brakes NISSAN XTERRA 2008 N50 / 2.G Owners Manual

The VDC system will be disabled and the VDC
light will illuminate when the electronic locking
rear differential (E-lock) system switch (if so
equipped) is turned on and the E-lock system is
engaged. If the E-lock system disengages or the
switch is turned off, the VDC system will be
enabled and the VDC light will turn off.
AUDIBLE REMINDERS
Brake pad wear warning
The disc brake pads have audible wear warnings.
When a disc brake pad requires replacement, it
makes a high pitched scraping sound when the
vehicle is in motion, whether or not the brake
pedal is depressed. Have the brakes checked as
soon as possible if the warning sound is heard.
Key reminder chime
A chime sounds if the driver’s door is opened
while the key is left in the ignition switch. Remove
the key and take it with you when leaving the
vehicle.
Light reminder chime
With the ignition switch in the OFF position, a
chime sounds when the driver’s door is opened if
the headlights or parking lights are on.
Turn the headlight control switch off before leav-
ing the vehicle.Your vehicle may have two types of security sys-
tems:
cVehicle security system (if so equipped)
cNISSAN Vehicle Immobilizer System (if so
equipped)
VEHICLE SECURITY SYSTEM (if so
equipped)
The vehicle security system provides visual and
audible alarm signals if someone opens the doors
when the system is armed. It is not, however, a
motion detection type system that activates when
a vehicle is moved or when a vibration occurs.The system helps deter vehicle theft but cannot
prevent it, nor can it prevent the theft of interior or
exterior vehicle components in all situations. Al-
ways secure your vehicle even if parking for a
brief period. Never leave your keys in the ignition,
and always lock the vehicle when unattended. Be
aware of your surroundings, and park in secure,
well-lit areas whenever possible.
Many devices offering additional protection, such
as component locks, identification markers, and
tracking systems, are available at auto supply
stores and specialty shops. Your NISSAN dealer
may also offer such equipment. Check with your
insurance company to see if you may be eligible
for discounts for various theft protection features.
How to arm the vehicle security
system
1. Close all windows.(The system can be
armed even if the windows are open.)
2. Remove the key from the ignition switch.
3. Close all doors. Lock all doors. The doors
can be locked with the key, power door lock
switch (if the door is opened, locked and
then closed) , or with the keyfob.
LIC0372
SECURITY SYSTEMS (if so equipped)
Instruments and controls2-21
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cThe hill descent control may not control
the vehicle speed on a hill under all load
or road conditions. Always be prepared
to depress the brake pedal to control
vehicle speed. Failure to do so may re-
sult in a collision or serious personal
injury.
CAUTION
When the hill descent control system op-
erates continuously for a long time, the
temperature of the brake pads may in-
crease and the hill descent control system
may be temporarily disabled (the indicator
light will blink) . If the indicator light does
not come on continuously after blinking,
stop using the system.
The hill descent control system is designed to
reduce driver workload when going down steep
hills. The hill descent control system helps to
control vehicle speed so the driver can concen-
trate on steering the vehicle.
To activate the hill descent control system:
cthe automatic transmission selector lever
must be in forward or reverse gear,
cthe 4WD switch must be in the 4L position
and the vehicle speed must be under 15
mph (25 km/h) orcthe 4WD switch must be in the 4H position
and the vehicle speed must be under 21
mph (35 km/h) , and
cthe hill descent control system switch must
be ON.
The hill descent control indicator light will come
on when the system is activated. Also, the
stop/tail lights illuminate while the hill descent
control system applies the brakes to control ve-
hicle speed.
If the accelerator or brake pedal is depressed
while the hill descent control system is on, the
system will stop operating temporarily. As soon
as the accelerator or brake pedal is released, the
hill descent control system begins to function
again if the hill descent control operating condi-
tions are fulfilled.
The hill descent control indicator light blinks if the
switch is on and all conditions for system activa-
tion are not met or if the system becomes disen-
gaged for any reason.
To turn off the hill descent control system, push
the switch to the OFF position.
For additional information, see “Hill descent con-
trol system on indicator light” earlier in this sec-
tion and “Hill descent control system” in the
“Starting and driving” section of this manual.The Electronic Locking Rear Differential (E-Lock)
system can help provide added traction if the
vehicle is stuck or becoming stuck.
