brake fluid NISSAN ALTIMA 2023 User Guide

8 Do-it-yourself
Maintenance precautions.......................8-2
Engine compartment check locations ...........8-3
Engine cooling system ..........................8-5
Checking engine coolant level ................8-6
Changing engine coolant ....................8-6
Engine oil .......................................8-7
Checking engine oil level .....................8-7
Changing engine oil and oil filter ..............8-8
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
fluid ............................................ 8-12
Brake fluid ...................................... 8-12
Windshield-washer fluid ........................8-13
Windshield-washer fluid reservoir ...........8-13
Battery......................................... 8-14
Jump starting ............................... 8-15
Variable voltage control system ................8-16
Drive belt ....................................... 8-16
Spark plugs .................................... 8-17
Replacing spark plugs ....................... 8-17
Air cleaner ..................................... 8-18In-cabin microfilter
.......................... 8-18
Windshield wiper blades ........................8-19
Cleaning .................................... 8-19
Replacing ................................... 8-19
Brakes ......................................... 8-20
Fuses .......................................... 8-21
Engine compartment ....................... 8-21
Passenger compartment ...................8-22
Battery replacement ........................... 8-23
NISSAN Intelligent Key® ......................8-24
Lights .......................................... 8-25
Headlights .................................. 8-25
Fog lights (if so equipped) ...................8-26
Exterior and interior lights ...................8-26
Wheels and tires ............................... 8-29
Tire pressure ................................ 8-29
Tire labeling ................................. 8-33
Types of tires ................................
8-36
Tir

e chains .................................. 8-37
Changing wheels and tires ..................8-39

When performing any inspection or main-
tenance work on your vehicle, always take
care to prevent serious accidental injury to
yourself or damage to the vehicle. The fol-
lowing are general precautions 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. Move the shif t le-
ver to P (Park).
• Be sure the ignition switch is in the
OFF or LOCK position when perform-
ing any parts replacement or repairs.
• If you must work with the engine run-
ning, 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 any
jewelry, such as rings, watches, etc.
before working on your vehicle.
• Always wear eye protection when-
ever you work on your vehicle. •
Your vehicle is equipped with an au-
tomatic engine cooling fan. It may
come on at any time without
warning, even if the ignition switch is
in the OFF position and the engine is
not running. To avoid injury, always
disconnect the negative battery
cable before working near the fan.
• If you must run the engine in an en-
closed 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, the fuel
filter or fuel lines should be serviced.
It is recommended that you visit a
NISSAN dealer for this service be-
cause 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
engine oil, engine coolant and/or
other vehicle fluids can damage the
environment. Always conform to lo-
cal regulations for disposal of vehicle
fluid.
• Never leave the engine or the trans-
mission related component harness
connector disconnected while the ig-
nition switch is in the ON position.
• Never connect or disconnect the bat-
tery or any transistorized compo-
nent while the ignition switch is in
the ON position.
This “Do-it-yourself ” section gives instruc-
tions regarding only those items which are
relatively easy for an owner to perform.
A Genuine NISSAN service manual is also
available. For additional information, see
“Owner's Manual/Service Manual order in-
formation” (P. 10-26).
You should be aware that incomplete or
improper servicing may result in operating
difficulties or excessive emissions, and
could affect warranty coverage. If in doubt
about any servicing, it is recommended
that you have it done by a NISSAN dealer.
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
8-2Do-it-yourself

2.0L 4 cylinder (KR20DDET engine
model)
1. Engine coolant reservoir
2. Drive belt location
3. Engine oil filler cap
4. Brake fluid reservoir
5. Battery
6. Fuse/Fusible link box
7. Air cleaner
8. Radiator cap
9. Engine oil dipstick
10. Windshield-washer fluid reservoir
NOTE:
Your vehicle may not be equipped with
an engine cover.
LDI3651
ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS
Do-it-yourself8-3

2.5L 4 cylinder (PR25DD engine model)
1. Engine coolant reservoir
2. Drive belt location
3. Engine oil filler cap
4. Engine oil dipstick
5. Brake fluid reservoir
6. Battery
7. Fuse/Fusible link box
8. Air cleaner
9. Radiator cap
10. Windshield-washer fluid reservoir
NOTE:
Your vehicle may not be equipped with
an engine cover.
LDI3652
8-4Do-it-yourself

