coolant NISSAN MAXIMA 1999 A32 / 4.G Owners Manual

2 Instruments and controlsInstrument panel ....................................................... 2-2
Meters and gauges ................................................... 2-3
Speedometer and odometer ..................................... 2-4
Tachometer ............................................................... 2-4
Engine coolant temperature gauge ........................... 2-5
Fuel gauge ................................................................ 2-5
Warning/indicator lights and chimes ......................... 2-7
Checking bulbs.......................................................... 2-7
Warning lights ........................................................... 2-7
Indicator lights ........................................................... 2-9
Chimes .................................................................... 2-11
Security system ....................................................... 2-12
Theft warning (if so equipped) ................................ 2-12
Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System ....................... 2-13
Windshield wiper and washer switch ...................... 2-15
Rear window and outside mirror (if so equipped)
defogger switch ....................................................... 2-16
Headlight and turn signal switch ............................. 2-17
Headlight switch ...................................................... 2-17
Turn signal switch ................................................... 2-18
Front fog light switch (if so equipped)..................... 2-18
Hazard warning flasher switch ................................ 2-19
Horn......................................................................... 2-19
Heated seats (if so equipped) ................................. 2-20Traction control system (TCS) cancel switch
(if so equipped) ....................................................... 2-21
Cigarette lighter and ashtray ................................... 2-21
Storage .................................................................... 2-22
Trays ....................................................................... 2-22
Cup holder............................................................... 2-24
Glove box ................................................................ 2-24
Console box ............................................................ 2-25
Windows .................................................................. 2-25
Power windows ....................................................... 2-25
Sunroof (if so equipped) ......................................... 2-26
Automatic sunroof ................................................... 2-26
Clock ....................................................................... 2-27
Adjusting the time ................................................... 2-27
Interior light ............................................................. 2-28
Ceiling ..................................................................... 2-28
Personal light .......................................................... 2-28
Vanity mirror light (if so equipped) .......................... 2-29
Trunk light ............................................................... 2-29
Integrated HomeLink
Universal Transceiver
(if so equipped) ....................................................... 2-30
Programming HomeLink........................................ 2-31
Canadian programming ........................................... 2-31
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ENGINE COOLANT
TEMPERATURE GAUGEThe gauge indicates the engine coolant tem-
perature.
The engine coolant temperature will vary with
the outside air temperature and driving condi-
tions.
If the gauge indicates engine coolant
temperature over the normal range, stop
the vehicle as soon as safely possible. If
the engine is overheated, continued op-
eration of the vehicle may seriously
damage the engine. See ªIf your vehicle
overheatsº in the ª6. In case of emer-
gencyº section.
FUEL GAUGEThe gauge indicates the approximate fuel level
in the tank.
The gauge may move slightly during braking,
turning, acceleration, or going up or down hill.
The gauge needle is designed to remain in
approximately the same position, even when
the ignition key is turned OFF.
Refill the fuel tank before the gauge regis-
ters Empty.
SIC0173
SIC0879
Instruments and controls
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ditioner will automatically be turned on to de-
fog the windshield, and the air recirculate
mode will automatically be turned off.
Outside air is drawn into the passenger com-
partment to improve the defogging perfor-
mance.Operating tipsIKeep the windows and sun roof closed
while the air conditioner is in operation.
IAfter parking in the sun, drive for 2 or 3
minutes with the windows open to vent hot
air from the passenger compartment. Then,
close the windows. This will allow the air
conditioner to cool the interior more quickly.
IThe air conditioning system should be
operated for about 10 minutes at least
once a month. This helps prevent dam-
age to the system due to lack of lubrica-
tion.
IIf the coolant temperature gauge exceeds
the HOT position, turn the air conditioning
off. For additional information, see ªIf your
vehicle overheatsº in the ª6. In case of
emergencyº section.AIR FLOW CHARTSThe chart below shows the button and leverpositions formaximum and quickheating,
cooling or defrosting.
