power steering NISSAN GT-R 2009 Owners Manual

Black plate (8,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
The following information applies if you engage
in performance driving such as driving your
GT-R for extended periods under the following
conditions.
.Higher-RPM (approaching redline) opera-
tion
. Frequent high pedal force braking from
moderate and higher speeds
. Frequent throttle activation
. Fast revving throughout the RPM range
In such cases, the following additional main-
tenance guidelines apply.
However, you should also carefully read
your 2009 NISSAN GT-R Warranty Informa-
tion Booklet for important information
concerning warranty coverage, limitations
and exclusions.
We recommend that maintenance be performed
at a GT-R certified NISSAN dealer. NISSAN will
only pay for GT-R Performance Optimization
Services performed at a GT-R certified NISSAN
dealer.FLUIDS. Before driving, check the fluid levels and
adjust as necessary using the specified fluid.
. Check the amount of fluid for the power steering.
. Be sure to change the fluids listed below
with the specified fluids every 1,800 miles
(3,000 km) .
ITEMS GT-R SPECIFIED FLUIDS
Engine oil Mobil 1, 0W-40*1
Transmission oil Genuine NISSAN Transmission
Oil R35 Special
Differential oil
(front and rear) Castrol SAF-XJ 75W-140
Brake fluid Genuine NISSAN Brake Fluid
R35 Special DOT4*2
*1: Mobil 1, 0W-40 (100% synthetic) is the factory fill oil. The VR38 engine with its plasma-sprayed
bores was developed using this oil. NISSAN
cannot ensure proper engine operation and dur-
ability if other 0W-40 synthetic oil is used. If Mobil
1, 0W-40 is not available, Mobil 1, 10W-40 (100%
synthetic) may be used; however, some perfor-
mance loss may be noticed.
*2: Genuine NISSAN Brake Fluid R35 Special DOT4 is the factory fill brake fluid. The Vehicle Dynamic
Control (VDC) unit and other related parts were
specially designed for this brake fluid and NISSAN
cannot ensure the best performance and proper
operation of the vehicle if other brake fluid is used.
INSPECTION AND ADJUSTMENTS
OF TIRES, SUSPENSION AND
BRAKES. Measure and adjust the wheel alignment.
. Check the tire pressure and the Tire
Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sen-
sor.
. Make tire pressure adjustments only when
the tires are cool. (
“WHEELS AND
TIRES” page 8-29)
. Secure road wheel balance weights with
aluminum tape or equivalent.
. Check the heat deterioration and wear of the
brakes. (As necessary, the brake pad and
the brake disc rotor must be replaced as a
set of four with new ones.)
REPLENISHING COOLANTCheck the coolant level in the pressurized
coolant reservoir. Adjust the level so that the
fluid is between the MAX and MIN markings. For
the coolant, use genuine NISSAN Long Life
coolant. (On delivery of new vehicle, the
reservoir is filled to the MIN level. Be sure to
replenish approximately 0.3 to 0.4 US quart (0.3
to 0.4 liter) of coolant.)
GTR-6
GT-R Overview
ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE ITEMS
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Black plate (24,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
1. Fuse/fusible link holder (P.8-22)
2. Battery (P.8-15)
3. Engine oil filler cap (P.8-12)
4. Engine oil dipstick (P.8-12)
5. Brake fluid reservoir (P.8-14)
6. Air cleaner (P.8-19)7. Power steering fluid reservoir (P.8-13)
8. Radiator filler cap (P.8-9)
9. Coolant reservoir cap (pressure type) (P.8-9)
10. Coolant reservoir (P.8-9)
11. Window washer fluid reservoir (P.8-15) ITEMS GT-R SPECIFIED FLUIDS
Engine oil Mobil 1, 0W-40*1
Transmission oil Genuine NISSAN Transmission
Oil R35 Special
Differential oil
(front and rear) Castrol SAF-XJ 75W-140
Brake fluid Genuine NISSAN Brake Fluid
R35 Special DOT4*2
*1: Mobil 1, 0W-40 (100% synthetic) is the factory fill oil. The VR38 engine with its plasma-sprayed
bores was developed using this oil. NISSAN
cannot ensure proper engine operation and dur-
ability if other 0W-40 synthetic oil is used. If Mobil
1, 0W-40 is not available, Mobil 1, 10W-40 (100%
synthetic) may be used; however, some perfor-
mance loss may be noticed.
