cooling NISSAN MAXIMA 2009 Owner´s Manual

1. Temperature control buttons (driver’s
side)
2. AUTO climate control ON button
3.
(front defroster) button
4.
Air recirculation button
5. MODE (manual air flow control) button
6. Temperature control buttons (passen-
ger’s side)7. DUAL (passenger side temperature
control) ON/OFF button
8.
Fresh air intake button
9.
(fan speed control) dial/OFF
button
10.
(rear window defroster) button
11. A/C (air conditioner) ON/OFF button
WARNING
●The air conditioner cooling function op-
erates only when the engine is running.
●Do not leave children or adults who
would normally require the assistance
of others alone in your vehicle. Pets
should also not be left alone. They
could accidentally injure themselves or
others through inadvertent operation of
the vehicle. Also, on hot, sunny days,
temperatures in a closed vehicle could
quickly become high enough to cause
severe or possibly fatal injuries to
people or animals.
●Do not use the recirculation mode for
long periods as it may cause the interior
air to become stale and the windows to
fog up.
Start the engine and operate the controls to
activate the air conditioner.
Type A
LHA1139
HEATER AND AIR CONDITIONER
(automatic)
4-36Monitor, climate, audio, phone and voice recognition systems
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AUTOMATIC OPERATION
Cooling and/or dehumidified heating
(AUTO)
This mode may be used all year round as the
system automatically works to keep a constant
temperature. Air flow distribution and fan speed
are also controlled automatically.
1. Push the AUTO button on. (The indicator on
the button will illuminate and AUTO will be
displayed.)
2. Operate the driver’s side temperature con-
trol buttons.
●Adjust the temperature display to about
75°F (24°C) for normal operation.
●The temperature of the passenger compart-
ment will be maintained automatically. Air
flow distribution and fan speed are also con-
trolled automatically.
●A visible mist may be seen coming from the
ventilators in hot, humid conditions as the air
is cooled rapidly. This does not indicate a
malfunction.
3. You can individually set driver’s and front
passenger’s side temperature using each
temperature control button. When the DUAL
button or passenger’s side temperature but-
ton is pressed, the DUAL indicator will comeon. To turn off the passenger’s side tempera-
ture control, push the DUAL button.
Heating (A/C OFF)
The air conditioner does not activate. When you
need to heat only, use this mode.
1. Push the A/C button. (A/C OFF will be dis-
played and A/C indicator will turn off.)
2. Operate the temperature control buttons to
set the desired temperature.
●The temperature of the passenger compart-
ment will be maintained automatically. Air
flow distribution and fan speed are also con-
trolled automatically.
●Do not set the temperature lower than the
outside air temperature. Otherwise the sys-
tem may not work properly.
●Not recommended if windows fog up.
Dehumidified defrosting or defogging
1. Push thefront defroster button on.
(The indicator light on the button will come
on.)
2. Operate the temperature control buttons to
set the desired temperature.●To quickly remove ice from the outside of the
windows, use the fan speed control dial to
set the fan speed to maximum.
●As soon as possible after the windshield is
clean, push the AUTO button to return to the
automatic mode.
●When the
front defroster button is
pushed, the air conditioner will automatically
be turned on at outside temperatures above
36°F (2°C) . The air recirculate mode auto-
matically turns off, allowing outside air to be
drawn into the passenger compartment to
further improve the defogging performance.
MANUAL OPERATION
Fan speed control
Turn thefan speed control dial to manually
control the fan speed.
Push the AUTO button to return to automatic
control of the fan speed.
Air recirculation
Push theair recirculation button to recir-
culate interior air inside the vehicle. The
indicator light on the button will come on.
Monitor, climate, audio, phone and voice recognition systems4-37
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1. Temperature control dial (driver’s side)/
AUTO (automatic) climate control ON
button
2. A/C (air conditioner) ON/OFF button
3.
Air recirculation button
4.
