check engine light NISSAN NOTE 2012 User Guide

During the first 1,600 km (1,000 miles), follow these
recommendations for the future reliability and
economy of your new vehicle. Failure to follow the
recommendations may result in shortened engine
life and reduced engine performance.
•Avoid driving for long periods at a constant
speed, either fast or slow.
•Do not accelerate at full throttle in any gear.
•Avoid quick starts.
•Avoid hard braking as much as possible.
•Do not tow a trailer during the first 800 km (500
miles).
NOTE
Models with K9K diesel engine will achieve top
performance only after approximately 5,000 km
(3,000 miles).
WARNING
The driving characteristics of your vehicle can be
changed remarkably by any additional load and
its distribution as well as by adding optional
equipment (trailer couplings, roof racks, etc.).
Your driving style and speed have to be adjusted
accordingly. Especially when carrying heavy
loads, your speed must be reduced adequately.
•Make sure the area around the vehicle is free of
obstacles.
•Check fluid levels such as engine oil, coolant,
brake and clutch fluid, and window washer fluid
as frequently as possible, at least whenever you
refuel.
•Visually inspect tyres for their appearance and
condition. Also check the tyre pressure for
proper inflation.
•Maintenance items in the “8. Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section should be checked peri-
odically.
•Check that all windows and light lenses are
clean.
•Check that all doors are closed.
•Position the seat and adjust the head restraints.
•Adjust the inside and outside mirrors.
•Fasten your seat belt and ask all passengers to
do likewise.
•Check the operation of the warning/indicator
lights when the ignition switch is turned to the
ON position.
•Do not place hard or heavy objects on the dash-
board or rear parcel shelf in order to prevent
injury in the event of a sudden stop.
RUNNING-IN SCHEDULE BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
5-2Starting and driving

2. Turn the key slightly in the ON direction.
3. Turn the key towards the LOCK position.
4. Remove the key.
STEERING LOCK
To lock the steering wheel
1. Turn the key to the LOCK position.
2. Remove the key from the ignition switch.
3. Turn the steering wheel 1/6 of a turn clockwise
from the straight up position.
To unlock the steering wheel
1. Insert the key into the ignition switch.
2. Gently turn the key while rotating the steering
wheel slightly right and left.
KEY POSITIONS
LOCK (Normal parking position) (0)
The ignition key can only be removed when in this
position.
The steering lock can only be locked in this position.
“OFF” (1)
The engine is turned off without locking the steering
wheel.
Acc (Accessories) (2)
This position activates electrical accessories, such
as the radio, when the engine is not running.
ON (Normal operating position) (3)
This position turns on the ignition system and elec-
trical accessories.
START (4)
The engine starter activates and the engine will start.
As soon as the engine has started, release the key
immediately. It will return to the ON position.
NISSAN ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM (NATS)
The NISSAN Anti Theft System (NATS)* will stop
the engine if someone tries to start the engine with-
out using the registered NATS key.
* Immobilizer
If you failed to start the engine using the NATS Key,
turn the ignition knob to the LOCK position, wait for
5 seconds and turn the key to the START position
again to start the engine.
For additional information, see “Security system” in
the “3. Pre-driving checks and adjustments” sec-
tion.A.MT models
B.AT models
1.OFF
2.PUSH release button
WARNING
Never turn the ignition knob to the LOCK position
while driving as the steering wheel will lock. This
may cause the driver to lose control of the ve-
hicle and could result in serious damage to the
vehicle or personal injury.
The ignition knob includes an anti-theft steering lock
device.
There is an “OFF” position between the LOCK and
Acc positions, although it is not shown on the lock
cylinder. When the ignition knob is in the “OFF”
position, the steering wheel is not locked.
NSD343
IGNITION KNOB (where fitted)
Starting and driving5-7

