maintenance NISSAN CUBE 2009 User Guide

Black plate (119,1)
Model "Z12-D" EDITED: 2009/ 1/ 28
It is possible to lock/unlock all doors (including
the back door) , and activate the panic alarm by
using the keyfob from outside the vehicle.
Before locking the doors, make sure the
key is not left in the vehicle.
The keyfob can operate at a distance of
approximately 33 ft (10 m) from the vehicle.
(The effective distance depends upon the
conditions around the vehicle.)
As many as 5 keyfobs can be used with one
vehicle. For information concerning the pur-
chase and use of additional keyfobs, contact a
NISSAN dealer.
The keyfob will not function:
.When the keyfob is not within the opera-
tional range.
.When the doors are open or not closed
securely.
.When the key is in the ignition switch.
.When the battery is discharged.
WARNING
The remote keyless entry keyfob trans-
mits radio waves when the buttons are
pushed. The FAA advises that the radio
waves may affect aircraft navigation
and communication systems. Do not
operate the keyfob while on an air-plane. Make sure the buttons are not
operated unintentionally when the unit
is stored during a flight.
CAUTION
The following conditions or occur-
rences will damage the keyfob.
.Do not allow the keyfob to become
wet.
.Do not drop the keyfob.
.Do not strike the keyfob sharply
against another object.
.Do not place the keyfob for an
extended period in an area where
temperatures exceed 1408F (608C) .
If a keyfob is lost or stolen, NISSAN
recommends erasing the ID code of that
keyfob. This will prevent the keyfob
from unauthorized use to unlock the
vehicle. For information regarding the
erasing procedure, please contact a
NISSAN dealer.
If the indicator light on the keyfob does not
illuminate when pushing the buttons, the keyfob
battery may be discharged.
For information regarding the replacement of abattery, see “KEY BATTERY REPLACEMENT”
in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself”
section.
REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM
(if so equipped)
Pre-driving checks and adjustments
3-7
ProCarManuals.com

Black plate (123,1)
Model "Z12-D" EDITED: 2009/ 1/ 28
computer.
.When the vehicle is parked near a parking
meter.
In such cases, correct the operating conditions
before using the Intelligent Key function or use
the mechanical key.
Although the life of the battery varies depending
on the operating conditions, the battery’s life is
approximately 2 years. If the battery is dis-
charged, replace it with a new one.
Since the Intelligent Key is continuously receiv-
ing radio waves, if the key is left near equipment
which transmits strong radio waves, such as
signals from a TV and personal computer, the
battery life may become shorter.
For information regarding replacement of a
battery, see “KEY BATTERY REPLACEMENT”
in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself”
section.
Because the steering wheel is locked electri-
cally, unlocking the steering wheel with the
ignition switch in the LOCK position is impos-
sible when the vehicle battery is completely
discharged. Always be careful that the vehicle
battery is not completely discharged.
As many as 4 Intelligent Keys can be registered
and used with one vehicle. For information about
the purchase and use of additional IntelligentKeys, contact a NISSAN dealer.
CAUTION
.Do not allow the Intelligent Key,
which contains electrical compo-
nents, to come into contact with
water or salt water. This could affect
the system function.
.Do not drop the Intelligent Key.
.Do not strike the Intelligent Key
sharply against another object.
.Do not change or modify the Intel-
ligent Key.
.Wetting may damage the Intelligent
Key. If the Intelligent Key gets wet,
immediately wipe until it is comple-
tely dry.
.Do not place the Intelligent Key for
an extended period in an area where
temperatures exceed 1408F (608C) .
.Do not attach the Intelligent Key
with a key holder that contains a
magnet.
.Do not place the Intelligent Key near
equipment that produces a mag-
netic field, such as a TV, audio
equipment, personal computers orcellular phone.
If an Intelligent Key is lost or stolen, NISSAN
recommends erasing the ID code of that
Intelligent Key from the vehicle. This may prevent
the unauthorized use of the Intelligent Key to
operate the vehicle. For information regarding
the erasing procedure, contact a NISSAN deal-
er.
