brake fluid NISSAN FRONTIER 2021 Owners Manual

VQ38DD engine
1. Windshield-washer fluid reservoir(P. 8-12)
2. Fuse/Fusible link box (P. 8-20)
3. Fuse/Fusible link box (P. 8-20)
4. Fuse box (P. 8-20)
5. Engine oil filler cap (P. 8-6)
6. Engine oil dipstick (P. 8-6)
7. Brake fluid reservoir (P. 8-11)
8. Air cleaner (P. 8-17)
9. Drive belt location (P. 8-15)
10. Power steering fluid reservoir (P. 8-10)
11. Radiator cap (P. 8-4)
12. Battery (P. 8-13)
13. Engine coolant reservoir (P. 8-4)
*Engine cover removed for clarity.
Refer to the page number indicated in
parentheses for operating details.

WarninglightName Page
model) 2-15
or
Anti-lock Braking
System (ABS)warning light 2-15
or
Apply parking brake
warning light 2-16
Automatic transmis-
sion check warning light 2-16
model)2-16
or
Brake warning light 2-16
Charge warning light 2-17
Door open warning
light 2-17
Electric shif t control
system warning light 2-17
Low fuel warning
light 2-18
Low tire pressure
warning light 2-18
Low windshield-
washer fluid warning light (if so equipped) 2-19
NISSAN Intelligent
Key® warning light (if so equipped) 2-20
Seat belt warning
light and chime 2-20
WARNING AND INDICATOR LIGHTS
Illustrated table of contents0-9

4WD warning light (model)Low tire pressure warning lightFront passenger air bag status light
orAnti-lock Braking System
(ABS) warning lightLow windshield-washer fluid warning light
(if so equipped)High beam indicator light (blue)
orApply parking brake warning
lightNISSAN Intelligent Key® warning light
(if so equipped)Hill descent control system ON indicator
light (if so equipped)
Automatic transmission check warning lightSeat belt warning light and chimeMalfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
Automatic transmission park warning
light (
model)
Shif t P (Park) warning light (if so equipped)Security indicator light (if so equipped)
orBrake warning lightSupplemental air bag warning lightSET indicator light
Charge warning light4WD shif t indicator light (model)Slip indicator light
Door open warning lightAutomatic transmission position indicator
lightTransfer 4LO position indicator light
(
model)
Electric shif t control system warning lightCRUISE indicator lightTurn signal/hazard indicator lights
Engine oil pressure warning lightElectronic locking rear differential (E-Lock)
system ON indicator light (if so equipped)Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) OFF
indicator light
Low fuel warning lightEngine start operation indicator light
(if so equipped)
WARNING LIGHTS, INDICATOR LIGHTS
AND AUDIBLE REMINDERS
2-14Instruments and controls

If an ABS malfunction occurs, the anti-lock
function is turned off. The brake system
then operates normally but without anti-
lock assistance. For additional information,
refer to “Brake system” in the “Starting and
driving” section of this manual.
orApply parking
brake warning
light (if so
equipped)
This warning light appears when a mal-
function occurs in the electric shif t control
system below 3 mph (5 km/h).
Have the system checked. It is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for
this service.
Automatic Transmission
check warning light
When the ignition switch is placed in the ON
position, the light comes on for about 2
seconds. If the light comes on at any other
time, it may indicate the automatic trans-
mission system is not functioning properly.
Have the system checked. It is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for
this service.
Automatic Transmission
Park warning light (
model)
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 park-
ing 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 ap-
plied, stop the vehicle and perform the fol-
lowing:
1. Check the brake fluid level. Add brakefluid as necessary. For additional infor-
mation, refer to “Brake fluid” in the “Do-it-
yourself ” section of this manual.
2-16Instruments and controls

2. If the brake fluid level is correct, have thewarning system checked. It is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer
for this service.Electric shif t control system
warning light
This light illuminates when a malfunction
occurs in the electric shif t control system.
Have the system checked. It is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for
this service.
Engine oil pressure
warning light
This light warns of low engine oil pressure. If
the light flickers or comes on during nor-
mal 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 dipstick to check the oil level. For
additional information, refer to “Engine oil”
in the “Do-it-yourself ” section of this
manual.
Instruments and controls2-17

NISSAN VEHICLE IMMOBILIZER
SYSTEM
The NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System
will not allow the engine to start without
the use of the registered key.
If the engine fails to start using a registered
key (for example, when interference is
caused by another registered key, an auto-
mated toll road device or automatic pay-
ment device on the key ring), restart the
engine using the following procedures:
1. Leave the ignition switch in the ON posi-tion for approximately 5 seconds.
2. Place the ignition switch in the OFF or LOCK position, and wait approximately
10 seconds.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2.
4. Restart the engine while holding the de- vice (which may have caused the inter-
ference) separate from the registered
key.
If the no start condition re-occurs, NISSAN
recommends placing the registered key on
a separate key ring to avoid interference
from other devices. • Make sure the area around the vehicle is
clear.
• Check fluid levels such as engine oil, cool- ant, brake, and windshield-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.
• Check that all doors are closed.
• Position seat and adjust head restraints/ headrests.
• Adjust inside and outside mirrors.
• Fasten the seat belt and ask all passen- gers to do likewise.
• Check the operation of warning lights when the ignition switch is placed in the
ON position. For additional information,
refer to “Warning lights, indicator lights
and audible reminders” in the “Instru-
ments and controls” section of this
manual. 1. Apply the parking brake.
2. Move the shif t lever to P (Park) or N (Neu-
tral). P (Park) is recommended.
The starter is designed not to operate
unless the shif t lever is in either P
(Park) or N (Neutral).
3. Push the ignition switch to the ON posi- tion. Depress the brake pedal and push
the ignition switch to start the engine.
To start the engine immediately, push
and release the ignition switch while de-
pressing the brake pedal with the igni-
tion switch in any position.
• If the engine is very hard to start in extremely cold weather or when re-
starting, depress the accelerator
pedal a little (approximately 1/3 to the
floor) and while holding, crank the en-
gine. Release the accelerator pedal
when the engine starts.
• If the engine is very hard to start be- cause it is flooded, depress the accel-
erator pedal all the way to the floor
and hold it. Push the ignition switch to
the ON position to start cranking the
engine. Af ter 5 or 6 seconds, stop
cranking by pushing the ignition
switch to the LOCK position. Af ter
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE STARTING THE ENGINE
Starting and driving5-13

