check transmission fluid NISSAN FRONTIER 2009 Owner´s Manual

This light indicates that the automatic transmis-
sion parking function is not engaged. If the trans-
fer control is not secured in any drive position
while the shift selector is in the P (Park) position,
the transmission will disengage and the drive
wheels will not lock.
orBrake warning light
This light functions for both the parking brake and
the foot brake systems.
Parking brake indicator
When the ignition switch is placed in the ON
position, the light comes on when the parking
brake is applied.
Low brake fluid warning light
When the ignition switch is placed in the ON
position, the light warns of a low brake fluid level.
If the light comes on while the engine is running
with the parking brake not applied, stop the ve-
hicle and perform the following:
1. Check the brake fluid level. Add brake fluid
as necessary. See “Brake fluid” in the “Main-
tenance and do-it-yourself” section of this
manual.
2. If the brake fluid level is correct, have the
warning system checked by a NISSAN
dealer.
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
cDo not ground electrical accessories
directly to the battery terminal. Doing
so will bypass the variable control sys-
tem and the vehicle battery may not
charge completely. Refer to “Variable
voltage control system” in the “Mainte-
nance and do-it-yourself” section later
in this manual.
cDo not continue driving if the generator
belt is loose, broken or missing.
Door open warning light
This light comes on when any of the doors are not
closed securely while the ignition switch is
placed in the ON position.
Engine oil pressure warning
light
This light warns of low engine oil pressure. If the
light flickers or comes on during normal driving,
pull off the road in a safe area, stop the engine
immediatelyand call a NISSAN dealer or other
authorized repair shop.
The engine oil pressure warning light is not
designed to indicate a low oil level.Use the
Instruments and controls2-15
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Low windshield washer fluid
warning light
This light comes on when the windshield washer
fluid is at a low level. Add windshield washer fluid
as necessary. See “Window washer fluid” in the
“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section of this
manual.
Seat belt warning light and
chime
The light and chime remind you to fasten your
seat belts. The light illuminates whenever the
ignition switch is placed in the ON or START
position and remains illuminated until the driver’s
seat belt is fastened. At the same time, the chime
sounds for about 6 seconds unless the driver’s
seat belt is securely fastened.
The seat belt warning light may also illuminate if
the front passenger’s seat belt is not fastened
when the front passenger’s seat is occupied . For
7 seconds after the ignition switch is placed in
the ON position, the system does not activate the
warning light for the front passenger.
Refer to “Seat belts” in the “Safety—Seats, seat
belts and supplemental restraint system” section
for precautions on seat belt usage.
Supplemental air bag warning
light
When the ignition switch is in the ON or START
position, the supplemental air bag warning light
illuminates for about 7 seconds and then turns
off. This means the system is operational.
If any of the following conditions occur, the front
air bag, side air bag (if so equipped) , curtain and
roll-over air bag (if so equipped) , and preten-
sioner systems need servicing and your vehicle
must be taken to a NISSAN dealer:
cThe supplemental air bag warning light re-
mains on after approximately 7 seconds.
cThe supplemental air bag warning light
flashes intermittently.
cThe supplemental air bag warning light does
not come on at all.
Unless checked and repaired, the supplemental
restraint system (air bag system) and/or the pre-
tensioners may not function properly. For addi-
tional details see “Supplemental restraint sys-
tem” in the “Safety—Seats, seat belts and
supplemental restraint system” section of this
manual.
WARNING
If the supplemental air bag warning light
is on, it could mean that the front air bag,
side air bag (if so equipped) , curtain and
roll-over air bag systems (if so equipped) ,
and/or pretensioner systems will not op-
erate in an accident. To help avoid injury
to yourself or others, have your vehicle
checked by a NISSAN dealer as soon as
possible.
INDICATOR LIGHTS
Automatic transmission
position indicator light (if so
equipped)
When the ignition switch is turned ON, this indi-
cator light shows the shift selector position. See
“Driving the vehicle” in the “Starting and driving”
section of this manual.
Cruise main switch indicator
light (if so equipped)
The light comes on when the cruise control main
switch is pushed. The light goes out when the
main switch is pushed again. When the cruise
main switch indicator light comes on, the cruise
control system is operational.
2-18Instruments and controls
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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.
cCheck that all doors are closed.
cPosition seat and adjust head restraint.
cAdjust inside and outside mirrors.
cFasten seat belts and ask all passengers to
do likewise.
cCheck the operation of warning lights when
the ignition switch is turned to the ON (3)
position. See “Warning/indicator lights and
audible reminders” in the “Instruments and
controls” section of this manual.1. Apply the parking brake.
2.Automatic transmission:
Move the shift selector to P (Park) or N
(Neutral) . P (Park) is recommended.
The shift selector cannot be moved out
of P (Park) and into any of the other
gear positions if the ignition key is
turned to the OFF position or if the key
is removed from the ignition switch.
