transmission fluid NISSAN FRONTIER 1996 D22 / 1.G Owners Manual

2) Turn the ignition key slightly in the ON
direction.
3) Turn the key toward the LOCK position.
4) Remove the key.
The shift lever is designed so it cannot be
moved out of P and into any of the other
gear positions if the ignition key is turned to
OFF or if the key is removed from the
switch.The shift lever can be moved if the
ignition switch is in the ACC position.
The shift lever can also be moved if the
ignition switch is in the ON position and
the foot brake pedal is depressed.
WARNING
cTo lock the steering wheel, remove
the key. To unlock the steering
wheel, insert the key and turn it gen-
tly while rotating the steering wheel
slightly right and left.
cNever remove the key while driving.
If the key is removed, the steering
wheel will lock. This may cause the
driver to lose control of the vehicle
and could result in serious vehicle
damage or personal injury.
Key positions
LOCK Normal parking position (0)
OFF (Manual transmission model) (1)
The engine can be turned off without locking
the steering wheel. When removing the key
from the key cylinder, push the key release
button at this position and turn the key to
LOCK.
ACC (Accessories) (2)
This position activates electrical accesso-
ries such as the radio when the engine is
not running.
ON (Normal operating position) (3)
This position turns on the ignition system
and electrical accessories.
START (4)
This position starts the engine. As soon as
the engine has started, release the key. It
automatically returns to the ON position.cMake sure the area around the vehicle is
clear.
cCheck fluid levels such as engine oil,
coolant, brake and clutch fluid, and win-
dow washer fluid as frequently as pos-
sible, 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 key is turned to the ON (3) position.
BEFORE STARTING THE
ENGINE
4-5
ZX

7 Do-it-yourself operations
Maintenance precautions ................................... 7-2
Engine compartment check locations ................ 7-3
Engine cooling system ....................................... 7-4
Engine oil ............................................................ 7-6
Automatic transmission fluid .............................. 7-9
Power steering fluid .......................................... 7-11
Brake and clutch fluid ....................................... 7-11
Window washer fluid ........................................ 7-12
Battery .............................................................. 7-13
Drive belts ........................................................ 7-14
Spark plug replacement ................................... 7-14
Air cleaner housing filter .................................. 7-15
Wiper blades .................................................... 7-16
Parking brake check ......................................... 7-17
Brake pedal ...................................................... 7-18
Brake booster ................................................... 7-19
Clutch pedal ..................................................... 7-19
Fuses ................................................................ 7-20
Light bulbs ........................................................ 7-20
Bulb replacement ............................................. 7-22
Wheels and tires .............................................. 7-24
Clutch housing ..................................... 7-29
ZX

When performing any inspection or mainte-
nance work on your vehicle, always take
care to prevent serious accidental injury to
yourself or damage to the vehicle. The
following are general precautions which
should be closely observed.
cPark the vehicle on a level surface,
apply the parking brake securely and
block the wheels to prevent the ve-
hicle from moving. For a manual
transmission, move the shift lever to
Neutral. For an automatic transmis-
sion, move the shift lever to P (Park).
cBe sure the ignition key is OFF when
performing any parts replacement or
repairs.
cDo not work under the hood while the
engine is hot. Turn the engine off and
wait until it cools down.
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 remove ties and any
jewelry, such as rings, watches, etc.,
before working 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.
cNever get under the vehicle while it is
supported only by a jack. If it is nec-
essary to work under the vehicle, sup-
port it with safety stands.
cKeep smoking materials, flame and
sparks away from fuel and battery.
cNever connect or disconnect either
the battery or any transistorized com-
ponent connector while the ignition is
on.
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.
cFailure to follow these or other com-
mon sense guidelines may lead to
serious injury or vehicle damage.
cImproperly disposed motor oil and/or
other vehicle fluids can hurt the envi-
ronment. Always conform to localregulations for disposal of vehicle
fluid. Avoid contact with used motor
oil.
This ``Do-it-yourself operations'' section
gives instructions regarding only those
items which are relatively easy for an owner
to perform.
You should be aware that incomplete or
improper servicing may result in operating
difficulties or excessive emissions, and
could affect your warranty coverage.If in
doubt about any servicing, have it done
by your NISSAN dealer.
MAINTENANCE
PRECAUTIONS
7-2
ZX

