automatic transmission fluid NISSAN XTERRA 2005 N50 / 2.G Owners Manual

Warning
lightName Page
or
Anti-lock brake
warning light2-10
Automatic
transmission oil
temperature
warning light
(if so equipped)2-10
Automatic
transmission
park warning
light (
model)2-10
or
Brake warning
light2-11
Warning
lightName Page
Charge warning
light2-11
Door open
warning light2-11
Engine oil pres-
sure warning
light2-11
4WD warning
light (
model)2-12
Low fuel warn-
ing light2-12
Low tire pres-
sure warning
light2-12
Warning
lightName Page
Low windshield
washer fluid
warning light2-13
Seat belt warn-
ing light and
chime2-13
Supplemental
air bag warning
light2-13
WARNING/INDICATOR LIGHTS
Illustrated table of contents0-9
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orAnti-lock brake warning lightLow windshield washer fluid warning lightHill descent control (HDC) system on indica-
tor light (if so equipped)
Automatic transmission oil temperature warn-
ing light (if so equipped)Seat belt warning light and chimeMalfunction indicator lamp (MIL)
Automatic transmission park warning light
(model)Supplemental air bag warning lightOverdrive off indicator light (automatic trans-
mission models only)
orBrake warning lightAutomatic transmission position indicator lightSecurity indicator light
Charge warning lightCruise main switch indicator light (if so
equipped)Slip indicator light for models with ABLS (if so
equipped)
Door open warning lightCruise set switch indicator light (if so
equipped)Slip indicator light for models with VDC (if so
equipped)
Engine oil pressure warning lightElectronic locking rear differential (E-Lock)
system on indicator light (if so equipped)Transfer 4LO position indicator light
(model)
4WD warning light (model)4WD shift indicator light (model)Turn signal/hazard indicator lights
Low fuel warning lightFront passenger air bag status lightVehicle dynamic control off indicator light (if so
equipped)
Low tire pressure warning lightHigh beam indicator light (Blue)
WARNING/INDICATOR LIGHTS AND
AUDIBLE REMINDERS
Instruments and controls2-9
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This light indicates that the automatic transmis-
sion parking function is not engaged. If the trans-
fer control is not secured in any drive position
while the automatic transmission selector lever is
in the P (Park) position, the transmission will
disengage and the drive wheels will not lock.
orBrake warning light
This light functions for both the parking brake and
the foot brake systems.
When the ignition key is in the ON position, the
light comes on when the parking brake is applied,
and also warns of a low brake fluid level. If the
light comes on while the engine is running with
the parking brake not applied, stop the vehicle
and perform the following:
1. Check the brake fluid level. Add brake fluid
as necessary. See “Brake and clutch fluid” in
the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” sec-
tion of this manual.
2. If the brake fluid level is correct, have the
brake system checked by a NISSAN dealer.
WARNING
cYour brake system may not be working
properly if the warning light is on. Driv-
ing could be dangerous. If you judge it
to be safe, drive carefully to the nearest
service station for repairs. Otherwise,
have your vehicle towed because driv-
ing it could be dangerous.
cPressing the brake pedal with the en-
gine stopped and/or a low brake fluid
level may increase your stopping dis-
tance and braking will require greater
pedal effort as well as pedal travel.
cIf the brake fluid level is below the
MINIMUM or MIN mark on the brake
fluid reservoir, do not drive until the
brake system has been checked at a
NISSAN dealer.
Charge warning light
If this light comes on while the engine is running,
it may indicate the charging system is not func-
tioning properly. Turn the engine off and check
the generator belt. If the belt is loose, broken,
missing, or if the light remains on, see a NISSAN
dealer immediately.
CAUTION
cDo not ground electrical accessories
directly to the battery terminal. Doing
so will bypass the variable control sys-
tem and the vehicle battery may not
charge completely. Refer to “Variable
voltage control system” in the “Mainte-
nance and do-it-yourself” section later
in this manual.
cDo not continue driving if the generator
belt is loose, broken or missing.
Door open warning light
This light comes on when any of the doors are not
closed securely while the ignition key is in the ON
position.
