ignition NISSAN PATHFINDER 2020 Owner´s Manual

Overdrive (O/D) OFF switch
When the O/D OFF switch is pushed with
the shif t lever in the D (Drive) position,
the
indicator light in the instrument
panel illuminates. For additional informa-
tion, refer to “Overdrive OFF indicator light”
in the “Instruments and controls” section of
this manual.
Use the overdrive OFF mode when you
need improved engine braking.
To turn off the overdrive OFF mode, push
the O/D OFF switch again. The
indi-
cator light will turn off. Each time the engine is started, or when
the shif t lever is moved to any position
other than D (Drive), the overdrive OFF
mode will be automatically turned off.
Accelerator downshif t
— in D (Drive) position —
For passing or hill climbing, depress the
accelerator pedal to the floor. This shif ts
the transmission down into a lower gear,
depending on the vehicle speed.
High fluid temperature protection
mode
This transmission has a high fluid tem-
perature protection mode. If the fluid tem-
perature becomes too high (for example,
when climbing steep grades in high tem-
peratures with heavy loads, such as when
towing a trailer), engine power and, under
some conditions, vehicle speed will be de-
creased automatically to reduce the
chance of transmission damage. Vehicle
speed can be controlled with the accelera-
tor pedal, but the engine and vehicle speed
may be limited.
Fail-safe
If the vehicle is driven under extreme
conditions, such as excessive wheel
spinning and subsequent hard braking,
the fail-safe system may be activated.
The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
may come on to indicate the fail-safe
mode is activated. For additional infor-
mation, refer to “Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL)” in the “Instruments and con-
trols” section of this manual. This will oc-
cur even if all electrical circuits are func-
tioning properly. In this case, place the
ignition switch in the OFF position and
wait for 10 seconds. Then push the
switch back to the ON position. The ve-
hicle should return to its normal operat-
ing condition. If it does not return to its
normal operating condition, have the
transmission checked and repaired, if
necessary. It is recommended that you
visit a NISSAN dealer for this service.
LSD2246
5-20Starting and driving

1. Side BSW/RCTA Indicator Light
2. BSW/RCTA Indicator
BSW SYSTEM OPERATION
The BSW system operates above approxi-
mately 20 mph (32km/h).
If the radar sensors detect a vehicle in the
detection zone, the side BSW/RCTA indica-
tor light (1) illuminates. If the turn signal is
then activated, the system chimes (twice)
and the side BSW/RCTA indicator light
flashes. The side BSW/RCTA indicator light
continues to flash until the detected ve-
hicles leaves the detection zone.
The side BSW/RCTA indicator light illumi-
nates for a few seconds when the ignition
switch is placed in the ON position.
The brightness of the side BSW/RCTA indi-
cator light is adjusted automatically de-
pending on the brightness of the ambient
light.
If a vehicle comes into the detection zone
af ter the driver activates the turn signal,
then only the side BSW/RCTA indicator light
flashes and no chime sounds. For addi-
tional information, refer to “BSW driving
situations” in this section.
LSD2765
Starting and driving5-23

∙ AUTO – Turn the 4WD mode switch tothe neutral (AUTO) position. The 4WD
AUTO indicator in the vehicle informa-
tion display illuminates.
∙ LOCK – To engage the LOCK mode, turn the 4WD mode switch to the LOCK po-
sition. The switch will return to the AUTO
position automatically and the 4WD
LOCK indicator in the vehicle informa-
tion display illuminates. To disengage
the LOCK mode, turn the switch to the
LOCK position again. The switch will re-
turn to the AUTO position automatically,
and the 4WD LOCK indicator turns into
the AUTO indicator. The LOCK mode will
automatically be canceled when the ig-
nition switch is placed in the OFF posi-
tion.4WD mode Wheels driven 4WD mode indicator Use conditions
2WD Front only – This
mode is used when
driving on a normal
road *1 2WD
For driving on dry
paved roads.
AUTO Distribution of torque
to the front and rear
wheels changes au-
tomatically depend-
ing on road condi-
tions encountered.
This results in im-
proved driving
stability. AUTO
For driving on paved
or slippery roads.
LOCK 4-Wheel Drive *2 *3
LOCKFor driving on rough
roads.
*1 The 2WD mode may change to the 4WD mode automatically depending on the driving
conditions.
*2 The LOCK mode will change to the AUTO mode automatically when the vehicle has
been driven at a high speed. The 4WD LOCK indicator turns into the AUTO indicator.
*3 The LOCK mode will automatically be canceled when the ignition switch is placed in the
OFF position.
Starting and driving5-69

