recommended oil NISSAN MAXIMA 1997 A32 / 4.G Owners Manual

BATTERY REPLACEMENT
Replace the battery as follows:
1. Open the lid using a suitable tool.
2. Replace the battery with a new one.Recommended battery: Sanyo CR2025 or
equivalent
3. Close the lid securely.
4. Push the remote controller button two or
three times to check its operation.
If the battery is removed for any reason
other than replacement, perform step 4
above.
IAn improperly disposed battery can
harm the environment. Always confirm
local regulations for battery disposal.
IThe remote controller is water-resistant;
however, if it does get wet, immediately
wipe completely dry.
IWhen changing batteries, do not let dust
or oil get on the controller.
FCC Notice:
Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the manufacturer compliance
could void the user's authority to operate
the equipment. This device complies with
Part 15 of the FCC Rules and RSS-210 of
Industry Canada. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) This de-
vice may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any inter-
ference received, including interferencethat may cause undesired operation of the
device.
SPA0090
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5. Remove the dipstick again and check the
oil level. It should be between the ªHº and
ªLº marks. If the oil level is below the ªLº
mark, remove the oil filler cap and pour
recommended oil through the opening.Do
not overfill.
6. Recheck oil level with dipstick.
It is normal to add some oil between oil
maintenance intervals or during the
break-in period, depending on the severity
of operating conditions.
Oil level should be checked regularly.
Operating with insufficient amount of oil
can damage the engine, and such dam-
age is not covered by warranty.
CHANGING ENGINE OIL
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and
apply the parking brake.
2. Run the engine until it reaches operating
temperature.
3. Turn the engine off and wait more than 10
minutes.
4. Place a large drain pan under the drain
plug.
5. Remove the oil filler cap.
SDI0534SDI0139
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6. Remove the drain plug with a wrench and
completely drain the oil.
If oil filter is to be changed, remove and
replace it at this time. See ªChanging oil
filterº.
Be careful not to burn yourself, as the
engine oil is hot.
Waste oil must be disposed of properly.
Check your local regulations.
7. Clean and re-install the drain plug and new
washer. Securely tighten the drain plug with
a wrench.
Drain plug tightening torque:
22 to 29 ft-lb
(29 to 39 N×m)
Do not use excessive force.
8. Refill engine with recommended oil and
install the cap securely.
See the ªTechnical informationº section for
refill capacity.
Never pull out the dipstick while filling the
engine with oil.9. Start the engine.
Check for leakage around the drain plug.
Correct as required.
10.Turn the engine off and wait more than 10
minutes. Check the oil level with the dip-
stick. Add engine oil if necessary.
11.Dispose of waste oil in the proper manner.IProlonged and repeated contact with
used engine oil may cause skin can-
cer.
ITry to avoid direct skin contact with
used oil. If skin contact is made, wash
thoroughly with soap or hand cleaner
as soon as possible.
IKeep used engine oil out of reach of
children.
CHANGING OIL FILTER
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and
apply the parking brake.
2. Turn the engine off.
3. Loosen the oil filter with an oil filter wrench.
(Depending on the engine model, a special
cap typewrench may be required. See
your NISSAN dealer if in doubt.) Remove
the oil filter by turning it by hand.
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SCHEDULE 1
Abbreviations: R = Replace I = Inspect. Correct or replace if necessary. [ ]: At the mileage intervals only
MAINTENANCE OPERATIONMAINTENANCE INTERVAL
Perform at number of miles,
kilometers or months, which-
ever comes first.Miles x 1,000 3.75 7.5 11.25 15 18.75 22.5 26.25 30 33.75 37.5 41.25 45 48.75 52.5 56.25 60
(km x 1,000) (6) (12) (18) (24) (30) (36) (42) (48) (54) (60) (66) (72) (78) (84) (90) (96)
Months 3 6 9 12 15 18 21 24 27 30 33 36 39 42 45 48
Emission control system maintenanceDrive belts See NOTE (1)I*
Air cleaner filter See NOTE (2) [R] [R]
Vapor linesI* I*
Fuel linesI* I*
Fuel filter See NOTE (3)*
Engine coolant See NOTE (4)R*
Engine oilRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
Engine oil filter (Use part No. 15208-31U00 or equivalent)RRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
Spark plugs (Use PLATINUM-TIPPED type)[R]
Intake & exhaust valve clearance See NOTE (5)
NOTE: (1) After 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months, inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
(2) If operating mainly in dusty conditions, more frequent maintenance may be required.
