Nissan Xterra (2015 year). Instruction — part 18

When the vehicle is stuck,

● Set the 4WD shift switch to 4H or 4LO.
● Use the Electronic Locking Rear Differential

(E-Lock) system (if so equipped). Turn the
switch ON while the vehicle is stationary and
apply the throttle to try to free the vehicle.

● If it is difficult to free the vehicle, rock the

vehicle back and forth between reverse and
drive gears.

● If the vehicle is stuck deep in mud, place

stones or wooden blocks under the tires.
Then try the recovery procedures above. Tire
chains may be effective.

CAUTION

● Do not spin the tires excessively. Tires

will sink deep into the mud, making it
difficult to free the vehicle.

● Avoid shifting gears with the engine

running at high speeds as this may
cause malfunction.

4WD shift switch operations

● Shift the 4WD shift switch to either the

2WD, 4H or 4LO position, depending on
driving conditions.

● If the 4WD shift switch is operated

while making a turn, accelerating or
decelerating or if the key switch is
turned off while in the 4H or 4LO posi-
tion, you may feel a jolt. This is not
abnormal.

● When the vehicle is stopped after mak-

ing a turn, you may feel a slight jolt
after the shift lever is shifted to N or P.
This occurs because the transfer clutch
is released and not because of a mal-
function.

CAUTION

● When driving straight, shift the 4WD

shift switch to the 2WD or 4H position.
Do not move the 4WD shift switch when
making a turn or reversing.

● Do not shift the 4WD shift switch while

driving on steep downhill grades. Use
the engine brake and low automatic
transmission

gears

(D1

or

D2)

or

manual transmission (1st gear or 2nd
gear) for engine braking.

● Do not operate the 4WD shift switch

with the rear wheels spinning.

● Before placing the 4WD shift switch in

the 4H position from 2WD, ensure the
vehicle speed is less than 62 MPH
(100 km/h). Failure to do so can damage
the 4WD system.

● Never shift the 4WD shift switch be-

tween 4LO and 4H while driving.

LSD0145

Starting and driving

5-27

4WD shift indicator light

The 4WD shift indicator light is located in the
odometer display.

The light should turn off within 1 second after
turning the ignition switch to the ON position.

While the engine is running, the 4WD shift indi-
cator light will illuminate the position selected by
the 4WD shift switch.

● The 4WD shift indicator light may blink

while shifting from one drive mode to
the other. When the shifting is com-
pleted, the 4WD shift indicator light will
come on.

● If the 4WD warning light comes on, the

4WD indicator light goes out.

CAUTION

If the 4WD shift indicator light indication
changes to 2WD when the 4WD shift
switch is shifted to the 4H position at low
ambient temperatures, the 2WD mode
may be being engaged due to malfunc-
tioning drive system. If the indicator does
not return to normal and the 4WD warning
light comes on, have the system checked
by the nearest NISSAN dealer.

4WD warning light

Warning light

Comes on or blinks

when:

Comes on

There is a mal-

function in the
4–wheel drive

system

Blinks
slowly

The difference in

wheel rotation is

large

The 4WD warning light is located in the meter.

The 4WD warning light comes on when the igni-
tion switch is turned to ON. It turns off soon after
the engine is started.

If any malfunction occurs in the 4WD system
when the ignition switch is ON, the warning light
will either remain illuminated or blink.

If the 4WD warning light comes on, the 4WD
shift indicator light goes out.

A large difference between the diameters of front
and rear wheels will make the warning light blink
slowly (about once per 2 seconds). Change the
4WD shift switch into 2WD and do not drive fast.

CAUTION

● If the warning light comes on or blinks

slowly during operation, have your ve-
hicle checked by a NISSAN dealer as
soon as possible.

● Shifting between 4H and 4LO is not

recommended when the 4WD warning
light turns on.

LSD0147

5-28

Starting and driving

● When the warning light comes on, the

2WD mode may be engaged even if the
4WD shift switch is in 4H. Be especially
careful when driving. If corresponding
parts are malfunctioning, the 4WD
mode will not be engaged even if the
4WD shift switch is shifted.