CAUTION
• NISSAN recommends using Genuine
NISSAN CVT Fluid NS-3 (or equiva-
lent) ONLY in NISSAN CVTs. Do not mix
with other fluids.
• Do not use Automatic Transmission
Fluid (ATF) or manual transmission
fluid in a NISSAN CVT, as it may dam-
age the CVT. Damage caused by the
use of fluids other than as recom-
mended is not covered under
NISSAN's New Vehicle Limited War-
ranty outlined in your Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet.
• Using fluids that are not equivalent
to Genuine NISSAN CVT Fluid NS-3
may also damage the CVT. Damage
caused by the use of fluids other than
as recommended is not covered un-
der NISSAN's New Vehicle Limited
Warranty outlined in your Warranty
Information Booklet.
When checking or replacement of CVT fluid
is required, it is recommended that you visit
a NISSAN dealer for this service. For additional information on brake fluid
specification, see “Recommended fluids/
lubricants and capacities” (P. 10-2).
WARNING
• Use only new fluid from a sealed con-
tainer. Old, inferior or contaminated
fluid may damage the brake system.
The use of improper fluids can dam-
age the brake system and affect the
vehicle's stopping ability.
• Clean the filler cap before removing. •
Brake fluid is poisonous and should
be stored carefully in marked con-
tainers out of reach of children.
CAUTION
Do not spill the fluid on any painted sur-
faces. This will damage the paint. If fluid
is spilled, immediately wash the sur-
face with water.
Check the fluid level in the reservoir. If the
brake fluid is below the MIN line
OB, the
brake warning light will illuminate. Add
brake fluid up to the MAX line
OA. For addi-
tional information on recommended type
of brake fluid, see “Recommended fluids/
lubricants and capacities" (P. 10-2).
If the brake fluid must be added frequently,
the brake system should be thoroughly
checked. It is recommended that you visit a
NISSAN dealer for this service.LDI3270
CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE
TRANSMISSION (CVT) FLUID BRAKE FLUID
8-12Do-it-yourself

Brakes:Check that the brakes do not pull
the vehicle to one side when applied.
Continuously Variable Transmission
(CVT) P (Park) position mechanism: On a
fairly steep hill check that the vehicle is held
securely with the shif t lever in the P (Park)
position without applying any brakes.
Parking brake: Check the parking brake
operation regularly. The vehicle should be
securely held on a fairly steep hill with only
the parking brake applied. If the parking
brake needs adjustment, it is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for
this service.
Seats: Check 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/headrests
move up and down smoothly and the locks
(if so equipped) hold securely in all latched
positions.
Seat belts: Check 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. Steering wheel:
Check for changes in the
steering system, such as excessive free
play, hard steering or strange noises.
Warning lights and chimes: Make sure all
warning lights and chimes are operating
properly.
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 prop-
erly 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*: This vehicle is equipped with a
sealed maintenance free battery. It is rec-
ommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer
for service.
NOTE:
Care should be taken to avoid situations
that can lead to potential battery dis-
charge and potential no-start conditions
such as:
1. Installation or extended use of elec- tronic accessories that consume bat-
tery power when the engine is not
running (Phone chargers, GPS, DVD
players, etc.).
2. Vehicle is not driven regularly and/or only driven short distances.
In these cases, the battery may need to
be charged to maintain battery health.
Brake fluid level*: Make sure that the brake
fluid level is 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 the drive
belts are not frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*: Check the level af ter
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.
9-4Maintenance and schedules

NOTE:
NISSAN does not advocate the use of
non-OEM approved af termarket flush-
ing systems and strongly advises
against performing these services on a
NISSAN product. Many of the af termar-
ket flushing systems use non-OEM ap-
proved chemicals or solvents, the use of
which has not been validated by NISSAN.
For recommended fuel, lubricants, fluids,
grease, and refrigerant, see “Recom-
mended fluids/lubricants and capaci-
ties” (P. 10-2).
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
MAINTENANCE:
Drive belts*:Check engine drive belts for
wear, fraying or cracking and for proper
tension. Replace any damaged drive belts.
Engine air filter: Replace at specified inter-
vals. When driving for prolonged periods in
dusty conditions, check/replace the filter
more frequently.
Engine coolant*: Replace coolant at the
specified interval. When adding or replac-
ing coolant, be sure to use only Genuine
NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue)
or equivalent with the proper mixture. (For additional information on the proper mix-
ture for your area, see “Engine cooling sys-
tem” (P. 8-5).
NOTE: Mixing any other type of coolant
or the use of non-distilled water may re-
duce the recommended service interval
of the coolant.
Engine oil and oil filter:
Replace engine oil
and oil filter at the specified intervals. For
recommended oil grade and viscosity see
“Recommended fluids/lubricants and ca-
pacities” (P. 10-2).
Engine valve clearance*: Inspect only if
valve noise increases. Adjust valve clear-
ance if necessary.
Fuel tank vapor vent system*: Check va-
por lines for leaks or looseness. Tighten
connections or replace parts as necessary.
Fuel filter: Periodic maintenance is not re-
quired. (in-tank type filter)
Fuel lines/connections*: Check the fuel
hoses, piping and connections for leaks,
looseness, or deterioration. Tighten con-
nections or replace parts as necessary.
Spark plugs: Replace at specified intervals.
Install new plugs of the type as originally
equipped.
CHASSIS AND BODY
MAINTENANCE:
Brake lines and cables: Visually inspect for
proper installation. Check for chafing,
cracks, deterioration, and signs of leaking.
Replace any deteriorated or damaged
parts immediately.
Brake pads and rotors: Check for wear,
deterioration and fluid leaks. Replace any
deteriorated or damaged parts
immediately.
Exhaust system: Visually inspect the ex-
haust pipes, muffler and hangers for leaks,
cracks, deterioration, and damage. Tighten
connections or replace parts as necessary.
Propeller shaf t(s): Check for damage,
looseness, and grease leakage. (AWD)
In-cabin microfilter: Replace at specified
intervals. When driving for prolonged peri-
ods in dusty conditions, replace the filter
more frequently.
Steering gear and linkage, axle and sus-
pension parts, drive shaf t boots: Check
for damage, looseness, and leakage of oil
or grease. Under severe driving conditions,
inspect more frequently.
9-6Maintenance and schedules