Engine oil pressure warning
light
This light warns of low engine oil pressure. If the
light flickers or comes on during normal driving,
pull off the road in a safe area, stop the engine
immediatelyand call a NISSAN dealer or other
authorized repair shop.
The engine oil pressure warning light is not
designed to indicate a low oil level.Use the
Instruments and controls2-11
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cMake sure the area around the vehicle is
clear.
cCheck fluid levels such as engine oil, cool-
ant, brake fluid, and window washer fluid as
frequently as possible, or at least whenever
you refuel.
cCheck that all windows and lights are clean.
cVisually inspect tires for their appearance
and condition. Also check tires for proper
inflation.
cLock all doors.
cPosition seat and adjust head restraints.
cAdjust inside and outside mirrors.
cFasten seat belts and ask all passengers to
do likewise.
cCheck the operation of warning lights when
the key is turned to the ON (3) position. See
“Warning/indicator lights and audible re-
minders” in the “Instruments and controls”
section of this manual.1. Apply the parking brake.
2.Automatic transmission:
Move the shift selector lever to P (Park) or N
(Neutral) . P (Park) is recommended.
The shift selector lever cannot be
moved out of P (Park) and into any of
the other gear positions if the ignition
key is turned to the OFF position or if
the key is removed from the ignition
switch.
The starter is designed not to operate if
the shift selector lever is in any of the
driving positions.
Manual transmission:
Move the shift lever to N (Neutral) . Depress
the clutch pedal to the floor while cranking
the engine.
The starter is designed not to operate
unless the clutch pedal is fully de-
pressed.
3. Crank the enginewith your foot off the
accelerator pedalby turning the ignition
key to START. Release the key when the
engine starts. If the engine starts, but fails to
run, repeat the above procedure.cIf the engine is very hard to start in ex-
tremely cold weather or when restarting,
depress the accelerator pedal a little (ap-
proximately 1/3 to the floor) and hold it
and then crank the engine. Release the
key and the accelerator pedal when the
engine starts.
cIf the engine is very hard to start because
it is flooded, depress the accelerator
pedal all the way to the floor and hold it.
Crank the engine for 5-6 seconds. After
cranking the engine, release the accel-
erator pedal. Crank the enginewith your
foot off the accelerator pedalby turn-
ing the ignition key to START. Release the
key when the engine starts. If the engine
starts, but fails to run, repeat the above
procedure.
CAUTION
Do not operate the starter for more than
15 seconds at a time. If the engine does
not start, turn the key off and wait 10
seconds before cranking again, otherwise
the starter could be damaged.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE STARTING THE ENGINE
Starting and driving5-9
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8 Maintenance and do-it-yourself
Maintenance requirements..........................8-2
General maintenance..............................8-2
Explanation of general maintenance items.........8-2
Maintenance precautions...........................8-5
Engine compartment check locations................8-6
Engine cooling system.............................8-7
Checking engine coolant level...................8-7
Changing engine coolant........................8-8
Engine oil.........................................8-8
Checking engine oil level........................8-8
Changing engine oil............................8-9
Changing engine oil filter.......................8-10
5-speed automatic transmission fluid...............8-11
Power steering fluid...............................8-11
Brake and clutch fluid.............................8-11
Brake fluid....................................8-12
Clutch fluid...................................8-12
Window washer fluid.............................8-12
Window washer fluid reservoir..................8-12
Battery..........................................8-13
Jump starting.................................8-14
Variable Voltage Control System...................8-15
Drive belts.......................................8-15
Spark plugs......................................8-16Replacing spark plugs.........................8-16
Air cleaner.......................................8-17
In-cabin microfilter.............................8-17
Windshield wiper blades..........................8-19
Cleaning.....................................8-19
Replacing....................................8-19
Parking brake and brake pedal.....................8-22
Checking parking brake........................8-22
Checking brake pedal..........................8-22
Brake booster.................................8-23
Fuses...........................................8-23
Engine compartment...........................8-24
Passenger compartment.......................8-25
Battery replacement..............................8-26
Lights...........................................8-27
Headlights....................................8-27
Exterior and interior lights.......................8-28
Wheels and tires.................................8-31
Tire pressure..................................8-31
Tire labeling...................................8-34
Types of tires..................................8-37
Tire chains....................................8-37
Changing wheels and tires.....................8-38
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When performing any inspection or maintenance
work on your vehicle, always take care to prevent
serious accidental injury to yourself or damage to
the vehicle. The following are general precau-
tions which should be closely observed.