The Intelligent Key function can be disabled. For
information about disabling the Intelligent Key
function, contact a NISSAN dealer.
Pre-driving checks and adjustments
3-11
ProCarManuals.com

Black plate (127,1)
Model "Z12-D" EDITED: 2009/ 1/ 28
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
Symptom Possible cause Action to take
When pushing the ignition switch
to stop the engineThe P position selecting warning light in the
meter illuminates and the inside warning chime
sounds continuously.The selector lever is not in the P (Park)
position.Shift the selector lever to the P (Park)
position.
When shifting the selector lever
to the P (Park) position.The inside warning chime sounds continuously.The ignition switch is in the ACC or ON
position.Push the ignition switch to the OFF posi-
tion.
When opening the driver’s door
to get out of the vehicleThe inside warning chime sounds continuously.The ignition switch is in the ACC
position.Push the ignition switch to the OFF posi-
tion.
When closing the door after get-
ting out of the vehicleThe Intelligent Key system warning light in the
meter blinks in yellow, and the outside chime
sounds 3 times and the inside warning chime
sounds for a few seconds.The ignition switch is in the ACC or ON
position.Push the ignition switch to the OFF posi-
tion.
The P position selecting warning light in the
meter illuminates and the outside chime
sounds continuously.The ignition switch is in the ACC or OFF
position and the selector lever is not in
the P (Park) position.Move the selector lever to the P (Park)
position and push the ignition switch to the
OFF position.
When closing the door with the
inside lock knob turned to LOCKThe outside chime sounds for a few seconds
and all the doors unlock.The Intelligent Key is inside the vehicle. Carry the Intelligent Key with you.
When pushing the request switch
or the LOCK
button on the
Intelligent Key to lock the doorThe outside chime sounds for a few seconds.The Intelligent Key is inside the vehicle. Carry the Intelligent Key with you.
A door is not closed securely. Close the door securely.
When pushing the ignition switch
to start the engineThe Intelligent Key system warning light in the
meter blinks in green.The battery charge is low.Replace the battery with a new one. (See
“KEY BATTERY REPLACEMENT” in the “8.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.)
The Intelligent Key system warning light in the
meter blinks in yellow and the inside warning
chime sounds for a few seconds.The Intelligent Key is not in the vehicle. Carry the Intelligent Key with you.
Pre-driving checks and adjustments
3-15
ProCarManuals.com

Black plate (150,1)
Model "Z12-D" EDITED: 2009/ 1/ 28
and 908F (328C) .
Air recirculation:
Push the air recirculation
button to change
the air circulation mode. When the indicator light
illuminates, the flowing air is recirculated inside
the vehicle.
Outside air circulation:
Push the outside air circulation
button to
change the air circulation mode. When the
indicator light illuminates, the flowing air is
drawn from outside the vehicle.
Automatic air intake control:
To set the automatic control mode, perform one
of the following operations.
.When the outside air circulation mode is on,
push and hold the outside air circulation
button for more than 1.5 seconds.
.When the air recirculation mode is on, push
and hold the air recirculation
button for
more than 1.5 seconds.
When setting the automatic control mode, both
indicator lights will blink twice indicating that the
system is in the automatic control mode.
SAA2368SAA2369
OPERATING TIPS.When the engine coolant temperature and
outside air temperature are low, the air flow
from the foot outlets may not operate for a
maximum of 150 seconds. This is not a
malfunction. After the coolant temperature
warms up, air will flow normally from the foot
outlets.
.The automatic air conditioner (if so
equipped) is equipped with sensors as
illustrated. The sensors
*A
and
*B
on
the instrument panel help maintain a con-
stant temperature. Do not put anything on or
around these sensors.
