oil level NISSAN ARMADA 2005 1.G Owners Manual

FUEL GAUGE
The gauge indicates theapproximatefuel level
in the tank.
The gauge may move slightly during braking,
turning, acceleration, or going up or down hills.
The gauge needle returns to E (Empty) after the
ignition key is turned to OFF.
The low fuel warning light comes on when the
amount of fuel in the tank is getting low.
Refill the fuel tank before the gauge regis-
ters E (Empty) .The
indicates that the fuel filler lid is
located on the driver’s side of the vehicle.
CAUTION
cIf the vehicle runs out of fuel,
the
malfunction indicator lamp
(MIL) may come on. Refuel as soon as
possible. After a few driving trips,
the
lamp should turn off. If the
lamp remains on after a few driving
trips, have the vehicle inspected by a
NISSAN dealer.
cFor additional information, see “Mal-
function indicator lamp (MIL)” later in
this section.
ENGINE OIL PRESSURE GAUGE
The gauge indicates the engine lubrication sys-
tem oil pressure while the engine is running.
When the engine speed is high, the engine oil
pressure is also high. When it is low, the gauge
indicates the low oil pressure.
CAUTION
cThis gauge is not designed to indicate
low engine oil level. Use the dipstick to
check the oil level. (See “Engine oil” in
the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself”
section.)
LIC0545LIC0546
2-6Instruments and controls
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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.
Check suspension warning
light (if so equipped)
This light may indicate a malfunction in the auto-
leveling suspension.
For additional information, refer to “Jacking up
vehicle and removing the damaged tire” in the “In
case of emergency” section of this manual.
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
low/Engine coolant
temperature high warning
light
This light warns of low engine oil pressure or high
engine coolant temperature.
If the light flickers or comes on during normal
driving, pull off the road in a safe area, stop the
engine and allow it to cool. If the light remains on
after checking the oil and coolant, stop the en-gineimmediatelyand call a NISSAN dealer or
other authorized repair shop.
This light is not designed to indicate a low
oil or low coolant level.Check the oil level
with the dipstick and check the coolant level on
the reservoir. See “Engine oil” and “Checking
engine coolant level” in the “Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section of this manual. Also see “If
your vehicle overheats” in the “In case of emer-
gency” section of this manual.
CAUTION
cRunning the engine with the engine oil
pressure warning light on could cause
serious damage to the engine almost
immediately. Such damage is not cov-
ered by warranty. Turn off the engine as
soon as it is safe to do so.
cIf the gauge indicates engine coolant
temperature over the normal range,
stop the vehicle as soon as safely pos-
sible. If the engine is overheated, con-
tinued operation of the vehicle may se-
riously damage the engine. See “If your
vehicle overheats” in the “In case of
emergency” section for immediate ac-
tion required.
2-14Instruments and controls
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This position activates electrical accessories
such as the radio when the engine is not running.
ON: Normal operating position (3)
This position turns on the ignition system and the
electrical accessories.
START: (4)
This position starts the engine. As soon as the
engine has started, release the key. It automati-
cally returns to the ON position.
NISSAN VEHICLE IMMOBILIZER
SYSTEM (NVIS)
The NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System (NVIS)
will not allow the engine to start without the use of
the registered NVIS key.
If the engine fails to start using the registered
NVIS key, it may be due to interference caused by
another NVIS key, an automated toll road device
or automated payment device on the key ring.
Restart the engine using the following proce-
dures:
1. Leave the ignition switch in the ON position
for approximately 5 seconds.
2. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF or LOCK
position and wait approximately 10 seconds.3. Repeat step 1 and 2 again.
4. Restart the engine while holding the device
(which may have caused the interference)
separate from the registered NVIS key.
