engine NISSAN PATHFINDER 1996 R50 / 2.G Owner's Manual

Bi-level heating
This mode directs outside air from the side and
center vents and hot air from the floor outlets.
1. Push the air recirculation button OFF.
2. Turn the air control dial to the ª
º posi-
tion.
3. (Manual mode)
Turn on the fan control dial (1 to 3).
(Auto mode)
Turn the fan control dial to the AUTO
position.
IThe fan speed will be maintained automati-
cally.
4. Turn the temperature control dial to set the
desired temperature.
IAdjust the temperature control dial to about
75ÉF (24ÉC) for normal operation.
IThe temperature will be maintained auto-
matically.
Heating and defogging
This mode heats the interior and defogs the
windshield.
1. Push the air recirculation button OFF.2. Turn the air control dial to the ª
º posi-
tion.
3. (Manual mode)
Turn on the fan control dial (1 to 3).
(Auto mode)
Turn the fan control dial to the AUTO
position.
IThe fan speed will be maintained automati-
cally.
4. Turn the temperature control dial to set the
desired temperature.
IAdjust the temperature control dial to about
75ÉF (24ÉC) for normal operation.
IThe temperature will be maintained auto-
matically.
Operating tips
IClear snow and ice from the wiper blade
and air inlet in front of the windshield.
This will improve heater operation.
AIR CONDITIONER OPERATION
Start the engine, turn the fan control dial to the
desired (Auto, 1 to 3) position and push in the
air conditioner button to activate the air condi-
tioner. When the air conditioner is on, coolingand dehumidifying functions will be added to
the heater operation.
The air conditioner cooling function oper-
ates only when the engine is running.
Cooling
This mode is used to cool and dehumidify.
1. Push the air recirculation button OFF.
2. Turn the air control dial to the ª
º posi-
tion.
3. (Manual mode)
Turn on the fan control dial (1 to 3).
(Auto mode)
Turn the fan control dial to the AUTO
position.
IThe fan speed will be maintained automati-
cally.
4. Push the air conditioner button on. The
indicator light will come on.
5. Turn the temperature control dial to set the
desired temperature.
IAdjust the temperature control dial to about
75ÉF (24ÉC) for normal operation.
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Z01.2.1/R50-DX

IThe temperature will be maintained auto-
matically.
IFor quick cooling when the outside tem-
perature is high, push the air recirculation
button on. Be sure to turn off the air recir-
culation button for normal cooling.
Dehumidified heating
This mode is used to heat and dehumidify.
1. Push the air recirculation button OFF.
2. Turn the air control dial to the ª
º posi-
tion.
3. (Manual mode)
Turn on the fan control dial (1 to 3).
(Auto mode)
Turn the fan control dial to the AUTO
position.
IThe fan speed will be maintained automati-
cally.
4. Push on the air conditioner button. The
indicator light will come on.
5. Turn the temperature control dial to set the
desired temperature.
IAdjust the temperature control dial to about
75ÉF (24ÉC) for normal operation.IThe temperature will be maintained auto-
matically.
Dehumidified defogging
This mode is used to defog the windows and
dehumidify.
1. Push the air recirculation button OFF to
improve the defogging performance.
2. Turn the air control dial to the ª
º
position.
3. (Manual mode)
Turn on the fan control dial (1 to 3).
(Auto mode)
Turn the fan control dial to the AUTO
position.
4. Turn the temperature control dial to the
desired position.
Operating tips
IKeep windows and sun roof closed while
the air conditioner is in operation.
IAfter parking in the sun, drive for two or
three minutes with the windows open to
vent hot air from the passenger compart-
ment. Then, close the windows. This willallow the air conditioner to cool the interior
more quickly.
IThe air conditioning system should be op-
erated for about ten minutes at least once a
month. This helps prevent damage to the
system due to lack of lubrication.
IIf the coolant temperature gauge exceeds
the ªHOTº position, turn the air conditioner
off. See ªIf your vehicle overheats ºin the ªIn
case of emergencyº section for additional
information.
IIf the engine coolant reaches an extremely
high temperature, the air conditioning sys-
tem will automatically turn off. This may
happen for example if the engine is run at
idle for a long time on a hot day.
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Z01.2.1/R50-DX