(3) If vehicle is operated under extremely adverse weather conditions or in areas where ambient temperatures are either
extremely low or extremely high, the filters might become clogged. In such an event, replace them immediately.
(4) After 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months, replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
(5) If valve noise increases, inspect valve clearance.
(6) Maintenance items and intervals with ª*º are recommended by NISSAN for reliable vehicle operation. The owner need not
perform such maintenance in order to maintain the emission warranty or manufacturer recall liability. Other maintenance
items and intervals are required.
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SCHEDULE 2
Abbreviations: R = Replace I = Inspect. Correct or replace if necessary. [ ]: At the mileage intervals only
MAINTENANCE OPERATIONMAINTENANCE INTERVAL
Perform at number of miles, kilometers
or months, whichever comes first.Miles x 1,000 7.5 15 22.5 30 37.5 45 52.5 60
(km x 1,000) (12) (24) (36) (48) (60) (72) (84) (96)
Months 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 48
Emission control system maintenance
Drive belts See NOTE (1)I*
Air cleaner filter[R] [R]
Vapor linesI* I*
Fuel linesI* I*
Fuel filter See NOTE (2)*
Engine coolant See NOTE (3)R*
Engine oilRRRRRRRR
Engine oil filter (Use part No. 15208-31U00 or equivalent)RRRRRRRR
Spark plugs (Use PLATINUM-TIPPED type)[R]
Intake & exhaust valve clearance See NOTE (4)
NOTE: (1) After 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months, inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
(2) If vehicle is operated under extremely adverse weather conditions or in areas where ambient temperatures are either
extremely low or extremely high, the filters might become clogged. In such an event, replace them immediately.
(3) After 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months, replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
(4) If valve noise increases, inspect valve clearance.
(5) Maintenance items and intervals with ª*º are recommended by NISSAN for reliable vehicle operation. The owner need not
perform such maintenance in order to maintain the emission warranty or manufacturer recall liability. Other maintenance
items and intervals are required.
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The following are approximate capacities. The actual refill capacities may be a little
different. When refilling, follow the procedure instructed in the ªDo-it-yourself operationsº
section to determine the proper refill capacity.
Capacity (Approximate)
Recommended
specifications US
measureImp
measureLiter
Fuel 18-1/2 gal 15-3/8 gal 70Unleaded gasoline with an octane rating
of at least 91 AKI (RON 96)
Engine oil (Refill)
With oil filter 4-1/4 qt 3-1/2 qt 4.0IAPI SG or SH and Energy Conserving
II*1, *2
IAPI Certification Mark*1, *2 Without oil filter 3-7/8 qt 3-1/4 qt 3.7
Cooling system
With reservoir 9 qt 7-1/2 qt 8.5
Anti-freeze coolant
(Ethylene glycol base)
Reservoir 7/8 qt 3/4 qt 0.8
Manual transmission gear oilÐ Ð Ð API GL-4*2
Automatic transmission fluid
Refill to the proper oil level according
to the instructions in the ªDo-it-
yourself operationsº section.Nissan Matic ªDº (Continental U.S. and
Alaska) or Genuine Nissan Automatic
Transmission Fluid (Canada).*3
Power steering fluidType DEXRON
TMIIE, DEXRONTMIII or
equivalent
Brake and clutch fluidGenuine Nissan Brake Fluid or equiva-
lent*4
DOT 3 (US FMVSS No. 116)
Multi-purpose greaseÐ Ð Ð NLGI No. 2 (Lithium soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerantÐ Ð Ð HFC-134a (R-134a)
Air conditioning system lubricants Ð Ð ÐNissan A/C System Oil
Type S or exact equivalent
*1: For further details, see ªEngine oil and oil filter recommendationº.
*2: For further details, see ªRecommended SAE viscosity numberº.
*3: Dexron
TMIII/MerconTMor equivalent may also be used. Outside the continental United States and Alaska contact a NISSAN dealer for
more information regarding suitable fluids, including recommended brand(s) of DexronTMIII/MerconTMor DexronTMIIE/MerconTMAutomatic Transmission Fluid.
