service NISSAN ARMADA 2018 Owner´s Manual

9-2Maintenance and schedules
Some day-to-day and regular mainte-
nance is essential to maintain your vehi-
cle in good mechanical condition, as well
as its emission and engine performance.
It is the owner’s responsibility to make
sure that the scheduled maintenance, as
well as general maintenance, is per-
formed.
As the vehicle owner, you are the only one
who can ensure that your vehicle receives
the proper maintenance. You are a vital
link in the maintenance chain.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
General maintenance includes those
items which should be checked during
normal day-to-day operation. They are
essential for proper vehicle operation. It is
your responsibility to perform these pro-
cedures regularly as prescribed.
Performing general maintenance checks
requires minimal mechanical skill and
only a few general automotive tools.
These checks or inspections can be done
by yourself, a qualified technician or, if you
prefer, a NISSAN dealer.
SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE
The maintenance items listed in this
section are required to be serviced at
regular intervals. However, under severe
driving conditions, additional or more
frequent maintenance will be required.
WHERE TO GO FOR SERVICE
If maintenance service is required or your
vehicle appears to malfunction, have the
systems checked and serviced. It is re-
commended you visit a NISSAN dealer for
this service.
NISSAN technicians are well-trained spe-
cialists and are kept up to date with the
latest service information through tech-
nical bulletins, service tips and training
programs. They are completely qualified
to work on NISSAN vehiclesbeforework
begins.
You can be confident that a NISSAN
dealer’s service department can perform
the service needed to meet the mainte-
nance requirements on your vehicle. During the normal day-to-day operation
of the vehicle, general maintenance
should be performed regularly as pre-
scribed in this section. If you detect any
unusual sounds, vibrations or smells, be
sure to check for the cause and have it
checked promptly. In addition, it is re-
commended you visit a NISSAN dealer if
you think that repairs are required.
When performing any checks or mainte-
nance work, closely observe “Mainte-
nance precautions” (P.8-2) of this manual.
EXPLANATION OF MAINTENANCE
ITEMS
Additional information on the following
items with “*” is found in the “8. Do-it-
yourself” section of this manual.
Outside the vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should
be performed from time to time, unless
otherwise specified.
Doors and engine hood:
Check that all
doors and the engine hood, operate
properly. Also ensure that all latches lock
securely. Lubricate hinges, latches, latch
pins, rollers and links if necessary. Make
sure that the secondary latch keeps the
hood from opening when the primary
latch is released.
When driving in areas using road salt or
MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENT GENERAL MAINTENANCE

other corrosive materials, check lubrica-
tion frequently.
Lights*:Clean the headlights on a regular
basis. Make sure that the headlights, stop
lights, tail lights, turn signal lights, and
other lights are all operating properly and
installed securely. Also check headlight
aim.
Road wheel nuts (lug nuts)*: When
checking the tires, make sure no wheel
nuts are missing, and check for any loose
wheel nuts. Tighten if necessary.
Tire rotation*: Tires should be rotated
every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).
Tires*: Check the pressure with a gauge
often and always prior to long distance
trips. If necessary, adjust the pressure in
all tires, including the spare, to the
pressure specified. Check carefully for
damage, cuts or excessive wear.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
transmitter components: Replace the
TPMS transmitter grommet seal, valve
core and cap when the tires are replaced
due to wear or age.
Wheel alignment and balance: If the
vehicle should pull to either side while
driving on a straight and level road, or if
you detect uneven or abnormal tire wear,
there may be a need for wheel alignment.
If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at normal highway speeds, wheel balancing
may be needed.
For additional information regarding tires,
refer to “Important Tire Safety Informa-
tion” (US) or “Tire Safety Information”
(Canada) in the NISSAN Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet.
Windshield:
Clean the windshield on a
regular basis. Check the windshield at
least every six months for cracks or other
damage. Have a damaged windshield
repaired by a qualified repair facility.
Windshield wiper blades*: Check for
cracks or wear if they do not wipe
properly.
Inside the vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should
be checked on a regular basis, such as
when performing scheduled mainte-
nance, cleaning the vehicle, etc.
Accelerator pedal: Check 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.
Automatic transmission P (Park) me-
chanism: On a fairly steep hill, check that
your vehicle is held securely with the shift
lever in the P (Park) position without
applying any brakes. Brake pedal:
Check the pedal for smooth
operation. If the brake pedal suddenly
goes down further than normal, the pedal
feels spongy or the vehicle seems to take
longer to stop, have your vehicle checked
immediately. It is recommended you visit
a NISSAN dealer for this service. Keep the
floor mat away from the pedal.
Brakes: Check that the brakes do not pull
the vehicle to one side when applied.
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 adjusted, it is re-
commended 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 that all
latches lock securely in every position.
Check that the head restraints move up
and down smoothly and that 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, an-
chors, adjuster and retractors) operate
properly and smoothly, and are installed
securely. Check the belt webbing for cuts,
fraying, wear or damage.
Maintenance and schedules9-3

