steering NISSAN MAXIMA 2001 A33 / 5.G Owner's Manual

CAUTION
INever tow automatic transmission
models with the front wheels on theground or four wheels on the ground
(forward or backward) as this may
cause serious and expensive damage
to the transmission.
If it is necessary to tow the vehicle
with the rear wheels raised, always
use towing dollies under the front
wheels.
IWhen towing automatic transmission
models with the front wheels on tow-
ing dollies, or when towing manual
transmission models with the front
wheels on the ground:
ITurn the ignition key to the OFF
position, and secure the steering
wheel in a straight ahead position
with a rope or similar device.
Never secure the steering wheel
by turning the ignition key to the
LOCK position. This may damage
the steering lock mechanism.
IMove the gearshift lever to the N
(Neutral) position.
IWhen towing automatic or manualtransmission models with the rear
wheels on the ground (if you do not
use towing dollies): Always release
the parking brake.
VEHICLE RECOVERY (Freeing a
stuck vehicle)ITow chains or cables must be attached only
to the main structural members of the ve-
hicle.
IPulling devices should be routed so they do
not touch any part of the suspension, steer-
ing, brake or cooling systems.
IAlways pull the cable straight out from the
front or rear of the vehicle. Never pull on the
vehicle at an angle.
IPulling devices such as ropes or canvas
straps are not recommended for use in
vehicle towing or recovery.
IStand clear of an stuck vehicle.
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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 ............................................................... 8-16
Windshield wiper blades ......................................... 8-17Cleaning ............................................................. 8-17
Replacement ...................................................... 8-17
Parking brake and brake pedal ............................... 8-18
Checking parking brake ..................................... 8-18
Checking brake pedal ........................................ 8-18
Brake booster ..................................................... 8-19
Clutch pedal ............................................................ 8-19
Fuses....................................................................... 8-20
Engine compartment .......................................... 8-20
Passenger compartment .................................... 8-21
Multi-remote controller battery replacement ........... 8-22
Lights ....................................................................... 8-23
Headlights........................................................... 8-24
Exterior and interior lights .................................. 8-25
Tires and wheels ..................................................... 8-30
Tire pressure ...................................................... 8-30
Types of tires...................................................... 8-30
Tire chains .......................................................... 8-31
Changing tires and wheels ................................. 8-32
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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.
CAUTION
IDo not overfill.
IUse only NISSAN Matic D (Continen-
tal US and Alaska) or Canada Nissan
automatic transmission fluid.
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).Check the fluid level in the reservoir tank.
The fluid level should be checked using the
HOT range at fluid temperatures of 122 to
176ÉF (50 to 80ÉC) or using the COLD range at
fluid temperatures of 32 to 86ÉF (0 to 30ÉC).
CAUTION
IDo not overfill.
IUse Genuine Nissan PSFII or equiva-
lent.
SDI1232
SDI1076
POWER STEERING FLUID
Do-it-yourself
8-11
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During the normal day-to-day operation of the
vehicle, general maintenance should be per-
formed regularly as prescribed in this section.
If you detect any unusual sounds, vibrations or
smell, be sure to check for the cause or have
your NISSAN dealer do it promptly. In addition,
you should notify your NISSAN dealer if you
think that repairs are required.
When performing any checks or maintenance
work, see ªMaintenance precautionsº in the ª8.
Do-it-yourselfº section.EXPLANATION OF MAINTENANCE
ITEMSAdditional information on the following
items with ª*º is found in the ª8. Do-it-
yourselfº section.Outside the vehicleThe maintenance items listed here should be
performed from time to time, unless otherwise
specified.
Tires*:Check the pressure with a gauge pe-
riodically when at a service station, including
the spare, and adjust to the specified pressure
if necessary. Check carefully for damage, cuts
or excessive wear.
Wheel nuts*:When checking the tires, make
sure no nuts are missing, and check for anyloose nuts. Tighten if necessary.
Tire rotation*:Tires should be rotated every
7,500 miles (12,000 km).
Wheel alignment and balance:If the vehicle
pulls to either side while driving on a straight
and level road, or if you detect uneven or
abnormal tire wear, there may be a need for
wheel alignment.
If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at normal
highway speeds, wheel balancing may be
needed.
Windshield wiper blades*:Check for cracks
or wear if they do not wipe properly.
Doors and engine hood:Check that all doors
and the engine hood operate smoothly as well
as the trunk lid or back hatch. Also make sure
that all latches lock securely. Lubricate if nec-
essary. Make sure that the secondary latch
keeps the hood from opening when the pri-
mary latch is released.
When driving in areas using road salt or other
corrosive materials, check lubrication fre-
quently.
Inside the vehicleThe maintenance items listed here should be
checked on a regular basis, such as whenperforming periodic maintenance, cleaning the
vehicle, etc.
Lights*:Make sure that the headlights, stop
lights, tail lights, turn signal lights, and other
lights are all operating properly and installed
securely. Also check headlight aim.