To activate the E-Lock system:
cthe 4WD switch must be in the 4LO position
(4-wheel drive vehicles) ,
cthe vehicle must be stopped or moving at 4
mph (7 km/h) or less, and
cthe E-Lock system switch must be turned
ON.
LIC0729
ELECTRONIC LOCKING REAR
DIFFERENTIAL (E-Lock) SYSTEM
SWITCH (if so equipped)
2-30Instruments and controls
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DRINKING ALCOHOL/DRUGS AND
DRIVING
WARNING
Never drive under the influence of alcohol
or drugs. Alcohol in the bloodstream re-
duces coordination, delays reaction time
and impairs judgement. Driving after
drinking alcohol increases the likelihood
of being involved in an accident injuring
yourself and others. Additionally, if you
are injured in an accident, alcohol can
increase the severity of the injury.
NISSAN is committed to safe driving. However,
you must choose not to drive under the influence
of alcohol. Every year thousands of people are
injured or killed in alcohol-related accidents. Al-
though 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 is true for drugs, too (over-the-counter, pre-
scription, and illegal drugs) . Don’t drive if your
ability to operate your vehicle is impaired by alco-
hol, drugs, or some other physical condition.
DRIVING SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Your NISSAN is designed for both normal and
off-road use. However, avoid driving in deep wa-
ter or mud as your NISSAN is mainly designed for
leisure use, unlike a conventional off-road ve-
hicle.
Remember that two-wheel drive models are less
capable than four-wheel drive models for rough
road driving and extrication when stuck in deep
snow or mud, or the like.
Please observe the following precautions:
WARNING
cDrive carefully when off the road and
avoid dangerous areas. Every person
who drives or rides in this vehicle
should be seated with their seat belt
fastened. This will keep you and your
passengers in position when driving
over rough terrain.
cDo not drive across steep slopes. In-
stead drive either straight up or straight
down the slopes. Off-road vehicles can
tip over sideways much more easily
than they can forward or backward.cMany hills are too steep for any vehicle.
If you drive up them, you may stall. If
you drive down them, you may not be
able to control your speed. If you drive
across them, you may roll over.
cDo not shift gears while driving on
downhill grades as this could cause
loss of control of the vehicle.
cStay alert when driving to the top of a
hill. At the top there could be a drop-off
or other hazard that could cause an
accident.
cIf your engine stalls or you cannot make
it to the top of a steep hill, never at-
tempt to turn around. Your vehicle
could tip or roll over. Always back
straight down in R (Reverse) gear. Never
back down in N (Neutral) or with the
clutch depressed (manual transmission
vehicles) , using only the brake, as this
could cause loss of control.
cHeavy braking going down a hill could
cause your brakes to overheat and fade,
resulting in loss of control and an acci-
dent. Apply brakes lightly and use a low
gear to control your speed. Use the Hill
Descent Control feature (if so
equipped) .
5-6Starting and driving
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cAlways use tires of the same type, size,
brand, construction (bias, bias-belted,
or radial) , and tread pattern on all four
wheels. Install tire chains on the rear
wheels when driving on slippery roads
and drive carefully.
cBe sure to check the brakes immedi-
ately after driving in mud or water. See
“Brake system” later in this section for
“Wet brakes”.
cAvoid parking your vehicle on steep
hills. If you get out of the vehicle and it
rolls forward, backward or sideways,
you could be injured.
cWhenever you drive off-road through
sand, mud or water as deep as the
wheel hub, more frequent maintenance
may be required. See “Periodic mainte-
nance” in the “NISSAN Service and
Maintenance Guide.”WARNING
Never remove or turn the key to the LOCK
position while driving. The steering wheel
will lock. This may cause the driver to lose
control of the vehicle and could result in
serious vehicle damage or personal injury.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
The ignition lock is designed so the key cannot be
turned to the LOCK position and removed until
the shift selector lever is moved to the P (Park)
position.
When removing the key from the ignition, make
sure the shift selector lever is in the P (Park)
position.
If the selector lever is not returned to P (Park)
position, the key cannot be moved to the LOCK
position.
WSD0041
IGNITION SWITCH
5-8Starting and driving
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The power assisted steering uses a hydraulic
pump, driven by the engine, to assist steering.