9-4Maintenance and schedules
Steering wheel:Check for changes in the
steering conditions, such as excessive
free play, hard steering or strange noises.
Warning lights and chimes: Make sure
that all warning lights and chimes are
operating properly.
Windshield defroster: Check that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets prop-
erly and in sufficient quantity when oper-
ating the heater or air conditioner.
Windshield wiper and washer*: Check
that the wipers and washer operate
properly 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*: Check the fluid level in each cell.
It should be between the MAX and MIN
lines. Vehicles operated in high tempera-
tures or under severe condition require
frequent checks of the battery fluid level.
NOTE:
Care should be taken to avoid situations
that can lead to potential battery dis-
charge and potential no-start condi-
tions such as: 1.
Installation or extended use of elec-
tronic accessories that consume
battery 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 that no
belt is frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*: Check the level after
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.
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, im-
mediately have the exhaust system in-
spected. It is recommended you visit a
NISSAN dealer for this service. (See “Pre-
cautions when starting and driving” (P.5-
4) for exhaust gas (carbon monoxide).) 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 immedi-
ately.
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
exposed to corrosive substances such as
those used on icy roads or to control
dust. It is very important to remove these
substances, otherwise rust will form on
the floor pan, frame, fuel lines and around
the exhaust system. At the end of winter,
the underbody should be thoroughly
flushed with plain water, being careful to
clean those areas where mud and dirt
may accumulate. For additional informa-
tion, see “Cleaning exterior” (P.7-2).
Windshield washer fluid*: Check that
there is adequate fluid in the reservoir.

The following descriptions are provided
to give you a better understanding of the
scheduled maintenance items that
should be regularly checked or replaced.
The maintenance schedule indicates at
which mileage/time intervals each item
requires service.
In addition to scheduled maintenance,
your vehicle requires that some items be
checked during normal day-to-day op-
eration. Refer to “General maintenance”
(P.9-2).
Items marked with “*” are recommended
by NISSAN for reliable vehicle operation.
You are not required to perform main-
tenance on these items in order to
maintain the warranties which come with
your vehicle. Other maintenance items
and intervals are required.
When applicable, additional information
can be found in the “8. Do-it yourself”
section of this manual.
NOTE:
NISSAN does not advocate the use of
non-OEM approved aftermarket flush-
ing systems and strongly advises
against performing these services on a
NISSAN product. Many of the aftermar-
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, refer to
“Capacities and recommended fluids/
lubricants” (P.10-2) of this manual.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM MAIN-
TENANCE
Drive belts*:
Check engine drive belts for wear, fraying
or cracking and for proper tension. Re-
place any damaged drive belts.
Engine air filter:
Replace at specified intervals. When driv-
ing for prolonged periods in dusty condi-
tions, check/replace the filter more
frequently.
Engine coolant*:
Replace coolant at the specified interval.
When adding or replacing coolant, be
sure to use only Genuine NISSAN Long
Life Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or equiva-
lent with the proper mixture. (Refer to
“Engine cooling system” (P.8-4) to deter-
mine the proper mixture for your area.)
NOTE:
Mixing any other type of coolant or the
use of non-distilled water may reduce
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 refer to “Capacities
and recommended fluids/lubricants”
(P.10-2).
Evaporative Emissions Control Vapor
Lines*:
Check vapor lines for leaks or looseness.
Tighten connections or replace parts as
necessary.
Fuel lines*:
Check the fuel hoses, piping and connec-
tions for leaks, looseness, or deterioration.
Tighten connections 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 deterio-
rated or damaged parts immediately.
Brake pads and rotors:
Check for wear, deterioration and fluid
leaks. Replace any deteriorated or da-
maged parts immediately.
Maintenance and schedules9-5
EXPLANATION OF SCHEDULED
MAINTENANCE ITEMS