Fresh air intake button
5. MODE (manual air flow control) button
6. Temperature control buttons (passen-
ger’s side)/DUAL (passenger’s side
temperature control) ON/OFF button7.
(rear window defroster) button
8.
(fan speed control) dial/OFF
button
9.
(front defroster) button
WARNING
●The air conditioner cooling function op-
erates only when the engine is running.
●Do not leave children or adults who
would normally require the assistance
of others alone in your vehicle. Pets
should also not be left alone. They
could accidentally injure themselves or
others through inadvertent operation of
the vehicle. Also, on hot, sunny days,
temperatures in a closed vehicle could
quickly become high enough to cause
severe or possibly fatal injuries to
people or animals.
●Do not use the recirculation mode for
long periods as it may cause the interior
air to become stale and the windows to
fog up.
Start the engine and operate the controls to
activate the air conditioner.
Type B
LHA1135
HEATER AND AIR CONDITIONER
(automatic)
Monitor, climate, audio, phone and voice recognition systems4-39
REVIEW COPY—2009 Maxima(max)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
11/03/08—debbie


AUTOMATIC OPERATION
Cooling and/or dehumidified heating
(AUTO)
This mode may be used all year round as the
system automatically works to keep a constant
temperature. Air flow distribution and fan speed
are also controlled automatically.
1. Push the AUTO button on. (The indicator on
the button will illuminate and AUTO will be
displayed.)
2. Turn the temperature control dial to the left
or right to set the desired temperature.
●Adjust the temperature display to about
75°F (24°C) for normal operation.
●The temperature of the passenger compart-
ment will be maintained automatically. Air
flow distribution and fan speed are also con-
trolled automatically.
●A visible mist may be seen coming from the
ventilators in hot, humid conditions as the air
is cooled rapidly. This does not indicate a
malfunction.
3. You can individually set driver’s and front
passenger’s side temperature using each
temperature control dial. When the DUAL
button or passenger’s side temperature dial
is turned, the DUAL indicator will come on.To turn off the passenger’s side temperature
control, push the DUAL button.
Heating (A/C OFF)
The air conditioner does not activate. When you
need to heat only, use this mode.
1. Push the A/C button. (A/C OFF will be dis-
played and A/C indicator will turn off.)
2. Turn the temperature control dial to set the
desired temperature.
●The temperature of the passenger compart-
ment will be maintained automatically. Air
flow distribution and fan speed are also con-
trolled automatically.
●Do not set the temperature lower than the
outside air temperature. Otherwise the sys-
tem may not work properly.
●Not recommended if windows fog up.
Dehumidified defrosting or defogging
1. Push thefront defroster button on.
(The indicator light on the button will come
on.)
2. Turn the temperature control dial to set the
desired temperature.●To quickly remove ice from the outside of the
windows, use the fan speed control dial to
set the fan speed to maximum.
●As soon as possible after the windshield is
clean, push the AUTO button to return to the
automatic mode.
●When the
front defroster button is
pushed, the air conditioner will automatically
be turned on at outside temperatures above
36°F (2°C) . The air recirculate mode auto-
matically turns off, allowing outside air to be
drawn into the passenger compartment to
further improve the defogging performance.
MANUAL OPERATION
Fan speed control
Turn thefan speed control dial to manually
control the fan speed.
Push the AUTO button to return to automatic
control of the fan speed.
Air recirculation
Push theair recirculation button to recir-
culate interior air inside the vehicle. The
indicator light on the button will come on.
4-40Monitor, climate, audio, phone and voice recognition systems
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●Do not modify the vehicle’s suspension.
If suspension parts such as shock ab-
sorbers, struts, springs, stabilizer bars,
bushings and wheels are not NISSAN
approved for your vehicle or are ex-
tremely deteriorated the Vehicle Dy-
namic Control system may not operate
properly. This could adversely affect ve-
hicle handling performance, and the
VDC OFF indicator light may come on.