The starter is designed not to operate if
the shift selector is in any of the driving
positions.
Manual transmission:
Move the shift selector to N (Neutral) . De-
press the clutch pedal to the floor while
cranking the engine.
The starter is designed not to operate
unless the clutch pedal is fully de-
pressed.
3. Crank the enginewith your foot off the
accelerator pedalby turning the ignition
switch to START. Release the key when the
engine starts. If the engine starts, but fails to
run, repeat the above procedure.cIf the engine is very hard to start in ex-
tremely cold weather or when restarting,
depress the accelerator pedal a little (ap-
proximately 1/3 to the floor) and hold it
and then crank the engine. Release the
key and the accelerator pedal when the
engine starts.
c
If the engine is very hard to start because it
is flooded, depress the accelerator pedal
all the way to the floor and hold it. Crank
the engine for 5-6 seconds. After cranking
the engine, release the accelerator pedal.
Crank the enginewith your foot off the
accelerator pedal
by turning the ignition
key to START. Release the key when the
engine starts. If the engine starts, but fails
to run, repeat the above procedure.
CAUTION
Do not operate the starter for more than
15 seconds at a time. If the engine does
not start, turn the key off and wait 10
seconds before cranking again, otherwise
the starter could be damaged.
4. Allow the engine to idle for at least 30 sec-
onds after starting. Do not race the engine
while warming it up. Drive at moderate
speed for a short distance first, especially in
cold weather.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE STARTING THE ENGINE
5-12Starting 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.............................8-8
Checking engine coolant level...................8-8
Changing engine coolant........................8-9
Engine oil.........................................8-9
Checking engine oil level........................8-9
Changing engine oil...........................8-11
Changing engine oil filter.......................8-12
5-speed automatic transmission fluid...............8-13
Power steering fluid...............................8-13
Brake and clutch fluid.............................8-14
Brake fluid....................................8-14
Clutch fluid...................................8-15
Window washer fluid.............................8-15
Window washer fluid reservoir..................8-15
Battery..........................................8-16
Jump starting.................................8-17
Variable voltage control system.....................8-17
Drive belt........................................8-18Spark plugs......................................8-19
Replacing spark plugs.........................8-19
Air cleaner.......................................8-20
In-cabin microfilter (if so equipped)..............8-21
Windshield wiper blades..........................8-22
Cleaning.....................................8-22
Replacing....................................8-22
Brakes..........................................8-23
Fuses...........................................8-24
Engine compartment...........................8-25
Passenger compartment.......................8-26
Battery replacement..............................8-27
Keyfob.......................................8-27
Lights...........................................8-28
Headlights....................................8-28
Exterior and interior lights.......................8-30
Wheels and tires.................................8-33
Tire pressure..................................8-33
Tire labeling...................................8-37
Types of tires..................................8-39
Tire chains....................................8-40
Changing wheels and tires.....................8-41
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7. Coat the gasket on the new filter with clean
engine oil.
8. Screw on the oil filter until a slight resistance
is felt, then tighten an additional 2/3 turn.
9. Start the engine and check for leakage
around the oil filter. Correct as required.
10. Turn the engine off and wait more than 10
minutes. Check the oil level. Add engine oil if
necessary.When checking or replacement is required, we
recommend your NISSAN dealer for servicing.
CAUTION
cUse Genuine NISSAN Matic S ATF. If
Genuine NISSAN Matic S ATF is not
available, Genuine NISSAN Matic J ATF
may also be used.
cUsing automatic transmission fluid
other than Genuine NISSAN Matic S
ATF or Matic J ATF will cause deteriora-
tion in driveability and automatic trans-
mission durability, and may damage the
automatic transmission, which is not
covered by the NISSAN new vehicle lim-
ited warranty.
The specified automatic transmission fluid is also
described on caution labels located in the engine
compartment.The fluid level should be checked using the HOT
MAX range on the power steering fluid reservoir
at fluid temperatures of 122° - 176°F (50° -
80°C) or using the COLD MAX range on the
power steering fluid reservoir at fluid tempera-
tures of 32° - 86°F (0° - 30°C) .
If the fluid is below the MIN line, add Genuine
NISSAN PSF. Remove the cap and fill through
the opening.
WDI0256
5-SPEED AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSION FLUIDPOWER STEERING FLUID
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-13
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CLUTCH FLUID
Check the clutch fluid level in the reservoir
(manual transmissions only) . If the fluid level is
below the MIN line, add Genuine NISSAN Super
Heavy Duty Brake Fluid or equivalentDOT 3fluid
up to the MAX line. If fluid must be added fre-
quently, the system should be checked by a
NISSAN dealer.
For further brake and clutch fluid specification
information, refer to “Capacities and recom-
mended fuel/lubricants” in the “Technical and
consumer information” section of this manual.