If this procedure allows the engine to start,
NISSAN recommends placing the registered
NVIS key on a separate key ring to avoid interfer-
ence from other devices.cMake sure the area around the vehicle is
clear.
cCheck fluid levels such as engine oil, cool-
ant, brake 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.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
5-8Starting and driving
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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.............................8-7
Checking engine coolant level...................8-7
Changing engine coolant........................8-8
Engine oil.........................................8-8
Checking engine oil level........................8-8
Changing engine oil............................8-9
Changing engine oil filter.......................8-10
5-speed automatic transmission fluid...............8-11
Power steering fluid...............................8-11
Brake fluid.......................................8-11
Brake fluid....................................8-12
Window washer fluid.............................8-12
Window washer fluid reservoir..................8-12
Battery..........................................8-13
Jump starting.................................8-14
Drive belts.......................................8-14
Spark plugs......................................8-15
Replacing spark plugs.........................8-15Air cleaner.......................................8-16
In-cabin microfilter.............................8-16
Windshield wiper blades..........................8-17
Cleaning.....................................8-17
Replacing....................................8-18
Parking brake and brake pedal.....................8-20
Checking parking brake........................8-20
Checking brake pedal..........................8-20
Brake booster.................................8-21
Fuses...........................................8-21
Engine compartment...........................8-22
Passenger compartment.......................8-23
Battery replacement..............................8-24
Lights...........................................8-25
Headlights....................................8-25
Fog lights (if so equipped)......................8-26
Exterior and interior lights.......................8-27
Wheels and tires.................................8-31
Tire pressure..................................8-31
Tire labeling...................................8-35
Types of tires..................................8-38
Tire chains....................................8-38
Changing wheels and tires.....................8-39
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Windshield defrosterCheck 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) .
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 fluid levels*Make sure that the brake
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 systemMake sure there are no loose
supports, cracks or holes. If the sound of the
exhaust seems unusual or there is a smell ofexhaust 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 leaksCheck 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 linesCheck
the level when the fluid is cold, with the engine
off. Check the lines for proper attachment, leaks,
cracks, etc.
Radiator and hosesCheck 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.
UnderbodyThe 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 areaswhere 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
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When performing any inspection or maintenance
work on your vehicle, always take care to prevent
serious accidental injury to yourself or damage to
the vehicle. The following are general precau-
tions which should be closely observed.
WARNING
cPark the vehicle on a level surface, ap-
ply the parking brake securely and
block the wheels to prevent the vehicle
from moving. Move the shift selector
lever to P (Park) .
cBe sure the ignition key is in the OFF or
LOCK position when performing any
parts replacement or repairs.
cNever leave the engine or automatic
transmission related component har-
nesses disconnected while the ignition
switch is in the ON position.
cNever connect or disconnect the battery
or any transistorized component while
the ignition switch is in the ON position.
c
Your vehicle is equipped with an auto-
matic engine cooling fan. It may come on
at any time without warning, even if the
ignition key 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.
cIf 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.
cIt is advisable to secure or remove any
loose clothing and remove any jewelry,
such as rings, watches, etc. before
working on your vehicle.
cAlways wear eye protection whenever
you work on your vehicle.
cIf 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.
cNever get under the vehicle while it is
supported only by a jack. If it is neces-
sary to work under the vehicle, support
it with safety stands.
cKeep smoking materials, flame and
sparks away from the fuel tank and
battery.
cOn gasoline engine models with the
multiport fuel injection (MFI) system,
the fuel filter or fuel lines should be
serviced by a NISSAN dealer because
the fuel lines are under high pressure
even when the engine is off.CAUTION
cDo not work under the hood while the
engine is hot. Turn the engine off and
wait until it cools down.
cAvoid contact with used engine oil and
coolant. Improperly disposed engine
oil, engine coolant and/or other vehicle
fluids can damage the environment. Al-
ways conform to local regulations for
disposal of vehicle fluid.
This “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section
gives instructions regarding only those items
which are relatively easy for an owner to perform.
A genuine NISSAN service manual is also avail-
able. See “Owner’s Manual/Service Manual or-
der information” in the “Technical and consumer
information” section of this manual.
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,
have it done by a NISSAN dealer.
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-5
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If the cooling system frequently requires
coolant, have it checked by a NISSAN
dealer.
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 overheating.
WARNING
cTo avoid the danger of being scalded,
never change the coolant when the en-
gine is hot.
cNever remove the radiator or engine
coolant reservoir cap when the engine
is hot. Serious burns could be caused
by high pressure fluid escaping from
the radiator.
cAvoid direct skin contact with used
coolant. If skin contact is made, wash
thoroughly with soap or hand cleaner
as soon as possible.
cKeep 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.5. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil
level. It should be between the H (High) and
L (Low) markssB. 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.