The air recirculation button should be in
the OFF position for normal cooling, heat-
ing and defrosting.4-6
Heater, air conditioner and audio systems
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(2ÉC) to defog the windshield, and the air
recirculate mode will automatically be
turned off.
Outside air is drawn into the passenger
compartment to improve the defogging per-
formance.
MANUAL OPERATION
Fan speed controlPush the fan control button
to manually
control the fan speed.
Push the AUTO button to return to automatic
control of the fan speed.
Air recirculationPush the air recirculation button
to recir-
culate interior air inside the vehicle. The indi-
cator light on the switch will come on.
Push it again to make the air inlet controlled
automatically (FRESH, REC/PRE and
RECIRCULATION). The indicator will go out.
The air recirculation button will not be acti-
vated when the air conditioner is in DEF mode.
Air flow controlPushing the manual air flow control button
selects the air outlet to:
: Air flows from center and side ventila-
tors.: Air flows from center and side ventila-
tors and foot outlets.: Air flows mainly from foot outlets.: Air flow from defroster and foot out-
lets.
To turn system offPush the OFF button.AMBIENT TEMPERATURE
SWITCH (AMB)Push the ambient temperature switch. The
outside ambient temperature will be displayed
for approximately 5 seconds.OPERATING TIPSWhen the engine coolant temperature and
outside air temperature are low, the air flow
from the foot outlets may not operate for a
maximum of 150 seconds. However, this is not
a malfunction. After the coolant temperature
warms up, the air flow from the foot outlets will
operate normally.The sensor on the instrument panel helps
maintain a constant temperature; do not put
anything on or around this sensor.
HA1011
Heater, air conditioner and audio systems
4-11
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5 Starting and drivingPrecautions when starting and driving ...................... 5-2
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) .............................. 5-2
Three way catalyst .................................................... 5-2
Avoiding collision and rollover................................... 5-3
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving ............................ 5-3
Ignition switch............................................................ 5-4
Automatic transmission ............................................. 5-4
Manual transmission ................................................. 5-5
Key positions ............................................................. 5-6
Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System (if so
equipped) .................................................................. 5-6
Before starting the engine ......................................... 5-6
Starting the engine .................................................... 5-7
Driving the vehicle ..................................................... 5-7
Automatic transmission ............................................. 5-7
Manual transmission ............................................... 5-11
Parking brake .......................................................... 5-12
Cruise control .......................................................... 5-13
Precautions on cruise control.................................. 5-13Cruise control operations ........................................ 5-14
Break-in schedule ................................................... 5-15
Increasing fuel economy ......................................... 5-15
Parking/parking on hills ........................................... 5-16
Power steering ........................................................ 5-17
Brake system .......................................................... 5-18
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
(if so equipped) ....................................................... 5-18
Traction control system (if so equipped)................. 5-19
Cold weather driving ............................................... 5-20
Freeing a frozen door lock ...................................... 5-20
Anti-freeze ............................................................... 5-20
Battery ..................................................................... 5-20
Draining of coolant water ........................................ 5-20
Tire equipment ........................................................ 5-20
Special winter equipment ........................................ 5-21
Driving on snow or ice ............................................ 5-21
Engine block heater (if so equipped) ...................... 5-21
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To avoid this, the TCS will automati-
cally turn off. Shifting the gear selec-
tor to D will reactivate the TCS.
This system is designed to prevent the
wheels from spinning. However, it does
not prevent vehicle slipping or spinning
due to abrupt steering operation at high
speeds or by careless or dangerous
driving techniques. Be especially care-
ful when driving on slippery surfaces
and always drive safely.
FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCKTo prevent a door lock from freezing, apply
de-icer or glycerin to it through the key hole. If
the lock becomes frozen, heat the key before
inserting it into the key hole.ANTI-FREEZEIn the winter when it is anticipated that the
temperature will drop below 32ÉF (0ÉC), check
anti-freeze (ethylene glycol base) to assure
proper winter protection. For additional infor-
mation, see ªEngine Cooling Systemº in the ª8.
