trailer NISSAN MAXIMA 1998 A32 / 4.G Owners Manual

Do not leave children, unreliable adults,
or pets alone in your vehicle. They could
accidentally injure themselves or others
through inadvertent operation of the ve-
hicle. Also, on hot, sunny days, tem-
peratures in a closed vehicle could
quickly become high enough to cause
severe or possibly fatal injuries to
people or animals.EXHAUST GAS (Carbon monoxide)Do not breathe exhaust gases; they con-
tain colorless and odorless carbon mon-
oxide. Carbon monoxide is dangerous. It
can cause unconsciousness or death.
IIf you suspect that exhaust fumes are
entering the vehicle, drive with all
windows fully open, and have the
vehicle inspected immediately.
IDo not run the engine in closed
spaces such as a garage.IDo not park the vehicle with the en-
gine running for any extended length
of time.
IKeep the trunk lid, closed while driv-
ing, otherwise exhaust gases could
be drawn into the passenger com-
partment. If you must drive with the
trunk lid open, follow these precau-
tions:
1. Open all the windows.
2. Set the air recirculation switch
OFF and the fan control at 4 (high)
to circulate the air.
3. Be sure the rear seat armrest and
tray are closed.
IIf electrical wiring or other cable con-
nections must pass to a trailer
through the seal on the trunk lid or
the body, follow the manufacturer's
recommendation to prevent carbon
monoxide entry into the vehicle.
IIf a special body or other equipment
is added for recreational or other us-
age, follow the manufacturer's rec-
ommendation to prevent carbonmonoxide entry into the vehicle.
(Some recreational vehicle appli-
ances such as stoves, refrigerator,
heaters, etc. may also generate car-
bon monoxide.)
IThe exhaust system and body should
be inspected by a qualified mechanic
whenever:
a. The vehicle is raised for service.
b. You suspect that exhaust fumes
are entering into the passenger
compartment.
c. You notice a change in the sound
of the exhaust system.
d. You have had an accident involv-
ing damage to the exhaust system,
underbody, or rear of the vehicle.
THREE WAY CATALYSTThe three way catalyst is an emission control
device installed in the exhaust system. Ex-
haust gases in the converter are burned at
high temperatures to help reduce pollutants.
PRECAUTIONS WHEN STARTING
AND DRIVING5-2
Starting and driving
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a) Push the cancel switch; The CRUISE light
will go out.
b) Tap the brake pedal; The CRUISE light will
go out.
c) Turn the main switch off. Both the ON
indicator and CRUISE lights will go out.
IIf you depress the brake pedal while push-
ing the RES/ACCEL set switch and reset at
the cruising speed, turn the main switch off
once and then turn it on again.
IThe cruise control will automatically be can-
celled if the vehicle slows down below
approximately 8 MPH (13 km/h).
IDepress the clutch pedal (manual transmis-
sion), or move the selector lever to N (Neu-
tral) position (automatic transmission). The
CRUISE light will go out.
To reset at a faster cruising speed,use one
of the following three methods:
a) Depress the accelerator pedal. When the
vehicle attains the desired speed, push and
release the COAST/SET switch.
b) Push and hold the RES/ACCEL set switch.
When the vehicle attains the speed you
desire, release the switch.
c) Push, then quickly release the RES/ACCELset switch. Each time you do this, the set
speed will increase by about 1 MPH (1.6
km/h).
To reset at a slower cruising speed,use one
of the following three methods:
a) Lightly tap the brake pedal. When the ve-
hicle attains the desired speed, push the
COAST/SET switch and release it.
b) Push and hold the COAST/SET switch.
Release the switch when the vehicle slows
down to the desired speed.
c) Push, then quickly release the COAST/
SET switch. Each time you do this, the set
speed will decrease by about 1 MPH (1.6
km/h).
To resume the preset speed,push and re-
lease the RES/ACCEL set switch. The vehicle
will resume the last set cruising speed when
the vehicle speed is over 30 MPH (48 km/h).During the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km), follow
these recommendations for the future reliabil-
ity and economy of your new vehicle. Failure to
follow these recommendations may result in
vehicle damage or shortened engine life.
IDo not drive over 55 MPH (90 km/h) and do
not run the engine over 4,000 rpm. Avoid
driving for long periods at constant speed,
either fast or slow.
IDo not accelerate at full throttle in any gear.
IAvoid quick starts.
IAvoid hard braking as much as possible.
IDo not tow a trailer for the first 500 miles
(800 km).