Warning lights and chimes:Make sure that
all warning lights and chimes are operating
properly.
Windshield wiper and washer*:Check that
the wipers and washer operate properly and
that the wipers do not streak.
Windshield defroster:Check that the air
comes out of the defroster outlets properly and
in good quantity when operating the heater or
air conditioner.
Steering wheel:Check for changes in the
steering conditions, such as excessive free
play, hard steering or strange noises.
Seats:Check seat position controls such as
seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to en-
sure they operate smoothly and that all latches
lock securely in every position. Check that the
head restraints move up and down smoothly
and that the locks (if equipped) hold securely
in all latched positions.
Seat belts:Check that all parts of the seat belt
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Maintenance
9-3
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system (for example, buckles, anchors, adjust-
ers and retractors) operate properly and
smoothly, and are installed securely. Check
the belt webbing for cuts, fraying, wear or
damage.
Accelerator pedal:Check the pedal for
smooth operation and make sure the pedal
does not catch or require uneven effort. Keep
the floor mats away from the pedal.
Clutch pedal*:Make sure the pedal operates
smoothly and check that it has the proper free
play.
Brakes:Check that the brakes do not pull the
vehicle to one side when applied.
Brake pedal and booster*:Check the pedal
for smooth operation and make sure it has the
proper distance under it when depressed fully.
Check the brake booster function. Be sure to
keep floor mats away from the pedal.
Parking brake*:Check that the lever has the
proper travel and make sure that the vehicle is
held securely on a fairly steep hill when only
the parking brake is applied.
Automatic transaxle P (Park) position
mechanism:On a fairly steep hill check that
the vehicle is held securely with the selector
lever in the P (Park) position without applying
any brakes.
Under the hood and the vehicleThe maintenance items listed here should be
checked periodically (for example, each time
you check the engine oil or refuel).
Windshield washer fluid*:Check that there
is adequate fluid in the tank.
Engine coolant level*:Check the coolant
level when the engine is cold.
Radiator and hoses:Check the front of the
radiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves,
etc., that may have accumulated. Make sure
the hoses have no cracks, deformation, dete-
rioration or loose connections.
Brake and clutch fluid levels*:Make sure
that the brake and clutch fluid levels are be-
tween the MAX and MIN lines on the reservoir.
Battery*:Check the fluid level in each cell. It
should be between the MAX and MIN lines.
Engine drive belts*:Make sure that no belt is
frayed, worn, cracked or oily.
Engine oil level*:Check the level on the
dipstick after parking the vehicle on a level
spot and turning off the engine.
Power steering fluid level* and lines:Check
the level in the reservoir tank with the engineoff. Check the lines for proper attachment,
leaks, cracks, etc.
Automatic transaxle fluid level*:Check the
level on the dipstick after putting the selector
lever in P (Park) position with the engine idling.
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, immediately locate the
trouble and correct it. (See ªPrecautions when
starting and drivingº in the ª5. Starting and
drivingº section for exhaust gas (carbon mon-
oxide).)
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
9-4
Maintenance
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Schedule 1Abbreviations: 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 3.8 7.5 11.3 15 18.8 22.5 26.3 30 33.8 37.5 41.3 45 48.8 52.5 56.3 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 & rotorsIIIIIIII
Manual transaxle oil or automatic
transaxle fluidSee NOTE (1).IIII
Steering gear & linkage, axle & suspension partsIIIIIIII
Tire rotation See NOTE (3).
Exhaust systemIIIIIIII
Front drive shaft bootsIIIIIIII
Supplemental air bag system and supplemental
side air bag systemsSee NOTE (2).
Automatic Speed Control Device (ASCD) vacuum hosesIIIINOTE: (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 systems 10 years after the date of manufacture noted on the F.M.V.S.S. certification label.
(3) Refer to ªTire rotationº under the ªGeneral maintenanceº heading earlier in this section.
Maintenance
9-7
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Schedule 2Abbreviations: 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 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 48Chassis and body maintenanceBrake lines & cablesIIII
Brake pads & rotorsIIII
Manual transaxle oil & automatic transaxle fluidIIII
Steering gear & linkage, axle & suspension parts I I
Tire rotation See NOTE (2).
Exhaust systemII
Front drive shaft bootsIIII
Supplemental air bag system and supple-
mental side air bag systemsSee NOTE (1).
Automatic Speed Control Device (ASCD) vacuum hosesIIIINOTE: (1) Inspect the supplemental air bag systems 10 years after the date of manufacture noted on the F.M.V.S.S. certification label.
(2) Refer to ªTire rotationº under the ªGeneral maintenanceº heading earlier in this section.
Maintenance
9-9
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EXPLANATION OF MAINTENANCE
ITEMSAdditional information on the following
items with ª*º is found in the ª8. Do-it-
yourselfº section.Emission control system
maintenanceDrive belts*:Check drive belts for wear, fray-
ing or cracking and also for proper tension.
Replace the drive belts if found damaged.
Air cleaner filter:Under normal driving con-
ditions, the air cleaner filter should be replaced
in accordance with the maintenance schedule.
