fuel NISSAN SENTRA 1996 B14 / 4.G User Guide

4 Starting and driving
Precautions when starting and driving ................. 4-2
Ignition switch ....................................................... 4-4
Before starting the engine .................................... 4-5
Driving with automatic transmission..................... 4-6
Driving with manual transmission ........................ 4-9
Starting the engine ............................................. 4-11
Parking brake operation ..................................... 4-11
Cruise control (If so equipped)........................... 4-12
Break-in schedule............................................... 4-13
Increasing fuel economy .................................... 4-14
Parking/parking on hills ...................................... 4-15
Precautions when driving ................................... 4-16
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) (If so equipped).. 4-16
Cold weather driving cautions ............................ 4-18
ZX

To help prevent damage
cDo not use leaded gasoline. Deposits
from leaded gasoline seriously reduce
the three way catalyst's ability to help
reduce exhaust pollutants.
cKeep your engine tuned up. Malfunc-
tions in the ignition, fuel injection, or
electrical systems can cause overrich
fuel flow into the converter, causing it
to overheat. Do not keep driving if the
engine misfires, or if noticeable loss
of performance or other unusual op-
erating conditions are detected. Have
the vehicle inspected promptly by an
authorized NISSAN dealer.
cAvoid driving with an extremely low
fuel level. Running out of fuel could
cause the engine to misfire, damaging
the three way catalyst.
cDo not race the engine while warming
it up.
cDo not push or tow your vehicle to
start the engine.Failure to operate this vehicle in a safe and
prudent manner may result in loss of control
or an accident. Be alert and drive defen-
sively at all times. Obey all traffic regula-
tions. Avoid excessive speed, high speed
cornering, or sudden steering maneuvers,
because these driving practices could
cause you to lose control of your vehicle.As
with any vehicle, a loss of control could
result in a collision with other vehicles or
objects, or cause the vehicle to rollover,
particularly if the loss of control causes
the vehicle to slide sideways.Be attentive
at all times, and avoid driving when tired.
Never drive when under the influence of
alcohol or drugs (including prescription or
over-the-counter drugs which may cause
drowsiness). Always wear your seat belt as
outlined in the ``Seat Belts'' section of this
manual, and also instruct your passengers
to do so.
WARNING
Alcohol in the blood stream reduces
coordination, delays reaction time and
impairs judgment. Driving after drink-
ing alcohol increases the likelihood of
being involved in an accident injuring
yourself and others. Additionally, if you
are injured in the accident alcohol can
increase the severity of injury.
Nissan is committed to safe driving. How-
ever, you must choose not to drive under
the influence of alcohol. Every year thou-
sands of people are injured or killed in
alcohol related accidents. Although the local
laws vary on what is considered to be
legally intoxicated, the fact is that alcohol
affects all people differently and most
people underestimate the effects of alcohol.
Remember, drinking and driving don't mix!
And that's true for drugs, too (over the
counter, prescription, and illegal drugs).
Don't drive if your ability to operate your
vehicle is impaired by alcohol, drugs, or
some other physical condition.
AVOIDING COLLISION AND
ROLLOVERDRINKING ALCOHOL/DRUGS
AND DRIVING
4-3
ZX

or climbing a gentle slope, you may
feel uncomfortable shift shocks as
the transmission shifts between 3rd
and overdrive repeatedly. In this
case, set the overdrive switch in the
OFF
position. The indicator
light in the instrument panel comes
on at this time.
When driving conditions change, reset the
overdrive switch in the ON
position.
Remember not to drive at high speeds for
extended periods of time with the overdrive
switch set in the OFF
position. This
reduces the fuel economy.
To change gears, fully depress the clutch
pedal, then move the gearshift lever. After
shifting, release the clutch slowly.
On the 5-speed transmission model, you
cannot shift directly from 5th gear into Re-
verse. First shift into Neutral, then into Re-
verse.
If it is difficult to move the gearshift lever into
Reverse or 1st, shift into Neutral, then re-
lease the clutch pedal. Depress the pedal
and shift into Reverse or 1st again.
Driving precautions
cDo not rest your foot on the clutch pedal
while driving. This may cause clutch
damage.
cStop your vehicle completely before shift-
ing into Reverse.
Suggested shift-up speeds
Shown below are suggested vehicle speeds
for shifting into a higher gear. These sug-
gestions relate to fuel economy and vehicle
performance. Actual shift-up speeds will
vary according to road conditions, the
weather and individual driving habits.
For quick acceleration in low altitude areas
(less than 4,000 ft [1,219 m]) and normal
acceleration in high altitude areas (over
4,000 ft [1,219 m]):
Gear change MPH (km/h)
1st to 2nd 15 (25)
2nd to 3rd 25 (40)
3rd to 4th 40 (65)
4th to 5th 45 (75)
SD1022
DRIVING WITH MANUAL
TRANSMISSION
4-9
ZX

