tire type NISSAN MAXIMA 2008 A34 / 6.G Owners Manual

5.Other buttons can be set in the same manner.
If the battery cable is disconnected, or if the fuse
opens, the radio memory will be canceled. In that
case, reset the desired stations.
Radio data system (RDS):
RDS stands for Radio Data System, and is a data
information service transmitted by some radio
stations on the FM band (not AM band) . Cur-
rently, most RDS stations are in large cities, but
many stations are now considering broadcasting
RDS data.
RDS can display:
cStation call sign, such as “WHFR 98.3”.
cStation name, such as “The Groove”.
cMusic or programming type such as “Clas-
sical”, “Country”, or “Rock”.
cArtist and song information.
If the station broadcasts RDS information, the
RDS icon is displayed.
Compact disc (CD) player operation
Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position
and insert the compact disc into the slot with the
label side facing up. The compact disc will be
guided automatically into the slot and start play-
ing.If the radio is already operating, it will automati-
cally turn off and the compact disc will play.
If the system has been turned off while the com-
pact disc was playing, pressing the
POWER/VOLUME control knob will start the
compact disc.
CD/AUX button:
When the CD/AUX button is pressed with the
system off and the compact disc loaded, the
system will turn on and the compact disc will start
to play.
When the CD/AUX button is pressed with the
compact disc loaded but the radio playing, the
radio will automatically be turned off and the
compact disc will start to play.
TUNE (Rewind and Fast
Forward) button:
When the TUNE button
oris
pressed while the compact disc is being played,
the compact disc will play while rewinding or fast
forwarding. When the button is released, the
compact disc will return to normal play speed.
SEEK button:
When the SEEK button
is pressed for less
than 1.5 seconds while a compact disc is playing,
the track being played returns to its beginning.Press
button several times to skip back
through tracks. The compact disc will go back the
number of times the button is pressed.
When the SEEK button
is pressed for less
than 1.5 seconds while a compact disc is playing,
the next track will start to play from its beginning.
Press
button several times to skip through
tracks. The compact disc will advance the num-
ber of times the button is pressed. (When the last
track on the compact disc is skipped through, the
first track will be played.)
MIX/RPT (mix and repeat) button:
When the MIX/RPT button is pressed while the
compact disc is being played, the play pattern
can be changed as follows:
Repeat All!Repeat Track!Mix All Tracks!
Repeat All
Repeat All: the entire disc will be repeated
Repeat Track: the current track will be repeated
Mix All Tracks: all tracks will be played randomly
SCAN button:
While listening to a CD, press the
SCAN
button to preview the first 10 seconds of each
track on the CD playing. Pressing the
SCAN button again during this 10 second period
stops the scan and the CD remains on that track.
Display screen, heater, air conditioner, audio and phone systems4-31
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This procedure is described in the vehicle service
manual and can be performed by a NISSAN
dealer.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
(ABS)
WARNING
cThe Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is a
sophisticated device, but it cannot pre-
vent accidents resulting from careless
or dangerous driving techniques. It can
help maintain vehicle control during
braking on slippery surfaces. Remem-
ber that stopping distances on slippery
surfaces will be longer than on normal
surfaces even with ABS. Stopping dis-
tances may also be longer on rough,
gravel or snow covered roads, or if you
are using tire chains. Always maintain a
safe distance from the vehicle in front
of you. Ultimately, the driver is respon-
sible for safety.
cTire type and condition may also affect
braking effectiveness.
– When replacing tires, install the
specified size of tires on all four
wheels.– When installing a spare tire, make
sure that it is the proper size and type
as specified on the Tire and Loading
Information label. See “Tire and
Loading Information label” in the
“Technical and consumer informa-
tion” section of this manual.
– For detailed information, see
“Wheels and tires” in the “Mainte-
nance and do-it-yourself” section of
this manual.
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) controls the
brakes so the wheels do not lock during hard
braking or when braking on slippery surfaces.
The system detects the rotation speed at each
wheel and varies the brake fluid pressure to pre-
vent each wheel from locking and sliding. By
preventing each wheel from locking, the system
helps the driver maintain steering control and
helps to minimize swerving and spinning on slip-
pery surfaces.
Using the system
Depress the brake pedal and hold it down. De-
press the brake pedal with firm steady pressure,
but do not pump the brakes. The ABS will oper-
ate to prevent the wheels from locking up. Steer
the vehicle to avoid obstacles.
WARNING
Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so
may result in increased stopping
distances.