WARNING
cPark the vehicle on a level surface, ap-
ply the parking brake securely and
block the wheels to prevent the vehicle
from moving. Move the shift selector
lever to P (Park) .
cBe sure the ignition key is in the OFF or
LOCK position when performing any
parts replacement or repairs.
cNever leave the engine or automatic
transmission related component har-
nesses disconnected while the ignition
switch is in the ON position.
cNever connect or disconnect the battery
or any transistorized component while
the ignition switch is in the ON position.
c
Your vehicle is equipped with an auto-
matic engine cooling fan. It may come on
at any time without warning, even if the
ignition key is in the OFF position and the
engine is not running. To avoid injury,
always disconnect the negative battery
cable before working near the fan.
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 secure or remove any
loose clothing and remove any jewelry,
such as rings, watches, etc. before
working on your vehicle.
cAlways wear eye protection whenever
you work 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 to escape.
cNever get under the vehicle while it is
supported only by a jack. If it is neces-
sary to work under the vehicle, support
it with safety stands.
cKeep smoking materials, flame and
sparks away from the fuel tank and
battery.
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.CAUTION
cDo not work under the hood while the
engine is hot. Turn the engine off and
wait until it cools down.
cAvoid contact with used engine oil and
coolant. Improperly disposed engine
oil, engine coolant and/or other vehicle
fluids can damage the environment. Al-
ways conform to local regulations for
disposal of vehicle fluid.
This “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section
gives instructions regarding only those items
which are relatively easy for an owner to perform.
A genuine NISSAN service manual is also avail-
able. See “Owner’s Manual/Service Manual or-
der information” in the “Technical and consumer
information” section of this manual.
You should be aware that incomplete or improper
servicing may result in operating difficulties or
excessive emissions, and could affect warranty
coverage.If in doubt about any servicing,
have it done by a NISSAN dealer.
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-5
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When checking or replacement is required, we
recommend your NISSAN dealer for servicing.
WARNING
cUse only Genuine Matic J ATF. Do not
mix with other fluids.
cUsing automatic transmission fluid
other than Genuine Matic J ATF will
cause deterioration in driveability and
automatic transmission durability, and
may damage the automatic transmis-
sion, which is not covered by the
NISSAN new vehicle limited warranty.
The specified automatic transmission fluid is also
described on caution labels located in the engine
compartment.The fluid level should be checked using the HOT
MAX range on the power steering fluid reservoir
at fluid temperatures of 122° - 176°F (50° -
80°C) or using the COLD MAX range on the
power steering fluid reservoir at fluid tempera-
tures of 32° - 86°F (0° - 30°C) .
If the fluid is below the MIN line, add Genuine
NISSAN PSF. Remove the cap and fill through
the opening.
CAUTION
cDO NOT OVERFILL.
cRecommended fluid is Genuine
NISSAN PSF or equivalent.For further brake and clutch fluid specification
information, refer to “Capacities and recom-
mended fuel/lubricants” in the “Technical and
consumer information” section of this manual.
WARNING
Use only new fluid from a sealed con-
tainer. Old, inferior or contaminated fluid
may damage the brake and clutch sys-
tems. The use of improper fluids can dam-
age the brake system and affect the vehi-
cle’s stopping ability.
CAUTION
Do not spill the fluid on any painted sur-
faces. This will damage the paint. If fluid is
spilled, immediately wash the surface
with water.WDI0282
5-SPEED AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSION FLUIDPOWER STEERING FLUID BRAKE AND CLUTCH FLUID
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-11
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The following are approximate capacities. The actual refill capacities may be a little different. When refilling, follow the procedure
described in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section to determine the proper refill capacity.