Do-it-yourselfº section.BATTERYIf the battery is not fully charged during ex-
tremely cold weather conditions, the battery
fluid may freeze and damage the battery. To
maintain maximum efficiency, the battery
should be checked regularly. For additional
information, see ªBatteryº in the ª8. Do-it-
yourselfº section.DRAINING OF COOLANT WATERIf the vehicle is to be left outside without
anti-freeze, drain the cooling system by open-
ing the drain valves located under the radiator
and on the engine block. Refill before operat-
ing the vehicle. See ªEngine cooling systemº inthe ª8. Do-it-yourselfº section for changing
engine coolant.
TIRE EQUIPMENT1. SUMMER tires are of a tread design to
provide superior performance on dry pave-
ment. However, the performance of these
tires will be substantially reduced in snowy
and icy conditions. If you operate your
vehicle on snowy or icy roads, NISSAN
recommends the use of MUD & SNOW or
ALL SEASON tires on all four wheels.
Please consult your NISSAN dealer for the
tire type, size, speed rating and availability
information.
2. For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tires may be used. However, some prov-
inces and states prohibit their use. Check
local, state and provincial laws before in-
stalling studded tires.
Skid and traction capabilities of studded
snow tires, on wet or dry surfaces, may be
poorer than that of non-studded snow tires.
3. Tire chains may be used if desired. Make
sure they are of proper size for the tires on
your vehicle and are installed according to
the chain manufacturer's suggestions. Use
of tire chains may be prohibited according
to location. Check the local laws before
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
5-20
Starting and driving
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IDo not continue to drive if your ve-
hicle overheats. Doing so could
cause a vehicle fire.
ITo avoid the danger of being scalded,
never remove the radiator cap while
the engine is still hot. When the radia-
tor cap is removed, pressurized hot
water will spurt out, possibly causing
serious injury.
IDo not open the hood if steam is
coming out.If your vehicle is overheating (indicated by an
extremely high temperature gauge reading), or
if you feel a lack of engine power, detect
abnormal noise, etc., take the following steps:
1. Move the vehicle safely off the road, apply
the parking brake and move the shift lever
to the N (Neutral) position (automatic trans-
mission to the P (Park) position).
Do not stop the engine.
2. Turn off the air conditioner switch. Open all
the windows, move the heater or air condi-
tioner temperature control to maximum hotand fan control to high speed.
3. If engine overheating is caused by climbing
a long hill on a hot day, run the engine at a
fast idle (approximately 1,500 rpm) until the
temperature gauge indication returns to
normal.
4. Get out of the vehicle. Look and listen for
steam or coolant escaping from the radiator
before opening the hood. Wait until no
steam or coolant can be seen before pro-
ceeding.
5. Open the engine hood.
If steam or water is coming from the
engine, stand clear to prevent getting
burned.6. Visually check if the cooling fan is running.
The radiator hoses and radiator should not
leak water.
If coolant is leaking or the cooling fan does
not run, stop the engine.
IBe careful not to allow your hands,
hair, jewelry or clothing to come into
contact with, or to get caught in the
cooling fan, or drive belt.
IThe fan motor can start at any time
when the coolant temperature is high.7. After the engine cools down, check the
coolant level in the reservoir tank with the
engine running. Add coolant to the reservoir
tank if necessary. Have your vehicle re-
paired at the nearest NISSAN dealer.