●If 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.
●If engine related parts such as the muf-
fler are not standard equipment or are
extremely deteriorated, the “VDC OFF”
indicator or SLIP” indicator or both in-
dicator lights may illuminate.
●When 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.●When 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.
●If 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.
●The Vehicle Dynamic Control system is
not a substitute for winter tires or tire
chains on a snow covered road.FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCK
To prevent a door lock from freezing, apply de-
icer through the key hole. If the lock becomes
frozen, heat the key before inserting it into the key
hole or use the remote keyless entry keyfob (if so
equipped) .
ANTI-FREEZE
In the winter when it is anticipated that the tem-
perature will drop below 32°F (0°C) , check the
anti-freeze to assure proper winter protection.
For details, see “Engine cooling system” in the
“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section of this
manual.
BATTERY
If the battery is not fully charged during extremely
cold weather conditions, the battery fluid may
freeze and damage the battery. To maintain maxi-
mum efficiency, the battery should be checked
regularly. For details, see “Battery” in the “Main-
tenance and do-it-yourself” section of this
manual.
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
Starting and driving5-25
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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:
●A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove
ice and snow from the windows and wiper
blades.
●A sturdy, flat board to be placed under the
jack to give it firm support.
●A shovel to dig the vehicle out of snowdrifts.
●Extra window washer fluid to refill the reser-
voir tank.
DRIVING ON SNOW OR ICE
WARNING
●Wet 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.●Whatever 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.
●Allow more stopping distance under
these conditions. Braking should be
started sooner than on dry pavement.
●Allow greater following distances on
slippery roads.
●Watch 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.
●Do not use the cruise control on slip-
pery roads.
●Snow can trap dangerous exhaust
gases under your vehicle. Keep snow
clear of the exhaust pipe and from
around your vehicle.
5-26Starting and driving
REVIEW COPY—2009 Maxima(max)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
10/20/08—debbie


To start your engine with a booster battery, the
instructions and precautions below must be fol-
lowed.
WARNING
●If done incorrectly, jump starting can
lead to a battery explosion, resulting in
severe injury or death. It could also
damage your vehicle.
●Explosive hydrogen gas is always
present in the vicinity of the battery.
Keep all sparks and flames away from
the battery.
●Do not allow battery fluid to come into
contact with eyes, skin, clothing or
painted surfaces. Battery fluid is a cor-
rosive sulfuric acid solution which can
cause severe burns. If the fluid should
come into contact with anything, imme-
diately flush the contacted area with
water.
●Keep battery out of the reach of
children.
●The booster battery must be rated at 12
volts. Use of an improperly rated battery
can damage your vehicle.●Whenever working on or near a battery,
always wear suitable eye protectors (for
example, goggles or industrial safety
spectacles) and remove rings, metal
bands, or any other jewelry. Do not lean
over the battery when jump starting.
●Do not attempt to jump start a frozen
battery. It could explode and cause se-
rious injury.
●Your vehicle has an automatic engine
cooling fan. It could come on at any
time. Keep hands and other objects
away from it.
JUMP STARTING
6-8In case of emergency
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CAUTION
●CVT models cannot be push-started or
tow-started. Attempting to do so may
cause transmission damage.
●Do not push start this vehicle. The
three-way catalyst may be damaged.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.
WARNING
●Do not continue to drive if your vehicle
overheats. Doing so could cause engine
damage or a vehicle fire.
●To avoid the danger of being scalded,
never remove the radiator cap while the
engine is still hot. When the radiator
cap is removed, pressurized hot water
will spurt out, possibly causing serious
injury.
●Do not open the hood if steam is com-
ing out.
1. Move the vehicle safely off the road, apply
the parking brake and move the shift selector
to P (Park) .
Do not stop the engine.
2. Turn off the air conditioner. Open all the
windows, move the heater or air conditioner
temperature control to maximum hot and fan
control to high speed.