4WD shif t tips
∙ If the 4WD mode switch is operatedwhile making a turn, accelerating or de-
celerating, or if the ignition switch is
placed in the OFF position while in the
AUTO or LOCK mode, you may feel a jolt.
This is normal.
∙ The oil temperature of powertrain parts will increase if the vehicle is continu-
ously operated under conditions where
the difference between the front and
rear wheels is large (wheel slip), such as
when driving the vehicle on rough roads
through sand or mud or when freeing a
stuck vehicle. In these cases, the 4WD
mode changes to the 2WD mode to
protect the powertrain parts.
∙ Brake distance in the 4WD mode is the same as 2WD.
CAUTION
∙ Depending on the driving condition,the 4WD mode may automatically
change from 2WD to 4WD even when
the 2WD mode is selected. If this oc-
curs while driving, the 4WD mode indi-
cator will not illuminate.
∙ Do not start the engine with the 4WD mode switch in any mode in the fol-
lowing cases:
– When the vehicle is placed on a fre- eroller or jacking up the vehicle
with the front tires raised and the
rear tires on the ground.
– When towing the vehicle with the rear tires raised from the ground.
∙ Operate the 4WD mode switch only when driving straight. Do not operate
the 4WD mode switch when making a
turn or backing up.
∙ Do not operate the 4WD mode switch with the front wheel spinning.
∙ Engine idling speed is high while warming up the engine. Be especially
careful when starting or driving on
slippery surfaces with the 4WD mode
switch set in the AUTO mode.
4WD mode indicators
The 2WD, 4WD AUTO and LOCK mode indi-
cators are located in the vehicle informa-
tion display.
The 4WD mode indicators will display the
mode selected by the 4WD mode switch
while the engine is running.
The 4WD AUTO indicator illuminates when
selecting the AUTO mode.
The 4WD LOCK indicator illuminates when
selecting the LOCK mode and the 2WD in-
dicator illuminates when selecting the 2WD
mode.
5-70Starting and driving

∙ HEADED UPHILL OR DOWNHILL, NOCURB
C:
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. Place the ignition switch in the LOCK position.WARNING
∙ If the engine is not running or isturned off while driving, the power as-
sist for the steering will not work.
Steering will be harder to operate.
∙ When the power steering warning light illuminates with the engine run-
ning, there will be no power assist for
the steering. You will still have control
of the vehicle, but the steering will be
harder to operate. Have the power
steering system checked. It is recom-
mended that you visit a NISSAN dealer
for this service.
The power steering system is designed to
provide power assist while driving to oper-
ate the steering wheel with light force.
When the steering wheel is operated re-
peatedly or continuously while parking or
driving at a very low speed, the power as-
sist for the steering wheel will be reduced.
This is to prevent overheating of the power
steering system and protect it from getting
damaged. While the power assist is re-
duced, steering wheel operation will be-
come heavy. When the temperature of the
power steering system goes down, the
power assist level will return to normal.
Avoid repeating such steering wheel op- erations that could cause the power steer-
ing system to overheat.
You may hear a sound when the steering
wheel is operated quickly. However, this is
not a malfunction.
If the power steering warning light illumi-
nates while the engine is running, it may
indicate the power steering system is not
functioning properly and may need servic-
ing. Have the power steering system
checked. It is recommended that you visit a
NISSAN dealer for this service.
When the power steering warning light illu-
minates with the engine running, there will
be no power assist for the steering, but you
will still have control of the vehicle. At this
time, greater steering effort is required to
operate the steering wheel, especially in
sharp turns and at low speeds.
For additional information, refer to “Power
steering warning light” in the “Instruments
and controls” section of this manual.
POWER STEERING
5-72Starting and driving