ligent Key, turn the ignition knob to the LOCK posi-
tion, wait for 5 seconds and turn the knob to the
START position again to start the engine.
For additional information, see “Security system” in
the “3. Pre-driving checks and adjustments” sec-
tion.1. Apply the handbrake.
2.Manual transmission models:
Move the gear lever to N (Neutral) position, and
depress the clutch pedal to the floor while start-
ing the engine.
Automatic transmission models:
Depress the brake pedal and move the selector
lever to the P (Park) or N (Neutral) position. (P
position is preferred).
NOTE
The starter is designed not to operate if the
selector lever is out of the P (Park) or N (Neu-
tral) position.
3. Models without Intelligent Key:
Rotate the steering wheel left to right to release
the ignition lock whilst turning the ignition switch
to the ON position.
Models with Intelligent key:
•MT models – keep the clutch pedal
depressed and/or depress the brake pedal
then:
•AT – depress the brake pedal then:
1) Push the ignition knob.
2) Rotate the steering wheel left to right to
release the ignition lock whilst turning the
ignition knob to the ON position.CAUTION
•Make sure you carry the Intelligent Key with
you when operating the vehicle.
•If the Intelligent Key is too far away from
the driver, the vehicle may not start.
4. For diesel engine models: Wait until the glow
indicator light
goes out.
5. Start the engine with your foot on the brake pedal,
not on the accelerator pedal, by turning the
ignition switch to START.
6. Release the ignition switch when the engine
starts. If the engine starts, but fails to run, repeat
the above procedure.
For petrol engine models:
•If the engine is very hard to start for example
in extremely cold or hot weather, or when
restarting, Proceed as follows:
a. Depress the accelerator pedal a little (ap-
proximately 1/3 to the floor) and hold it
and then start the engine.
b. Release the ignition switch and the accel-
erator pedal when the engine starts.
•If the engine is very hard to start because it is
flooded. Proceed as follows:
a. Depress the accelerator pedal all the way
to the floor and hold it.
b. Start the engine for 5-6 seconds and stop.
After starting the engine, release the ac-
celerator pedal.
STARTING THE ENGINE
5-10Starting and driving

Accelerator downshift – In the D (Drive)
position
For rapid passing or driving uphill, fully depress the
accelerator pedal to the floor. This shifts the trans-
mission down into a lower gear, depending on the
vehicle speed.
A.RHD models
B.LHD models
Overdrive switch
ON: For normal driving, push the overdrive
switchto“ON
” with the selector lever in
the D (Drive) position. The transmission is
shifted up into OVERDRIVE as the vehicle
speed increases.
The overdrive will not engage until the engine
has warmed up.
OFF: For driving up and down long slopes where
engine braking is necessary, push the over-
drive switch “OFF
”. The overdrive off in-dicator light
in the instrument panel
illuminates.
When cruising at low speeds or climbing a
gentle slope, you may feel an uncomfortable
shift shock as the transmission shifts in and
out of the overdrive position repeatedly. In
this case, push the overdrive switch to turn
the Overdrive “OFF”.
When driving conditions change, push the overdrive
switch to turn the overdrive “ON”. The overdrive off
indicator light
in the instrument panel will turn
off.
Remember not to drive at high speeds for extended
periods of time with the overdrive “OFF”. This re-
duces fuel economy.
A.RHD models
B.LHD models
Shift lock release
If the battery is discharged, the selector lever can-
not be moved from the P (Park) position even with
the brake pedal depressed and the ignition switch in
the ON position.
To move the selector lever, push the shift lock re-
lease button
j1 (as illustrated) and press the selec-
tor lever buttonj2 . It is now possible to move the
selector lever to the N (Neutral) position.
For your safety, make sure the handbrake is applied
and the brake pedal is depressed during the opera-
tion.
If there is any problem moving the lever out of the P
(Park) position, have a NISSAN dealer or qualified
workshop to check the automatic transmission sys-
tem as soon as possible.
Fail-safe
When the Fail-safe operation occurs, the automatic
transmission will be locked in the third gear.
If the vehicle is driven under extreme conditions,
such as excessive wheel spinning and subse-
quent hard braking, the Fail-safe system may be
activated. This will occur even if all electrical cir-
cuits are functioning properly. In this case, turn
the ignition switch “OFF” and wait for 3 seconds.
Then turn the key back to the ON position. The
vehicle should return to its normal operating con-
dition. If it does not return to its normal operating
condition have your NISSAN dealer or qualified
NSD309Z
NSD310Z
5-14Starting and driving

•Trailer towing requires more fuel than under nor-
mal circumstances because of a considerable
increase in traction power required and resis-
tance.
•When towing a trailer, observe the following re-
stricted towing speeds:
Speed: below 100 km/h (62 MPH)
CAUTION
While towing a trailer, make sure the engine cool-
ant temperature warning light does not come on,
in order to prevent engine overheating.
TYRE PRESSURE
When towing a trailer, inflate the vehicle tyres to the
maximum recommended COLD tyre pressure, as
indicated on the tyre placard (for full loading). Make
sure the trailer tyre pressures are correct.
CAUTION
Do not tow a trailer when the vehicle is installed
with a temporary-use spare tyre.
SAFETY CHAINS
Always use a suitable chain between the vehicle
and trailer. The chain should be attached to the hitch
and not to the vehicle bumper or axle. Be sure to
leave enough slack in the chain to permit turning
corners. The chain should not drag on the ground:
passing the chain across the trailer hitch may be the
best practice depending on your trailer.
TRAILER BRAKES
Ensure that trailer brakes are installed as required
by local regulations. Also check that all other trailer
equipment conforms to local regulations.
TRAILER DETECTION (where fitted)
When towing a trailer and the turn signal switch is
used, the electrical system of the vehicle will detect
an additional electrical load of the trailer lighting. As
a result, the direction indicator tone will sound dif-
ferently.
INSTALLATION OF COUPLING
DEVICE
NISSAN recommends that the coupling device for
trailer towing be installed under the following condi-
tions:
•Maximum permissible vertical load on the cou-
pling device: 490N (50 kg, 110 lb)
•The coupling device, mounting points and instal-
lation parts on your vehicle: as shown as an ex-
ample in the illustration.
Follow all of the coupling device manufacturer’s in-
structions for installation and use.
Starting and driving5-25