The sensor on the instrument panel helps
maintain a constant temperature. Do not put
anything on or around this sensor.
Servicing air conditioner
The air conditioning system in your NISSAN
vehicle is charged with a new refrigerant de-
signed with the environment in mind.
This new refrigerant will not harm the
earth's ozone layer.
However, special charging equipment and lu-
bricant are required when servicing your NIS-
SAN air conditioner. Using improper refriger-
ants or lubricants will cause severe damage to
your air conditioning system. See AIR CONDI-
TIONING SYSTEM REFRIGERANT AND LU-
BRICANT RECOMMENDATIONS in the
TECHNICAL INFORMATION section of this
manual.
Your NISSAN dealer will be able to service
your environmentally ªfriendlyº air conditioning
system.To turn the radio on, turn the ignition key to
ªACCº or ªONº. If you listen to the radio with
the engine not running, turn the key to the
ªACCº position.
Radio reception is affected by station signal
strength, distance from radio transmitter, build-
ings, bridges, mountains, and other external
influences. Intermittent changes in reception
quality normally are caused by these external
influences.
SAA0158
RADIO
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Z01.2.1/R50-DX

4 Starting and driving
Precautions when starting and driving ................... 4-2
On-pavement and off-road driving precautions ...... 4-3
Avoiding collision and rollover ................................. 4-4
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving .......................... 4-4
Ignition switch ........................................................ 4-4
Before starting the engine ..................................... 4-6
Driving with automatic transmission ...................... 4-6
Driving with manual transmission ........................ 4-10
Starting the engine ............................................... 4-11
Parking brake ....................................................... 4-12
Cruise control ....................................................... 4-13
Break-in schedule ................................................ 4-15
Economy hints ..................................................... 4-15
Transfer case shifting procedures
for 4-wheel drive vehicles .................................... 4-16
Parking ................................................................. 4-22
Precautions when driving ..................................... 4-23
Anti-lock brake system .......................................... 4-24
Cold weather driving cautions .............................. 4-25
Corrosion protection ............................................. 4-27
Z01.2.1/R50-DX

IDo not leave children, unreliable
adults, or pets alone in your vehicle.
They could accidentally injure them-
selves 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.
ITo prevent luggage or packages from
sliding forward during braking, do
not stack anything in the cargo area
higher than the seatbacks.
IFailure to follow proper seating in-
structions in this section could result
in serious personal injury in an acci-
dent or during a sudden stop.
EXHAUST GAS (Carbon Monoxide)
Do not breathe exhaust gases; they con-
tain colorless and odorless carbon mon-
oxide. Carbon monoxide is a dangerous
gas, and can cause unconsciousness or
death.
IIf you suspect that exhaust fumes are
entering the vehicle, drive with all
windows fully open, and have the
vehicle inspected immediately.
IDo not run the engine in closed
spaces such as a garage for any
longer than is absolutely necessary.
IDo not park the vehicle with the en-
gine running for any extended length
of time.
IKeep the back door and rear window
closed while driving, otherwise ex-
haust gases could be drawn into the
passenger compartment. If you must
drive in this manner for some reason,
take the following steps.
1. Open all the windows.2. Set the air recirculate switch
ªOFFº and the fan control at
ªhighº to circulate the air.
IIf electrical wiring or other cable con-
nections must pass to a trailer
through the seal on the back door or
the body, follow the manufacturer's
recommendation to prevent carbon
monoxide entry into the vehicle.
IThe exhaust system and body should
be inspected by a qualified mechanic
whenever:
a. The vehicle is raised for service.
b. You suspect that exhaust fumes
are entering into the passenger
compartment.
c. You notice a change in the sound
of the exhaust system.
d. You have had an accident involv-
ing damage to the exhaust system,
underbody, or rear of the vehicle.
PRECAUTIONS WHEN STARTING
AND DRIVING
4-2
Z01.2.1/R50-DX