When the VDC OFF switch is used to turn off
the system, the VDC system still operates
to prevent one drive wheel from slipping by
transferring power to a non-slipping drive
wheel. The
indicator light flashes if
this occurs. All other VDC functions are off
and the
indicator light will not flash.
The VDC system is automatically reset to
on when the ignition switch is placed in the
OFF position then back to the ON position.
The computer has a built-in diagnostic fea-
ture that tests the system each time you
start the engine and move the vehicle for-
ward 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 indica-
tion of a malfunction.
WARNING
∙ The VDC system is designed to help the driver maintain stability 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 surfaces and al-
ways drive carefully. ∙ Do not modif y the vehicle’s suspen-
sion. If suspension parts such as
shock absorbers, struts, springs, sta-
bilizer bars, bushings and wheels are
not NISSAN recommended for your
vehicle or are extremely deteriorated,
the VDC system may not operate
properly. This could adversely affect
vehicle handling performance, and
the
indicator light may flash or
both the
andindicator
lights may illuminate.
∙ If brake related parts such as brake pads, rotors and calipers are not
NISSAN recommended or are ex-
tremely deteriorated, the VDC system
may not operate properly and both
the
and theindicator lights
may illuminate.
∙ If engine control related parts are not NISSAN recommended or are ex-
tremely deteriorated, both the
andindicator lights may
illuminate. ∙ When driving on extremely inclined
surfaces such as higher banked cor-
ners, the VDC system may not operate
properly and the
indicator light
may flash or both the
andindicator lights may illuminate. Do not
drive on these types of roads.
∙ When driving on an unstable surface such as a turntable, ferry, elevator or
ramp, the
indicator light may
flash or both the
andindi-
cator lights may illuminate. This is not
a malfunction. Restart the engine af-
ter driving onto a stable surface.
∙ If wheels or tires other than the NISSAN recommended ones are used,
the VDC system may not operate
properly and the
indicator light
may flash or both the
andindicator lights may illuminate.
∙ The VDC system is not a substitute for winter tires or tire chains on a snow
covered road.
5-76Starting and driving

the tone will sound for only 3 seconds.
Once the system detects an object ap-
proaching, the tone will sound again.
The RSS automatically turns on when the
shif t lever is placed in R (Reverse) and the
ignition switch is placed in the ON position.
The RSS can be turned off in the vehicle
information display. For additional infor-
mation, refer to “Vehicle information dis-
play” in the “Instruments and controls” sec-
tion of this manual. To turn the RSS off, the
ignition switch must be placed in the ON
position.
Keep the RSS sensors (located on the rear
bumper fascia) free from snow, ice and
large accumulations of dirt (do not clean
the sensors with sharp objects). If the sen-
sors are covered, it will affect the accuracy
of the RSS.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 in-
serting it into the key hole, or use the
NISSAN Intelligent Key®.
ANTIFREEZE
In the winter when it is anticipated that the
temperature will drop below 32°F (0°C),
check the antifreeze to assure proper win-
ter protection. For additional information,
refer to “Engine cooling system” in the “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 maximum efficiency,
the battery should be checked regularly.
For additional information, refer to “Battery”
in the “Do-it-yourself ” section of this
manual.
DRAINING OF COOLANT WATER
If the vehicle is to be lef t outside without
antifreeze, drain the cooling system, includ-
ing the engine block. Refill before operating
the vehicle. For additional information, refer
to “Changing engine coolant” in the “Do-it-
yourself ” section of this manual.
TIRE EQUIPMENT
1. SUMMER tires have a tread designed toprovide superior performance on dry
pavement. However, the performance
of these tires will be substantially re-
duced 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 TIRES
on all four wheels. It is recommended
that you visit a NISSAN dealer for the tire
type, size, speed rating and availability
information.
2. For additional traction on icy roads, studded tires may be used. However,
some U.S. states and Canadian prov-
inces prohibit their use. Check local,
state and provincial laws before install-
ing studded tires.
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
5-80Starting and driving

Push the switch on to warn other drivers
when you must stop or park under emer-
gency conditions. All turn signal lights flash.
WARNING
∙ If stopping for an emergency, be sureto move the vehicle well off the road.
∙
Do not use the hazard warning flashers
while moving on the highway unless
unusual circumstances force you to
drive so slowly that your vehicle might
become a hazard to other traffic.
∙ Turn signals do not work when the hazard warning flasher lights are on. The flashers will operate with the ignition
switch placed in any position.
Some jurisdictions may prohibit the use
of the hazard warning flasher switch
while driving.
To shut off the engine in an emergency
situation while driving, perform the follow-
ing procedure:
– Rapidly push the push-button ignition
switch three consecutive times in less
than 1.5 seconds, or
– Push and hold the push-button ignition switch for more than 2 seconds.
LIC0394
HAZARD WARNING FLASHER SWITCH EMERGENCY ENGINE SHUT OFF
6-2In case of emergency