*4: For more information regarding suitable fluids, contact a NISSAN dealer.
FUEL RECOMMENDATION
Unleaded premium gasoline with an octane
rating of at least 91 AKI (Anti-Knock Index)
number (Research octane number 96)
If unleaded premium gasoline is not avail-
able, unleaded regular gasoline with an
octane rating of at least 87 AKI (Research
octane number 91) can be used.
However, for maximum vehicle perfor-
mance, the use of unleaded premium gaso-
line is recommended.
Using a fuel other than that specified
could adversely affect the emission con-
trol devices and systems, and could
also affect the warranty coverage.
Under no circumstances should a
leaded gasoline be used, since this will
damage the three-way catalyst.
Reformulated gasoline
Some fuel suppliers are now producing refor-
mulated gasolines. These gasolines are spe-
cially designed to reduce vehicle emissions.
CAPACITIES AND
RECOMMENDED
FUEL/LUBRICANTS
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however, meet the API quality and SAE vis-
cosity ratings specified for your vehicle. Do not
mix mineral based and synthetic type oils in
the engine at the same time.
Oil additives
NISSAN does not recommend the use of oil
additives. The use of an oil additive is not
necessary when the proper oil type is used
and maintenance intervals are followed.
Oil which may contain foreign matter or has
been previously used should not be used.
Oil viscosity
The engine oil viscosity or thickness changes
with temperature. Because of this, it is impor-
tant that the engine oil viscosity be selected
based on the temperatures at which the ve-
hicle will be operated before the next oil
change. The chart ªRecommended SAE vis-
cosity numberº shows the recommended oil
viscosities for the expected ambient tempera-
tures. Choosing an oil viscosity other than that
recommended could cause serious engine
damage.
Selecting the correct oil filter
Your new vehicle is equipped with a high-
quality genuine Nissan oil filter. When replac-
ing, use the genuine oil filter or its equivalent
for the reason described in ªchange intervalsº.
Change intervals
The oil and oil filter change intervals for your
engine are based on the use of the specified
quality oils and filters. Oil and filter other than
the specified quality, or oil and filter change
intervals longer than recommended could re-
duce engine life. Damage to engines caused
by improper maintenance or use of incorrect
oil and filter quality and/or viscosity is not
covered by the new Nissan vehicle warranties.
Your engine was filled with a high quality
engine oil when it was built. You do not have to
change the oil before the first recommended
change interval. Oil and filter change intervals
depend upon how you use your vehicle. Op-
eration under the following conditions may
require more frequent oil and filter changes.Ð repeated short distance driving at cold out-
side temperatures,
Ð driving in dusty conditions,
Ð extensive idling,
Ð towing a trailer.
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RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY
NUMBER
ISAE 5W-30 viscosity oil is preferred for
all ambient temperatures. SAE 10W-30
viscosity oil may be used if the ambient
temperature is above 0ÉF (þ18ÉC).I80W-90 is preferable for ambient tem-
peratures below 104ÉF (40ÉC).
AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM
REFRIGERANT AND LUBRICANT
RECOMMENDATIONS
The air conditioning system in this NISSAN
vehicle must be charged with the refriger-
ant HFC-134a (R-134a) and the lubricant,
Nissan A/C System Oil Type S or the exact
equivalents.
Use of any other refrigerant or lubricant
will cause severe damage and you will
need to replace your vehicle's entire air
conditioning system.
The refrigerant HFC-134a (R-134a) in your
NISSAN vehicle will not harm the earth's
ozone layer. Although this refrigerant does not
affect the earth's atmosphere, certain govern-
mental regulations require the recovery and
recycling of any refrigerant during automotive
air conditioning system service. Your NISSAN
dealer has the trained technicians and equip-
ment needed to recover and recycle your air
conditioning system refrigerant.
TI1028-BTI1002M
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wheels and applying the parking brake,
transmission damage could occur.
IWhen going down a hill, shift into a lower
gear and use the engine braking effect.
When ascending a long grade, downshift
the transmission to a lower gear and reduce
speed to reduce chances of engine over-
loading and/or overheating.
IIf the engine coolant rises to an extremely
high temperature when the air conditioning
system is on, turn off the air conditioner.