*2: Genuine NISSAN Brake Fluid R35 Special DOT4 is the factory fill brake fluid. The Vehicle Dynamic
Control (VDC) unit and other related parts were
specially designed for this brake fluid and NISSAN
cannot ensure the best performance and proper
operation of the vehicle if other brake fluid is used.0-10
Illustrated table of contents
ENGINE COMPARTMENT
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Black plate (11,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
No key warning............................................ 2-39
Operation displays ........................................... 2-39
Engine start operation indicator ....................... 2-40
Shift “P” warning. ......................................... 2-40
“PUSH” warning .......................................... 2-40
Steering lock release malfunction indicator ......... 2-41
Intelligent Key insertion indicator ...................... 2-41
Intelligent Key removal indicator ....................... 2-41
Intelligent Key battery discharge indicator .......... 2-42
Security systems .............................................. 2-42
Vehicle security system .................................. 2-42
NISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System ................. 2-43
Windshield wiper and washer switch .................... 2-45
Using the wipers .......................................... 2-45
Using the washer ......................................... 2-46
Rear window defroster switch ............................. 2-46
Headlight and turn signal switch .......................... 2-47
Xenon headlights ......................................... 2-47
Headlight switch .......................................... 2-48
Hazard warning flasher switch ............................. 2-50
Horn ............................................................. 2-50
Heated seats (if so equipped) ............................. 2-51
Turning on the heaters ................................... 2-51
Turning off the heaters ................................... 2-51 Power outlets
.................................................. 2-52
Storage ......................................................... 2-53
Cup holders ................................................ 2-53
Sunglasses holder ........................................ 2-54
Door pocket ................................................ 2-55
Glove box .................................................. 2-55
Console box ............................................... 2-56
Coat hooks ................................................. 2-56
Windows ....................................................... 2-56
Power windows ........................................... 2-56
Interior lights ................................................... 2-58
Map lights .................................................. 2-58
Interior light control switch ............................. 2-59
Vanity mirror lights ............................................ 2-60
HomeLink
®Universal Transceiver. ......................... 2-60
Programming HomeLink
®............................... 2-60
Programming HomeLink®for Canadian
customers .................................................. 2-62
Operating the HomeLink®Universal
Transceiver ................................................. 2-62
Programming trouble-diagnosis ....................... 2-62
Clearing the programmed information ................ 2-63
Reprogramming a single HomeLink
®button ........ 2-63
If your vehicle is stolen .................................. 2-63
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Black plate (124,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
CAUTION
.The outlet and plug may be hot
during or immediately after use.
. Do not use with accessories that
exceed a 12 volt, 120W (10A) power
draw. Do not use double adapters or
more than one electrical accessory.
. This power outlet is not designed
for use with a cigarette lighter unit.
. Before inserting or disconnecting a
plug, be sure the electrical acces-
sory being used is turned OFF.
. When not in use, be sure to close
the cap. Do not allow water to
contact the outlet.
NOTICE
.Use power outlet with the engine
running to avoid discharging the
vehicle battery.
. Avoid using power outlet when the
air conditioner, headlights or rear
window defroster is on.
. Push the plug in as far as it will go.
If good contact is not made, the plug may overheat or the internal tem-
perature fuse may open.
Next to the steering wheel
Pull out the cap to use the outlet.
Replace the cap after use.