9-6Maintenance and schedules
Exhaust system:
Visually inspect the exhaust pipes, muffler
and hangers for leaks, cracks, deteriora-
tion, and damage. Tighten connections or
replace parts as necessary.
Propeller shaft(s):
Check for damage, looseness, and grease
leakage.
In-cabin microfilter:
Replace at specified intervals. When driv-
ing for prolonged periods in dusty condi-
tions, replace the filter more frequently.
Steering gear and linkage, axle and
suspension parts:
Check for damage, looseness, and leak-
age of oil or grease. Under severe driving
conditions, inspect more frequently.
Tire rotation:
Tires should be rotated every 5,000 miles
(8,000km). When rotating tires, check for
damage and uneven wear. Replace if
necessary.
Transmission fluid/oil, differential oil:
Visually inspect for signs of leakage at
specified intervals.
Off-road maintenance:
Check the following items frequently
whenever you drive off-road through
deep sand, mud or water:.
Brake pads and rotors
. Brake linings and drums
. Brake lines and hoses
. Differential, transmission and transfer
case oil
. Steering linkage
. Propeller shaft(s) and front drive
shafts
. Engine air filter
. Clutch housing drain (AWD only)To help ensure smooth, safe and eco-
nomical driving, NISSAN provides two
maintenance schedules that may be
used, depending upon the conditions in
which you usually drive. These schedules
contain both distance and time intervals,
up to 120,000 miles (192,000 km)/144
months. For most people, the odometer
reading will indicate when service is
needed. However, if you drive very little,
your vehicle should be serviced at the
regular time intervals shown in the sche-
dule.
After 120,000 miles (192,000 km)/144
months, continue maintenance at the
same mileage/time intervals.
ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE ITEMS
FOR SEVERE OPERATING CONDI-
TIONS
Additional maintenance items for se-
vere operating conditions; should be
performed on vehicles that are driven
under especially demanding conditions.
Additional maintenance items should be
performed if you primarily operate your
vehicle under the following conditions:
. Repeated short trips of less than 5
miles (8 km).
. Repeated short trips of less than 10
miles (16 km) with outside tempera-
tures remaining below freezing.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

10 Technical and consumer information
Capacities and
recommended fluids/lubricants .................................... 10-2Fuel information .................................................................. 10-4
Engine oil and oil filter recommendation ........ 10-6
Air conditioning system refrigerant and
lubricant recommendations ...................................... 10-7
Specifications ........................................................................\
........ 10-8 Engine ........................................................................\
.................. 10-8
Wheels and tires .................................................................. 10-9
Dimensions ........................................................................\
.. 10-10
When traveling or registering in
another country ..................................................................... 10-11
Vehicle identification .......................................................... 10-11 Vehicle Identification Number
(VIN) plate ........................................................................\
...... 10-11
Vehicle identification number
(chassis number) ............................................................. 10-11
Engine serial number ................................................... 10-12
F.M.V.S.S./C.M.V.S.S. certification label ............. 10-12
Emission control information label .................. 10-12
Tire and loading information label ................... 10-13
Air conditioner specification label ..................... 10-13
Installing front license plate ......................................... 10-13 Vehicle loading information ......................................... 10-14
Terms ........................................................................\
............. 10-14
Vehicle load capacity ................................................ 10-15
Securing the load ......................................................... 10-16
Loading tips ...................................................................... 10-17
Measurement of weights ....................................... 10-17
Towing a trailer ...................................................................... 10-18 Maximum load limits ................................................. 10-18
Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)/
maximum Gross Axle Weight (GAW) .............. 10-20
Towing load/specification ..................................... 10-22
Towing safety ................................................................ 10-23
Flat towing ........................................................................\
. 10-30
Uniform tire quality grading ........................................ 10-31 Treadwear ........................................................................\
.. 10-31
Traction AA, A, B and C ........................................... 10-31
Temperature A, B and C ......................................... 10-31
Emission control system warranty ......................... 10-32
Reporting safety defects ................................................ 10-32
Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance
(I/M) test ........................................................................\
............... 10-33
Event Data Recorders (EDR) ......................................... 10-34
Owner’s Manual/Service Manual
order information ................................................................. 10-35