BREAK-IN SCHEDULE
5-14
Starting and driving
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TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS
FOR CHECKINGIThe fluid level should be checked using the
HOT range on the dipstick after the follow-
ing conditions have been met:
a) the engine should be warmed up to
operating temperature.
b) the vehicle should be driven at least 5
minutes.
c) the automatic transmission fluid should
be warmed to between 122 and 176ÉF
(50 and 80ÉC).
IThe fluid can be checked at fluid tempera-
tures of 86 to 122ÉF (30 to 50ÉC) using the
COLD range on the dipstick after the en-
gine is warmed up and before driving. How-
ever, 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 selector
lever through each gear range. Move the
selector lever to P (Park) position after you
have moved it through all ranges.3. Check the fluid level with the engine idling.
4. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean with
lint-free paper.
5. Reinsert the dipstick into the charging pipe
as far as it will go.
6. Remove the dipstick and note the reading.
If the level is at the low side of either range,
add fluid to the charging pipe.
IDo not overfill.
IUse only NISSAN Matic D (Continen-
tal US and Alaska) or genuine auto-
matic transmission fluid (Canada).
Dexron
TMIII/Mercon
TM
or equivalent
may also be used. Outside the conti-
nental US and Alaska contact a
NISSAN dealer for more information
regarding suitable fluids, including
recommended brand(s) of Dexron
TM
III/Mercon
TM
automatic transmission
fluid.
NOTE:
If 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 accurate fluid level cannot be
read. You should wait until the fluid has
cooled down (about 30 minutes).
SDI0496
Do-it-yourself
8-11
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ITire tread of the T-type spare tire will
wear at a faster rate than the original
tire. Replace the T-type spare tire as
soon as the tread wear indicators
appear.
IBecause the T-type spare tire is
smaller than the original tire, ground
clearance is reduced. To avoid dam-
age to the vehicle do not drive over
obstacles. Also do not drive the ve-
hicle through an automatic car wash
since it may get caught.
IDo not use the T-type spare tire on
other vehicles.
IDo not use more than one T-type
spare tire at the same time.
IDo not tow a trailer while the T-type
spare tire is installed.8-36
Do-it-yourself
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(See ªPrecautions when starting and drivingº
in the ª5. Starting and drivingº section for
exhaust gas (carbon monoxide).)
Underbody:The underbody is frequently ex-
posed to corrosive substances such as those
used on icy roads or to control dust. It is very
important to remove these substances, other-
wise rust will form on the floor pan, frame, fuel
lines and around the exhaust system. At the
end of winter, the underbody should be thor-
oughly flushed with plain water, being careful
to clean those areas where mud and dirt may
accumulate. For additional information, see
ªCleaning exteriorº in the ª7. Appearance and
careº section.
Fluid leaks:Check 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.To ensure smooth, trouble-free, safe and eco-
nomical driving, NISSAN provides two differ-
ent maintenance schedules that may be used,
depending upon the conditions in which you
usually drive. These schedules contain both
distance and time intervals, up to 60,000 miles
(96,000 km)/48 months. For most people, the
odometer reading will indicate when service is
needed. However, if you drive very little, your
vehicle should be serviced at the regular time
intervals shown in the schedule.After 60,000
miles (96,000 km) or 48 months, continue
the periodic maintenance at the same
mileage/time intervals.
SCHEDULE 1Follow Periodic Maintenance Schedule 1 if
your driving habits frequently include one or
more of the following driving conditions:
Irepeated short trips of less than 5 miles
(8 km).
Irepeated short trips of less than 10 miles
(16 km) with outside temperatures re-
maining below freezing.
Ioperating in hot weather in stop-and-go
rush hour traffic.
Iextensive idling and/or low speed driv-
ing for long distances, such as police,taxi or door-to-door delivery use.
Idriving in dusty conditions.
Idriving on rough, muddy, or salt spread
roads.
Itowing a trailer, using a camper or a
car-top carrier.
SCHEDULE 2Follow Periodic Maintenance Schedule 2 if
none of the driving conditions shown in Sched-
ule 1 apply to your driving habits.
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULES
Maintenance
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Abbreviations: I = Inspect. Correct or replace if necessary.MAINTENANCE OPERATIONMAINTENANCE INTERVAL
Perform at number of miles, kilometers or
months, whichever 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 48Chassis and body maintenanceBrake lines & cablesIIII
Brake pads & discsIIIIIIII
Manual & automatic transaxle oil See NOTE (1).IIII
Steering gear & linkage, axle & suspension partsIIIIIIII
Exhaust systemIIIIIIII
Front drive shaft bootsIIIIIIII
Supplemental air bag system See NOTE (2).NOTE: (1) If towing a trailer, using a camper or a car-top carrier, or driving on rough or muddy roads, change (not just inspect) oil at
every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
(2) Inspect the supplemental air bag system 10 years after the date of manufacture noted on the F.M.V.S.S. certification label.