Coolant heat can be additionally vented by
opening the windows, switching the fan
control to high and setting the temperature
control to the ªHOTº position.
ITrailer towing requires more fuel than nor-
mal circumstances.
IAvoid towing a trailer for the first 500 miles
(800 km).
IHave your vehicle serviced more often than
at intervals specified in the recommended
Maintenance Schedule.
IWhen making a turn, your trailer wheels will
be closer to the inside of the turn than your
vehicle wheels. To compensate for this,
make a larger than normal turning radius
during the turn.ICrosswinds and rough roads will adversely
affect vehicle/trailer handling, possibly
causing vehicle sway. When being passed
by larger vehicles, be prepared for possible
changes in crosswinds that could affect
vehicle handling. If swaying does occur,
firmly grip the steering wheel, steer straight
ahead, and immediately (but gradually) re-
duce vehicle speed. This combination will
help stabilize the vehicle. Never increase
speed.
IBe 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.
ITo maintain engine braking efficiency and
electrical charging performance, do not use
fifth gear (manual transmission) or over-
drive (automatic transmission).
IAvoid holding the brake pedal down too
long or too frequently. This could cause the
brakes to overheat, resulting in reduced
braking efficiency.
When towing a trailer, change oil in the
transmission more frequently.
See the Maintenance schedule.
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10 Index
A
Air bag system (See ªSupplemental restraint
systemº) .......................................................... 2-17
Air bag warning light (See ªSupplemental air bag
warning lightº) ................................................. 2-22
Air cleaner filter ............................................... 7-17
Air conditioner
Air conditioner operation ............................. 3-5
Air conditioner specification label.............. 9-12
Automatic air conditioner (If so equipped) .. 3-9
Air conditioning system refrigerant and lubricant
recommendations ............................................. 9-6
Air flow chart ..................................................... 3-6
Antenna........................................................... 3-28
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) (If so equipped) .. 4-
18
Audio main operation ...................................... 3-23
Automatic
Automatic air conditioner (If so equipped) .. 3-9
Automatic transmission fluid ..................... 7-10
Driving with automatic transmission............ 4-7
Avoiding collision and rollover .......................... 4-3
B
Battery............................................................. 7-13
Battery replacement.......................................... 2-7
Before starting the engine ................................ 4-6Brake
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) (If so
equipped)................................................... 4-18
Brake and clutch fluid................................ 7-12
Brake booster ............................................ 7-21
Brake pedal ............................................... 7-20
Brake system............................................. 4-17
Brake wear indicators ........................ 1-9, 7-20
Parking brake ................................... 4-12, 7-19
Break-in schedule ........................................... 4-15
C
Capacities and recommended fuel/lubricants... 9-2
Cargo (See ªVehicle loading
information) ..................................................... 9-13
Cassette tape player operation....................... 3-25
CB radio or car phone .................................... 3-29
Changing
Changing engine coolant ............................ 7-6
Changing engine oil .................................... 7-8
Changing oil filter ........................................ 7-9
Checking engine coolant level .......................... 7-5
Checking engine oil level .................................. 7-7
Child restraints for infants and small children .... 2-
31
Child safety rear door lock................................ 2-3
Cigarette lighter and ash trays ....................... 1-17
Cleaning exterior and interior ........................... 6-2
Clearing the programming information ........... 1-26Clock ............................................................... 1-22
Clutch pedal .................................................... 7-21
Cold weather driving ....................................... 4-19
Compact disc (CD) player operation .............. 3-26
Controls............................................................. 3-3
Coolant
Changing engine coolant ............................ 7-6
Checking engine coolant level .................... 7-5
Engine coolant temperature gauge ............. 1-4
Corrosion protection ......................................... 6-5
Cruise control.................................................. 4-13
Cup holder ...................................................... 1-19
D
Defogger switch
Rear window and outside mirror defogger
switch......................................................... 1-13
Dimensions and weights ................................... 9-9
Door lock operation .......................................... 2-6
Door locks ......................................................... 2-2
Door unlock operation ...................................... 2-6
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving ................... 4-4
Drive belts ....................................................... 7-15
Driving
Cold weather driving ................................. 4-19
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving .............. 4-4
Driving with automatic transmission............ 4-7
Driving with manual transmission ............. 4-10
Z01.2.1/A32-DX