IN-CABIN MICROFILTERThe air conditioning system is equipped with an
in-cabin microfilter which collects dirt, pollen,
dust, etc. To make sure the air conditioner heats,
defogs, and ventilates efficiently, replace the
filter according to the specified maintenance log
shown in the NISSAN Service and Maintenance
Guide. To replace the filter, contact a NISSAN
dealer.
The filter should be replaced if the air flow
decreases significantly or if windows fog
up easily when operating the heater or air
conditioning system.
4-8
Heater, air conditioner, audio and phone systems
ProCarManuals.com

Black plate (191,1)
Model "Z12-D" EDITED: 2009/ 1/ 28
WARNING
.The exhaust gas and the exhaust
system are very hot. Keep people,
animals or flammable materials
away from the exhaust system com-
ponents.
.Do not stop or park the vehicle over
flammable materials such as dry
grass, waste paper or rags. They
may ignite and cause a fire.
CAUTION
.Do not use leaded gasoline. Depos-
its from leaded gasoline will ser-
iously reduce the three-way
catalyst’s ability to help reduce ex-
haust pollutants.
.Keep your engine tuned up. Mal-
functions in the ignition, fuel injec-
tion, or electrical systems can cause
overrich fuel flow into the three-way
catalyst, causing it to overheat. Do
not keep driving if the engine mis-
fires, or if noticeable loss of perfor-
mance or other unusual operating
conditions are detected. Have thevehicle inspected promptly by a
NISSAN dealer.
.Avoid driving with an extremely low
fuel level. Running out of fuel could
cause the engine to misfire, dama-
ging the three-way catalyst.
.Do not race the engine while warm-
ing it up.
.Do not push or tow your vehicle to
start the engine.
TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYS-
TEM (TPMS)Each tire, including the spare (if provided) ,
should be checked monthly when cold and
inflated to the inflation pressure recommended
by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle
placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your
vehicle has tires of a different size than the size
indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation
pressure label, you should determine the proper
tire inflation pressure for those tires.)
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has
been equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring
System (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire
pressure telltale when one or more of your tires
is significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when
the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you
should stop and check your tires as soon aspossible, and inflate them to the proper pres-
sure. Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire
causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire
failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel effi-
ciency and tire tread life, and may affect the
vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for
proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s
responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure,
even if under-inflation has not reached the level
to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire
pressure telltale.
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a
TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when the
system is not operating properly. The TPMS
malfunction indicator is combined with the low
tire pressure telltale. When the system detects a
malfunction, the telltale will flash for approxi-
mately one minute and then remain continuously
illuminated. This sequence will continue upon
subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the
malfunction exists. When the malfunction indi-
cator is illuminated, the system may not be able
to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended.
TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of
reasons, including the installation of replace-
ment or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle
that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly.
Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale
after replacing one or more tires or wheels on
your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or
Starting and driving
5-3
ProCarManuals.com

Black plate (194,1)
Model "Z12-D" EDITED: 2009/ 1/ 28
appropriate driving lane.
.If you decide that it is not safe to return
the vehicle to the road surface based on
vehicle, road or traffic conditions, gra-
dually slow the vehicle to a stop in a safe
place off the road.
RAPID AIR PRESSURE LOSSRapid air pressure loss or a “blow-out” can
occur if the tire is punctured or is damaged due
to hitting a curb or pothole. Rapid air pressure
loss can also be caused by driving on under-
inflated tires.
Rapid air pressure loss can affect the handling
and stability of the vehicle, especially at highway
speeds.
Help prevent rapid air pressure loss by main-
taining the correct air pressure and visually
inspect the tires for wear and damage. See
“WHEELS AND TIRES” in the “8. Maintenance
and do-it-yourself” section of this manual.
If a tire rapidly loses air pressure or “blows-out”
while driving maintain control of the vehicle by
following the procedure below. Please note that
this procedure is only a general guide. The
vehicle must be driven as appropriate based on
the conditions of the vehicle, road and traffic.