4. Wipe the engine oil filter mounting sur-
face with a clean rag.
Be sure to remove any old rubber gasket
remaining on the mounting surface of the
engine.
5. Coat the rubber gasket on the new filter
with engine oil.
6. Screw in the oil filter until a slight resis-
tance is felt, then tighten an additional
2/3 turn.
7. Start the engine and check for leakage
around the oil filter. Correct as required.8. Turn the engine off and wait several
minutes. Check the oil level. Add engine
oil if necessary.
WARNING
cWhen engine is running, keep hands
and clothing away from any moving
parts such as cooling fan and drive
belts.
cAutomatic transmission fluid is poi-
sonous and should be stored care-
fully in marked containers out of the
reach of children.
Temperature conditions for check-
ing
cThe fluid level should be checked using
the HOT range on the dipstick after the
following conditions have been met:
Ð The engine should be warmed up to
operating temperature.
Ð The vehicle should be driven at least 5
minutes.
Ð The automatic transmission fluid should
be warmed to between 122 and 176ÉF
(50 and 80ÉC).
cThe fluid can be checked at fluid tem-
peratures of 86 to 122ÉF (30 to 50ÉC)
using the COLD range on the dipstick
DI1170M
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID
7-9
ZX

after the engine is warmed up and before
driving. However, the fluid should be
re-checked using the HOT range.
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and
set the parking brake.
2. Start the engine and then move the se-
lector lever through each gear range,
ending in P.
3. Check the fluid level with the engine
idling.
4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean
with lint-free paper.
5. Re-insert the dipstick into the charging
pipe as far as it will go.
6. Remove the dipstick and note the read-
ing. If the level is on the low side of either
range, add fluid to the charging pipe.CAUTION
cDO NOT OVERFILL.
cUse ONLY Nissan Matic `D' (Conti-
nental U.S. and Alaska) or Genuine
Nissan Automatic Transmission
Fluid (Canada). Dexronž III/Merconž
or equivalent may also be used. Out-
side the continental United States
and Alaska contact a Nissan dealer-
ship for more information regarding
suitable fluids, including recom-
mended brands of Dexronž
III/Merconž or Dexronž IIE/Merconž
Automatic Transmission Fluid.
cIf the vehicle has been driven for a
long time at high speeds, or in city
traffic in hot weather, or if it is being
used to pull a trailer, the fluid level
cannot be read accurately. You
should wait until the fluid has cooled
down (about 30 minutes).
DI1192M
7-10
ZX

Check the power steering fluid level.
The fluid level should be checked using the
HOT range on the dipstick at fluid tempera-
tures of 122 to 176ÉF (50 to 80ÉC) or using
the COLD range on the dipstick at fluid
temperatures of 32 to 86ÉF (0 to 30ÉC).
CAUTION
cDo not overfill.
cThe recommended fluid is type
DEXRON
TMII or equivalent.Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir.
If the fluid level is below the MIN line or the
brake warning light comes on, addDOT 3
fluid up to the MAX line.
Check the clutch fluid level in the reservoir
(manual transmission only). If the fluid level
is below the MIN line, addDOT 3fluid up to
the MAX line.
If fluid must be added frequently, the system
should be thoroughly checked by your NIS-
SAN dealer.
ADI0700ADI0712ADI0716
POWER STEERING FLUID BRAKE AND CLUTCH FLUID
7-11
ZX

tion. Be certain to keep floormats away from
the pedal.
Parking brake*Check that the lever has
the proper travel and confirm that your
vehicle is held securely on a fairly steep hill
with only the parking brake applied.
Automatic transmission Park position
mechanismCheck that the lock release
button on the selector lever operates prop-
erly and smoothly. On a fairly steep hill
check that your vehicle is held securely with
the selector lever in the P position without
applying any brakes.
UNDER THE HOOD AND
VEHICLE
The maintenance items listed here should
be checked periodically (e.g., each time you
check the engine oil or refuel).
Additional information on the following
items with ``*'' is found in the ``Do-it-
yourself operations'' section.
Windshield washer fluid*Check that there
is adequate fluid in the tank.
Engine coolant level*Check the coolant
level when the engine is cold.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, de-
formation, rot or loose connections.
Brake and clutch fluid levels*Make sure
that the brake and clutch fluid level is be-
tween the MAX and MIN lines on the reser-
voir.
Battery*Check the fluid level in each cell. It
should be between the MAX and MIN lines.
Engine drive belts*Make sure 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.
Power steering fluid level* and lines
Check the level when the fluid is cold and
the engine is turned off. Check the lines for
proper attachment, leaks, cracks, etc.
Automatic transmission fluid level*
Check the level after putting the selector
lever in P with the engine idling.
Exhaust systemMake sure there are no
loose supports, cracks or holes. If the sound
of the exhaust seems unusual or there is asmell of exhaust fumes, immediately locate
the trouble and correct it. (See the carbon
monoxide warning in the ``Starting and driv-
ing'' section.)
UnderbodyThe 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 sub-
stances, otherwise rust will form on the floor
pan, frame, fuel lines and around the ex-
haust 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 accu-
mulate. See the ``Appearance and interior
care'' section for additional information.
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 immediately.
8-4
ZX