THREE-WAY CATALYST
The three-way catalyst is an emission control
device, installed in the exhaust system. In the
converter, exhaust gases are burned at high
temperatures to help reduce pollutants.
IThe exhaust gas and the exhaust sys-
tem are very hot. While the engine is
running, keep people or flammable
materials away from the exhaust sys-
tem.
IDo not stop or park the vehicle over
flammable materials, such as dry
grass, waste paper, or rags as they
may burn easily.
To help prevent damage
IDo not use leaded gasoline.
Deposits from leaded gasoline will seri-
ously reduce the three-way catalyst's
ability to help reduce exhaust pollut-
ants.
IKeep your engine tuned up. Malfunc-
tions in the ignition, fuel injection, orelectrical systems can cause overrich
fuel flow into the three-way catalyst,
causing it to overheat. Do not keep driv-
ing if the engine misfires, or if noticeable
loss of performance or other unusual
operating conditions are detected. Have
the vehicle inspected promptly by an
authorized NISSAN dealer.
IAvoid driving with an extremely low fuel
level. Running out of fuel could cause
the engine to misfire, damaging the
three-way catalyst.
IDo not race the engine while warming it
up.
IDo not push or tow your vehicle to start
the engine.Utility vehicles have higher ground clearance
than passenger cars and a narrower track to
make them capable of performing in a wide
variety of off-road applications. Specific design
characteristics give them a higher center of
gravity than ordinary cars. An advantage of
higher ground clearance is a better view of the
road, allowing you to anticipate problems.
They are not designed for cornering at the
same speeds as conventional 2-wheel drive
vehicles any more than low-slung sports cars
are designed to perform satisfactorily under
off-road conditions. If at all possible, avoid
sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers. As with
other vehicles of this type, failure to operate
this vehicle correctly may result in loss of
control or vehicle rollover.
Be sure to read the driving safety precautions
later in this section.
ON-PAVEMENT AND OFF-ROAD
DRIVING PRECAUTIONS
4-3
Z01.2.1/R50-DX

ªOFFº (1)
The engine can be turned off without locking
the steering wheel.
ªACCº (Accessories) (2)
This position activates electrical accessories
such as the radio when the engine is not
running.
ªONº Normal operating position (3)
This position turns on the ignition system and
the electrical accessories.
ªSTARTº (4)
This position activates the starter motor, start-
ing the engine.IMake sure the area around the vehicle is
clear.
ICheck fluid levels such as engine oil, cool-
ant, brake and clutch fluid, window washer
fluid as frequently as possible, at least
whenever you refuel.
ICheck to be sure that all windows and light
lenses are clean.
IVisually inspect tires for their appearance
and condition. Also check tires for proper
inflation.
ILock all doors.
IPosition seat and adjust head restraints.
IAdjust inside and outside mirrors.
IFasten seat belts and ask all passengers to
do likewise.
ICheck the operation of warning lights when
key is turned to the ªON (3)º position.The automatic transmission in your vehicle is
electronically controlled by a microcomputer to
produce maximum power and smooth opera-
tion.
Shown on the following pages are the recom-
mended operating procedures for this trans-
mission. Follow these procedures for maxi-
mum vehicle performance and driving
enjoyment.
Starting the vehicle
IAfter starting the engine, fully depress the
foot brake pedal and push the selector lever
button before shifting the selector lever to
the ªDº, ªRº, ª2º or ª1º position. Be sure the
vehicle is fully stopped before attempting to
shift the selector lever.
This automatic transmission is designed
so that the foot brake pedal MUST be de-
pressed before shifting from ªPº to any
drive position while the ignition switch is
ªONº.
The shift lever cannot be moved out of ªPº
and into any of the other gear positions if
the ignition key is turned to ªLOCKº or if
the key is removed from the switch.
When the battery charge is low, the shift
lever can be moved if the ignition switch is
in the ªACCº position.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
DRIVING WITH AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSION
4-6
Z01.2.1/R50-DX

1. Keep the foot brake pedal depressed and
push the selector lever button to shift into a
driving gear.
2. Release the parking brake and foot brake,
then gradually start the vehicle in motion.
ICold engine idle speed is high, so use
caution when shifting into a forward
or reverse gear before the engine has
warmed up.
IAvoid revving up the engine while the
vehicle is stopped. This could cause
unexpected vehicle movement.
Driving precautions
To help prevent transmission damage:
IDo not depress the accelerator pedal
while shifting from ªPº or ªNº to ªRº,
ªDº, ª2º or ª1º. Always depress the
brake pedal until shifting is completed.
INever shift to ªPº or ªRº while the ve-
hicle is moving.
IWhen stopping the vehicle on an uphill
grade, do not hold the vehicle by de-pressing the accelerator pedal. The foot
brake should be used for this purpose.
Push the button to shift into ªPº, ªRº or from ªDº
to ª2º. All other positions can be selected
without pushing the button.
ªPº (Park):
Use this selector position when the vehicle is
parked or when starting the engine. Always be
sure the vehicle is at a complete stop. For
maximum safety, depress the brake pedal,
then push in the select lever button and move
the lever to the ªPº position. Apply the parking
brake. When parking on a hill, apply the park-
ing brake first, then shift the lever into the ªPº
position.
SD1034
4-7
Z01.2.1/R50-DX