WARNING
The following actions can increase the
chance of losing control of the vehicle if
there is a sudden loss of tire air
pressure. Losing control of the vehicle
may cause a collision and result in
personal injury.
.The vehicle generally moves or pulls
in the direction of the flat tire.
.Do not rapidly apply the brakes.
.Do not rapidly release the accelera-
tor pedal.
.Do not rapidly turn the steering
wheel.
1. Remain calm and do not overreact.
2. Maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel
with both hands and try to hold a straight
course.
3. When appropriate, slowly release the accel-
erator pedal to gradually slow the vehicle.
4. Gradually steer the vehicle to a safe location
off the road and away from traffic if possible.
5. Lightly apply the brake pedal to gradually
stop the vehicle.6. Turn on the hazard warning flashers and
either contact a roadside emergency service
to change the tire or see “CHANGING A
FLAT TIRE” in the “6. In case of emergency”
section of this Owner’s Manual.
DRINKING ALCOHOL/DRUGS AND
DRIVING
WARNING
Never drive under the influence of
alcohol or drugs. Alcohol in the blood-
stream reduces coordination, delays
reaction time and impairs judgement.
Driving after drinking alcohol increases
the likelihood of being involved in an
accident injuring yourself and others.
Additionally, if you are injured in an
accident, alcohol can increase the se-
verity of the injury.
NISSAN is committed to safe driving. However,
you must choose not to drive under the influence
of alcohol. Every year thousands of people are
injured or killed in alcohol-related accidents.
Although the local laws vary on what is
considered to be legally intoxicated, the fact is
that alcohol affects all people differently and
most people underestimate the effects of
alcohol.
5-6
Starting and driving
ProCarManuals.com

Black plate (200,1)
Model "Z12-D" EDITED: 2009/ 1/ 28
chime sounds. The engine will start.
After step 3 is performed, when the ignition
switch is pushed without depressing the brake
pedal, the ignition switch position will change to
ACC.
NOTE:
.When the ignition switch is pushed to
the ACC or ON position or the engine is
started by the above procedures, the
Intelligent Key system warning light
may blink in yellow even if the Intelli-
gent Key is inside the vehicle. This is
not a malfunction. To stop the warning
light from blinking, touch the ignition
switch with the Intelligent Key again.
.If the Intelligent Key system warning
light in the meter is blinking in green,
replace the battery as soon as possible.
(See “KEY BATTERY REPLACEMENT”
in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-your-
self” section.).Make sure the area around the vehicle is
clear.
.Check fluid levels such as engine oil, cool-
ant, brake fluid, and window washer fluid as
frequently as possible, or at least whenever
you refuel.
.Check that all windows and lights are clean.
.Visually inspect tires for their appearance
and condition. Also check tires for proper
inflation.
.Lock all doors.
.Position seat and adjust head restraints.
.Adjust inside and outside mirrors.
.Fasten seat belts and ask all passengers to
do likewise.
.Check the operation of warning lights when
the ignition switch is placed in the ON
position. (See “WARNING/INDICATOR
LIGHTS AND AUDIBLE REMINDERS” in
the “2. Instruments and controls” section.)
MODELS WITHOUT INTELLIGENT KEY
SYSTEM1. Apply the parking brake.
2.Continuously Variable Transmission
(CVT) models:
Move the selector lever to the P (Park) or N
(Neutral) position. (P is recommended.)
The starter is designed so that it does not
operate unless the selector lever is in either
of the above positions.
Manual Transmission (MT) models:
Move the shift lever to the N (Neutral)
position. Depress the clutch pedal fully to
the floor.
The starter is designed not to operate unless
the clutch pedal is fully depressed.
3. Crank the enginewith your foot off the
accelerator pedalby turning the ignition
switch to START. Release the switch when
the engine starts. If the engine starts, but
fails to run, repeat the above procedure.