● Do not drive the vehicle in the 4H or 4LO

position on dry hard surface roads. Driv-
ing on dry, hard surfaces in 4H or 4LO
may cause unnecessary noise, tire wear
and increased fuel consumption.

If the 4WD warning light turns on when
you are driving on dry hard surface
roads:

– in the 4H position, shift the 4WD shift

switch to 2WD.

– in the 4LO position for automatic

transmission vehicles, stop the ve-
hicle and shift the shift lever to the N
position with the brake pedal de-
pressed and shift the 4WD shift
switch to 2WD.

– in the 4LO position for manual trans-

mission vehicles, stop the vehicle
and shift the shift lever to the N po-
sition with the clutch pedal de-
pressed and shift the 4WD shift
switch to 2WD.

● If the warning light is still on after the

above operation, have your vehicle
checked by a NISSAN dealer as soon as
possible.

● The transfer case may be damaged if

you continue driving with the warning
light blinking.

The E-Lock system can provide additional trac-
tion and should only be used when a vehicle has
become or is becoming stuck. This system oper-
ates by electronically “locking” the 2 rear drive
wheels together, allowing them to turn at the
same speed. The system is used when it is not
possible to free a stuck vehicle even when using
the 4LO position (4-wheel drive vehicles).

When added traction is required, activate the
E-Lock system by pushing the switch ON. For
additional information, refer to “Electronic locking
rear differential (E-Lock) system switch” in the
“Instruments and Controls” section of this
manual. Once the system fully engages, the indi-
cator light in the instrument panel will remain ON.
When the system is activated, both rear wheels
will engage, providing added traction.

The rear wheels may momentarily slip or move to
engage the system, and the system will only
engage up to approximately 4 MPH (7 km/h).
Once the vehicle is free, the system should be
turned OFF and driving resumed.

The Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) system is disabled
and the ABS light illuminates when the E-Lock
system is ON. Also, the Vehicle Dynamic Control
(VDC) system is disabled and the VDC light
illuminates when the E-Lock system is ON.

ELECTRONIC LOCKING REAR
DIFFERENTIAL (E-Lock) SYSTEM (if
so equipped)

Starting and driving

5-29

WARNING

● Never leave the E-Lock system ON when

driving

on

paved

or

hard-surfaced

roads. Turning the vehicle may result in
the rear wheels slipping and result in an
accident and personal injury. After us-
ing the E-Lock system to free the ve-
hicle, turn the system OFF.

● Use the E-Lock system only when free-

ing a stuck vehicle. Try the 4LO position
before using the E-Lock system. Never
use the E-Lock system on a slippery
road surface such as snow or ice sur-
face. Using the E-Lock system when
driving in these road conditions may
cause unexpected movement of the ve-
hicle during engine braking, accelerat-
ing or turning, which may result in an
accident and serious personal injury.

CAUTION

● After using the E-Lock system, turn the

switch OFF to prevent possible damage
to driveline components from extended
use.

● Do not drive the vehicle at speeds faster

than 12 MPH (20 km/h) when the sys-
tem is engaged. Doing so could damage
drivetrain components.

● Do not turn on the E-lock system while

the tires are spinning. Doing so could
damage drivetrain components.

5-30

Starting and driving

WARNING

● Do not stop or park the vehicle over

flammable materials such as dry grass,
waste paper or rags. They may ignite
and cause a fire.

● Safe parking procedures require that

both the parking brake be set and the
transmission placed into P (Park) for
automatic transmission models or in an
appropriate gear for manual transmis-
sion models. Failure to do so could
cause the vehicle to move unexpectedly
or roll away and result in an accident.

Make sure the shift lever has been
pushed as far forward as it can go and
cannot be moved without depressing
the foot brake pedal.

● Never leave the engine running while

the vehicle is unattended.

● Do not leave children unattended inside

the vehicle. They could unknowingly ac-
tivate switches or controls. Unattended
children could become involved in seri-
ous accidents.

1. Firmly apply the parking brake.

2. Manual transmission models:

Place the shift lever in the R (Reverse) posi-
tion. When parking on an uphill grade, place
the shift lever in 1st gear.

Automatic transmission models:

Move the shift lever to the P (Park) position.