Capacity (Approximate) Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
US measure Imp measure Liter
Fuel 21 1/8gal 17-5/8 gal 80 Unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of at least 87 AKI (RON 91)*1
Engine oil *8
Drain and Refill
With oil filter change 5-3/8 qt 4-1/2 qt 5.1 • API Certification Mark *2 *3
• API grade SL, Energy Conserving *2 *3
• ILSAC grade GF-III*2 *3 Without oil filter change 5-1/8 qt 4-1/4 qt 4.8
Cooling system
With reservoir
2-3/4 gal 2-1/4 gal 10.2 50% Genuine NISSAN Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent
50% Demineralized or distilled water
Manual transmission gear oil 2WD 4-1/4 qt 3-1/2 qt 3.98 Genuine NISSAN Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) HQ Multi 75W-85 or API GL-4, Viscosity SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90
4WD 4-3/8 qt 3-5/8 qt 4.18
Automatic transmission fluid Refill to the proper level according to the instructions in the
“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section.Genuine NISSAN Matic J ATF *4
Power steering fluid (PSF)Genuine NISSAN PSF or equivalent.*5
Brake and clutch fluidGenuine NISSAN Super Heavy Duty Brake Fluid*6 or equivalent DOT 3
Multi-purpose grease — — — NLGI No. 2 (Lithium Soap base)
Air conditioning system refrigerant — — — HFC-134a (R-134a)*7
Air conditioning system lubricants — — — NISSAN A/C System Lubricant Type R (DH-PS) or equivalent*7
Transfer fluid — — — Genuine NISSAN Matic D ATF (Continental U.S. and Alaska) or Canada NISSAN Automatic Transmission Fluid*5, *10
Front final drive oil — — — API GL-5 SAE 80W-90 Gear Oil, *9, *10
Rear final drive oil
Except 6 speed MT and 4X4 O/R vehicles — — — API GL-5 Synthetic 75W-90 Gear Oil, *10
6 speed MT and 4X4 O/R vehicles only — — — API GL-5 Synthetic 75W-140 Gear Oil, *10
Windshield washer fluid (shared between front and rear wipers) 1-1/4 gal 1 gal 4.5 Genuine NISSAN Windshield Washer Concentrate Cleaner & Antifreezeor equivalent
*1: For further details, see “Fuel recommendation.”
*2: For further details, see “Engine oil and oil filter recommendations.”
*3: For further details, see “Recommended SAE engine oil viscosity.”
*4: Using automatic transmission fluid other than Genuine NISSAN Matic J ATF will cause deterioration in driveability and automatic transmission durability, and may damage the automatic transmission, which is not covered by the NISSAN new ve-
hicle warranty.
*5: For Canada, NISSAN Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) , DEXRON™ III/MERCON™, or equivalent ATF may also be used.
*6: Available in mainland USA through your NISSAN dealer.
*7: For further details, see “Air conditioner specification label.”
*8: For further details, see “Changing engine oil.”
*9: For hot climates, viscosity SAE 90 is suitable for ambient temperatures above 0°C (32°F) .
*10: See your NISSAN dealer for service.
CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED
FUEL/LUBRICANTS
9-2Technical and consumer information
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cBe careful when passing other vehicles.
Passing while towing a trailer requires con-
siderably more distance than normal pass-
ing. Remember, the length of the trailer must
also pass the other vehicle before you can
safely change lanes.
cTo maintain engine braking efficiency and
electrical charging performance, do not use
overdrive.
cAvoid holding the brake pedal down too long
or too frequently. This could cause the
brakes to overheat, resulting in reduced
braking efficiency.
cIncrease your following distance to allow for
greater stopping distances while towing a
trailer. Anticipate stops and brake gradually
cDo not use cruise control while towing a
trailer.
cSome states or provinces have specific
speed limits for vehicles that are towing trail-
ers. Obey the local speed limits.
cCheck your hitch, trailer wiring harness con-
nections, and trailer wheel lug nuts after 50
miles (80 km) of travel and at every break.
cWhen stopped in traffic for long periods of
time in hot weather, put the vehicle in the P
(Park) position.When towing a trailer, final drive gear oil
should be replaced and transmission
oil/fluid should be changed more fre-
quently. For additional information, see the
“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section
earlier in this manual.