10-4Technical and consumer information
FUEL INFORMATION
VK56VD engine
Use unleaded regular gasoline with an
octane rating of at least 87 AKI (Anti-
Knock Index) number (Research octane
number 91).
CAUTION
.Using a fuel other than that spe-
cified could adversely affect the
emission control system, and
may also affect warranty cover-
age.
. Under no circumstances should a
leaded gasoline be used, because
this will damage the three-way
catalyst.
. Do not use E-15 or E-85 fuel in
your vehicle. Your vehicle is not
designed to run on E-15 or E-85
fuel. Using E-15 or E-85 fuel in a
vehicle not specifically designed
for E-15 or E-85 fuel can adversely
affect the emission control de-
vices and systems of the vehicle.
Damage caused by such fuel is
not covered by the NISSAN new
vehicle limited warranty. .
Do not use fuel that contains the
octane booster methylcyclopen-
tadienyl manganese tricarbonyl
(MMT). Using fuel containing
MMT may adversely affect vehicle
performance and vehicle emis-
sions. Not all fuel dispensers are
labeled to indicate MMT content,
so you may have to consult your
gasoline retailer for more details.
Note that Federal and California
laws prohibit the use of MMT in
reformulated gasoline.
. U.S. government regulations re-
quire ethanol dispensing pumps
to be identified by a small,
square, orange and black label
with the common abbreviation or
the appropriate percentage for
that region.
Gasoline specifications
NISSAN recommends using gasoline that
meets the World-Wide Fuel Charter
(WWFC) specifications where it is avail-
able. Many of the automobile manufac-
turers developed this specification to
improve emission system and vehicle
performance. Ask your service station
manager if the gasoline meets the
World-Wide Fuel Charter (WWFC) specifi- cations.
Reformulated gasoline
Some fuel suppliers are now producing
reformulated gasolines. These gasolines
are specially designed to reduce vehicle
emissions. NISSAN supports efforts to-
wards cleaner air and suggests that you
use reformulated gasoline when avail-
able.
Gasoline containing oxygenates
Some fuel suppliers sell gasoline contain-
ing oxygenates such as ethanol, MTBE
and methanol with or without advertising
their presence. NISSAN does not recom-
mend the use of fuels of which the
oxygenate content and the fuel compat-
ibility for your NISSAN cannot be readily
determined. If in doubt, ask your service
station manager.
If you use oxygenate-blend gasoline,
please take the following precautions as
the usage of such fuels may cause vehicle
performance problems and/or fuel sys-
tem damage.
.
The fuel should be unleaded and
have an octane rating no lower than
that recommended for unleaded
gasoline.
. If an oxygenate-blend, excepting a
methanol blend, is used, it should

10-6Technical and consumer information
rating, or if you hear steady spark knock
while holding a steady speed on level
roads, it is recommended you have a
NISSAN dealer correct the condition.
Failure to correct the condition is mis-
use of the vehicle, for which NISSAN is
not responsible.
Incorrect ignition timing will result in
knocking, after-run or overheating. This
in turn may cause excessive fuel con-
sumption or damage to the engine. If any
of the above symptoms are encountered,
have your vehicle checked. It is recom-
mended you visit a NISSAN dealer for
servicing.
However, now and then you may notice
light spark knock for a short time while
accelerating or driving up hills. This is
no cause for concern, because you get
the greatest fuel benefit when there is
light spark knock for a short time under
heavy engine load.
JVT0342X
API certification mark
API service symbol
ENGINE OIL AND OIL FILTER RE-
COMMENDATION
Selecting the correct oil
It is essential to choose the correct grade,
quality, and viscosity engine oil to ensure
satisfactory engine life and performance,
see “Capacities and recommended fluids/
lubricants” (P.10-2). NISSAN recommends
the use of an energy conserving oil in
order to improve fuel economy.
Select only engine oils that meet the
American Petroleum Institute (API) certifi-
cation or International Lubricant Standar-dization and Approval Committee (ILSAC)
certification and SAE viscosity standard.
These oils have the API certification mark
on the front of the container. Oils which
do not have the specified quality label
should not be used as they could cause
engine damage.
Oil additives
NISSAN does not recommend the use of
oil additives. The use of an oil additive is
not necessary when the proper oil type is
used and maintenance intervals are fol-
lowed.
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 that the engine oil
viscosity be selected based on the tem-
peratures at which the vehicle will be
operated before the next oil change.
Choosing an oil viscosity other than that
recommended could cause serious en-
gine damage.
Selecting the correct oil filter
Your new vehicle is equipped with a high-
quality genuine NISSAN oil filter. When
replacing, use the genuine oil filter or its
equivalent for the reason described in
change intervals.
Change intervals
The oil and oil filter change intervals for
your engine are based on the use of the
specified quality oils and filters. Oil and
filter other than the specified quality, or
oil and filter change intervals longer than
recommended could reduce engine life.
Damage to engines caused by improper
maintenance or use of incorrect oil and
filter quality and/or viscosity is not cov-
ered by the new NISSAN vehicle limited
warranties.
Your engine was filled with a high quality
engine oil when it was built. You do nothave to change the oil before the first
recommended change interval. Oil and
filter change intervals depend upon how
you use your vehicle.
AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM RE-
FRIGERANT AND LUBRICANT RE-
COMMENDATIONS
The air conditioning system in your
NISSAN vehicle must be charged with
the refrigerant HFC-134a (R-134a) and
the lubricant, NISSAN A/C system oil
Type S or the exact equivalents.
CAUTION
The use of any other refrigerant or
lubricant may cause severe damage
to the air conditioning system and
may require the replacement of all
air conditioner system components.
The refrigerant HFC-134a (R-134a) in your
NISSAN vehicle will not harm the earth’s
ozone layer. Although this refrigerant
does not affect the earth’s atmosphere,
certain governmental regulations require
the recovery and recycling of any refrig-
erant during automotive air conditioning
system service. Your NISSAN dealer has
the trained technicians and equipment
needed to recover and recycle your air conditioning system refrigerant.
It is recommended you visit a NISSAN
dealer when servicing your air condition-
ing system.
Technical and consumer information10-7