3. To help prevent the vehicle from rolling into

traffic when parked on an incline, it is a good
practice to turn the wheels as illustrated.

● HEADED DOWNHILL WITH CURB:

䊊

A

Turn the wheels into the curb and move the
vehicle forward until the curb side wheel
gently touches the curb.

● HEADED UPHILL WITH CURB:

䊊

B

Turn the wheels away from the curb and
move the vehicle back until the curb side
wheel gently touches the curb.

● HEADED UPHILL OR DOWNHILL, NO

CURB:

䊊

C

Turn the wheels toward the side of the road
so the vehicle will move away from the cen-
ter of the road if it moves.

4. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position

and remove the key.

WSD0050

PARKING/PARKING ON HILLS

Starting and driving

5-31

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

● While 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.

● If 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
effect of the parking brake is weakened or when-
ever the parking brake shoes and/or drum/rotors
are replaced, in order to assure the best brake
performance.

POWER STEERING

BRAKE SYSTEM

5-32

Starting and driving

This procedure is described in the vehicle service
manual and can be performed by a NISSAN
dealer.

ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
(ABS)

WARNING

● The 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.

● Tire type and condition may also affect

braking effectiveness.

– When replacing tires, install the

specified size of tires on all 4 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. For additional in-
formation, refer to “Tire and Loading
Information label” in the “Technical
and consumer information” section
of this manual.

– For additional information, refer to

“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.

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
pedal. This is normal and does not indicate a
malfunction. If the computer senses a malfunc-
tion, it switches the ABS off and illuminates the
ABS warning light on the instrument panel. The
brake system then operates normally, but without
anti-lock assistance.

If the ABS warning light illuminates during the
self-test or while driving, have the vehicle
checked by a NISSAN dealer.

Normal operation

The ABS operates at speeds above 3 - 6 MPH (5
- 10 km/h). The speed varies according to road
conditions.

Starting and driving

5-33

When the ABS senses that 1 or more wheels are
close to locking up, the actuator rapidly applies
and releases hydraulic pressure. 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 operating. 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 re-
quired while driving.

● ABLS system uses automatic braking to

transfer power from a slipping drive wheel to
the wheel on the same axle with more trac-
tion. The ABLS system applies braking to
the slipping wheel, which helps redirect
power to the other wheel.

● On 4WD models the ABLS system operates

in both 4H and 4LO modes. If 4WD mode is
engaged, the ABLS system operates for
both drive axles. On 2WD vehicles, the
ABLS system operates on the drive axle
only.

● The ABLS system is always ON. In some

conditions, the system may automatically
turn the ABLS system off. If the system is
automatically turned off, normal brake func-
tion will continue. ABLS will function even
when the VDC system is turned OFF.

● The ABLS does not operate if both wheels

on a drive axle are slipping.

WARNING

● The ABLS system helps provide in-

creased traction, but will not prevent
accidents due to abrupt steering opera-
tion or by careless driving or dangerous
driving practices. Reduce vehicle speed
and be especially careful when driving
and cornering on slippery surfaces. Al-
ways drive carefully.

● Do not modify the vehicle’s suspension.

If suspension parts such as shock ab-
sorbers, struts, springs, stabilizer bars,
bushings and wheels are not NISSAN
approved for your vehicle or are ex-
tremely deteriorated, the ABLS system
may not operate properly. This could
adversely affect vehicle handling per-
formance, and the slip indicator light
may illuminate.

● If brake related parts such as brake

pads,

rotors

and

calipers

are

not

NISSAN recommended or are extremely
deteriorated, the ABLS system may not
operate properly and the slip indicator
light may illuminate.

● If wheels or tires other than the NISSAN

recommended ones are used, the ABLS
system may not operate properly and
the slip indicator light may illuminate.

ACTIVE BRAKE LIMITED SLIP (ABLS)
SYSTEM

5-34

Starting and driving

The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system uses
various sensors to monitor driver inputs and ve-
hicle motion. Under certain driving conditions,
the VDC System helps to perform the following
functions:

● Controls brake pressure to reduce wheel

slip on one slipping drive wheel so power is
transferred to a non slipping drive wheel on
the same axle.

● Controls brake pressure and engine output

to reduce drive wheel slip based on vehicle
speed (traction control function).