FLAT TOWING
Towing your vehicle with all four wheels on the
ground is sometimes called flat towing. This
method is sometimes used when towing a vehicle
behind a recreational vehicle, such as a motor
home.
CAUTION
cFailure to follow these guidelines can
result in severe transmission damage.
cWhenever flat towing your vehicle, al-
ways tow forward, never backward.
cDO NOT tow any automatic transmis-
sion vehicle with all four wheels on the
ground (flat towing) . Doing so WILL
DAMAGE internal transmission parts
due to lack of transmission lubrication.
cFor emergency towing procedures refer
to “Towing recommended by NISSAN”
in the “In case of emergency” section of
this manual.
Automatic Transmission
To tow a vehicle equipped with an automatic
transmission, an appropriate vehicle dollyMUST
be placed under the towed vehicle’s drive
wheels.Alwaysfollow the dolly manufacturer’s
recommendations when using their product.
Manual Transmission
cAlways tow with the manual transmission in
Neutral.
cOn four-wheel drive vehicles, place the
transfer case in the 2H range. Failure to do
so will cause the powertrain to bind up.
cAfter towing 500 miles (805 km) , start and
idle the engine with the transmission in Neu-
tral for two minutes. Failure to idle the engine
after every 500 miles (805 km) of towing
may cause damage to internal transmission
parts.
9-24Technical and consumer information
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10 Index
4WD warning light...............2-12
A
Active brake limited slip (ABLS) system
(if so equipped).................5-29
Active head restraint...............1-5
Air bag (See supplemental restraint
system).....................1-39
Air bag system
Front (See supplemental front impact air
bag system).................1-46
Air bag warning labels.............1-54
Air bag warning light...........1-54, 2-13
Air cleaner housing filter............8-17
Air conditioner
Air conditioner operation...........4-5
Air conditioner service............4-9
Air conditioner specification label.....9-11
Air conditioner system refrigerant and
lubrication recommendations........9-6
Heater and air conditioner controls.....4-2
Servicing air conditioner...........4-9
Air flow charts..................4-6
Alarm system
(See vehicle security system).........2-18
Anchor point locations.............1-31
Antenna.....................4-26
Anti-lock brake system (ABS).........5-28
Anti-lock brake warning light..........2-10
Audible reminders................2-18Audio system..................4-10
Compact Disc (CD) changer.......4-23
Compact disc (CD) player.........4-18
FM-AM radio with compact disc (CD)
player.................4-16, 4-20
Radio....................4-10
Steering wheel audio control switch. . . .4-25
Automatic
Automatic power window switch.....2-42
Automatic transmission position indicator
light.....................2-14
Driving with automatic transmission. . . .5-10
Transmission selector lever lock
release....................5-12
B
Battery......................8-13
Charge warning light............2-11
Battery replacement
(See remote keyless entry system)......8-26
Before starting the engine............5-9
Belts (See drive belts).............8-15
Booster seats..................1-35
Brake
Anti-lock brake system (ABS).......5-28
Brake booster................8-23
Brake fluid..................8-11
Brake light (See stop light).........8-28
Brake pedal.................8-22
Brake system................5-27Brake warning light.............2-11
Brake wear indicators........2-18, 8-22
Parking brake check............8-22
Parking brake operation..........5-16
Self-adjusting brakes............8-22
Break-in schedule................5-18
Brightness control
Instrument panel..............2-24
Bulb check/instrument panel..........2-10
Bulb replacement................8-28
C
Capacities and recommended
fuel/lubricants...................9-2
Car phone or CB radio.............4-26
Cargo light...................2-44
Cargo net....................2-37
Cargo (See vehicle loading information) . . .9-12
CD care and cleaning.............4-25
CD changer (See audio system)........4-23
CD player (See audio system).........4-18
Check engine indicator light
(See malfunction indicator lamp).......2-15
Child restraint with top tether strap......1-30
Child restraints.......1-12, 1-13, 1-22, 1-29
Precautions on child restraints . . .1-22, 1-35
Top tether strap anchor point locations . .1-31
Child safety rear door lock............3-5
Chimes, audible reminders...........2-18
Cleaning exterior and interior..........7-2
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