WINDOW WASHER FLUID
RESERVOIR
Fill the window washer fluid reservoir periodically.
Add window washer fluid when the low window
washer fluid warning light comes on.
To fill the window washer fluid reservoir, lift the
cap off the reservoir tank and pour the window
washer fluid into the tank opening.
Add a washer solvent to the washer for better
cleaning. In the winter season, add a windshield
washer antifreeze. Follow the manufacturer’s in-
structions for the mixture ratio.Refill the reservoir more frequently when driving
conditions require an increased amount of win-
dow washer fluid.
Recommended fluid is Genuine NISSAN Wind-
shield Washer Concentrate Cleaner & Anti-
freeze or equivalent.
CAUTION
cDo not substitute engine anti-freeze
coolant for window washer solution.
This may result in damage to the paint.
cDo not fill the window washer reservoir
tank with washer fluid concentrates at
full strength. Some methyl alcohol
based washer fluid concentrates may
permanently stain the grille if spilled
while filling the window washer reser-
voir tank.
cPre-mix washer fluid concentrates with
water to the manufacturer’s recom-
mended levels before pouring the fluid
into the window washer reservoir tank.
Do not use the window washer reservoir
tank to mix the washer fluid concen-
trate and water.
LDI0463LDI0441
WINDOW WASHER FLUID
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-15
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cBe careful when passing other vehicles.
Passing while towing a trailer requires con-
siderably more distance than normal pass-
ing. Remember, the length of the trailer must
also pass the other vehicle before you can
safely change lanes.
cDownshift the transmission to a lower gear
for engine braking when driving down steep
or long hills. This will help slow the vehicle
without applying the brakes.
cAvoid holding the brake pedal down too long
or too frequently. This could cause the
brakes to overheat, resulting in reduced
braking efficiency.
cIncrease your following distance to allow for
greater stopping distances while towing a
trailer. Anticipate stops and brake gradually.
cNISSAN recommends that the cruise con-
trol not be used while towing a trailer.
cSome states or provinces have specific
regulations and speed limits for vehicles that
are towing trailers. Obey the local speed
limits.
cCheck your hitch, trailer wiring harness con-
nections, and trailer wheel lug nuts after 50
miles (80 km) of travel and at every break.cWhen launching a boat, don’t allow the wa-
ter level to go over the exhaust tail pipe or
rear bumper.
cMake sure you disconnect the trailer lights
before backing the trailer into the water or
the trailer lights may burn out.
When towing a trailer, final drive gear oil
should be replaced and transmission oil/
fluid should be changed more frequently.
For additional information, see the “Main-
tenance and do-it-yourself” section earlier
in this manual.
FLAT TOWING
Towing your vehicle with all four wheels on the
ground is sometimes called flat towing. This
method is sometimes used when towing a vehicle
behind a recreational vehicle, such as a motor
home.
CAUTION
cFailure to follow these guidelines can
result in severe transmission damage.
cWhenever flat towing your vehicle, al-
ways tow forward, never backward.cDO NOT tow any automatic transmis-
sion vehicle with all four wheels on the
ground (flat towing) . Doing so WILL
DAMAGE internal transmission parts
due to lack of transmission lubrication.
cFor emergency towing procedures refer
to “Towing recommended by NISSAN”
in the “In case of emergency” section of
this manual.
Automatic Transmission (if so equipped)
To tow a vehicle equipped with an automatic
transmission, an appropriate vehicle dollyMUST
be placed under the towed vehicle’s drive
wheels.Alwaysfollow the dolly manufacturer’s
recommendations when using their product.
Manual Transmission (if so equipped)
cAlways tow with the manual transmission in
Neutral.
cOn four-wheel drive vehicles, place the
transfer case in the 2H range. Failure to do
so will cause the powertrain to bind up.
cAfter towing 500 miles (805 km) , start and
idle the engine with the transmission in Neu-
tral for two minutes. Failure to idle the engine
after every 500 miles (805 km) of towing
may cause damage to internal transmission
parts.
