditioner
system is on, turn off the air conditioner.
Coolant heat can be additionally vented by
opening the windows, switching the fan
control to high and setting the temperature
control to the HOT position.
c Trailer towing requires more fuel than normal
circumstances.
c Avoid towing a trailer for your vehicle’s first
500 miles (805 km) .
c For the first 500 miles that you do tow, do
not drive over 50 MPH (80 km/h) . c
Have your vehicle serviced more often than
at intervals specified in the recommended
Maintenance Schedule in the “NISSAN Ser-
vice and Maintenance Guide”.
c When making a turn, your trailer wheels will
be closer to the inside of the turn than your
vehicle wheels. To compensate for this,
make a larger than normal turning radius
during the turn.
c Crosswinds and rough roads will adversely
affect vehicle/trailer handling, possibly caus-
ing vehicle sway. When being passed by
larger vehicles, be prepared for possible
changes in crosswinds that could affect ve-
hicle handling. If swaying does occur, firmly
grip the steering wheel, steer straight ahead,
and immediately (but gradually) reduce ve-
hicle speed. This combination will help sta-
bilize the vehicle. Never increase speed.
c Be careful when passing other vehicles.
Passing while towing a trailer requires con-
siderably more distance than normal pass-
ing. Remember, the length of the trailer must
also pass the other vehicle before you can
safely change lanes.
c To maintain engine braking efficiency and
electrical charging performance, do not use
5th gear (manual transmission) or overdrive
(automatic transmission) . c
Avoid holding the brake pedal down too long
or too frequently. This could cause the
brakes to overheat, resulting in reduced
braking efficiency.
c Increase your following distance to allow for
greater stopping distances while towing a
trailer. Anticipate stops and brake gradually.
c Do not use cruise control while towing a
trailer.
c Check your hitch, trailer wiring harness con-
nections, and trailer wheel lug nuts after 50
miles (80 km) of travel and at every break.
c When stopped in traffic for long periods of
time in hot weather, put the vehicle in the P
(Park) position.
When towing a trailer, transmission
oil/fluid should be changed more fre-
quently. For additional information, see the
“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section
earlier in this manual.
FLAT TOWING
Towing your vehicle with all four wheels on the
ground is sometimes called flat towing. This
method is sometimes used when towing a vehicle
behind a recreational vehicle, such as a motor
home.
9-18Technical and consumer information
ZREVIEW COPYÐ2005 Altima (l30)
Owners ManualÐUSA_English (nna)
06/28/04Ðtbrooks
X

Chimes, audible reminders...........2-15
Cigarette lighter and ashtray ..........2-28
Cleaning exterior and interior ..........7-2
Clock ........... .4-28, 4-32, 4-38, 4-42
(models with navigation system) ......4-8
Clock set Control panel buttons ............4-8
Clutch Clutch fluid ................ .8-16
Cold weather driving ............. .5-22
Console box .................. .2-31
Control panel buttons With navigation system ...........4-2
Controls Heater and air conditioner
controls ............... .4-12, 4-20
Coolant Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants ................ .9-2
Changing engine coolant ..........8-9
Checking engine coolant level ........8-8
Engine coolant temperature gauge .....2-8
Corrosion protection .............. .7-5
Cruise control ................. .5-15
Cup holders .................. .2-30
D
Daytime running light system
(Canada only) ................. .2-23
Defroster switch Rear window and outside mirror
defroster switch .............. .2-20
Dimensions and weights .............9-8
Display controls (see control panel buttons) . .4-2 Door locks
................... .3-3
Door open warning light ............2-12
Drive belts ................... .8-19
Driving Cold weather driving ............5-22
Driving with automatic transmission .....5-7
Driving with manual transmission .....5-11
Precautions when starting and driving . . .5-2
E
Economy - fuel ................ .5-17
Emission control information label .......9-11
Emission control system warranty .......9-20
Engine Before starting the engine ..........5-6
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants ................ .9-2
Changing engine coolant ..........8-9
Changing engine oil ............8-10
Changing engine oil filter ..........8-12
Checking engine coolant level ........8-8
Checking engine oil level ..........8-9
Engine compartment check locations . . . .8-8
Engine coolant temperature gauge .....2-8
Engine cooling system ............8-8
Engine oil .................. .8-9
Engine oil and oil filter recommendation . .9-5
Engine oil viscosity ............. .9-5
Engine serial number ............9-10
Engine specifications .............9-7
Starting the engine ............. .5-6
Engine oil pressure gauge ............2-9
Engine oil pressure low/engine coolant
temperature high warning light .........2-12English/Metric button
..............4-8
Control panel buttons ............4-8
ENTER button ................. .4-2
Enter button Control panel buttons ............4-2
Event data recorders ............. .9-22
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) ........5-2
Eyeglass case ................. .2-30
F
Flashers
(See hazard warning flasher switch) ......2-25
Flat tire ..................... .6-2
Floor mat positioning aid .............7-4
Fluid Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) . . . .8-13
Brake fluid ................. .8-15
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants ................ .9-2
Clutch fluid ................ .8-16
Engine coolant ............... .8-8
Engine oil .................. .8-9
Power steering fluid ............ .8-15
Window washer fluid ............8-16
F.M.V.S.S. certification label ..........9-10
Fog light switch ................ .2-25
Front air bag system
(See supplemental restraint system) .....1-40
Front seats ................... .1-2
Fuel Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants ................ .9-2
Fuel economy ............... .5-17
Fuel filler cap ............... .3-12
10-2
ZREVIEW COPYÐ2005 Altima(l30)
Owners ManualÐUSA_English (nna)
07/09/04Ðtbrooks
X