LDI0370LDI0371
ENGINE OIL
8-8Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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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.
5. Remove the drain plug with a wrench by
turning 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
cProlonged and repeated contact with
used engine oil may cause skin cancer.
cTry to avoid direct skin contact with
used oil. If skin contact is made, wash
thoroughly with soap or hand cleaner
as soon as possible.
cKeep used engine oil out of reach of
children.
CAUTION
Be careful not to burn yourself. The engine
oil may be hot.
cWaste oil must be disposed of prop-
erly.
cCheck 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)
LDI0372
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-9
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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.
CHANGING ENGINE OIL FILTER
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply
the parking brake.
2. Turn the engine off.
3. Place a large drain pan under the oil filter.
4. Loosen the oil filter with an oil filter wrench
by turning it counterclockwise. Then remove
the oil filter by turning it by hand.
CAUTION
Be careful not to burn yourself. The engine
oil may be hot.5. Wipe the engine oil filter mounting surface
with a clean rag.
Be sure to remove any old gasket material
remaining on the mounting surface of the
engine.
6. Coat the gasket on the new filter with clean
engine oil.
7. Screw on the oil filter until a slight resistance
is felt, then tighten an additional 2/3 turn.
8. Start the engine and check for leakage
around the oil filter. Correct as required.
9. Turn the engine off and wait more than 10
minutes. Check the oil level. Add engine oil if
necessary.
LDI0373
8-10Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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The following are approximate capacities. The actual refill capacities may be a little different. When refilling, follow the procedure
described in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section to determine the proper refill capacity.
Capacity (Approximate)
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
US measure Imp measure Liter
Fuel 28 gal 23-1/4 gal 105.8 Unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of at least 87 AKI (RON 91)*1
Engine oil *7
Drain and Refill
With oil filter change 6-1/2 qt 5-1/2 qt 6.2 • API Certification Mark *2 *3
• API grade SL, Energy Conserving *2 *3
• ILSAC grade GF-III*2 *3 Without oil filter change 6-1/4 qt 5-1/4 qt 5.9
Cooling system
With reservoir 3-3/4 gal 3-1/8 gal 14.4 50% Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent
50% Demineralized or distilled water
Automatic transmission fluid
Refill to the proper level according to the instructions in
the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.Genuine Nissan Matic J ATF *4
Power steering fluid (PSF)Genuine NISSAN PSF or equivalent.*8
Brake fluidGenuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid*5 or equivalent DOT 3
Multi-purpose grease — — — NLGI No. 2 (Lithium Soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerant — — — HFC-134a (R-134a)*6
Air conditioning system lubricants — — — NISSAN A/C System Lubricant Type S (DH-PS) or equivalent*6
Transfer fluid — — — Genuine Nissan Matic D ATF (Continental U.S. and Alaska) or Canada
NISSAN Automatic Transmission Fluid*8, *10
Front final drive oil — — — API GL-5 Viscosity SAE 80W-90*9, *10
Rear final drive oil — — — API GL-5 Viscosity SAE 80W-90*9, *10
Windshield washer fluid (shared between
front and rear wipers)1-1/4 gal 1 gal 4.5 Genuine NISSAN Windshield Washer Concentrate Cleaner & Antifreeze or
equivalent
*1: For further details, see “Fuel recommendation.”
*2: For further details, see “Engine oil and oil filter recommendations.”
*3: For further details, see “Recommended SAE engine oil viscosity.”
*4: Using automatic transmission fluid other than Genuine Nissan Matic J ATF will cause deterioration in driveability and automatic transmission durability, and may damage the automatic
transmission, which is not covered by the NISSAN new vehicle warranty.
*5: Available in mainland USA through your NISSAN dealer.
*6: For further details, see “Air conditioner specification label.”
*7: For further details, see “Changing engine oil.”
*8: For Canada, NISSAN Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) , DEXRON™ III/MERCON™, or equivalent ATF may also be used.
*9: For hot climates, viscosity SAE 90 is suitable for ambient temperatures above 0° C (32° F) .
*10: See your NISSAN dealer for service.
CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED
FUEL/LUBRICANTS
9-2Technical and consumer information
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