power steering NISSAN PATHFINDER 1998 R50 / 2.G Owners Manual

5 Starting and drivingPrecautions when starting and driving ...................... 5-2
Ignition switch............................................................ 5-6
Before starting the engine ......................................... 5-8
Starting the engine .................................................... 5-9
Driving the vehicle ..................................................... 5-9
Parking brake .......................................................... 5-15
Cruise control .......................................................... 5-16
Break-in schedule ................................................... 5-18
Increasing fuel economy ......................................... 5-19
Using four wheel drive ............................................ 5-20
Parking/parking on hills ........................................... 5-23
Power steering ........................................................ 5-24
Brake system .......................................................... 5-24
Cold weather driving ............................................... 5-26
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IHEADED DOWNHILL WITH CURB:
q1
Turn the wheels into the curb and move the
vehicle forward until the curb side wheel
gently touches the curb.
IHEADED UPHILL WITH CURB:
q2
Turn the wheels away from the curb and
move the vehicle back until the curb side
wheel gently touches the curb.
IHEADED UPHILL OR DOWNHILL, NO
CURB:
q3
Turn the wheels toward the side of the road
so the vehicle will move away from the
center of the road if it moves.
4. Turn the ignition key to the LOCK position
and remove the key.INever leave the engine running while
vehicle is unattended.
INever leave children unattended in
the vehicle.
The power assisted steering is designed to
use a hydraulic pump, driven by the engine, to
assist steering.
If the engine stops or drive belt breaks, you will
still have control of the vehicle. However,
much greater steering effort is needed, espe-
cially in sharp turns or at low speeds.If the engine is not running or is turned
off while driving, the power assist for the
steering will not work. Steering will be
much harder to operate.
The brake system has two separate hydraulic
circuits. If one circuit develops a problem, you
will still have braking at two wheels.
Vacuum assisted brake
The brake booster aids braking by using en-
gine vacuum. If the engine stops, 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
water, the brakes may get wet. As a result,
your braking 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 gas mileage.
To help save the brakes and to prevent the
brakes from overheating, before going down a
POWER STEERING BRAKE SYSTEM
5-24
Starting and driving
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slope or long grade, reduce speed and down-
shift to a lower gear.IWhile driving on a slippery surface,
be careful when braking, accelerating
or downshifting. Abrupt braking or
accelerating could cause the wheels
to skid and result in an accident.
IIf the engine is not running or is
turned off while driving, the power
assist for the brakes will not work.
Braking will be harder.ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS)The anti-lock brake system controls the brakes
at each wheel so the wheels will not lock when
braking abruptly or when braking on slippery
surfaces. The system detects the rotation
speed at each wheel and varies the brake fluid
pressure to prevent each wheel from locking
and sliding. By preventing wheel lockup, the
system helps the driver maintain steering con-
trol and helps to minimize swerving and spin-
ning on slippery surfaces.
Using the systemDepress the brake pedal and hold it down.Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so
may result in increased stopping
distances.Normal operationThe anti-lock brake system will not operate at
speeds below 3 to 6 MPH (5 to 10 km/h) to
completely stop the vehicle. (The speeds will
vary according to road conditions.) When the
anti-lock system senses that one or more
wheels are close to locking up, the actuator
(under the hood) rapidly applies and releases
hydraulic pressure (like pumping the brakes
very quickly). While the actuator is working,
you may feel a pulsation in the brake pedal
and hear a noise or vibration from the actuator
under the hood. This is normal and indicates
that the anti-lock system is working properly.
However, the pulsation may indicate that road
conditions are hazardous and extra care is
required while driving.
If a tire slips on rough roads for more than
10 seconds, the ABS brake warning lightmay come on. Turn OFF the ignition key,
restart the engine and drive the vehicle at
speeds above 20 MPH (30 km/h). If the
warning light does not go out, have the
vehicle checked at a NISSAN dealer.
Self-test featureThe anti-lock brake system consists of elec-
tronic sensors, electric pumps, and hydraulic
solenoids controlled by a computer. The com-
puter 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 is not an
indication of any malfunction. If the computer
senses any malfunction, it switches the anti-
lock brake system OFF and turns on the ABS
brake warning light in the dashboard. The
brake system will then behave normally, but
without anti-lock assistance.
If the light comes on during the self check, or
while you are driving, you should take your
vehicle to your NISSAN dealer for repair at
your earliest convenience.