Shifting from ªPº (Park)
If the ignition switch is in the ªONº position and
the foot brake pedal is depressed, but the shift
lever still cannot be moved out of ªPº (Park),
follow these instructions:
1. Shut the engine off and remove the key.
2. Apply the parking brake.
3. Reinsert the ignition key and turn it clock-
wise to the ªACCº position.
4. Depress the brake pedal, move the gear-
shift lever to ªNº (Neutral) and start the
engine.
5. Check stop light operation.
If the shift lever cannot be moved from
the ªPº position while the engine is
running and the brake pedal depressed,
the stop lights may not work. Malfunc-
tioning stop lights could cause an acci-
dent injuring yourself and others.
These instructions for starting the vehicle in
ªNº (Neutral) should only be used until service
can be obtained. Never drive the vehicle if thestop lights are not operating properly.
ªRº (Reverse):
Use this position to back up. Shift into this
position only after the vehicle has completely
stopped.
ªNº (Neutral):
Neither forward nor reverse gear is engaged.
The engine can be started in this position. You
may shift to ªNº and restart a stalled engine
while the vehicle is moving.
ªDº (Drive):
Use this position for all normal forward driving.
ª2º (Second gear):
Use for hill climbing, effective engine braking
on downhill grades or starting on slippery
roads.
Do not downshift into the ª2º position at speeds
over the following speeds and do not exceed
the following speeds in the ª2º position:2-wheel drive:
60 MPH (95 km/h)
4-wheel drive:
50 MPH (80 km/h)
ª1º (Low gear):
Use this position when climbing steep hills
slowly or driving slowly through deep snow,
sand or mud, or for maximum engine braking
on steep downhill grades.
Do not shift into ª1ºposition at speeds over the
following speeds:
2-wheel drive:
60 MPH (95 km/h)
4-wheel drive:
50 MPH (80 km/h)
Do not exceed the following speeds in the ª1º
position:
2-wheel drive:
30 MPH (50 km/h)
4-wheel drive:
30 MPH (50 km/h)
4-8
Z01.2.1/R50-DX

Accelerator downshift
Ð In ªDº position Ð
For rapid passing or hill climbing, fully depress
the accelerator pedal to the floor. This shifts
the transmission down into second gear or first
gear, depending on the vehicle speed.
Overdrive switch
ON: For normal driving, push the overdrive
switch ªONº with the selector
switch in the ªDº position. The transmis-
sion is upshifted 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 ªbrakingº would be advan-
tageous, push the switch ªOFF
º.
When cruising at a low speeds or climb-
ing a gentle slope, you may feel uncom-fortable shift shock as the transmission
shifts between 3rd and overdrive repeat-
edly. In this case, set the overdrive
switch in the ªOFF
º position.
The indicator light will come on at this
time.
When driving conditions change, push the
overdrive switch in the ªON
º position.
Remember not to drive at high speeds for
extended periods of time with the overdrive
switch set in the ªOFF
º position. This
lowers the fuel economy.
Fail-safe
When the Fail-safe operation occurs, the next
time the key is turned to the ªONº position, the
O/D OFF light will blink for approximately 8
seconds after coming on for 2 seconds. While
the vehicle can be driven under these circum-
stances please note that the gears in the
automatic transmission will be locked in third
gear.
If the vehicle is driven under extreme con-
ditions, such as excessive wheel spinning
and subsequent hard braking, the Fail-safe
system may be activated. This will occur
even if all electrical circuits are functioning
properly. In this case, turn the ignition key
ªOFFº and wait for 3 seconds. Then turn
SSD0066
4-9
Z01.2.1/R50-DX