WARNING
•If the Electrically Power Assisted Steering
warning light (EPAS) illuminates while driv-
ing, the power assist for steering will be dis-
abled. Greater steering efforts are required to
operate the steering wheel, especially in
sharp turns and at low speed. Stop the ve-
hicle as soon as safely possible and contact a
NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop for fur-
ther assistance.
•In certain circumstances, factors external to
the EPAS system may contribute to the illumi-
nation of the warning light. If the warning light
illuminates, stop the vehicle as soon as safely
possible if driving. Turn the ignition switch to
the “OFF” position and wait for approximately
20 seconds, then turn the ignition switch to
the ON position again. If the light remains illu-
minated, we recommend you to contact a
NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop. See
“Warning/indicator lights and audible
reminders” in the “2. Instruments and
controls” section for further details regarding
the EPAS warning light.
The EPAS (Electrically Power Assisted Steering)
system is designed to assist steering.
The steering may appear to feel slightly stiff follow-
ing parking manoeuvres including a great deal of
steering. This is not a malfunction; it is caused by a
control system designed to prevent the motor fromoverheating. No servicing is required. The EPAS
system will return to normal operation the next time
the vehicle is driven.
Similarly, the EPAS system may not provide full as-
sistance during periods of reduced battery voltage
but will recover once normal battery voltage is re-
stored.
If the EPAS warning light comes on while the engine
is running, it may indicate that the EPAS system is
not working properly. As result greater steering ef-
forts are required to steer the steering wheel, espe-
cially in sharp turns and at low speeds. Have the
system checked by a NISSAN dealer or qualified
workshop as soon as possible.
NOTE
Incorrectly inflated tyres can lead to poor steer-
ing ability and make the driver suspect a steering
problem: keep the vehicle’s tyres inflated to the
correct pressure at all times.
CAUTION
Any malfunction or accident that could have dam-
aged the steering components (including actual
or attempted theft damage) should be reported
to a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop.The brake system has two separate hydraulic cir-
cuits. If one circuit malfunctions, you will still have
braking ability with two wheels.
BRAKE PRECAUTIONS
Vacuum assisted brake
The brake booster aids braking by using engine
vacuum. If the engine stops or the drive belt is bro-
ken, you can stop the vehicle by depressing the
brake pedal. However, greater foot pressure on the
brake pedal will be required to stop the vehicle and
the stopping distance will be longer.
Wet brakes
When the vehicle is washed or driven through wa-
ter, the brakes may get wet. As a result, your brak-
ing distance will be longer and the vehicle may pull
to one side during braking.
To dry brakes, drive the vehicle at a safe speed
while lightly pressing the brake pedal to heat up the
brakes. Do this until the brakes return to normal.
Avoid driving the vehicle at high speeds until the
brakes function correctly.
Using the brakes
Avoid resting your foot on the brake pedal while
driving. This will overheat the brakes, wear out the
brake linings and pads faster and reduce fuel
economy performance.
To help reduce brake wear and to prevent the brakes
from overheating, reduce speed and downshift to a
lower gear before going down a slope or long down-
POWER STEERING SYSTEM BRAKE SYSTEM
Starting and driving5-27