Technical and consumer information9-35
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10 Index
4WD warning light...............2-16
A
Active brake limited slip (ABLS) system
(if so equipped).................5-34
Active Head Restraint..............1-6
Air bag (See supplemental restraint
system).....................1-52
Air bag system
Front (See supplemental front impact
air bag system)...............1-60
Air bag warning labels.............1-67
Air bag warning light...........1-67, 2-18
Air cleaner housing filter............8-20
Air conditioner
Air conditioner operation.......4-5, 4-13
Air conditioner service...........4-17
Air conditioner specification label.....9-12
Air conditioner system refrigerant and
oil recommendations.............9-7
Heater and air conditioner
controls.................4-2, 4-10
Servicing air conditioner..........4-17
Air flow charts...............4-7, 4-14
Alarm system
(See vehicle security system).........2-23
Anchor point locations.............1-27
Antenna.....................4-36
Anti-lock brake warning light..........2-14
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)........5-33Audible reminders................2-22
Audio system..................4-18
Compact Disc (CD) changer. . . .4-29, 4-33
Compact disc (CD) player.........4-27
FM-AM radio with compact disc (CD)
changer...................4-29
FM/AM radio with compact disc (CD)
player....................4-25
Radio....................4-18
Steering wheel audio control switch. . . .4-36
Autolight switch.................2-28
Automatic
Automatic power window switch.....2-47
Automatic transmission position indicator
light.....................2-18
Driving with automatic transmission. . . .5-13
Automatic anti-glare inside mirror.......3-14
AUX jack.....................4-34
B
Battery......................8-16
Charge warning light............2-15
Before starting the engine...........5-12
Belt (See drive belt)..............8-18
Block heater
Engine....................5-39
BluetoothThands-free phone system.....4-37
Booster seats..................1-46
Brake
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)......5-33Brake fluid..................8-14
Brake light (See stop light).........8-30
Brake system................5-32
Brake warning light.............2-15
Brake wear indicators........2-22, 8-23
Parking brake operation..........5-19
Self-adjusting brakes............8-23
Brakes......................8-23
Break-in schedule................5-21
Brightness control
Instrument panel..............2-30
Bulb check/instrument panel..........2-14
Bulb replacement................8-30
C
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants...................9-2
Car phone or CB radio.............4-37
Cargo light switch...............2-32
Cargo (See vehicle loading information) . . .9-13
CD care and cleaning.............4-35
CD changer (See audio system). . . .4-29, 4-33
CD player (See audio system).........4-27
Child restraint with top tether strap......1-24
Child restraints..........1-14, 1-21, 1-23
Precautions on child
restraints............1-21, 1-32, 1-46
Top tether strap anchor point locations . .1-27
Child safety rear door lock............3-6
Chimes, audible reminders...........2-22
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Cleaning exterior and interior..........7-2
Clock......................4-26
Clutch
Clutch fluid.................8-15
Clutch interlock (clutch start) switch.....2-35
C.M.V.S.S. certification label..........9-11
Cold weather driving..............5-37
Compact disc (CD) player...........4-27
Compass display.................2-9
Console box...................2-40
Controls
Audio controls (steering wheel)......4-36
Heater and air conditioner
controls.................4-2, 4-10
Coolant
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants.................9-2
Changing engine coolant..........8-9
Checking engine coolant level........8-8
Engine coolant temperature gauge.....2-6
Corrosion protection...............7-5
Cruise control..................5-20
Cup holders...................2-42
Curtain side-impact and rollover air bag . . .1-64
D
Daytime running light system
(Canada only)..................2-29
Defogger switch
Rear window defogger switch.......2-26
Dimensions and weights.............9-9
Dimmer switch for instrument panel......2-30
Door locks....................3-3
Door open warning light............2-15Drive belt....................8-18
Driving
Cold weather driving............5-37
Driving with automatic transmission. . . .5-13
Driving with manual transmission.....5-17
Precautions when starting and driving . . .5-2
E
Economy - fuel.................5-22
Electronic locking rear differential (E-Lock)
system......................5-30
Electronic locking rear differential (E-Lock)
system switch..................2-34
Emission control information label.......9-12
Emission control system warranty.......9-37
Engine
Before starting the engine.........5-12
Block heater.................5-39
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants.................9-2
Changing engine coolant..........8-9
Changing engine oil............8-11
Changing engine oil filter..........8-12
Checking engine coolant level........8-8
Checking engine oil level..........8-9
Engine compartment check locations. . . .8-6
Engine coolant temperature gauge.....2-6
Engine cooling system............8-8
Engine oil...................8-9
Engine oil and oil filter recommendation . .9-6
Engine oil pressure warning light.....2-15
Engine oil viscosity..............9-6
Engine serial number............9-11
Engine specifications.............9-8Starting the engine.............5-12
Engine oil pressure gauge............2-8
Event data recorders..............9-38
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide)........5-2
F
First aid kit....................6-2
Flashers
(See hazard warning flasher switch)......2-31
Flat tire......................6-3
Floor mat positioning aid.............7-4
Fluid
Brake fluid..................8-14
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants.................9-2
Clutch fluid.................8-15
Engine coolant................8-8
Engine oil...................8-9
Power steering fluid.............8-13
Window washer fluid............8-15
F.M.V.S.S. certification label..........9-11
Fog light switch.................2-30
Front air bag system (See supplemental
restraint system)................1-60
Front seats....................1-2
Fuel
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants.................9-2
Fuel economy................5-22
Fuel gauge..................2-7
Fuel octane rating..............9-5
Fuel recommendation............9-4
Fuel-filler cap................3-10
Fuel-filler door and cap...........3-10
10-2
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