EMERGENCY ENGINE SHUT OFF FLAT TIRE

To shut off the engine in an emergency situation while driving, perform the following procedure:

.

Rapidly push the push-button ignition switch

3 consecutive times in less than 1.5

seconds, or

.

Push and hold the push-button ignition switch for more than 2 seconds.

TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYS-

TEM (TPMS)

This vehicle is equipped with the Tire Pressure

Monitoring System (TPMS). It monitors tire pressure of all tires except the spare. When the low tire pressure warning light is lit and the

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE warning appears on the vehicle information display, one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. If the vehicle is being driven with low tire pressure, the

TPMS will activate and warn you of it by the low tire pressure warning light. This system will activate only when the vehicle is driven at speeds above 16 MPH (25 km/h). For more details, see “Warning lights, indicator lights and audible reminders” (P.2-10) and “Tire Pressure

Monitoring System (TPMS)” (P.5-3).

WARNING

.

If the low tire pressure warning light illuminates while driving, avoid sudden steering maneuvers or abrupt braking, reduce vehicle speed, pull off the road to a safe location and stop the vehicle as soon as possible. Driving with under-inflated tires may permanently damage the tires and increase the likelihood of tire failure. Serious vehicle damage could occur and may lead to an accident and could result in serious personal injury. Check the tire pressure for all four tires. Adjust the tire pressure to the recommended COLD tire pressure shown on the Tire and

Loading Information label to turn the low tire pressure warning light

OFF. If the light still illuminates while driving after adjusting the tire pressure, a tire may be flat. If you have a flat tire, replace it with a spare tire as soon as possible.

.

When a spare tire is mounted or a wheel is replaced, the TPMS will not function and the low tire pressure warning light will flash for approximately 1 minute. The light will remain on after 1 minute. Contact your NISSAN dealer as soon as possible for tire replacement and/ or system resetting.

.

Replacing tires with those not originally specified by NISSAN could affect the proper operation of the

TPMS.

.

NISSAN recommends using only

Genuine NISSAN Emergency Tire

In case of emergency 6-3

Sealant provided with your vehicle.

Other tire sealants may damage the valve stem seal which can cause the tire to lose air pressure. Visit a

NISSAN dealer as soon as possible after using tire repair sealant (for models equipped with the emergency tire puncture repair kit).

CHANGING A FLAT TIRE (for models with spare tire)

If you have a flat tire, follow the instructions below.

Stopping the vehicle

1. Safely move the vehicle off the road and away from traffic.

2. Turn on the hazard warning flashers.

3. Park on a level surface and apply the parking brake. Move the shift lever to the P (Park) position (Automatic transmission models).

Move the shift lever to the R (Reverse) gear

(Manual transmission models).

4. Turn off the engine.

5. Raise the hood to warn other traffic, and to signal professional road assistance personnel that you need assistance.

6. Have all passengers get out of the vehicle and stand in a safe place, away from traffic and clear of the vehicle.

WARNING

.

Make sure the parking brake is securely applied and the manual transmission is shifted into R (Reverse), or the automatic transmission into P (Park).

.

Never change tires when the vehicle is on a slope, ice or slippery areas.

This is hazardous.

.

Never change tires if oncoming traffic is close to your vehicle. Wait for professional road assistance.

MCE0001A

Blocking wheels

Place suitable blocks

* at both the front and back of the wheel diagonally opposite the flat tire to prevent the vehicle from moving when it is jacked up.

WARNING

Be sure to block the wheel as the vehicle may move and result in personal injury.

6-4 In case of emergency

Without subwoofer

With subwoofer

SCE0844

SCE0807

Getting the spare tire and tools

Remove jacking tools

* located under the cargo room/trunk as illustrated.

For Coupe models, unfasten the belts and lift the jack up to remove.

Models without subwoofer:

Remove the spacer

* counterclockwise, then remove the spare tire.

*

, and turn the retainer

Models with subwoofer:

Remove the spare tire cover retainer

*

. Turn the counterclockwise, remove the subwoofer

B

* and place it on the side of the cargo room (with the flat surface facing down), then carefully remove the spare tire.

Jacking up the vehicle and removing the damaged tire

on other vehicles. The jack is designed for lifting only your vehicle during a tire change.

.

Use the correct jack-up points.

Never use any other part of the vehicle for jack support.

.