Starting and driving
5-25
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Be careful not to allow your hands, hair,
jewelry or clothing to come into contact
with, or to get caught in, the cooling fan,
or drive belt.7. After the engine cools down, check the
coolant level in the reservoir tank with the
engine running. Add coolant to the reservoir
tank if necessary. Have your vehicle re-
paired at the nearest NISSAN dealer.When towing your vehicle, all State (Provincial
in Canada) and local regulations for towing
must be followed. Incorrect towing equipment
could damage your vehicle. Towing instruc-
tions are available from your NISSAN dealer.
Local service operators will generally be famil-
iar with the applicable laws and procedures for
towing. To assure proper towing and to pre-
vent accidental damage to your vehicle,
NISSAN recommends that you have a service
operator tow your vehicle. It is advisable to
have the service operator carefully read the
following precautions.
INever ride in a vehicle that is being
towed.
INever get under your vehicle after it
has been lifted by a tow truck.
IWhen towing, make sure that the
transmission, axles, steering system
and power train are in working condi-
tion. If any unit is damaged, dollies
must be used.
IAlways attach safety chains before
towing.
INever tow an automatic transmission
model from the rear (that is back-
ward) with four wheels on the
SCE0196
TOW TRUCK TOWING
6-10
In case of emergency
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8 Do-it-yourselfMaintenance precautions .......................................... 8-2
Engine compartment check locations ....................... 8-3
Engine cooling system .............................................. 8-4
Engine oil .................................................................. 8-7
Automatic transmission fluid ..................................... 8-9
Power steering fluid ................................................ 8-11
Brake and clutch fluid ............................................. 8-11
Window washer fluid ............................................... 8-12
Battery ..................................................................... 8-13
Drive belts ............................................................... 8-14
Spark plugs ............................................................. 8-14
Air cleaner ............................................................... 8-16
Windshield wiper blades ......................................... 8-17
Parking brake and brake pedal ............................... 8-18
Clutch pedal ............................................................ 8-20
Fuses....................................................................... 8-20
Lights ....................................................................... 8-21
Tires and wheels ..................................................... 8-26
Clutch housing drain ................................... 8-30
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Check the fluid level.
The fluid level should be checked using the
HOT range on the dipstick at fluid tempera-
tures of 122 to 176ÉF (50 to 80ÉC) or using the
COLD range on the dipstick at fluid tempera-
tures of 32 to 86ÉF (0 to 30ÉC).IDo not overfill.
IUse type DEXRON
TMIII or equivalent.
Check the fluid level in the reservoir. If the fluid
level is below the MIN. line or the brake
warning light comes on, add DOT 3 fluid up to
the MAX. line.
If fluid is added frequently, the system should
be thoroughly checked by your
NISSAN dealer.Use only new fluid. Old, inferior or con-
taminated fluid may damage the brake
and clutch systems. The use of im-
proper fluids can damage the brake sys-tem and affect the vehicle's stopping
ability.
Do not spill the fluid on any painted
surfaces. This will damage the paint. If
fluid is spilled, wash with water.
DI0187M
SDI0722
POWER STEERING FLUID BRAKE AND CLUTCH FLUID
Do-it-yourself
8-11
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Parking brake*Check that the lever has the
proper travel and confirm that your vehicle is
held securely on a fairly steep hill with only the
parking brake applied.
Automatic transmission P position mecha-
nismOn a fairly steep hill check that your
vehicle is held securely with the selector lever
in the P position without applying any brakes.Under the hood and vehicleThe maintenance items listed here should be
checked periodically e.g. 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 hosesCheck 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, rot or
loose connections.
Brake and clutch fluid levels*Make sure that
the brake and clutch fluid level is between the
MAX and MIN lines on the reservoir.
Battery*Check the fluid level in each cell. Itshould 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 after parking
the vehicle on a level spot and turning off the
engine. (Be sure to wait a few minutes to allow
the oil to drain back into the sump.)
Power steering fluid level* and linesCheck
the level when the fluid is cold and the engine
is turned off. Check the lines for proper attach-
ment, leaks, cracks, etc.
Automatic transmission fluid level*Check
the level after putting the selector lever in P
(Park) with the engine idling.
Exhaust systemMake 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).