2-52
Instruments and controls
POWER OUTLETS
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Black plate (13,1)
3 Pre-driving checks and adjustments
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
Keys ............................................................... 3-2Intelligent Key ................................................ 3-2
Doors .............................................................. 3-4
Locking with inside lock knob ........................... 3-5
Locking with power door lock switch .................. 3-5
Automatic door lock system .............................. 3-5
Locking with mechanical key ............................. 3-6
Opening the doors ......................................... 3-7
Intelligent Key system .......................................... 3-8
Intelligent Key functions ................................... 3-9
Remote keyless entry functions ........................ 3-12
Setting hazard indicator and horn mode ............ 3-13
Warning signals ........................................... 3-15
Troubleshooting guide ................................... 3-16
Hood ............................................................ 3-17
Opening the hood ........................................ 3-17
Closing the hood ......................................... 3-18 Trunk
............................................................. 3-19
Trunk open request switch ............................. 3-19
Trunk lid release switch ................................. 3-19
Trunk release power cancel switch ................... 3-20
Opening and closing the trunk ........................ 3-20
Emergency trunk lid release ............................ 3-21
Fuel-filler door ................................................. 3-22
Opening the fuel filler door ............................. 3-23
Closing the fuel-filler door .............................. 3-24
Steering wheel ................................................ 3-25
Tilt/telescopic steering column ........................ 3-25
Sun visors ...................................................... 3-26
Mirrors ........................................................... 3-26
Inside mirror ................................................ 3-26
Outside mirrors ............................................ 3-27
Vanity mirror ................................................ 3-28
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Black plate (19,1)
5 Starting and driving
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
Precautions when starting and driving..................... 5-2
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) ........................ 5-2
Three-way catalyst .......................................... 5-2
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) ............. 5-3
Avoiding collision and rollover ........................... 5-5
Off-road recovery ........................................... 5-6
Rapid air pressure loss .................................... 5-6
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving ...................... 5-7
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) driving safety
precautions ................................................... 5-7
Push-button ignition switch .................................. 5-8
Operating range for engine start ........................ 5-8
Ignition switch operation .................................. 5-8
Ignition switch positions ................................... 5-9
Intelligent Key battery discharge ...................... 5-10
Before starting the engine .................................. 5-11
Starting the engine ........................................... 5-11
Driving the vehicle ............................................ 5-13
Dual clutch transmission ................................ 5-13
Driving tips ................................................. 5-19
VDC, transmission and suspension setup
switches ........................................................ 5-21
How to switch the modes .............................. 5-22
Features of each mode .................................. 5-23
Turbocharger system ......................................... 5-26
Parking brake .................................................. 5-27 Cruise control
................................................. 5-28
Precautions on cruise control .......................... 5-28
Steering-wheel-mounted controls ..................... 5-29
Indicators and display ................................... 5-29
Cruise control operations ............................... 5-29
Hill Start Assist ................................................ 5-31
Break-in schedule ............................................ 5-32
Increasing fuel economy .................................... 5-33
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) ..................................... 5-34
AWD warning light ....................................... 5-34
Tight corner braking phenomenon .................... 5-35
Tires ......................................................... 5-35
AWD system characteristics ........................... 5-35
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) ............................. 5-36
Parking/parking on hills ...................................... 5-37
Power steering ................................................ 5-38
Brake system .................................................. 5-38
Braking precautions ...................................... 5-38
Parking brake break-in ................................... 5-39
Brake assist .................................................... 5-39
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) ...................... 5-39
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system ................. 5-40
Cold weather driving ......................................... 5-42
Freeing a frozen door lock .............................. 5-42
Anti-freeze .................................................. 5-42
Battery ...................................................... 5-42
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Black plate (179,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
IGNITION SWITCH POSITIONS
LOCK (Normal parking position)The ignition switch can only be locked in this
position.
The ignition switch will be unlocked when it is
pushed to the ACC position while carrying the
Intelligent Key or with the Intelligent Key inserted
in the port.ACC (Accessories)This position activates electrical accessories
such as the radio, when the engine is not
running.ON (Normal operating position)This position turns on the ignition system and
electrical accessories.OFFThe engine can be turned off without locking the
steering wheel.
The ignition lock is designed so that the ignition
switch cannot be switched to the LOCK position
until the shift lever is moved to the
&Pposition.
NOTE:.If the steering lock release malfunction
indicator appears on the vehicle infor-
mation display when the ignition
switch is pressed, press the ignition
switch again while gently turning the steering wheel left and right.