3. Get out of the vehicle. Look and listen for
steam or coolant escaping from the radiatorbefore opening the hood. (If steam or cool-
ant is escaping, turn off the engine.) Do not
open the hood further until no steam or
coolant can be seen.
4. Open the engine hood.WARNING
If steam or water is coming from the engine,
stand clear to prevent getting burned.
5.Visually check drive belts for damage or
looseness. Also check if the cooling fan is
running. The radiator hoses and radiator
should not leak water. If coolant is leaking, the
water pump belt is missing or loose, or the
cooling fan does not run, stop the engine.
WARNING
Be careful not to allow your hands, hair,
jewelry or clothing to come into contact
with, or get caught in, engine belts or the
engine cooling fan. The engine cooling
fan can start at any time.
6.
After the engine cools down, check the cool-
ant level in the engine coolant reservoir tank
with the engine running. Add coolant to the
engine coolant reservoir tank if necessary.
Have your vehicle repaired at a NISSAN
dealer.
PUSH STARTING IF YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS
6-10In case of emergency
REVIEW COPY—2009 Maxima(max)
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VEHICLE RECOVERY (freeing a stuck
vehicle)
Pulling a stuck vehicle
Do not use the hook (if so equipped) to tow the
vehicle.
WARNING
●Stand clear of a stuck vehicle.
●Do not spin your tires at high speed.
This could cause them to explode and
result in serious injury. Parts of your
vehicle could also overheat and be
damaged.
CAUTION
●Tow chains or cables must be attached
only to the main structural members of
the vehicle. Otherwise, the vehicle body
will be damaged.
●Do not use the vehicle tie downs to free
a vehicle stuck in sand, snow, mud, etc.
Never tow the vehicle using the vehicle
tie downs or recovery hooks.
●Always pull the cable straight out from
the front or rear of the vehicle. Never
pull the vehicle at an angle.
●Pulling devices should be routed so
they do not touch any part of the sus-
pension, steering, brake or cooling
systems.
●Pulling devices such as ropes or canvas
straps are not recommended for use in
vehicle towing or recovery.
Rocking a stuck vehicle
If your vehicle is stuck in sand, snow, mud, etc.,
use the following procedure:
1. Turn off the Vehicle Dynamic Control Sys-
tem.
2. Make sure the area in front and behind the
vehicle is clear of obstructions.
3. Turn the steering wheel right and left to clear
an area around the front tires.
4. Slowly rock the vehicle forward and back-
ward.
●Shift back and forth between R (Reverse)
and D (Drive) .
●Apply the accelerator as little as possible
to maintain the rocking motion.
●Release the accelerator pedal before
shifting between R (Reverse) and D
(Drive) .
●Do not spin the tires above 35 mph (55
km/h) .
5. If the vehicle cannot be freed after a few
tries, contact a professional towing service
to remove the vehicle.
WCE0190
In case of emergency6-13
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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
Variable voltage control system.....................8-16
Drive belt........................................8-15Spark plugs......................................8-16
Replacing spark plugs . ........................8-16
Air cleaner.......................................8-17
In-cabin microfilter.............................8-17
Windshield wiper blades..........................8-18
Cleaning.....................................8-18
Replacing....................................8-18
Brakes..........................................8-19
Fuses...........................................8-20
Engine compartment...........................8-20
Passenger compartment . . .....................8-22
Battery replacement..............................8-23
NISSAN Intelligent Key™.......................8-24
Lights...........................................8-25
Headlights....................................8-25
Exterior and interior lights . . .
....................8-26
Wheels and tires.................................8-30
Tire pressure..................................8-30
Tire labeling...................................8-34
Types of tires..................................8-37
Tire chains....................................8-38
Changing wheels and tires.....................8-38
REVIEW COPY—2009 Maxima(max)
Owners Manual—USA_English(nna)
10/20/08—debbie