hill gradient. Overheated brakes may reduce brak-
ing performance and could result in loss of vehicle
control.
CAUTION
While driving on a slippery surface, be careful
when braking, accelerating or downshifting.
Abrupt braking actions or sudden acceleration
could cause the wheels to skid and result in an
accident.
Be aware that brakes will fade if repeated heavy
brake applications are made.
Driving uphill
When starting on a steep gradient, it is sometimes
difficult to operate the brake (AT models) or both the
brake and clutch (MT models). Use the handbrake
to hold the vehicle. Do not slip the clutch (MT mod-
els). When ready to start, slowly release the hand-
brake while depressing the accelerator pedal and
releasing the clutch (MT models) or depressing the
accelerator pedal (AT models).
Driving downhill
The engine braking action is effective for controlling
the vehicle while descending hills.
The gear lever (MT models) should be placed in a
gear position low enough to obtain sufficient engine
braking.
For AT models, the 2 (Second) or 1 (First) gear
should be selected.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS)
WARNING
•The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is a so-
phisticated device, but it cannot prevent acci-
dents resulting from careless or dangerous
driving techniques. It can help maintain ve-
hicle control during braking on slippery sur-
faces. Remember that stopping distances
may also be longer on rough, gravel or snow
covered roads, or if you are using snow
chains. Always maintain a safe distance from
the vehicle in front of you. Ultimately, the
driver is responsible for safety.
•Tyre type and condition may also affect brak-
ing effectiveness.
– When replacing tyres, install the specified
size of tyres on all four wheels.
– When installing a spare tyre, make sure it
is the proper size and type as specified on
the tyre placard. See “Vehicle
identification” in the “9. Technical
information” section for the tyre placard
location.
– For detailed information, see “Wheels and
tyres” in the “8. Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section.
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) controls the
brakes so that the wheels do not lock during hard
braking or when braking on slippery surfaces. The
system detects the rotation speed at each wheeland varies the brake fluid pressure to prevent each
wheel from locking and sliding. By preventing each
wheel from locking, the system helps the driver to
maintain steering control and helps to minimise
swerving and spinning on slippery surfaces.
Using the system
Depress the brake pedal and hold it down. Depress
the brake pedal with firm steady pressure, but do
not pump the brakes. The ABS will operate to pre-
vent the wheels from locking up. Steer the vehicle to
avoid obstacles.
WARNING
Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so may in-
crease the stopping distance.
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 malfunction, 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 or qualified workshop.
5-28Starting and driving

NOTE
The ESP system cannot be switched off when
the ESP system is operating and the “SLIP” indi-
cator light (
) is blinking.
Push the ESP OFF switch again, or restart the en-
gine, to turn the system ON. See “Electronic Stabil-
ity Programme (ESP) system (where fitted)” earlier
in this section for operational details.
WARNING
•Whatever the conditions, drive with caution.
Accelerate and decelerate with great care. If
accelerating or decelerating too fast, the drive
wheels will lose even more traction.
•Allow more stopping distance in cold weather
driving. Braking should be started sooner than
on dry surfaces.
•Keep at a greater distance from the vehicle in
front of you on slippery roads.
•Wet ice (0°C, 32°F and freezing rain), very cold
snow and ice can be slick and very difficult to
drive on. The vehicle will have a lot less trac-
tion or grip under these conditions. Try to
avoid driving on wet ice until the road is salted
or sanded.
•Watch for slippery spots (black ice). These
may appear on an otherwise clear road in
shaded areas. If a patch of ice is seen ahead,
brake before driving on it. Try not to brake
while actually on the ice and avoid any sud-
den steering manoeuvres.
•Snow can trap dangerous exhaust gas under
your vehicle. Keep snow clear of the exhaust
pipe and from around your vehicle.
BATTERY
If the battery is not fully charged during extremely
cold weather conditions, the battery fluid may freeze
and damage the battery. To maintain maximum effi-ciency, the battery should be checked regularly. For
details, see “Battery” in the “8. Maintenance and
do-it-yourself” section.
ENGINE COOLANT
If the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-freeze,
drain the cooling system. Refill before operating the
vehicle. For details, see “Engine cooling system” in
the “8. Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.
TYRE EQUIPMENT
1) The SUMMER tyres are of a tread design to pro-
vide superior performance on dry surfaces. How-
ever, the performance of these tyres will be sub-
stantially 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 tyres on all four wheels. Please
consult a NISSAN dealer or qualified workshop
for tyre type, size, speed rating and availability
information.
2) For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tyres may be used. However, some countries,
provinces and states prohibit their use. Check
applicable laws before installing studded tyres.
CAUTION
Skid and traction capabilities of studded snow
tyres on wet or dry surfaces may be poorer
than that of non-studded snow tyres.
3) Snow chains may be used, if desired. But the
use of snow chains may be prohibited in some
areas. Therefore, check the local laws before
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
Starting and driving5-31