(
“STEERING LOCK RELEASE
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR” page 2-
41)
. If the shift
&Pwarning appears on the
vehicle information display when the
ignition switch is pushed, the shift lever
is in any position except the
&P
posi-
tion. Move the shift lever to the&P
position. (
“SHIFT “P” WARNING”
page 2-40)
. If the Intelligent Key battery discharge
indicator appears on the vehicle infor-
mation display, the Intelligent Key
battery is discharged and the ignition
switch will not operate. Insert the
Intelligent Key into the key port to
operate the ignition switch.
(
“INTELLIGENT KEY BATTERY
DISCHARGE INDICATOR” page 2-42)
. When all of the following conditions
are met for 60 minutes, the battery
saver system will cut off the power
supply to prevent battery discharge.
— The ignition switch is in the ACC
position, and
— All doors are closed, and
— The shift lever is in the
&Pposition. .
Do not leave the vehicle with the
ignition switch in the ACC or ON
position when the engine is not run-
ning for an extended period of time.
This can discharge the battery.
Starting and driving
5-9
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Black plate (205,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
vehicle checked by a GT-R certified
NISSAN dealer as soon as possible.
. The power train may be damaged if
you continue driving with the warn-
ing light blinking rapidly.
TIGHT CORNER BRAKING PHE-
NOMENONWhen driving on dry pavement in AWD mode, or
immediately after starting the engine in cold
conditions, when the steering wheel is turned all
the way, the vehicle may behave as if the brakes
had been applied. This phenomenon is known
as the “tight corner braking phenomenon”.
This phenomenon is unique to AWD vehicles,
and occurs due to a difference in speeds
between the front and rear wheels while the
vehicle is turning. This does not indicate that
there is a malfunction. If this phenomenon
occurs, more force will be required to operate
the steering wheel.NOTE:.If the tight corner braking phenomenon
occurs, a slipping sound may be heard
from the tires, or a squeaking sound
may be heard from the drive system.
. If excessive operation continues when
a wheel has come off the road or at
other times when the operation causes a large difference in speed between the
front and rear wheels (the wheels are
spinning) , the oil temperature in the
drive system parts will increase.
In this case, to protect the drive system
parts, the AWD warning light blinks
rapidly and the system switches to
RWD mode or low AWD mode. Keep
the vehicle stopped and idling for a
short time. When the warning light
stops blinking, the vehicle returns from
RWD mode to normal driving mode.
. If you feel an unusual vibration in the
vehicle, even if the warning lights are
not illuminated, have the vehicle in-
spected by a GT-R certified NISSAN
dealer.
TIRESThis vehicle is equipped with special tires. When
changing the tires, install the designated special
tires. Replacing tires as a set of four with new
ones is recommended. However, if a tire is
punctured or damaged, it may be possible to
replace only the damaged tire. Determining
whether one tire or a complete set of tires
should be replaced is based on a number of
factors including tire wear and condition. Con-
tact your GT-R certified NISSAN dealer. They
can recommend if an individual tire or a complete set should be replaced.
NOTICE
If tires other than the designated tires,
tires with large differences in wear or
tires of different sizes are installed, the
AWD performance will be degraded and
the drive mechanism may be damaged.AWD SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICSThe AWD system automatically distributes the
optimal torque to the front and rear wheels. This
provides both the superior turning performance
of a front wheel drive vehicle and the traction of
a AWD vehicle.
Electronic control continuously distributes tor-
que to the front and rear wheels in the range
from 0:100 (rear-wheel drive mode) to 50:50
(all-wheel drive mode) to match the driving
conditions and road conditions. This allows the
engine output (torque) to be effectively trans-
mitted to the road surface.
Starting and driving
5-35
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Black plate (208,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
WARNING
If the engine is not running or is turned
off while driving, the power assist for
the steering will not work. Steering will
be harder to operate.
The power assisted steering uses a hydraulic
pump, driven by the engine, to assist steering.
If the engine stops or the drive belt breaks, you
will still have control of the vehicle. However,
much greater steering effort is needed, espe-
cially in sharp turns and at low speeds.
BRAKING PRECAUTIONSThe brake system has two separate hydraulic
circuits. If one circuit malfunctions, you will still
have braking at two wheels.