cAccelerate slowly and smoothly. Main-
tain cruising speeds with a constant ac-
celerator position.
cDrive at moderate speeds on the high-
way. Driving at high speed lowers fuel
economy.
cAvoid unnecessary stopping and brak-
ing. Maintain a safe distance behind
other vehicles.
cUse a proper gear range which suits road
conditions. On level roads, shift into high
gear as soon as possible.
cAvoid unnecessary engine idling.cKeep your engine tuned up.
cFollow the recommended periodic main-
tenance schedule.
cKeep the tires inflated at the correct
pressure. Low pressure increases tire
wear and waste fuel.
cKeep the front wheels in correct align-
ment. Improper alignment causes not
only tire wear but also lower fuel
economy.
cAir conditioner operation lowers fuel
economy. Use the air conditioner only
when necessary.
cWhen cruising at highway speeds, it is
more economical to use the air condi-
tioner and leave the windows closed to
reduce drag.
SD1001M
INCREASING FUEL
ECONOMY
4-14
ZX

When performing any inspection or mainte-
nance work on your vehicle, always take
care to prevent serious accidental injury to
yourself or damage to the vehicle. The
following are general precautions which
should be closely observed.
cPark the vehicle on a level surface,
apply the parking brake securely and
block the wheels to prevent the ve-
hicle from moving. Move the gearshift
control lever to Neutral (N).
cBe sure the ignition key is OFF when
performing any parts replacement or
repairs.
cDo not work under the hood while the
engine is hot. Turn the engine off and
wait until it cools down.
cBe sure to turn the ignition key to the
OFF or LOCK position.
When the ignition key is in the ON or
ACC position, the cooling fan may
start to operate suddenly even when
the engine is not running.
cIf you must work with the engine run-
ning, keep your hands, clothing, hair
and tools away from moving fans,
belts and any other moving parts.cIt is advisable to remove ties and any
jewelry, such as rings, watches, etc.,
before working on your vehicle.
cIf you must run the engine in an en-
closed space such as a garage, be
sure there is proper ventilation for
exhaust gases.
cNever get under the vehicle while it is
supported only by a jack. If it is nec-
essary to work under the vehicle, sup-
port it with safety stands.
cKeep smoking materials, flame and
sparks away from fuel and battery.
cNever connect or disconnect either
the battery or any transistorized com-
ponent connector while the ignition is
on.
cOn gasoline engine models with the
Multiport Fuel Injection (MFI) system,
the fuel filter or fuel lines should be
serviced by a NISSAN dealer because
the fuel lines are under high pressure
even when the engine is off.
cFailure to follow these or other com-
mon sense guidelines may lead to
serious injury or vehicle damage.cImproperly disposed motor oil and/or
other vehicle fluids can hurt the envi-
ronment. Always conform to local
regulations for disposal of vehicle
fluid. Avoid contact with used motor
oil.
This ``Do-it-yourself operations'' section
gives instructions regarding only those
items which are relatively easy for an owner
to perform.
You should be aware that incomplete or
improper servicing may result in operating
difficulties or excessive emissions, and
could affect your warranty coverage.If in
doubt about any servicing, have it done
by your NISSAN dealer.
MAINTENANCE
PRECAUTIONS
7-2
ZX