Never jack up the vehicle more than necessary.

.

Never use blocks on or under the jack.

.

Do not start or run the engine while vehicle is on the jack, as it may cause the vehicle to move. This is especially true for vehicles with limited slip differentials.

.

Do not allow passengers to stay in the vehicle while it is on the jack.

Carefully read the caution label attached to the jack body and the following instructions.

WARNING

.

Never get under the vehicle while it is supported only by the jack. If it is necessary to work under the vehicle, support it with safety stands.

.

Use only the jack provided with your vehicle to lift the vehicle. Do not use the jack provided with your vehicle

In case of emergency 6-5

SCE0790

Jack-up point

1. Place the jack directly under the jack-up point as illustrated so the top of the jack contacts the vehicle at the jack-up point.

Align the jack head between the two notches in the front or the rear as shown.

Also fit the groove of the jack head between the notches as shown.

The jack should be used on level firm ground.

2. Loosen each wheel nut one or two turns by turning counterclockwise with the wheel nut wrench.

Do not remove the wheel nuts until the tire is off the ground.

3. To lift the vehicle, securely hold the jack lever and rod with both hands as shown above.

Carefully raise the vehicle until the tire clears the ground. Remove the wheel nuts, and then remove the tire.

6-6 In case of emergency

SCE0504

SCE0661

Installing the spare tire

The T-type spare tire is designed for emergency use. (See specific instructions under the heading “Wheels and tires” (P.8-

30).)

1. Clean any mud or dirt from the surface between the wheel and hub.

2. Carefully put the spare tire on and tighten the wheel nuts finger tight. Check that all the wheel nuts contact the wheel surface horizontally.

Models equipped with different sized tires in the front and rear:

When replacing a front tire, make sure that the hole in the spare tire wheel is aligned with the pin on the brake rotor.

3. With the wheel nut wrench, tighten wheel nuts alternately and evenly in the sequence as illustrated (

*

, , , , ) until they are tight.

4. Lower the vehicle slowly until the tire touches the ground. Then, with the wheel nut wrench, tighten the wheel nuts securely in the sequence as illustrated. Lower the vehicle completely.

WARNING

.

Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose or come off.

This could cause an accident.

.

Do not use oil or grease on the wheel studs or nuts. This could cause the nuts to become loose.

.

Retighten the wheel nuts when the vehicle has been driven for 600 miles (1,000 km) (also in cases of a flat tire, etc.).

.

As soon as possible, tighten the wheel nuts to the specified torque with a torque wrench.

Wheel nut tightening torque:

80 ft-lb (108 N·m)

The wheel nuts must be kept tightened to specification at all times. It is recommended that wheel nuts be tightened to specifications at each lubrication interval.

.

Adjust tire pressure to the COLD pressure.

COLD pressure:

After the vehicle has been parked for three hours or more or driven less than

1 mile (1.6 km).

COLD tire pressures are shown on the

Tire and Loading Information label affixed to the driver side center pillar.

Stowing the damaged tire and tools

Coupe models:

1. Securely store the damaged tire and jacking tools in the storage area.

2. Place the spare tire cover and the cargo room carpet over the damaged tire.

3. Close the rear hatch.

In case of emergency 6-7

SCE0845

Roadster models:

Securely store the jacking tools in the storage area.

Place the spare tire cover and trunk room carpet back in the trunk, and then close the trunk lid.

Securely store the damaged tire according to the following procedure as illustrated.

1. Put the damaged tire in the plastic bag stored in the trunk.

2. Move the passenger seat forward, and then place the damaged tire

* wrapped in the plastic bag behind the seat.

3. Move the passenger seat backward to secure the damaged tire.

6-8 In case of emergency

WARNING

.

Always make sure that the spare tire and jacking equipment are properly secured after use. Such items can become dangerous projectiles in an accident or sudden stop.

.

The spare tire is designed for emergency use. See specific instructions under the heading “Wheels and tires” (P.8-30).

REPAIRING FLAT TIRE (for models with emergency tire puncture repair kit)

WARNING

.

After using Emergency Tire Sealant to repair a minor tire puncture, do not drive the vehicle at speeds faster than 50 MPH (80 km/h).

.

Immediately after using the Emergency Tire Sealant to repair a minor tire puncture, take your vehicle to a

NISSAN dealer to inspect, and repair or replace the tire. The Emerg e n c y T i r e S e a l a n t c a n n o t permanently seal a punctured tire.