If the engine stops or the drive belt breaks, you
will still have control of the vehicle. However,
much greater steering effort is needed, especially
in sharp turns and at low speeds.
WARNING
If the engine is not running or is turned off
while driving, the power assist for the
steering will not work. Steering will be
harder to operate.The brake system has two separate hydraulic
circuits. If one circuit malfunctions, you will still
have braking at two wheels.
BRAKE PRECAUTIONS
Vacuum assisted brakes
The brake booster aids braking by using engine
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 stopping dis-
tance will be longer.
Using the brakes
Avoid resting your foot on the brake pedal while
driving. This will overheat the brakes, wear out the
brake pads faster, and reduce gas mileage.
To help reduce brake wear and to prevent the
brakes from overheating, reduce speed and
downshift to a lower gear before going down a
slope or long grade. Overheated brakes may
reduce braking performance and could result in
loss of vehicle control.
WARNING
cWhile driving on a slippery surface, be
careful when braking, accelerating or
downshifting. Abrupt braking or accel-
erating could cause the wheels to skid
and result in an accident.
cIf the engine is not running or is turned
off while driving, the power assist for
the brakes will not work. Braking will be
harder.
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 the 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.
Parking brake break-in
Break-in the parking brake shoes whenever the
stopping effect of the parking brake is weakened
or whenever the parking brake shoes and/or
drum/rotors are replaced, in order to assure the
best brake performance.
POWER STEERING BRAKE SYSTEM
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This procedure is described in the vehicle service
manual and can be performed by a NISSAN
dealer.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
(ABS)
WARNING
cThe Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is a
sophisticated device, but it cannot pre-
vent accidents resulting from careless
or dangerous driving techniques. It can
help maintain vehicle control during
braking on slippery surfaces. Remem-
ber that stopping distances on slippery
surfaces will be longer than on normal
surfaces even with ABS. Stopping dis-
tances may also be longer on rough,
gravel or snow covered roads, or if you
are using tire chains. Always maintain a
safe distance from the vehicle in front
of you. Ultimately, the driver is respon-
sible for safety.
cTire type and condition may also affect
braking effectiveness.
– When replacing tires, install the
specified size of tires on all four
wheels.– When installing a spare tire, make
sure that it is the proper size and type
as specified on the Tire and Loading
Information label. See “Tire and
Loading Information label” in the
“Technical and consumer informa-
tion” section of this manual.
– For detailed information, see
“Wheels and tires” in the “Mainte-
nance and do-it-yourself” section of
this manual.
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) controls the
brakes so the wheels do not lock during hard
braking or when braking on slippery surfaces.
The system detects the rotation speed at each
wheel and varies the brake fluid pressure to pre-
vent each wheel from locking and sliding. By
preventing each wheel from locking, the system
helps the driver maintain steering control and
helps to minimize swerving and spinning on slip-
pery surfaces.
Using the system
Depress the brake pedal and hold it down. De-
press the brake pedal with firm steady pressure,
but do not pump the brakes. The ABS will oper-
ate to prevent the wheels from locking up. Steer
the vehicle to avoid obstacles.
WARNING
Do not pump the brake pedal. Doing so
may result in increased stopping
distances.
Normal operation
The ABS operates at speeds above3-6MPH(5
- 10 km/h) .
When the ABS senses that one or more wheels
are close to locking up, the system electronically
controls the pressure applied to each brake.
This action is similar to pumping the brakes very
quickly. You may feel a pulsation in the brake
pedal and hear a noise from under the hood or
feel a vibration from the actuator when it is oper-
ating. This is normal and indicates that the ABS is
operating properly. However, the pulsation may
indicate that road conditions are hazardous and
extra care is required while driving.
Self-test feature
The ABS includes electronic sensors, electric
pumps, hydraulic solenoids and a computer. The
computer 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
Starting and driving5-31
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WARNING
cNever rely solely on the hill descent
control system to control vehicle speed
when driving on steep down hill grades.