UnderbodyThe underbody is frequently ex-
posed to corrosive substances such as those
used on icy roads or to control dust. It is veryimportant 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 leaksCheck 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
you should notice any leaks or if gasoline
fumes are evident, check for the cause and
have it corrected immediately.9-4
Maintenance
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Capacity (Approximate)
Recommended specifications
US
measureImp
measureLiter
Manual transmissionÐ Ð Ð API GL-4 Viscosity SAE 75W-90 only
Differential gear oil (exc. LSD)Ð Ð Ð API GL-5*1
Limited-slip differential (LSD) gear oil Ð Ð ÐOnly LSD gear oil:
API GL-5 and SAE 80W-90*2 approved for Nissan
LSD*3
Automatic transmission fluid
Refill to the proper oil level according to the instructions in
the ª8. Do-it-yourselfº section.Nissan Matic ªDº (Continental US and Alaska) or
Genuine Nissan Automatic Transmission Fluid
(Canada).*6
Power steering fluidType DEXRON
TMIII or equivalent
Transfer fluidNissan Matic ªDº or Equivalent Automatic Transmis-
sion Fluid*6 or API GL-4*1
Brake and clutch fluidGenuine Nissan Brake Fluid*4 or equivalent
DOT 3 (US F.M.V.S.S. No. 116)
Propeller shaft grease Ð Ð ÐNLGI No. 2 (Molybdenum disulphide lithium soap
base)
Multi-purpose greaseÐ Ð Ð NLGI No. 2 (Lithium soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerantÐ Ð Ð HFC-134a (R-134a)*5
Air conditioning system lubricantsÐ Ð Ð Nissan A/C System Oil Type S or exact equivalent
*1: For further details, see recommended SAE viscosity number chart.
*2: SAE 90 is acceptable in temperatures above 0ÉF (þ18ÉC).
*3: Contact your NISSAN dealer for a list of approved oils.
*4: Available in mainland USA through your NISSAN dealer.
*5: See ªVehicle identificationº later in this section for air conditioner specification label.
*6: Dexron
TM
III/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
TM
III/Mercon
TM
Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Technical and consumer information
10-3
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Checking
Brake pedal ............................................... 8-18
Bulb ............................................................. 2-9
Engine coolant level .................................... 8-4
Engine oil level ............................................ 8-7
Parking brake ............................................ 8-18
Seat belt operation, Three-point ............... 1-21
Child restraint.................................................. 1-25
Installation on front seat ............................ 1-36
Installation on rear seat center ................. 1-27
Installation on rear seat outboard ............. 1-30
Precaution ................................................. 1-25
Top strap ................................................... 1-34
Child safety
Rear door lock ............................................. 3-3
Seat belt .................................................... 1-18
Chrome parts, Cleaning .................................... 7-3
Cigarette lighter and ashtray .......................... 2-22
Cleaner, Air ..................................................... 8-16
Cleaning
Exterior ........................................................ 7-2
Interior ......................................................... 7-4
Clock ............................................................... 2-33
Adjusting .................................................... 2-33
Operation ................................................... 2-34
Clutch
Fluid ........................................................... 8-11
Housing drain,
................................. 8-30
Pedal ......................................................... 8-20
Cold weather driving ....................................... 5-26
Compact disc (CD) player operation, with
cassette player type........................................ 4-23
Compass display .............................................. 2-7
Console box .................................................... 2-25Controls, Heater and manual air conditioner.... 4-3
Controls, Heater and semiautomatic air
conditioner ........................................................ 4-9
Cooling system, Engine .................................... 8-4
Corrosion protection ......................................... 7-5
Cover, Tonneau .............................................. 2-29
Cruise control.................................................. 5-16
Cup holder ...................................................... 2-24
D
Defogger switch, Rear window and outside
mirror............................................................... 2-16
Dimensions and weights, Vehicle ................. 10-11
Door .................................................................. 3-2
Door open warning light ................................. 2-10
Drinking alcohol/drugs and driving ................... 5-4
Drive belt......................................................... 8-14
Driving
Cold weather ............................................. 5-26
On snow or ice .......................................... 5-28
On-pavement and offroad ........................... 5-4
Precaution ................................................... 5-2
The vehicle .................................................. 5-9
Drugs ................................................................ 5-4
EEconomy, Fuel ................................................ 5-19
Emission control
Information label ...................................... 10-13
System warranty...................................... 10-19
Engine
Block heater .............................................. 5-28Compartment check location....................... 8-3
Coolant heater ........................................... 5-28
Coolant temperature gauge ........................ 2-4
Cooling system ............................................ 8-4
Oil ................................................................ 8-7
Oil and oil filter recommendation .............. 10-6
Overheat ...................................................... 6-9
Serial number .......................................... 10-12