VQ38DD engine
1. Windshield-washer fluid reservoir
2. Fuse/Fusible link box
3. Fuse/Fusible link box
4. Fuse box
5. Engine oil filler cap
6. Engine oil dipstick
7. Brake fluid reservoir
8. Air cleaner
9. Drive belt location
10. Power steering fluid reservoir
11. Radiator cap
12. Battery
13. Engine coolant reservoir
LDI3520
ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS
Do-it-yourself8-3

If the fluid is cold and is at or below the
COLD MIN line, add Genuine NISSAN PSF-II
or equivalent to the COLD MAX line. If the
fluid is hot and below the HOT MAX line, add
Genuine NISSAN PSF-II or equivalent to the
HOT MAX line. Remove the cap and fill
through the opening.
CAUTION
Do not spill the fluid on any painted sur-
faces. This will damage the paint. If fluid
is spilled, immediately wash the sur-
face with water.
BRAKE FLUID
Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. If
the fluid level is below the MIN line
OBor the
brake warning light comes on, add Genu-
ine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid or
equivalent DOT 3fluid up to the MAX line
OA.
If fluid must be added frequently, the sys-
tem should be checked. It is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for
this service.
LDI3526
BRAKE FLUID
Do-it-yourself8-11

brake needs adjustment, it is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for
this service.
Seats:
Check seat position controls such as
seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc., to en-
sure they operate smoothly and all latches
lock securely in every position. Check that the
head restraints/headrests move up and
down smoothly and 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, anchors,
adjusters and retractors) operate properly
and smoothly, and are installed securely.
Check the belt webbing for cuts, fraying,
wear or damage.
Steering wheel: Check for changes in the
steering system, such as excessive free
play, hard steering or strange noises.
Warning lights and chimes: Make sure all
warning lights and chimes are operating
properly.
Windshield defroster: Check that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly
and in sufficient quantity when operating
the heater or air conditioner.
Windshield wiper and washer*: Check
that the wipers and washer operate prop-
erly 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 (for maintenance free batter-
ies)*: This vehicle is equipped with a sealed
maintenance free battery. It is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for
service.
NOTE:
Care should be taken to avoid situations
that can lead to potential battery dis-
charge and potential no-start conditions
such as:
1. Installation or extended use of elec-
tronic accessories that consume bat-
tery power when the engine is not run-
ning (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 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 the drive
belts are not frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*: Check the level af ter
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, immedi-
ately have the exhaust system inspected. It
is recommended that you visit a NISSAN
dealer for this service. For additional infor-
mation, refer to “Exhaust gas (carbon mon-
oxide)” in the “Starting and driving” section
of this manual.
Fluid leaks: Check under the vehicle for
fuel, oil, water or other fluid leaks af ter the
vehicle has been parked for a while. Water
dripping from the air conditioner af ter use
is normal. If you should notice any leaks or if
fuel fumes are evident, check for the cause
and have it corrected immediately.
9-4Maintenance and schedules

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
equivalent with the proper mixture. (For ad-
ditional information on the proper mixture
for your area, refer to “Engine cooling system”
in the “Do-it-yourself ” section of this manual.)
NOTE: Mixing any other type of coolant
or the use of non-distilled water may re-
duce 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 “Recommended fluids/lubricants and
capacities” in the “Technical and consumer
information” section of this manual.
Evaporative emissions control vapor
lines*: Check vapor lines for leaks or loose-
ness. Tighten connections or replace parts
as necessary.
Fuel lines*: Check the fuel hoses, piping
and connections for leaks, looseness, or
deterioration. Tighten connections or re-
place parts as necessary.
Spark plugs: Replace at specified intervals.
Install new plugs of the same type as origi-
nally 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 deteriorated or damaged
parts immediately.
Brake pads and rotors: Check for wear,
deterioration and fluid leaks. Replace any
deteriorated or damaged parts immedi-
ately.
Exhaust system: Visually inspect the ex-
haust pipes, muffler and hangers for leaks,
cracks, deterioration, and damage. Tighten
connections or replace parts as necessary.
Propeller shaf t(s): Check for damage,
looseness, and grease leakage.
In-cabin microfilter: Replace at specified
intervals. When driving for prolonged peri-
ods in dusty conditions, replace the filter
more frequently.
Steering gear and linkage, axle and sus-
pension parts, drive shaf t boots: Check
for damage, looseness, and leakage of oil
or grease. Under severe driving conditions,
inspect more frequently. Tire rotation:
Tires should be rotated every
7,500 miles (12,000 km). When rotating tires,
check for damage and uneven wear. Re-
place if necessary.
Transmission fluid/oil, differential oil: Vi-
sually inspect for signs of leakage at speci-
fied intervals.
Off-road maintenance: Check the follow-
ing 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 shaf t(s) and front drive shaf ts
• Engine air filter
• Clutch housing drain (AWD only)
9-6Maintenance and schedules