2.5L 4 CYLINDER (PR25DD engine
model)
The following shows the maintenance
schedule.
Choose the maintenance schedule
needed based on your vehicle driving
conditions.
Af ter 120,000 miles (192,000 km)/144
months, continue maintenance at the
same mileage/time interval.
5,000 miles/(8,000 km)/6 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Inspections:
• Horn, lights, signals, wipers, rear hatch/hood lif t supports
• All fluids inspected (engine, wiper, brake, power steering, coolant)
• Engine drive belts and hose inspections
• Engine air filter
• Propeller shaf t (AWD models)
• Suspension components (shocks, sub- frame, tie rods)
• Differential and fluid (AWD models)
• Battery terminals and cables, battery test
• Tire pressure, treadwear and depth
Essentials:
• Tire rotation Severe use maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake pads & rotors
• Exhaust system
• Propeller shaf t (AWD models)
• Steering gear & linkage
• Axle & suspension parts
• Drive shaf t boots
9-10Maintenance and schedules

10,000 miles/(16,000 km)/
12 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake lines & cables
• Brake pads & rotors
• CVT transmission fluid
• Propeller shaf t (AWD models)
• Differential gear oil (AWD models)
• Transfer case oil (AWD models)
• Drive shaf t boots
• Horn, lights, signals, wipers, rear hatch/hood lif t supports
• All fluids inspected (engine, wiper, brake, power steering, coolant)
• Engine drive belts and hose inspections
• Engine air filter
• Suspension components (shocks, sub- frame, tie rods)
• Differential and fluid (AWD models)
• Battery terminals and cables, battery test
• Tire pressure, treadwear and depth
• Intelligent key battery Essentials:
• Replace engine oil & filter (1)
• Replace in-cabin microfilter
• Tire rotation
Severe use maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake pads & rotors
• Exhaust system
• Propeller shaf t (AWD models)
• Steering gear & linkage
• Axle & suspension parts
• Drive shaf t boots
Essentials:
• Replace brake fluid
(1) If the oil replacement indicator is dis-
played, change the engine oil and filter
within two weeks or less than 500 miles
(800 km).
15,000 miles/(24,000 km)/
18 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Inspection:
• Intelligent key battery
• Horn, lights, signals, wipers, rear hatch/
hood lif t supports
• All fluids inspected (engine, wiper, brake, power steering, coolant)
• Engine drive belts and hose inspections
• Engine air filter
• Propeller shaf t (AWD models)
• Suspension components (shocks, sub- frame, tie rods)
• Differential and fluid (AWD models)
• Battery terminals and cables, battery test
• Tire pressure, treadwear and depth
Essentials:
• Tire rotation
Maintenance and schedules9-11

Severe use maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake pads & rotors
• Exhaust system
• Propeller shaf t (AWD models)
• Steering gear & linkage
• Axle & suspension parts
• Drive shaf t boots20,000 miles/(32,000 km)/
24 months
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever comes first.
Standard maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake lines & cables
• Brake pads & rotors
• CVT transmission fluid
• Fuel tank vapor vent system
• Fuel lines/connections
• Exhaust system
• Propeller shaf t (AWD models)
• Steering gear and linkage
• Axle & suspension parts
• Differential gear oil (AWD models)
• Transfer case oil (AWD models)
• Drive shaf t boots
• Horn, lights, signals, wipers, rear hatch/hood lif t supports
• All fluids inspected (engine, wiper, brake, power steering, coolant)
• Engine drive belts and hose inspections
• Engine air filter
• Suspension components (shocks, sub- frame, tie rods) • Differential and fluid (AWD models)
• Battery terminals and cables, battery test
• Tire pressure, treadwear and depth
Essentials:
• Replace brake fluid
• Replace engine oil & filter (1)
• Replace in-cabin microfilter
• Replace intelligent key battery
• Tire rotation
Severe use maintenance:
Inspections:
• Brake pads & rotors
• Exhaust system
• Propeller shaf t (AWD models)
• Steering gear & linkage
• Axle & suspension parts
• Drive shaf t boots
Essentials:
• Replace brake fluid
• Replace differential gear oil (AWD models)
• Replace transfer case oil (AWD models)
(1) If the oil replacement indicator is dis-
played, change the engine oil and filter
within two weeks or less than 500 miles
(800 km).
9-12Maintenance and schedules