IF YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS6-10
In case of emergency
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8 Do-it-yourselfMaintenance precautions .......................................... 8-2
Engine compartment check locations ....................... 8-4
Engine cooling system .............................................. 8-5
Checking engine coolant level .................................. 8-5
Changing engine coolant .......................................... 8-6
Engine oil .................................................................. 8-7
Checking engine oil level .......................................... 8-7
Changing engine oil .................................................. 8-8
Changing engine oil filter .......................................... 8-9
Automatic transmission fluid ................................... 8-10
Temperature conditions for checking ...................... 8-10
Power steering fluid ................................................ 8-11
Brake and clutch fluid ............................................. 8-12
Window washer fluid ............................................... 8-12
Battery ..................................................................... 8-13
Drive belts ............................................................... 8-15
Spark plugs ............................................................. 8-15
Replacing spark plugs ............................................. 8-16
Air cleaner ............................................................... 8-17Windshield wiper blades ......................................... 8-18
Cleaning .................................................................. 8-18
Replacement ........................................................... 8-19
Parking brake and brake pedal ............................... 8-20
Checking parking brake .......................................... 8-20
Checking brake pedal ............................................. 8-20
Brake booster .......................................................... 8-21
Clutch pedal ............................................................ 8-21
Fuses....................................................................... 8-21
Engine compartment ............................................... 8-22
Passenger compartment ......................................... 8-23
Lights ....................................................................... 8-24
Headlights ............................................................... 8-25
Exterior and interior lights ....................................... 8-26
Tires and wheels ..................................................... 8-31
Tire pressure ........................................................... 8-31
Types of tires .......................................................... 8-32
Tire chains............................................................... 8-33
Changing tires and wheels...................................... 8-33
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The engine cooling system is filled at the
factory with a high-quality, year-round, anti-
freeze coolant solution. The anti-freeze solu-
tion contains rust and corrosion inhibitors,
therefore additional cooling system additives
are not necessary.When adding or replacing coolant, be
sure to use only a genuine NISSAN anti-
freeze coolant or equivalent with the
proper mixture ratio of 50% anti-freeze
and 50% demineralized water/distilled
water. The use of other types of coolant
solutions may damage your engine
cooling system.Outside temperature
down to
Anti-
freezeDeminer-
alized
water/
distilled
water ÉC ÉF
þ35 þ30 50% 50%
INever remove the radiator cap when
the engine is hot. Serious burns
could be caused by high pressure
fluid escaping from the radiator. Wait
until the engine and radiator cool
down.
ISee ªIf your vehicle overheatsº in the
ª6. In case of emergencyº section.
IThe radiator is equipped with a pres-
sure cap. Use only a genuine cap as a
replacement.
CHECKING ENGINE COOLANT
LEVELCheck the coolant level in the reservoir tank
when the engine is cold. If the coolant level is
below MIN, add coolant up to the MAX level. If
the reservoir tank is empty, check the coolant
level in the radiatorwhen the engine is cold.
If there is insufficient coolant in the radiator, fill
the radiator with coolant up to the filler opening
and also add it to the reservoir tank up to the
MAX level.
If the engine cooling system frequently
requires coolant, have it checked by your
NISSAN dealer.
SDI0747
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM
Do-it-yourself
8-5
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CHANGING ENGINE COOLANTIMajor cooling system repairs should be
performed by your NISSAN dealer. The
service procedures can be found in the
appropriate NISSAN Service Manual.IImproper servicing can result in reduced
heater performance and engine overheat-
ing.
ITo avoid the danger of being scalded,
never change the coolant when the
engine is hot.
INever remove the radiator cap when
the engine is hot. Serious burns
could be caused by high pressure
fluid escaping from the radiator.1. Open the radiator cap and drain plug.
2. Open the drain plug on the engine block.
3. Flush the cooling system by running fresh
water through the radiator.
4. Close the radiator drain plug and the drain
plug on the engine block securely.
5. See ªCapacities and recommended
fuel/lubricantsº in the ª10. Technical and
consumer informationº section for cooling
system capacity. Fill the radiator slowly with
the proper mixture of coolant and water. Fill
the reservoir tank up to the MAX level. Then
install the radiator cap.
SDI0114
8-6
Do-it-yourself
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