10-28Technical and consumer information
Trailer towing tips
In order to gain skill and an understand-
ing of the vehicle’s behavior, you should
practice turning, stopping and backing up
in an area which is free from traffic.
Steering stability, and braking perfor-
mance will be somewhat different than
under normal driving conditions.
.Always secure items in the trailer to
prevent load shift while driving.
. Lock the trailer hitch coupler with a
pin or lock to prevent the coupler from
inadvertently becoming unlatched.
. Avoid abrupt starts, acceleration or
stops.
. Avoid sharp turns or lane changes.
. Always drive your vehicle at a moder-
ate speed. Some states or provinces
have specific speed limits for vehicles
that are towing trailers. Obey the local
speed limits.
. When backing up, hold the bottom of
the steering wheel with one hand.
Move your hand in the direction in
which you want the trailer to go. Make
small corrections and back up slowly.
If possible, have someone guide you
when you are backing up.
Always block the wheels on both vehicle
and trailer when parking. Parking on a
slope is not recommended; however, if you must do so:
CAUTION
If you move the shift lever to the P
(Park) position before blocking the
wheels and applying the parking
brake, transmission damage could
occur.
1. Apply and hold the brake pedal.
2. Have someone place blocks on the downhill side of the vehicle and trailer
wheels.
3. After the wheel blocks are in place, slowly release the brake pedal until
the blocks absorb the vehicle load.
4. Apply the parking brake.
5. Shift the transmission into P (Park).
6. Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) models:
Make sure that the 4WD shift switch is
engaged in the AUTO, 4HI or 4LO
position and the Automatic Transmis-
sion (AT) park warning light is turned
off.
7. Turn off the engine.
To drive away:
1. Apply and hold the brake pedal. 2. Start the engine.
3. Shift the transmission into gear.
4. Release the parking brake.
5. Drive slowly until the vehicle and
trailer are clear from the blocks.
6. Apply and hold the brake pedal.
7. Have someone retrieve and store the blocks.
. While going downhill, the weight of the
trailer pushing on the tow vehicle may
decrease overall stability. Therefore, to
maintain adequate control, reduce
your speed and shift to a lower gear.
Avoid long or repeated use of the
brakes when descending a hill, as this
reduces their effectiveness and could
cause overheating. Shifting to a lower
gear instead provides “engine braking”
and reduces the need to brake as
frequently.
. If the engine coolant temperature
rises to a high temperature, see “If
your vehicle overheats” (P.6-14).
. Trailer towing requires more fuel than
normal circumstances.
. Avoid towing a trailer for your vehicle’s
first 500 miles (800 km).
. Have your vehicle serviced more often
than at intervals specified in the
recommended maintenance schedule
shown in the "9. Maintenance and