Always drive carefully and attentively
when using the hill descent control sys-
tem and decelerate the vehicle speed
by depressing the brake pedal if neces-
sary. Be especially careful when driving
on frozen, muddy or an extremely steep
downhill roads. Failure to control ve-
hicle speed may result in a loss of con-
trol of the vehicle and possible serious
injury or death.
cThe hill descent control may not control
the vehicle speed on a hill under all load
or road conditions. Always be prepared
to depress the brake pedal to control
vehicle speed. Failure to do so may re-
sult in a collision or serious personal
injury.
The hill descent control system helps maintain
vehicle speed when driving under 15-21 mph
(25-35 km/h) on steeper downhill grades. Hill
descent control is useful when engine braking
alone in 4H or 4L cannot control vehicle speed.
Hill descent control applies the vehicle brakes to
control vehicle speed allowing the driver to con-centrate on steering while reducing the burden of
brake and accelerator operation.
cWhen additional braking is required on
steep downhill roads activate the hill de-
scent control system by pushing the switch
ON, see “Hill descent control switch” in the
“Instruments and controls” section.
cOnce the system is activated the indicator
light will remain on in the instrument panel,
see “Hill descent control system on indicator
light” in the “Instruments and controls” sec-
tion.
If the accelerator or brake pedal is depressed
while the hill descent control system is on, the
system will stop operating temporarily. As soon
as the accelerator or brake pedal is released, the
hill descent control system begins to function
again if the hill descent control operating condi-
tions are fulfilled.
For the best results, when descending steep
downhill grades, the hill descent control switch
should be ON and the selector lever in 2 (Second
gear) or 1 (Low gear) for engine braking.
WARNING
cNever rely solely on the hill start assist
system to prevent the vehicle from mov-
ing backward on a hill. Always drive
carefully and attentively. Depress the
brake pedal when the vehicle is
stopped on a steep hill. Be especially
careful when stopped on a hill on frozen
or muddy roads. Failure to prevent the
vehicle from rolling backwards may re-
sult in a loss of control of the vehicle
and possible serious injury or death.
cThe hill start assist system is not de-
signed to hold the vehicle at a standstill
on a hill. Depress the brake pedal when
the vehicle is stopped on a steep hill.
Failure to do so may cause the vehicle
to roll backwards and may result in a
collision or serious personal injury.
cThe hill start assist may not prevent the
vehicle from rolling backwards on a hill
under all load or road conditions. Al-
ways be prepared to depress the brake
pedal to prevent the vehicle from rolling
backwards. Failure to do so may result
in a collision or serious personal injury.
HILL DESCENT CONTROL SYSTEM (if
so equipped)HILL START ASSIST SYSTEM (if so
equipped)
5-34Starting and driving
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The hill start assist system automatically keeps
the brakes applied to help prevent the vehicle
from rolling backwards in the time it takes the
driver to release the brake pedal and apply the
accelerator when the vehicle is stopped on a hill.
Hill start assist will operate automatically under
the following conditions:
cThe selector lever is shifted to a forward or
reverse gear.
cThe vehicle is stopped completely on a hill
by applying the brake.
The maximum holding time is 2 seconds. After 2
seconds the vehicle will begin to roll back and hill
start assist will stop operating completely.
Hill start assist will not operate when the selector
lever is shifted to N or P or on a flat and level road.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 inserting it into the key
hole or use the remote keyless entry keyfob (if so
equipped) .
ANTI-FREEZE
In the winter when it is anticipated that the tem-
perature will drop below 32°F (0°C) , check the
anti-freeze to assure proper winter protection.
For details, see “Engine cooling system” in the
“Maintenance and 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 maxi-
mum efficiency, the battery should be checked
regularly. For details, see “Battery” in the “Main-
tenance and do-it-yourself” section of this
manual.
DRAINING OF COOLANT WATER
If the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-
freeze, drain the cooling system, including the
engine block. Refill before operating the vehicle.
For details, see “Changing engine coolant” in the
“Maintenance and do-it-yourself” section of this
manual.
TIRE EQUIPMENT
1. SUMMER tires have a tread designed to
provide superior performance on dry pave-
ment. However, the performance of these
tires will be substantially reduced in snowy
and icy conditions. If you operate your ve-
hicle on snowy or icy roads, NISSAN recom-
mends the use of MUD & SNOW or ALL
SEASON TIRES on all four wheels. Please
consult a NISSAN dealer for the tire type,
size, speed rating and availability informa-
tion.