However, driving the vehicle in dusty areas
may cause more rapid clogging of the element.
Consequently, the element may have to be
replaced more frequently.
EVAP vapor lines:Check EVAP vapor lines
and connections for failure or looseness. If
leaks are found, replace them.
Fuel lines:Check the fuel hoses, piping and
connections for leaks, looseness or deteriora-
tion. Replace any parts if they are damaged.
Engine coolant*:Drain and flush the cooling
system.
Engine oil & oil filter*:Under normal drivingconditions, the engine oil and oil filter should
be replaced in accordance with the mainte-
nance schedule. However, under severe driv-
ing conditions, they may have to be replaced
more frequently.
Spark plugs*:Replace with new plugs having
the correct heat range.
Intake & exhaust valve clearance:Check the
valve clearance if valve noise increases.
Chassis and body maintenanceBrake lines & cables:Check the brake lines
and hoses (including brake booster vacuum
hoses, connections & check valve) and park-
ing brake cables for proper attachment, leaks,
cracks, chafing, abrasion, deterioration, etc.
Brake pads & rotors:Check these and the
other neighboring brake components for wear,
deterioration and leaks. Under severe driving
conditions, they may have to be inspected
more frequently.
Manual transaxle oil & automatic transaxle
fluid*:Check the fluid level and visually in-
spect for signs of leakage.
Under severe driving conditions, the oil should
be replaced at the specified interval.
Steering gear & linkage, axle & suspension
parts, and front drive shaft boots:Check fordamage, looseness and leakage of oil or
grease. Under severe driving conditions, they
may have to be inspected more frequently.
Exhaust system:Visually check the exhaust
pipes, muffler, and hangers for proper attach-
ment, leaks, cracks, chafing, abrasion, dete-
rioration, etc. Under severe driving conditions,
inspection should be performed more fre-
quently.
Supplemental air bag, and supplemental
side air bag (if so equipped) systems:Main-
tenance for the supplemental air bags or
supplemental side air bags should be done by
an authorized NISSAN dealer.
Automatic Speed Control Device (ASCD)
vacuum hoses:Check vacuum hose (be-
tween ASCD actuator and ASCD pump) for
breakage, cracks or fracture.
9-10
Maintenance
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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 ª8. Do-it-yourselfº section to determine the proper refill capacity.
Capacity (Approximate)
Recommended
specifications US
measureImp
measureLiter
Fuel 18-1/2 gal 15-3/8 gal 70 Unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of at least 91 AKI (RON 96)*1
Engine oil*6
Drain and refill
With oil filter change 4-1/4 qt 3-1/2 qt 4.0IAPI Certification Mark*2, *3
IAPI grade SG/SH, Energy ConservingI&IIorAPIgrade SJ, Energy
Conserving*2, *3
IILSAC grade GF-I & GF-II*2, *3 Without oil filter change 3-7/8 qt 3-1/4 qt 3.7
Cooling system
With reservoir 8-1/8 qt 6-3/4 qt 7.7
Genuine NISSAN anti-freeze coolant or equivalent
Reservoir 3/4 qt 5/8 qt 0.7
Manual transmission gear oil Ð Ð Ð API GL-4, Viscosity SAE 75W-90 only
Automatic transmission fluid
Refill to the proper oil level according to the instructions
in the ª8. Do-it-yourselfº section.Nissan Matic ªDº (Continental U.S. and Alaska) or Canada NISSAN Auto-
matic Transmission Fluid*4
Power steering fluidGenuine Nissan PSFII or equivalent*8
Brake and clutch fluidGenuine Nissan Brake Fluid*5 or equivalent DOT 3 (US FMVSS No. 116)
Multi-purpose grease Ð Ð Ð NLGI No. 2 (Lithium soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerant Ð Ð Ð HFC-134a (R-134a)*7
Air conditioning system lubricants Ð Ð ÐNissan A/C System Oil
Type S or exact equivalent
*1: For additional information, see later in this paragraph for fuel recommendation.
*2: For additional information, see later in this paragraph for engine oil and oil filter recommendation.
*3: For additional information, see later in this paragraph for recommended SAE viscosity number.
*4: Dexron
TMIII/Mercon
TM
or 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 Dexron
TMIII/Mercon
TM
automatic transmission fluid.
*5: Available in mainland US through your NISSAN dealer.
*6: For additional information, see ªEngine oilº in the ª8. Do-it-yourselfº section for changing engine oil.
*7: For additional information, see ªVehicle identificationº in this section for air conditioner specification label.
*8: Genuine Nissan PSFII, Canada Nissan Automatic Transmission fluid, Dexron
TMIII/Mercon
TM
or equivalent ATF may also be used.
CAPACITIES AND
RECOMMENDED
FUEL/LUBRICANTS10-2
Technical and consumer information
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ceeded. If GVWR is exceeded, remove
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.
WARNING
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 controland cause personal injury.
IOverloading can shorten the life of
your 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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