with only the parking brake applied.
Automatic transmission ``Park'' 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
VEHICLE
The maintenance items listed here should
be checked periodically (e.g. each time you
check the engine oil or refuel).
Additional information on the following
items with ``*'' is found in the ``Do-it-
yourself operations'' section.
Windshield washer fluid*Check for ad-
equate 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, de-
formation, rot or loose connections.
Brake fluid level*Make sure the brake and
clutch fluid level is between the ``MAX'' and``MIN'' lines on the reservoir.
Battery*Check the fluid level in each cell.
Engine drive belts*Make sure 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.
Power steering fluid level* and lines
Check the level when the fluid is cold and
the engine is turned off. Check the lines for
proper attachment, leaks, cracks, etc.
Automatic transmission fluid level*
Check the level after putting the selector
lever in P 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 the carbon
monoxide warning in the ``Starting and driv-
ing'' section.)
UnderbodyThe underbody is frequently
exposed to corrosive substances such as
those used on icy roads or to control dust. It
is very important to remove these sub-
stances, otherwise rust forms on the floorpan, frame, fuel lines and around the ex-
haust system. At the end of winter, the
underbody should be thoroughly flushed
with plain water, being careful to clean
those areas where mud and dirt may accu-
mulate. See the ``Appearance and interior
care'' section for additional information.
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.
8-4
ZX

SCHEDULE 1
Abbreviations: R = Replace I = Inspect. Correct or replace if necessary. [ ]: At the mileage intervals only
MAINTENANCE OPERATIONMAINTENANCE INTERVAL
Perform at number of miles,
kilometers or months,
whichever comes first.Miles ý 1,000 3.75 7.5 11.25 15 18.75 22.5 26.25 30 33.75 37.5 41.25 45 48.75 52.5 56.25 60
(km ý 1,000) (6) (12) (18) (24) (30) (36) (42) (48) (54) (60) (66) (72) (78) (84) (90) (96)
Months 3 6 9 12 15 18 21 24 27 30 33 36 39 42 45 48
Emission control system maintenance
Drive belts See NOTE (1).I*
Air cleaner filter See NOTE (2). [R] [R]
Idle rpm (GA16DE engine)I* I*
Vapor linesI* I*
Fuel linesI* I*
Fuel filter See NOTE (3)*.
Engine coolant See NOTE (4)*.R*
Engine oilRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
Engine oil filter (Use Nissan PREMIUM type or equivalent)RRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
Spark plugs (GA16DE engine)[R] [R]
(SR20DE engine) (PLATINUM-TIPPED type) See NOTE (5)*.[R]
Intake & exhaust valve clearance (GA16DE engine) See NOTE (6)*.
NOTE: (1) After 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months, inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
(2) If operating mainly in dusty conditions, more frequent maintenance may be required.
(3) If vehicle is operated under extremely adverse weather conditions or in areas where ambient temperatures are either extremely low or extremely
high, the filters might become clogged. In such an event, replace them immediately.
(4) After 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months, replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
(5) Original equipment platinum-tipped plugs should be replaced at 60,000 miles (96,000 km). Conventional spark plugs can be used but should be
replaced at 30,000 miles (48,000 km) intervals. (See ``Technical and consumer Information'' section for details.)
(6) If valve noise increases, inspect valve clearance.
* Maintenance items and intervals with ``*'' are recommended by NISSAN for reliable vehicle operation. The owner need not perform such
maintenance in order to maintain the emission warranty or manufacturer recall liability. Other maintenance items and intervals are required.
8-6
ZX