Self-test feature
The ABS includes electronic sensors, electric
pumps, hydraulic solenoids and a computer. The
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 in forward or
reverse. When the self-test occurs, you may hear
a “clunk” noise and/or feel a pulsation in the brake
pedal. This is normal and does not indicate a
malfunction. If the computer senses a malfunc-
tion, it switches the ABS off and illuminates 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 NISSAN dealer.
Normal operation
The ABS operates at speeds above3-6MPH(5
- 10 km/h) .
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cWhen driving on extremely inclined sur-
faces such as higher banked corners,
the Traction Control System may not
operate properly and the
indica-
tor light may come on. Do not drive on
these types of roads.
cIf wheels or tires other than the recom-
mended ones are used, the Traction
Control System may not operate prop-
erly and the
indicator light may
come on.
cThe Traction Control System is not a
substitute for winter tires or tire chains
on a snow covered road.When accelerating or driving on slippery sur-
faces, the tires may spin or slide. With the Vehicle
Dynamic Control (VDC) system, sensors detect
these movements and control the braking and
engine output to help improve vehicle stability.
cWhen the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
system is operating, theSLIPindicator in
the instrument panel blinks.
cIf theSLIPindicator blinks, the road condi-
tions are slippery. Be sure to adjust your
speed and driving to these conditions. See
“Slip indicator light”, and “Vehicle Dynamic
Control (VDC) off indicator light” in the “In-
struments and controls” section.
cIndicator light
If a malfunction occurs in the system, the
SLIPand
indicator lights come on in
the instrument panel.
As long as these indicator lights are on, the
traction control function is canceled.
If the vehicle is operated with the Vehicle Dy-
namic Control system OFF using the VDC OFF
switch, VDC functions will be turned off. The
VDC system will still try to transfer power from a
slipping drive wheel to one with more traction
when the VDC system switch is OFF. TheSLIP
indicator will flash if wheel spin is detected. The
ABS will still operate with the VDC system off.When the VDC system is operating, you may feel
a pulsation in the brake pedal and hear a noise or
vibration from under the hood. This is normal and
indicates that the VDC system is working prop-
erly.
The computer has a built in diagnostic feature
that tests the system each time you start the
engine and move the vehicle forward or in reverse
at a slow speed. When the self-test occurs, you
may hear a clunk noise and/or feel a pulsation in
the brake pedal. This is normal and is not an
indication of a malfunction.
WARNING
cThe Vehicle Dynamic Control system is
designed to help improve driving stabil-
ity but does not prevent accidents due
to abrupt steering operation at high
speeds or by careless or dangerous
driving techniques. Reduce vehicle
speed and be especially careful when
driving and cornering on slippery sur-
faces and always drive carefully.
VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
SYSTEM
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cIf brake related parts such as brake
pads, rotors and calipers are not stan-
dard equipment or are extremely dete-
riorated, the Vehicle Dynamic Control
system may not operate properly and
the Vehicle Dynamic Control off indica-
tor light may come on.
cDo not modify the vehicle’s suspension.
If suspension parts such as shock ab-
sorbers, struts, springs, stabilizer bars
and bushings are not NISSAN approved
for your vehicle or are extremely dete-
riorated the Vehicle Dynamic Control
system may not operate properly. This
could adversely affect vehicle handling
performance, and the VDC OFF indica-
tor light may come on.
cWhen driving on extremely inclined sur-
faces such as higher banked corners,
the Vehicle Dynamic Control system
may not operate properly and the VDC
OFF indicator light may come on. Do
not drive on these types of roads.
cWhen driving on an unstable surface
such as a turntable, ferry, elevator or
ramp, the Vehicle Dynamic Control off
indicator light may illuminate. This is
not a malfunction. Restart the engine
after driving onto a stable surface.cIf wheels or tires other than the recom-
mended ones are used, the Vehicle Dy-
namic Control system may not operate
properly and the Vehicle Dynamic Con-
trol off indicator light may come on.
cThe Vehicle Dynamic Control system is
not a substitute for winter tires or tire
chains on a snow covered road.
WARNING
cAlways turn and look back before back-
ing up. The RSS is not a substitute for
proper backing procedures.
cRead and understand the limitations of
the rear sonar system as contained in
this section. Inclement weather may af-
fect the function of the RSS; this may
include reduced performance or a false
activation.
cThis system is not designed to prevent
contact with small or moving objects.
WSD0170
REAR SONAR SYSTEM (if so
equipped)
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DRAINING OF COOLANT WATER
If the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-
freeze, drain the cooling system, including the
engine block. Refill before operating the vehicle.
For details, see “Changing engine coolant” in the
“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section of this
manual.