Capacity (Approximate)
Recommended Specifications
US
measureImp
measureLiter
Manual transmission gear oil4x2 4-1/4 pt 8-1/2 pt 2.0
API GL-4*1
4x4 8-1/2 pt 7 pt 4.0
Manual steering gear oil 1-3/8 pt 1-1/8 pt 0.62 API GL-4*1
Final drive4x2 M/T
Regular cab 3-1/8 pt 2-5/8 pt 1.5
King cab 2-3/4 pt. 2-1/4 pt. 1.3cWithout LSD: API GL-5*1
4x2 A/T 3-1/8 pt. 2-5/8 pt. 1.5cWith LSD: Only LSD gear oil. API GL-5 and SAE 80W-
90*2 approved for NISSAN LSD*3
4x4 Front 2-3/4 pt. 2-1/4 pt. 1.3
Rear 5-7/8 pt. 4-7/8 pt. 2.8
Transfer fluid Ð Ð Ð Type DEXRON
TM
Automatic transmission fluid
Refill to the proper oil level according to the
instructions in the ``Do-it-yourself operations''
section.Nissan Matic `D' (Continental U.S. and Alaska) or Genuine
Nissan Automatic Transmission Fluid (Canada). *4
Power steering fluidType DEXRON IIE
TM, DEXRON IIITM, or equivalent
Brake and clutch fluidGenuine Nissan Brake Fluid*5 or equivalent
DOT 3 (US FMVSS No. 116)
Multi-purpose grease Ð Ð Ð NLGI No. 2 (Lithium Complex)
Air conditioning system refrigerant lb (kg) 1.65 - 1.87 (0.75 - 0.85) HFC-134a (R-134a)*6
Air conditioning system lubricant 6.8 oz 7.0 oz 200 ml Nissan A/C System Oil Type R or equivalent*6
*1: For further details, see ``Recommended SAE gear oil viscosity''.
*2: SAE 90 is acceptable in temperatures above 0ÉF (þ18ÉC).
*3: Contact your NISSAN dealer for a list of approved oils.
*4: Dexronž III/Merconž or equivalent may also be used. Outside the Continental United States and Alaska contact a Nissan dealership for more information regarding suitable
fluids, including recommended brand(s) of Dexronž III/Merconž or Dexronž IIE/Merconž Automatic Transmission Fluid.
*5: Available in mainland U.S.A. through your NISSAN dealer.
*6: For further details, see ``Air conditioner specification label''.
9-3
ZX