Maintenance
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10 Technical and consumer informationCapacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants .......................................................... 10-2
Specifications .......................................................... 10-7
When traveling or registering your
vehicle in another country ....................................... 10-9
Vehicle identification ............................................... 10-9
Installing front license plate................................... 10-11
Vehicle loading information ................................... 10-12
Towing a trailer ..................................................... 10-13
Uniform tire quality grading ................................... 10-17
Emission control system warranty ........................ 10-18
Reporting safety defects (US only) ....................... 10-18
Readiness for inspection/maintenance
(I/M) test (US only) ................................................ 10-18
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cosity ratings specified for your vehicle. Do not
mix mineral based and synthetic type oils in
the engine at the same time.Oil additivesNISSAN 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 viscosityThe 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 recommended SAE viscosity
number chart 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 filterYour 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 change intervals.
Change intervalsThe 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 warran-
ties.
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.
Irepeated short distance driving at cold out-
side temperatures,
Idriving in dusty conditions,
Iextensive idling,
Itowing a trailer.
Technical and consumer information
10-5
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cargo as necessary. If either the front or
rear GAWR is exceeded, shift the load or
remove cargo as necessary.
LOADING TIPSIThe GVW must not exceed GVWR or
GAWR as specified on the F.M.V.S.S. cer-
tification label.
IDo not load the front and rear axle to the
GAWR. Doing so will exceed the GVWR.IProperly secure all cargo to help pre-
vent it from sliding or shifting. Do not
place cargo higher than the seat-
backs. In a sudden stop or collision,
unsecured cargo could cause per-
sonal injury.
IDo not load your vehicle any heavier
than the GVWR or the maximum front
and rear GAWRs. If you do, parts on
your vehicle can break, or it can
change the way your vehicle handles.
This could result in loss of control
and cause personal injury.
IOverloading can shorten the life ofyour vehicle. Failures caused by
overloading are not covered by your
warranty.
Your new vehicle was designed to be used
primarily to carry passengers and cargo. Re-
member that towing a trailer will place addi-
tional loads on your vehicle's engine, drive
train, steering, braking and other systems.
Information on trailer towing ability and the
special equipment required should be ob-
tained from your Nissan dealer. He can obtain
aNissan Trailer Towing Guidefor you.
TI1011M
TOWING A TRAILERTechnical and consumer information
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MAXIMUM LOAD LIMITS
Maximum trailer loadsNever allow the total trailer load to exceed
1,000 lb (454 kg). The total trailer load equals
trailer weight plus its cargo weight. Towing
loads greater than 1,000 lb (454 kg) or using
improper towing equipment could adversely
affect vehicle handling, braking and perfor-
mance.Vehicle damage and/or personal injury
resulting from improper towing proce-
dures is not covered by NISSAN warran-
ties. Information on trailer towing and
required towing equipment should be
obtained from dealers who specialize in
providing trailers or other towing
equipment.Tongue loadKeep the tongue load between 9 and 11% of
the total trailer load. If the tongue load be-
comes excessive, rearrange cargo to allow for
proper tongue load.
Maximum gross vehicle weight/
maximum gross axle weightThe gross vehicle weight of the towing vehicle
must not exceed. GVWR shown on the F.M-
.V.S.S. certification label. The gross vehicle
weight equals the combined weight of the
unloaded vehicle, passengers, luggage, hitch,
trailer tongue load and any other optional
equipment. In addition, front or rear gross axle
weight must not exceed GAWR shown on the
F.M.V.S.S. certification label.
TOWING LOAD/SPECIFICATION CHART
Unit: lb (kg)
MAXIMUM
TOWING LOAD1,000 (454)
MAXIMUM
TONGUE LOAD110 (49)
TOWING SAFETY
Trailer hitchChoose a proper hitch for your vehicle and
trailer. Make sure the trailer hitch is securely
attached to the vehicle, to help avoid personal
injury or property damage due to sway caused
by crosswinds, rough road surfaces or passing
trucks.IDo not use axle-mounted hitches.
IThe hitch should not be attached to
or affect the operation of the impact-
absorbing bumper
IDo not modify the vehicle exhaust
system, brake system, etc. when the
hitch is installed.
TI1012M
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