.If the engine is very hard to start in
extremely cold weather or when restart-
ing, depress the accelerator pedal a little
(approximately 1/3 to the floor) and hold
it and then crank the engine. Release the
accelerator pedal when the engine
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE STARTING THE ENGINE
5-12
Starting and driving
ProCarManuals.com

Black plate (216,1)
Model "Z12-D" EDITED: 2009/ 1/ 28
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS)
WARNING
.The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
is a sophisticated device, but it
cannot prevent accidents resulting
from careless or dangerous driving
techniques. It can help maintain
vehicle control during braking on
slippery surfaces. Remember that
stopping distances on slippery sur-
faces will be longer than on normal
surfaces even with ABS. Stopping
distances may also be longer on
rough, gravel or snow covered
roads, or if you are using tire chains.
Alwaysmaintainasafedistance
from the vehicle in front of you.
Ultimately, the driver is responsible
for safety.
.Tire type and condition may also
affect braking effectiveness.
— When replacing tires, install the
specified size of tires on all four
wheels.
— When installing a spare tire,
make sure that it is the proper
size and type as specified on theTire and Loading Information
label. See “TIRE AND LOADING
INFORMATION LABEL” in the “9.
Technical and consumer infor-
mation” section of this manual.
— For detailed information, see
“WHEELS AND TIRES” in the
“8. Maintenance and do-it-your-
self” section of this manual.
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) controls
the brakes so the wheels do not lock during hard
braking or when braking on slippery surfaces.
The system detects the rotation speed at each
wheel and varies the brake fluid pressure to
prevent each wheel from locking and sliding. By
preventing each wheel from locking, the system
helps the driver maintain steering control and
helps to minimize swerving and spinning on
slippery surfaces.
Using the systemDepress the brake pedal and hold it down.
Depress the brake pedal with firm steady
pressure, but do not pump the brakes. The
ABS will operate to prevent the wheels from
locking up. Steer the vehicle to avoid obstacles.
WARNING
Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so
may result in increased stopping dis-
tances.Self-test featureThe ABS includes electronic sensors, electric
pumps, hydraulic solenoids and a computer. The
computer has a built-in diagnostic feature that
tests the system each time you start the engine
and move the vehicle at a low speed in forward
or reverse. When the self-test occurs, you may
hear a “clunk” noise and/or feel a pulsation in the
brake pedal. This is normal and does not
indicate a malfunction. If the computer senses
a malfunction, it switches the ABS off and
illuminates the ABS warning light on the
instrument panel. The brake system then oper-
ates normally, but without anti-lock assistance.
If the ABS warning light illuminates during the
self-test or while driving, have the vehicle
checked by a NISSAN dealer.Normal operationThe ABS operates at speeds above 3 to 6 MPH
(5 to 10 km/h) . The speed varies according to
road conditions.
When the ABS senses that one or more wheels
are close to locking up, the actuator rapidly
5-28
Starting and driving
ProCarManuals.com

Black plate (218,1)
Model "Z12-D" EDITED: 2009/ 1/ 28
speed and be especially careful
when driving and cornering on slip-
pery surfaces and always drive care-
fully.
.Do not modify the vehicle’s suspen-
sion. If suspension parts such as
shock absorbers, struts, springs,
stabilizer bars and bushings and
wheels are not NISSAN approved
or are extremely deteriorated the
VDC system may not operate prop-
erly. This could adversely affect
vehicle handling performance, and
the “VDC OFF” indicator or “SLIP”
indicator or both indicator lights
may illuminate.
.If brake related parts such as brake
pads, rotors and calipers are not
standard equipment or are extre-
mely deteriorated, the “VDC OFF”
indicator or “SLIP” indicator or both
indicator lights may illuminate.
.If engine related parts such as
muffler are not standard equipment
or are extremely deteriorated, the
“VDC OFF” indicator or “SLIP” in-
dicator or both indicator lights may
illuminate..When driving on extremely inclined
surfaces such as higher banked
corners, the VDC system may not
operate properly and the “VDC OFF”
indicator or “SLIP” indicator or both
indicator lights may illuminate. Do
not drive on these types of roads.