● If the 4WD transfer case is shifted into 4LO

the

indicator light will come on and

the VDC system will be turned off. For addi-
tional information, refer to “Using 4-wheel
drive (4WD)” in this section.

● Controls brake pressure at individual wheels

and engine output to help the driver maintain
control of the vehicle in the following condi-
tions:

– understeer (vehicle tends to not follow

the steered path despite increased steer-
ing input)

– oversteer (vehicle tends to spin due to

certain road or driving conditions)

The VDC system can help the driver to maintain
control of the vehicle, but it cannot prevent loss of
vehicle control in all driving situations.

When the VDC system operates, the

indi-

cator in the instrument panel flashes so note the
following:

● The road may be slippery or the system may

determine some action is required to help
keep the vehicle on the steered path.

● You may feel a pulsation in the brake pedal

and hear a noise or vibration from under the
hood. This is normal and indicates that the
VDC system is working properly.

● Adjust your speed and driving to the road

conditions.

For additional information, refer to “Slip indicator
light” and ”Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) OFF
indicator light” in the ”Instruments and controls”
section of this manual.

If a malfunction occurs in the system, the
indicator light will come on in the instrument
panel. The VDC system automatically turns off
when these indicator lights are off.

The VDC OFF switch is used to turn off the VDC
system. The

indicator illuminates to indi-

cate the VDC system is off.

When the VDC 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 flashes if this occurs. All other VDC
functions are off and the

indicator 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 feature
that tests the system each time you start the
engine and move the vehicle forward 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
indication of a malfunction.

WARNING

● The VDC system is designed to help the

driver maintain stability but does not
prevent accidents due to abrupt steer-
ing operation at high speeds or by care-
less or dangerous driving techniques.
Reduce vehicle speed and be especially
careful when driving and cornering on
slippery surfaces and always drive
carefully.

VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
SYSTEM

Starting and driving

5-35

● Do not modify the vehicle’s suspension.

If suspension parts such as shock ab-
sorbers, struts, springs, stabilizer 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 per-
formance, and the

indicator may

flash or the

indicator light may

illuminate.

● If brake related parts such as brake

pads,

rotors

and

calipers

are

not

NISSAN recommended or are extremely
deteriorated, the VDC system may not
operate properly and the

indica-

tor light may illuminate.

● If engine control related parts are not

NISSAN recommended or are extremely
deteriorated, the

indicator light

may illuminate.

● When driving on extremely inclined sur-

faces such as higher banked corners,
the VDC system may not operate prop-
erly and the

indicator may flash or

the

indicator light 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 may flash or

the

indicator light may illuminate.

This is not a malfunction. Restart the
engine after 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

may

flash

or

the

indicator light may illuminate.

● The VDC system is not a substitute for

winter tires or tire chains on a snow
covered road.

WARNING

● Never rely solely on the hill descent

control system to control vehicle speed
when driving on steep downhill 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 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.

● The 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-

HILL DESCENT CONTROL SYSTEM (if
so equipped)

5-36

Starting and driving

centrate on steering while reducing the burden of
brake and accelerator operation.

● When additional braking is required on

steep downhill roads, activate the hill de-
scent control system by pushing the switch
ON. For additional information, refer to “Hill
descent control switch” in the “Instruments
and controls” section of this manual.

● Once the system is activated, the indicator

light will remain on in the instrument panel.
For additional information, refer to “Hill de-
scent control system on indicator light” in the
“Instruments and controls” section of this
manual.

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 shift lever in 2 (Second
gear) or 1 (Low gear) for engine braking.

WARNING

● Never 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 ve-
hicle from rolling backwards may result
in a loss of control of the vehicle and
possible serious injury or death.

● The 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.

● The 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.

When the vehicle is stopped on a hill, the hill start
assist system automatically keeps the brakes ap-
plied. This helps prevents the vehicle from rolling
backward in the time it takes the driver to release
the brake pedal and apply the accelerator.

Hill start assist will operate automatically under
the following conditions:

● The shift lever is shifted to a forward or

reverse gear.

● The 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 shift
lever is shifted into N (Neutral) or P (Park) or on a
flat and level road.