•Never lean over the battery while jump-start-
ing.
•Never allow battery fluid to come into contact
with eyes, skin, clothes or the vehicle’s
painted surfaces. Battery fluid is a corrosive
sulphuric acid which can cause severe burns.
If the fluid comes into contact with anything,
immediately flush the contacted area with
plenty of water.
•Keep the battery out of the reach of children.
•The booster battery must be rated at 12 volts.
Use of an incorrectly rated battery will dam-
age your vehicle.
•Never attempt to jump-start a frozen battery.
It could explode and cause serious injury.
1. Prepare vehicle
jA with the booster battery for
the vehiclejB being jump-started.
CAUTION
Do not allow the two vehicles to touch.
2. Apply the handbrake.
3. Shift the gear lever (MT models) into the N (Neu-
tral) position [AT models, move the selector lever
to the P (Park) position].
4. Switch off all unnecessary electrical systems
(headlights, hazard lights etc,).
5. Ensure that the ignition switch of the vehicle be-
ing jump-started is in the LOCK position.6. Open the bonnet. For details, see “Bonnet
release” in the “3. Pre-driving checks and
adjustments” section.
7. Remove the vent caps (where fitted) on the bat-
tery and cover the battery with an old cloth.
8. Connect the jump leads in the sequence (
j1→j2→j3→j4 ) as illustrated.
CAUTION
•Always connect positivej+ to positivej+
and negativej- to body ground (for ex-
ample, engine lift bracket, etc.) – not to
the battery’s negative
j-.
•An incorrect connection could damage the
charging system.
•Be sure that the jumper cables do not
touch moving parts in the engine compart-
ment.
•Be careful not to allow contact between
the positive jump lead connector and the
vehicle or the negative lead during con-
nection and disconnection.
9. Start the engine of the other vehicle
jA and let it
run for a few minutes. Keep the engine speed at
about 2,000 rpm.
10. Start the engine of your vehicle
jB in the nor-
mal way.
CAUTION
Do not keep the starter motor engaged formore than 10 seconds. If the engine does not
start immediately, turn the ignition switch to
“OFF” and wait 10 seconds before trying
again.
11. After starting the engine of your vehicle, care-
fully disconnect the negative lead and then the
positive lead (
j4→j3→j2→j1).
12. Remove and dispose of the cloth that was used
to cover the vent holes as it may be contami-
nated with corrosive acid.
13. Install the vent caps (where fitted).
14. Close the bonnet.
6-10In case of emergency

CAUTION
•Three-way catalyst equipped models should
not be started by pushing the vehicle as the
three-way catalyst may be damaged.
•Automatic transmission (AT) models cannot
be started by pushing the vehicle. This may
cause transmission damage.
•Never try to start the vehicle by towing it; when
the engine starts, the forward surge could
cause the vehicle to collide with the tow ve-
hicle.
WARNING
•Never continue driving if the engine of your
vehicle overheats. Doing so could cause a ve-
hicle fire.
•Never open the bonnet if steam is coming
out.
•Never remove the radiator cap (where fitted)
or engine coolant reservoir cap when the en-
gine is hot. If the radiator cap (where fitted) or
engine coolant reservoir cap is removed while
the engine is hot, pressurised hot water will
spurt out and possibly cause burning, scald-
ing or serious injury.
•If steam or coolant is coming out of the en-
gine, stand clear of the vehicle to prevent get-
ting injured.
•The engine cooling fan will start whenever the
coolant temperature exceeds preset degrees.
•Be careful not to allow your hands, hair, jewel-
lery or clothing to come into contact with, or
get caught in, the cooling fan or drive belts.
If the engine of your vehicle is overheating (indi-
cated by the engine coolant temperature warning
light (red)) or if you feel a lack of engine power,
detect an unusual noise, etc., proceed as follows:
1. Move and park the vehicle safely off the road and
away from traffic.
2. Turn on the hazard warning flasher lights.
3. Apply the handbrake.4. Shift the gear lever (M/T models) into the N (Neu-
tral) position [AT models, move the selector lever
to the P (Park) position].
DO NOT STOP THE ENGINE.
5. Open all windows.
6. Switch off the air conditioner system (where fit-
ted).
7. Set the heater or air conditioner temperature
control to maximum “HOT” and fan speed con-
trol to maximum speed.
8. Exit the vehicle.
9. Visually inspect and listen for steam or coolant
escaping from the radiator before opening the
bonnet. Wait until no steam or coolant can be
seen before proceeding.
10. Open the bonnet. For details, see “Bonnet
release” in the “3. Pre-driving checks and
adjustments” section.
11. Visually check if the cooling fan is running.
12. Visually check the radiator and radiator hoses
for leakage.
WARNING
If coolant is leaking, the cooling fan belt is
missing or loose or the cooling fan is not run-
ning, stop the engine.
PUSH-STARTING ENGINE OVERHEAT
In case of emergency6-11