You may feel a small click and hear a sound
when the brake pedal is fully depressed slowly.
This is not a malfunction and indicates that the
brake assist mechanism is operating properly.Vacuum assisted brakesThe brake booster aids braking by using engine
vacuum. If the engine stops, you can stop the
vehicle by depressing the brake pedal. However,
greater foot pressure on the brake pedal will be
required to stop the vehicle and the stopping
distance will be longer.Wet brakesWhen the vehicle is washed or driven through
water, the brakes may get wet. As a result, your
braking distance will be longer and the vehicle
may pull to one side during braking.
To dry brakes, drive the vehicle at a safe speed
while lightly tapping the brake pedal to heat-up
the brakes. Do this until the brakes return to
normal. Avoid driving the vehicle at high speeds
until the brakes function correctly.
Using the brakesAvoid resting your foot on the brake pedal while
driving. This will cause overheating of the
brakes, wearing out the brake and pads faster
and reduce gas mileage.
To help reduce brake wear and to prevent the
brakes from overheating, reduce speed and
downshift to a lower gear before going down a
slope or long grade. Overheated brakes may
reduce braking performance and could result in
loss of vehicle control.
WARNING
. While driving on a slippery surface,
be careful when braking, accelerat-
ing or downshifting. Abrupt braking
or accelerating could cause the
wheelstoskidandresultinan
accident.
. If the engine is not running or is
turned off while driving, the power
assist for the brakes will not work.
Braking will be harder.
5-38
Starting and driving
POWER STEERING BRAKE SYSTEM
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Black plate (210,1)
Model "R35-D" EDITED: 2008/ 5/ 20
the ABS warning light on the instrument panel.
The brake system then operates 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 GT-R certified 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
applies and releases hydraulic pressure. This
action is similar to pumping the brakes very
quickly. You may feel a pulsation in the brake
pedal and hear a noise from under the hood or
feel a vibration from the actuator when it is
operating. This is normal and indicates that the
ABS is operating properly. However, the pulsa-
tion may indicate that road conditions are
hazardous and extra care is required while
driving.
The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system
uses various sensors to monitor driver inputs
and vehicle motion. Under certain driving situa-
tions, the system will control braking and engine
output to help keep the vehicle on its steered
path.
.The VDC mode can be changed using the
VDC setup switch. (
“VDC, TRANS-
MISSION AND SUSPENSION SETUP
SWITCHES” page 5-21)
. When the VDC system is operating, the
indicator in the instrument panel blinks.
. If the
indicator blinks, the road condi-
tions may be slippery. Be sure to adjust your
speed and driving to these conditions. Be
sure to drive carefully. (
“Slip indicator
light” page 2-29) (
“Vehicle Dynamic
Control (VDC) off indicator light” page 2-
29)
. Indicator light
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the
and
indicator lights illuminate in
the instrument panel. As long as these
indicators are illuminated, the VDC system
function is canceled.
The VDC system uses an Active Brake Limited
Slip (ABLS) function to improve vehicle traction.
The ABLS system works when one of the driving
wheels is spinning on a slippery surface. The ABLS system brakes the spinning wheel, which
distributes the driving power to the other drive
wheel. If the vehicle is operated with the VDC
setup switch pushed and the VDC system
turned off, all VDC systems will be turned off.
The ABLS system and ABS will still operate with
the VDC system off.
While the VDC system is operating, you may feel
a pulsation in the brake pedal and hear a noise
or feel a vibration from under the hood. This is
normal and indicates that the VDC system is
working properly.
The VDC system 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 forward or backward. When the
self-test occurs, you may hear a “clunk” noise
and/or feel a pulsation in the brake pedal. This
does not indicate that there is a malfunction.
WARNING
.
The VDC system is designed to help
improve driving stability but does
not prevent accidents due to abrupt
steering operation at high speeds or
due to careless or dangerous driv-
ing techniques. Reduce vehicle
speed and be especially careful
when driving and cornering on slip-
pery surfaces and always drive care-
5-40
Starting and driving
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
SYSTEM
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