HILL START ASSIST SYSTEM (if so
equipped)

Starting and driving

5-37

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.

ANTIFREEZE

In the winter when it is anticipated that the tem-
perature will drop below 32°F (0°C), check the
antifreeze to assure proper winter protection. For
additional information, refer to “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 additional information, refer to “Bat-
tery” in the “Maintenance and do-it-yourself” sec-
tion 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 additional information, refer to “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 4 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 jurisdic-
tions 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.

3. Tire chains may be used. For additional in-

formation, refer to “Tire chains” in the “Main-
tenance and do-it-yourself” section of this
manual.

SPECIAL WINTER EQUIPMENT

It is recommended that the following items be
carried in the vehicle during winter:

● A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to remove

ice and snow from the windows and wiper
blades.

● A sturdy, flat board to be placed under the

jack to give it firm support.

● A shovel to dig the vehicle out of snowdrifts.
● Extra washer fluid to refill the windshield-

washer fluid reservoir.

DRIVING ON SNOW OR ICE

WARNING

● Wet ice (32°F, 0°C and freezing rain),

very cold snow or ice can be slick and
very hard to drive on. The vehicle will
have much less traction or “grip” under
these conditions. Try to avoid driving on
wet ice until the road is salted or
sanded.

● Whatever the condition, drive with cau-

tion. Accelerate and slow down with
care. If accelerating or downshifting too
fast, the drive wheels will lose even
more traction.

COLD WEATHER DRIVING

5-38

Starting and driving

● Allow more stopping distance under

these conditions. Braking should be
started sooner than on dry pavement.

● Allow greater following distances on

slippery roads.

● Watch for slippery spots (glare ice).

These may appear on an otherwise
clear road in shaded areas. If a patch of
ice is seen ahead, brake before reach-
ing it. Try not to brake while on the ice,
and

avoid

any

sudden

steering

maneuvers.

● Do not use the cruise control on slip-

pery roads.

● Snow can trap dangerous exhaust

gases under your vehicle. Keep snow
clear of the exhaust pipe and from
around your vehicle.

ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (if so
equipped)

Engine block heaters are used to assist with cold
temperature starting.

The engine block heater should be used when
the outside temperature is 20°F (-7°C) or lower.

WARNING

● Do not use your engine block heater

with an ungrounded electrical system or
a 2-pronged adapter. You can be seri-
ously injured by an electrical shock if
you use an ungrounded connection.

● Disconnect and properly store the en-

gine block heater cord before starting
the engine. Damage to the cord could
result in an electrical shock and can
cause serious injury.

● Use a heavy-duty 3-wire, 3-pronged ex-

tension cord rated for at least 10 A. Plug
the extension cord into a Ground Fault
Interrupt

(GFI)

protected,

grounded

110-VAC outlet. Failure to use the
proper extension cord or a grounded
outlet can result in a fire or electrical
shock

and

cause

serious

personal

injury.

To use the engine block heater:

1. Turn the engine off.

2. Open the hood and unwrap the engine block

heater cord.

3. Plug the engine block heater cord into a

grounded

3-wire,

3-pronged

extension

cord.

4. Plug the extension cord into a Ground Fault

Interrupt (GFI) protected, grounded 110-
volt AC (VAC) outlet.

5. The engine block heater must be plugged in

for at least 2 to 4 hours, depending on
outside temperatures, to properly warm the
engine coolant. Use an appropriate timer to
turn the engine block heater on.

6. Before starting the engine, unplug and prop-

erly store the cord to keep it away from
moving parts.

Starting and driving

5-39

MEMO

5-40

Starting and driving

6 In case of emergency

Hazard warning flasher switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
First aid kit (if so equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Flat tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Changing a flat tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Jump starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10

Push starting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12
If your vehicle overheats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12
Towing your vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13

Towing recommended by NISSAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13
Vehicle recovery (freeing a stuck vehicle) . . . . . . . . . 6-15

Push the switch on to warn other drivers when
you must stop or park under emergency condi-
tions. All turn signal lights flash.

WARNING

● If stopping for an emergency, be sure to

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 haz-

ard 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.

LIC0394

HAZARD WARNING FLASHER
SWITCH

6-2

In case of emergency