Specifications ............................................ 10-9
Exhaust gas (Carbon monoxide) ...................... 5-2
Explanation of maintenance items .......... 9-2, 9-10
Exterior and interior light, Replacement ......... 8-23
F
F.M.V.S.S. certification label......................... 10-13
Fastening the seat belt
Three-point ................................................ 1-20
Two-point ................................................... 1-23
Filling, Fuel filler lid ......................................... 3-11
Filter, Air ......................................................... 8-16
Flasher switch, Hazard warning ..................... 2-19
Flat tire .............................................................. 6-2
Floor mats, Cleaning ........................................ 7-4
Fluid
Automatic transmission ............................... 8-9
Brake ......................................................... 8-11
Engine ......................................................... 8-7
Power steering .......................................... 8-11
Window washer ......................................... 8-12
Fog light switch ............................................... 2-19
Four by four clutch housing drain ................... 8-30
Four wheel drive, Using .................................. 5-20
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Key .............................................................. 3-2
Power door lock switch ............................... 3-3
Low fuel warning light ..................................... 2-11
Lubricant, Capacities and recommended ....... 10-2
Luggage
Hook .......................................................... 2-27
Net ............................................................. 2-28
Rack .......................................................... 2-30
Storage ...................................................... 2-26
M
Maintenance
General ........................................................ 9-2
Item .................................................... 9-2, 9-10
Periodic........................................................ 9-5
Precaution ................................................... 8-2
Seat belt .................................................... 1-25
Manual
Front seat adjustment ................................. 1-2
Transmission, Driving ................................ 5-14
Meter
And gauge ................................................... 2-3
Speedometer and odometer ....................... 2-3
Tachometer ................................................. 2-4
Mirror............................................................... 3-14
Inside ......................................................... 3-14
Outside ...................................................... 3-14
Multi-remote control system.............................. 3-4
NNet, Luggage .................................................. 2-28New vehicle, Break-in ..................................... 5-18
O
Odometer .......................................................... 2-3
Oil
Automatic transmission ............................... 8-9
Brake ......................................................... 8-11
Engine ......................................................... 8-7
Filter recommendation............................... 10-6
Power steering .......................................... 8-11
Opener operation
Back door .................................................. 3-11
Fuel filler lid ............................................... 3-11
Rear window.............................................. 3-11
Trunk lid..................................................... 3-11
Operating tips, Automatic air
conditioner .............................. 4-5, 4-6, 4-11, 4-12
Operation, Clock ............................................. 2-34
Outside mirror ................................................. 3-14
Outside temperature display ............................. 2-6
Overheat ........................................................... 6-9
PParking
Brake ......................................................... 5-15
Brake and brake pedal .............................. 8-18
Parking/parking on hills .................................. 5-23
Pedal
Brake ......................................................... 8-18
Clutch ........................................................ 8-20
Periodic maintenance ....................................... 9-5
Personal light .................................................. 2-35Power
Front seat adjustment ................................. 1-4
Seat operating tips ...................................... 1-4
Socket........................................................ 2-21
Steering ..................................................... 5-24
Steering fluid ............................................. 8-11
Window ...................................................... 2-30
Precaution
Maintenance ................................................ 8-2
On child restraint ....................................... 1-25
On seat belt usage .................................... 1-17
On-pavement and offroad ........................... 5-4
When starting and driving ........................... 5-2
Pregnant women, Seat belt ............................ 1-19
Push starting ..................................................... 6-9
R
Rack, Luggage................................................ 2-30
Radio............................................................... 4-14
With cassette player .................................. 4-15
With cassette player and
compact disc (CD) player.......................... 4-19
Readiness for inspection/maintenance (I/M) test
(US only) ....................................................... 10-20
Rear
Door lock, Child safety ................................ 3-3
Seat adjustment .......................................... 1-5
Window and outside mirror defogger
switch......................................................... 2-16
Window wiper and washer switch ............. 2-16
Window, Lock ............................................ 3-10
Recommended
Fuel/lubricant ............................................. 10-2
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