TIRE EQUIPMENT
1. SUMMER tires have a tread designed 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 ve-
hicle on snowy or icy roads, NISSAN recom-
mends the use of MUD & SNOW or ALL
SEASON TIRES on all four wheels. Please
consult a NISSAN dealer for the tire type,
size, speed rating and availability informa-
tion.
2. For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tires may be used. However, some U.S.
states and Canadian provinces prohibit their
use. Check local, state and provincial laws
before installing 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. For details, see
“Tire chains” in the “Maintenance and do-it-
yourself” section of this manual.
SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENT
It is recommended that the following items be
carried in the vehicle during winter:
cA scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove
ice and snow from the windows and wiper
blades.
cA sturdy, flat board to be placed under the
jack to give it firm support.
cA shovel to dig the vehicle out of snowdrifts.
cExtra window washer fluid to refill the reser-
voir tank.
DRIVING ON SNOW OR ICE
WARNING
cWet ice (32°F, 0°C and freezing rain) ,
very cold snow or ice can be slick and
very hard to drive on. The vehicle will
have much less traction or “grip” under
these conditions. Try to avoid driving on
wet ice until the road is salted or
sanded.cWhatever the condition, drive with cau-
tion. Accelerate and slow down with
care. If accelerating or downshifting too
fast, the drive wheels will lose even
more traction.
cAllow more stopping distance under
these conditions. Braking should be
started sooner than on dry pavement.
cAllow greater following distances on
slippery roads.
cWatch for slippery spots (glare ice) .
These may appear on an otherwise
clear road in shaded areas. If a patch of
ice is seen ahead, brake before reach-
ing it. Try not to brake while on the ice,
and avoid any sudden steering
maneuvers.
cDo not use the cruise control on slip-
pery roads.
cSnow can trap dangerous exhaust
gases under your vehicle. Keep snow
clear of the exhaust pipe and from
around your vehicle.
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Jacking up vehicle and removing the
damaged tire
WARNING
cNever get under the vehicle while it is
supported only by the jack. If it is nec-
essary to work under the vehicle, sup-
port it with safety stands.
cUse only the jack provided with your
vehicle to lift the vehicle. Do not use the
jack provided with your vehicle on other
vehicles. The jack is designed for lifting
only your vehicle during a tire change.
Type A
LCE0075
Type B
LCE0076CE1089
6-4In case of emergency
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cUse the correct jack-up points. Never
use any other part of the vehicle for jack
support.
cNever jack up the vehicle more than
necessary.
cNever use blocks on or under the jack.
cDo not start or run the engine while
vehicle is on the jack. It may cause the
vehicle to move. This is especially true
for vehicles with limited slip
differentials.
cDo not allow passengers to stay in the
vehicle while it is on the jack.
cNever run the engine with a wheel(s) off
the ground. It may cause the vehicle to
move.Always refer to the proper illustrations for the
correct placement and jack-up points for your
specific vehicle model and jack type.
Carefully read the caution label attached to
the jack body and the following instruc-
tions.
1. Loosen each wheel nut one or two turns by
turning counterclockwise with the wheel nut
wrench.Do not remove the wheel nuts
until the tire is off the ground.2. Place the jack directly under the jack-up
point as illustrated so the top of the jack
contacts the vehicle at the jack-up point.
Align the jack head between the two
notches in the front or the rear as shown.
Also fit the groove of the jack head between
the notches as shown.
The jack should be used on firm and
level ground.
3. To lift the vehicle, securely hold the jack lever
and rod with both hands. Carefully raise the
vehicle until the tire clears the ground. Re-
move the wheel nuts, and then remove the
tire.