SCHEDULE 2
Abbreviations: R = Replace I = Inspect. Correct or replace if necessary. [ ]: At the mileage intervals only
MAINTENANCE OPERATIONMAINTENANCE INTERVAL
Perform at number of miles,
kilometers or months, whichever comes first.Miles ý 1,000 7.5 15 22.5 30 37.5 45 52.5 60
(km ý 1,000) (12) (24) (36) (48) (60) (72) (84) (96)
Months 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 48
Emission control system maintenance
Drive belts See NOTE (1).I*
Air cleaner filter[R] [R]
Idle rpm (GA16DE engine)I* I*
Vapor linesI* I*
Fuel linesI* I*
Fuel filter See NOTE (2)*.
Engine coolant See NOTE (3)*.R*
Engine oilRRRRRRRR
Engine oil filter (Use Nissan PREMIUM type or equivalent)RRRRRRRR
Spark plugs (GA16DE engine)[R] [R]
(SR20DE engine) (PLATINUM-TIPPED type) See NOTE (4)*.[R]
Intake & exhaust valve clearance (GA16DE engine) See NOTE (5)*.
NOTE: (1) After 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months, inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
(2) If vehicle is operated under extremely adverse weather conditions or in areas where outside temperatures are either extremely low or extremely high, the
filters might become clogged. In such an event, replace them immediately.
(3) After 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months, replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
(4) Original equipment platinum-tipped plugs should be replaced at 60,000 miles (96,000 km). Conventional spark plugs can be used but should be replaced
at 30,000 miles (48,000 km) intervals. (See ``Technical and consumer information'' section for details.)
(5) If valve noise increases, inspect valve clearance.
* Maintenance items and intervals with ``*'' are recommended by NISSAN for reliable vehicle operation. The owner need not perform such maintenance in
order to maintain the emission warranty or manufacturer recall liability. Other maintenance items and intervals are required.
8-8
ZX

EXPLANATION OF MAINTE-
NANCE ITEMS
Additional information on the following
items with ``*'' is found in the ``Do-it-
yourself operations'' section.
Emission control system
maintenance
Drive belts*Check drive belts for wear,
fraying or cracking and also for proper ten-
sion. Replace the drive belts if found dam-
aged.
Air cleaner filterUnder normal driving con-
ditions, the air cleaner filter should be re-
placed in accordance with the maintenance
schedule. However, driving the vehicle in
dusty areas may cause more rapid clogging
of the element. Consequently, the element
may have to be replaced more frequently.
Idle rpmInspection and adjustment should
be made with a tachometer to ensure
accuracy.
Vapor linesCheck vapor lines and connec-
tions for failure or looseness. If leaks are
found, replace them.
Fuel linesCheck the fuel hoses, pipingand connections for leaks, looseness or
deterioration. Replace any parts if they are
damaged.
Fuel filterIf the vehicle is operated under
extremely adverse weather conditions or in
areas where ambient temperatures are ei-
ther extremely low or extremely high, the
filter might become clogged. In such an
event, replace the filter immediately.
Engine coolant*Drain and flush the cool-
ing system.
Engine oil & oil filter*Under normal driving
conditions, the engine oil and oil filter should
be replaced in accordance with the mainte-
nance schedule. However, under severe
driving conditions, they may have to be
replaced more frequently.
Spark plugs*Replace with new plugs hav-
ing the correct heat range.
Intake & exhaust valve clearanceCheck
and adjust the valve clearance.
Chassis and body maintenance
Brake lines & cablesCheck the brake lines
and hoses (including brake booster vacuum
hoses, connections & check valve) and
parking brake cables for proper attachment,leaks, cracks, chafing, abrasion, deteriora-
tion, etc.
Brake pads, discs, drums & linings
Check these and the other neighboring
brake components for wear, deterioration
and leaks. Under severe driving conditions,
they may have to be inspected more fre-
quently.
Manual & automatic transmission gear
oil*Check the oil level and visually inspect
for signs of leakage.
Under severe driving conditions, the oil
should be replaced at the specified interval.
Steering gear & linkage, axle & suspen-
sion parts, and drive shaft bootsCheck
for damage, looseness and leakage of oil or
grease. Under severe driving conditions,
more frequent inspection should be per-
formed.
Steering linkage ball joints & front sus-
pension ball jointsCheck the ball joints for
damage, looseness and grease leakage.
Exhaust systemVisually check the ex-
haust pipes, muffler, and hangers for proper
attachment, leaks, cracks, chafing, abra-
sion, deterioration, etc. Under severe
8-10
ZX

9 Technical and consumer information
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants ....................................................... 9-2
Engine .................................................................. 9-9
Wheel/tire size .................................................... 9-10
Dimensions and weights .................................... 9-10
Registering your vehicle
in another country .............................................. 9-11
Vehicle identification........................................... 9-11
Installing license plate ........................................ 9-14
Trailer towing ...................................................... 9-15
Uniform tire quality grading ................................ 9-18
Emission control system warranty ..................... 9-19
Reporting safety defects (USA) ......................... 9-19
ZX