.When driving on unstable surfaces
such as a turntable, ferry, elevator
or ramp, the “VDC OFF” indicator or
“SLIP” indicator or both indicator
lights may illuminate. This is not a
malfunction. Restart the engine
after driving onto a stable surface.
.If wheels or tires other than those
recommended are used, the VDC
system may not operate properly
and “VDC OFF” indicator or “SLIP”
indicator or both indicator lights
may illuminate.
.The VDC system is not a substitute
for winter tires or tire chains on a
snow covered road.
FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCKTo prevent a door lock from freezing, apply
deicer through the key hole. If the lock becomes
frozen, heat the key before inserting it into the
key hole or use the remote keyless entry keyfob.ANTI-FREEZEIn the winter when it is anticipated that the
outside temperature will drop below 328F(08C) ,
check the anti-freeze to assure proper winter
protection. For additional information, see “EN-
GINE COOLING SYSTEM” in the “8. Main-
tenance and do-it-yourself” section.BATTERYIf the battery is not fully charged during
extremely cold weather conditions, the battery
fluid may freeze and damage the battery. To
maintain maximum efficiency, the battery should
be checked regularly. For additional information,
see “BATTERY” in the “8. Maintenance and do-
it-yourself” section.DRAINING OF COOLANT WATERIf the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-
freeze, drain the cooling system, including the
engine block. Refill before operating the vehicle.
For details, see “ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM”
in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself”
section.COLD WEATHER DRIVING
5-30
Starting and driving
ProCarManuals.com

Black plate (219,1)
Model "Z12-D" EDITED: 2009/ 1/ 28
TIRE EQUIPMENTSUMMER tires have a tread designed to provide
superior performance on dry pavement. How-
ever, the performance of these tires will be
substantially reduced in snowy and icy condi-
tions. If you operate your vehicle on snowy or icy
roads, NISSAN recommends the use of MUD &
SNOW or ALL SEASON tires on all four wheels.
Consult a NISSAN dealer for the tire type, size,
speed rating and availability information.
For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tires may be used. However, some U.S. states
and Canadian provinces prohibit their use.
Check local, state and provincial laws before
installing studded tires.
Skid and traction capabilities of studded
snow tires, on wet or dry surfaces, may be
poorer than that of non-studded snow
tires.
Tire chains may be used. For details, see “TIRE
CHAINS” in the “8. Maintenance and do-it-
yourself” section of this manual.
SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENTIt is recommended that the following items be
carried in the vehicle during winter:
.A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove
ice and snow from the windows and wiper
blades.
.A sturdy, flat board to be placed under the
jack to give it firm support.
.A shovel to dig the vehicle out of snow-
drifts.
.Extra window washer fluid to refill the
reservoir tank.DRIVING ON SNOW OR ICE
WARNING
.Wet ice (328F, 08C and freezing rain) ,
very cold snow or ice can be slick
and very hard to drive on. The
vehicle will have much less traction
or “grip” under these conditions. Try
to avoid driving on wet ice until the
road is salted or sanded.
.Whatever the condition, drive with
caution. Accelerate and slow down
with care. If accelerating or down-
shifting too fast, the drive wheelswill lose even more traction.
.Allow more stopping distance under
these conditions. Braking should be
started sooner than on dry pave-
ment.
.Allow greater following distances
on slippery roads.
.Watch for slippery spots (glare ice) .
These may appear on an otherwise
clear road in shaded areas. If a
patch of ice is seen ahead, brake
before reaching it. Try not to brake
while on the ice, and avoid any
sudden steering maneuvers.
.Do not use cruise control on slip-
pery roads.
.Snow can trap dangerous exhaust
gases under your vehicle. Keep
snow clear of the exhaust pipe and
from around your vehicle.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (if so
equipped)Engine block heaters are used to assist in cold
temperature starting.
The engine block heater should be used when
the outside temperature is 208F(78C) or lower.
Starting and driving
5-31
ProCarManuals.com