10 Index
A
Air bag (See supplemental restraint system)
Air bag warning light .................................. 2-15
Air cleaner housing filter ............................ 7-15
Air conditioner
Air conditioner operation ........................ 3-5
Air conditioner service ............................ 3-9
Air conditioner specification label ......... 9-14
Air conditioning system refrigerant and
lubricant recommendations .................... 9-8
Air flow charts .............................................. 3-6
AM-FM electronic tuning radio with
cassette player........................................... 3-11
AM-FM electronic tuning radio with
cassette player (100 W) ............................ 3-16
Anchor point locations ............................... 2-25
Antenna (manual) ...................................... 3-20
Anti-lock brake system, rear (R-ABS) ....... 4-26
Audio system
AM-FM electronic tuning radio with
cassette player ..................................... 3-11
AM/FM electronic tuning radio with
cassette player (100 W) ....................... 3-16
Cassette tape operation .............. 3-13, 3-19
Auto-lock free-running hubs ...................... 4-15
Automatic
Automatic transmission fluid ................... 7-9Driving with automatic transmission ....... 4-6
B
Battery........................................................ 7-13
Brake
Brake fluid ..................................... 7-11, 9-3
Brake booster ....................................... 7-19
Brake pedal .......................................... 7-18
Brake pad wear indicators ............ 1-9, 7-18
Parking brake check ............................. 7-17
Parking brake operation ....................... 4-11
Rear anti-lock brake system (R-ABS) .. 4-26
Break-in schedule ...................................... 4-13
Bulb check/instrument panel ....................... 1-6
Bulb replacement ....................................... 7-22
C
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants ............................................... 9-2
Cargo (see vehicle loading information).... 9-15
Cassette tape operation ................... 3-13, 3-19
Cassette player (See audio system)
CB radio or car phone ............................... 3-21
Center and side ventilators.......................... 3-2
Child restraints for infants and small
children ...................................................... 2-22Cigarette lighter (accessory) and ash
tray ............................................................. 1-13
Cleaning exterior and interior ...................... 6-2
Clock/audio system.................................... 3-11
Clock/instrument cluster .............................. 1-5
Clutch fluid ................................................. 7-11
Clutch pedal ............................................... 7-19
Cold weather driving cautions ................... 4-27
Controls
Audio controls ............................. 3-11, 3-16
Heater and air conditioner controls ........ 3-3
Coolant
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants.......................................... 9-2
Changing engine coolant........................ 7-5
Checking engine coolant level ............... 7-4
Engine coolant temperature gauge ........ 1-4
Cruise control............................................. 4-11
Cup holder ................................................. 1-13
D
Daytime running light system
(Canada only) ............................................ 1-10
Digital clock (See clock/instrument cluster)
Dimensions and weights............................ 9-11
Door locks .................................................... 2-2
Drive belts .................................................. 7-14
ZX

Driving
Auto-lock free-running hubs ................. 4-15
Cold weather driving cautions .............. 4-27
Driving with automatic transmission ....... 4-6
Driving with manual transmission ........... 4-9
Driving your 4-wheel drive safely ......... 4-22
Manual-lock free-running hubs ............. 4-19
Precautions when driving ..................... 4-25
Precautions when starting and driving ... 4-2
E
Economy, fuel ............................................ 4-13
Emission control information label............. 9-14
Emission control system warranty ............. 9-22
Engine
Before starting the engine ...................... 4-5
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants.......................................... 9-2
Changing engine coolant........................ 7-5
Changing engine oil................................ 7-7
Changing engine oil filter........................ 7-8
Checking engine coolant level ............... 7-4
Checking engine oil level ....................... 7-6
Engine compartment check locations .... 7-3
Engine coolant temperature gauge ........ 1-4
Engine cooling system ........................... 7-4
Engine oil ................................................ 7-6
Engine oil and oil filter
recommendation ..................................... 9-6
Engine oil viscosity ................................. 9-7
Engine serial number ........................... 9-13Engine specifications .............................. 9-9
Starting the engine ............................... 4-10
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) ................. 4-2
F
Flashers (See hazard warning flasher switch)
Flat tire ......................................................... 5-2
Floor mat positioning aid ............................. 6-4
Fluid (Checking)
Automatic transmission fluid ................... 7-9
Brake and clutch fluid ........................... 7-11
Engine coolant ........................................ 7-4
Engine oil ................................................ 7-6
Power steering fluid .............................. 7-11
Window washer fluid ............................ 7-12
F.M.V.S.S. certification label ..................... 9-13
Front seats
Bench.................................................... 2-10
Separate ................................................. 2-8
Fuel
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants.......................................... 9-2
Fuel economy ....................................... 4-13
Fuel filler cap .......................................... 2-5
Fuel gauge.............................................. 1-4
Fuel octane rating................................... 9-5
Fuel recommendation ............................. 9-4
Fuses ......................................................... 7-20G
Gas station information............................ 10-11
Gauge
Engine coolant temperature gauge ........ 1-4
Fuel gauge.............................................. 1-4
Odometer ................................................ 1-3
Speedometer .......................................... 1-3
Tachometer............................................. 1-3
Trip odometer ......................................... 1-3
Gear selection (See shifting)
General maintenance .................................. 8-2
Glove box lock ............................................. 2-4
H
Hazard warning flasher switch .................. 1-12
Head restraints ............................................ 2-9
Headlight and turn signal switch ............... 1-10
Headlights .................................................. 7-20
Heater
Heater and air conditioner controls ........ 3-3
Heater operation ..................................... 3-4
Hood release ............................................... 2-4
Hubs
Auto-lock free-running hubs ................. 4-15
Manual-lock free-running hubs ............. 4-19
I
Ignition switch .............................................. 4-4
10-2
ZX