LCE0020
In case of emergency6-5
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8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Maintenance requirements..........................8-2
General maintenance..............................8-2
Explanation of general maintenance items.........8-2
Maintenance precautions...........................8-5
Engine compartment check locations................8-6
Engine cooling system.............................8-7
Checking engine coolant level...................8-7
Changing engine coolant........................8-8
Engine oil.........................................8-8
Checking engine oil level........................8-8
Changing engine oil............................8-9
Changing engine oil filter.......................8-10
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) fluid......8-11
Power steering fluid...............................8-11
Brake fluid.......................................8-12
Brake fluid....................................8-12
Window washer fluid.............................8-12
Window washer fluid reservoir..................8-12
Battery..........................................8-13
Jump starting.................................8-14
Drive belt........................................8-15
Spark plugs......................................8-15
Replacing spark plugs.........................8-15Air cleaner.......................................8-16
In-cabin microfilter.............................8-16
Windshield wiper blades..........................8-19
Cleaning.....................................8-19
Replacing....................................8-19
Brakes..........................................8-20
Self-adjusting brakes..........................8-20
Brake pad wear indicators......................8-20
Fuses...........................................8-21
Engine compartment...........................8-21
Passenger compartment.......................8-23
Battery replacement..............................8-24
Intelligent Key battery..........................8-24
Lights...........................................8-25
Headlights....................................8-25
Exterior and interior lights.......................8-27
Wheels and tires.................................8-31
Tire pressure..................................8-31
Tire labeling...................................8-35
Types of tires..................................8-38
Tire chains....................................8-39
Changing wheels and tires.....................8-39
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s2TIN (Tire Identification Number) for a
new tire (example: DOT XX XX XXX
XXXX)
1. DOT: Abbreviation for the9Depart-
ment Of Transportation.9The symbol
can be placed above, below or to the
left or right of Tire Identification Num-
ber.
2. Two-digit code: Manufacturer’s
identification mark
3. Two-digit code: Tire size4. Three-digit code: Tire type code
(Optional)
5. Three-digit code: Date of Manufac-
ture
6. Four numbers represent the week
and year the tire was built. For ex-
ample, the numbers 3103 means the
31st week of 2003. If these numbers
are missing, then look on the other
sidewall of the tire.
s3Tire ply composition and material
The number of layers or plies of rubber-
coated fabric in the tire. Tire manufactur-
ers also must indicate the materials in the
tire, which include steel, nylon, polyester,
and others.
s4Maximum permissible inflation pres-
sure
This number is the greatest amount of air
pressure that should be put in the tire. Do
not exceed the maximum permissible in-
flation pressure.
s5Maximum load rating
This number indicates the maximum load
in kilograms and pounds that can be car-
ried by the tire. When replacing the tires
on the vehicle, always use a tire that has
the same load rating as the factory in-
stalled tire.
s6Term of “tubeless” or “tube type”
Indicates whether the tire requires an in-
ner tube (“tube type”) or not (“tubeless”) .
Example
WDI0396
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s7The word “radial”
The word “radial” is shown if the tire has
radial structure.
s8Manufacturer or brand name
Manufacturer or brand name is shown.
Other Tire-related Terminology
In addition to the many terms that are
defined throughout this section, Intended
Outboard Sidewall is (1) the sidewall that
contains a whitewall, bears white lettering
or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or
model name molding that is higher or
deeper than the same molding on the
other sidewall of the tire, or (2) the out-
ward facing sidewall of an asymmetrical
tire that has a particular side that must
always face outward when mounted on a
vehicle.
TYPES OF TIRES
WARNING
cWhen changing or replacing tires, be
sure all four tires are of the same type
(i.e., Summer, All Season or Snow) and
construction. A NISSAN dealer may be
able to help you with information about
tire type, size, speed rating and
availability.
cReplacement tires may have a lower
speed rating than the factory equipped
tires, and may not match the potential
maximum vehicle speed. Never exceed
the maximum speed rating of the tire.
cFor additional information regarding
tires, refer to “Important Tire Safety In-
formation” (US) or “Tire Safety Informa-
tion” (Canada) in the Warranty Informa-
tion Booklet.
All season tires
NISSAN specifies All Season tires on some mod-
els to provide good performance all year, includ-
ing snowy and icy road conditions. All Season
tires are identified by ALL SEASON and/or M&S
on the tire sidewall. Snow tires have better snow
traction than All Season tires and may be more
appropriate in some areas.
Summer tires
NISSAN specifies summer tires on some models
to provide superior performance on dry roads.
Summer tire performance is substantially re-
duced in snow and ice. Summer tires do not have
the tire traction rating “M&S” on the tire sidewall.
If you plan to operate your vehicle in snowy or icy
conditions, NISSAN recommends the use of
SNOW tires or ALL SEASON tires on all four
wheels.
Snow tires
If snow tires are needed, it is necessary to select
tires equivalent in size and load rating to the
original equipment tires. If you do not, it can
adversely affect the safety and handling of your
vehicle.
Generally, snow tires have lower speed ratings
than factory equipped tires and may not match
the potential maximum vehicle speed. Never ex-
ceed the maximum speed rating of the tire.
If you install snow tires, they must be the same
size, brand, construction and tread pattern on all
four wheels.
For additional traction on icy roads, studded tires
may be used. However, some U.S. states and
Canadian provinces prohibit their use. Check
local, state and provincial laws before installing
8-38Maintenance and do-it-yourself
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