2. For additional traction on icy roads, studded
tires may be used. However, some U.S.
states and Canadian provinces prohibit their
use. Check local, state and provincial laws
before installing studded tires.
Skid and traction capabilities of studded
snow tires on wet or dry surfaces may be
poorer than that of non-studded snow tires.
COLD WEATHER DRIVING
Starting and driving5-35
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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...................8-15Drive belt........................................8-15
Spark plugs......................................8-16
Replacing spark plugs.........................8-16
Air cleaner.......................................8-17
In-cabin microfilter.............................8-17
Windshield wiper blades..........................8-18
Cleaning.....................................8-18
Replacing....................................8-19
Brakes..........................................8-21
Fuses...........................................8-21
Engine compartment...........................8-22
Passenger compartment.......................8-23
Keyfob battery replacement........................8-25
Lights...........................................8-26
Headlights....................................8-26
Exterior and interior lights.......................8-28
Wheels and tires.................................8-30
Tire pressure..................................8-30
Tire labeling...................................8-34
Types of tires..................................8-36
Tire chains....................................8-37
Changing wheels and tires.....................8-38
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When driving in areas using road salt or other
corrosive materials, check lubrication frequently.
Lights*Clean the headlights on a regular basis.
Make sure that the headlights, stop lights, tail
lights, turn signal lights, and other lights are all
operating properly and installed securely. Also
check headlight aim.
Road wheel nuts (lug nuts)*When checking
the tires, make sure no wheel nuts are missing,
and check for any loose wheel nuts. Tighten if
necessary.
Tire rotation*Tires should be rotated every
7,500 miles (12,000 km) .
Tires*Check the pressure with a gauge often
and always prior to long distance trips. If neces-
sary, adjust the pressure in all tires, including the
spare, to the pressure specified. Check carefully
for damage, cuts or excessive wear.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
transmitter componentsReplace the grom-
met seal, valve core and cap of the transmitter in
vehicles equipped with TPMS at tire replacement
when reaching the wear limit of the tires.
Wheel alignment and balanceIf the vehicle
should pull to either side while driving on a
straight and level road, or if you detect uneven or
abnormal tire wear, there may be a need for wheelalignment. If the steering wheel or seat vibrates at
normal highway speeds, wheel balancing may be
needed.
cFor additional information regarding tires,
refer to “Important Tire Safety Information”
(US) or “Tire Safety Information” (Canada) in
the Warranty Information Booklet .
WindshieldClean the windshield on a regular
basis. Check the windshield at least every six
months for cracks or other damage. Have a dam-
aged windshield repaired by a qualified repair
facility.
Windshield wiper blades*Check for cracks or
wear if they do not wipe properly.
Inside the vehicle
The maintenance items listed here should be
checked on a regular basis, such as when per-
forming periodic maintenance, cleaning the ve-
hicle, etc.
Additional information on the following
items with an “*” is found later in this sec-
tion.
Accelerator pedalCheck the pedal for smooth
operation and make sure the pedal does not bind
or require uneven effort. Keep the floor mat away
from the pedal.Automatic transmission P (Park) position
mechanismOn a fairly steep hill check that your
vehicle is held securely with the selector lever in
the P (Park) position without applying any brakes.
Brake pedalCheck the pedal for smooth opera-
tion. If the brake pedal suddenly goes down fur-
ther than normal, the pedal feels spongy or the
vehicle seems to take longer to stop, see a
NISSAN dealer immediately. Keep the floor mat
away from the pedal.
BrakesCheck that the brakes do not pull the
vehicle to one side when applied.
Parking brakeCheck the parking brake opera-
tion regularly. The vehicle should be securely held
on a fairly steep hill with only the parking brake
applied. If the parking brake needs adjustment,
see a NISSAN dealer.
SeatsCheck seat position controls such as seat
adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to ensure they
operate smoothly and all latches lock securely in
every position. Check that the head restraints
move up and down smoothly and the locks (if so
equipped) hold securely in all latched positions.
Seat beltsCheck that all parts of the seat belt
system (for example, buckles, anchors, adjusters
and retractors) operate properly and smoothly,
and are installed securely. Check the belt web-
bing for cuts, fraying, wear or damage.
Maintenance and do-it-yourself8-3
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