CAUTION
∙ Never tow CVT models with the frontwheels on the ground or four wheels
on the ground (forward or backward),
as this may cause serious and expen-
sive damage to the transmission. If it
is necessary to tow the vehicle with
the rear wheels raised always use
towing dollies under the front wheels.
∙ When towing CVT models with the rear wheels on the ground or on tow-
ing dollies:
– Place the ignition switch in the OFF position, and secure the steering
wheel in a straight-ahead position
with a rope or similar device. Never
secure the steering wheel by plac-
ing the ignition switch in the LOCK
position. This may damage the
steering lock mechanism (for
models with a steering lock
mechanism).
VEHICLE RECOVERY (freeing a
stuck vehicle)
WARNING
To avoid vehicle damage, serious per-
sonal injury or death when recovering a
stuck vehicle:
∙ Contact a professional towing serviceto recover the vehicle if you have any
questions regarding the recovery
procedure.
∙ Tow chains or cables must be at- tached only to main structural mem-
bers of the vehicle.
∙ Do not use the vehicle tie-downs to tow or free a stuck vehicle.
∙ Only use devices specifically designed for vehicle recovery and follow the
manufacturer’s instructions.
∙ Always pull the recovery device straight out from the front of the ve-
hicle. Never pull at an angle.
∙ Route recovery devices so they do not touch any part of the vehicle except
the attachment point. If your vehicle is stuck in sand, snow, mud,
etc., use a tow strap or other device de-
signed specifically for vehicle recovery. Al-
ways follow the manufacturer’s instruc-
tions for the recovery device.Rocking a stuck 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.
If your vehicle is stuck in sand, snow, mud,
etc., use the following procedure: 1. Turn off the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system.
2. Make sure the area in front and behind the vehicle is clear of obstructions.
3. Turn the steering wheel right and lef t to clear an area around the front tires.
6-16In case of emergency

FLOOR MATS (if so equipped)
WARNING
To avoid potential pedal interference
that may result in a collision, injury or
death:
∙ NEVER place a floor mat on top of an-other floor mat in the driver front po-
sition or install them upside down or
backwards.
∙ Use only Genuine NISSAN floor mats, or equivalent floor mats, that are spe-
cifically designed for use in your ve-
hicle model and model year. ∙ Properly position the mats in the
floorwell using the floor mat position-
ing hook. For additional information,
refer to "Floor mat installation" in this
section.
∙ Make sure the floor mat does not in- terfere with pedal operation.
∙ Periodically check the floor mats to make sure they are properly installed.
∙ Af ter cleaning the vehicle interior, check the floor mats to make sure
they are properly installed.
The use of Genuine NISSAN floor mats can
extend the life of your vehicle carpet and
make it easier to clean the interior. Mats
should be maintained with regular clean-
ing and replaced if they become exces-
sively worn.
Floor mat installation
Your vehicle is equipped with floor mat po-
sitioning hook(s). The number and shape of
the floor mat positioning hooks for each
seating position varies depending on the
vehicle. When installing Genuine NISSAN floor mats,
follow the installation instructions provided
with the mat and the following:
1. With the ignition in the OFF position, the shif t lever in P (Park) position (Continu-
ously Variable Transmission models)
and with the parking brake fully applied,
position the floor mat in the floorwell so
that the floor mat grommet holes are
aligned with the hook(s).
2. Secure the grommet holes into the hook(s) and ensure that the floor mat is
properly positioned.
3. Make sure the floor mat does not inter- fere with pedal operation. With the igni-
tion still in the OFF position, the shif t
lever in the P (Park) position (Continu-
ously Variable Transmission models)
and with the parking brake applied, fully
apply and release all pedals. The floor
mat must not interfere with pedal op-
eration or prevent the pedal from re-
turning to its normal position.
It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN
dealer for details about installing the floor
mats in your vehicle.
LAI2002
7-6Appearance and care