Continuing operation of the vehicle without a permanent tire repair can lead to a crash.

.

NISSAN recommends using only

Genuine NISSAN Emergency Tire

Sealant provided with your vehicle.

Other tire sealants may damage the valve stem seal which can cause the tire to lose air pressure. Visit a

NISSAN dealer as soon as possible after using tire repair sealant.

This vehicle does not have a spare tire. The emergency tire puncture repair kit (Emergency

Tire Sealant) is supplied with the vehicle instead of a spare tire. It can be used to temporarily repair minor tire punctures.

If possible, have the vehicle towed to a facility that can repair or replace the flat tire. Using the emergency tire puncture repair kit may cause a malfunction of the tire pressure sensor and cause the low tire pressure warning light to illuminate.

If you have a flat tire, follow the instructions below.

CAUTION

.

To avoid the emergency tire puncture repair kit being damaged during storage or use:

— Only use the emergency tire puncture repair kit on your vehicle. Do not use it on other vehicles.

— Only use the kit to inflate the tires of your vehicle and to check the vehicle’s tire pressure.

— Only plug the compressor into a

12V DC car power point.

— Keep the kit free of water and dirt.

— Do not disassemble or modify the kit.

— Do not drop the kit or allow hard impacts to the kit.

.

Do not use the emergency tire puncture repair kit under the following conditions. Contact a NISSAN dealer or professional road assistance.

— when the sealant has passed its expiration date (shown on the label attached to the bottle)

— when the cut or the puncture is approximately 0.25 in (6 mm) or longer

— when the tire sidewall is damaged

— when the vehicle has been driven with extremely low tire pressure

— when the tire has come off the inside or the outside of the wheel.

— when the tire wheel is damaged

— when two or more tires are flat

Stopping the vehicle

1. Safely move the vehicle off the road and away from traffic.

2. Turn on the hazard warning flashers.

3. Park on a level surface and apply the parking brake.

4.

Automatic Transmission models:

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

Manual Transmission models:

Move the shift lever to the R (Reverse) position.

5. Turn off the engine.

6. Raise the hood to warn other traffic and to signal professional road assistance personnel that you need assistance.

7. Have all passengers get out of the vehicle and stand in a safe place, away from traffic and clear of the vehicle.

WARNING

Make sure the parking brake is securely applied and the manual transmission is shifted into R (Reverse) or the automatic transmission into P (Park).

.

Never repair tires when the vehicle is on a slope, ice or slippery areas.

This is hazardous.

.

Never repair tires if oncoming traffic is close to your vehicle. Wait for professional road assistance.

In case of emergency 6-9

JVE0122X

Getting emergency tire puncture repair kit

Take out the emergency tire puncture repair kit located under the cargo room or in the trunk.

The repair kit consists of the following items:

*

2

*

Tire sealant bottle

Air compressor*

Speed restriction sticker

*: The compressor shape may differ depending on the models.

NOTE:

For models with the emergency tire puncture repair kit, a spare tire, jack and rod are not equipped as standard. These parts are

6-10 In case of emergency dealer options. Contact a NISSAN dealer about obtaining these parts. See “Changing a flat tire (for models with spare tire)”

(P.6-4) for usage of jacking tools and tire replacement.

Before using emergency tire puncture repair kit

.

If any foreign object (for example, a screw or nail) is embedded in the tire, do not remove it.

.

Check the expiration date of the sealant

(shown on the label attached to the bottle).

Never use a sealant whose expiration date has passed.

Repairing tire

seek prompt medical attention.

.

Keep the repair compound out of the reach of children.

.

The emergency repair compound may cause a malfunction of the tire pressure sensors and cause the low tire pressure warning light to illuminate. Have the tire pressure sensor replaced as soon as possible.

NOTE:

Do not remove any nails or screws that have penetrated the tire when performing repairs.

WARNING

Observe the following precautions when using the tire repair compound.

.

Swallowing the compound is dangerous. Immediately drink as much water as possible and seek prompt medical assistance.

.

Rinse well with lots of water if the compound comes into contact with skin or eyes. If irritation persists,

JVE0014X

1. Take out the speed restriction sticker from the air compressor*, then put it in a location where the driver can see it while driving.

*: The compressor shape may differ depending on the models.

CAUTION

Do not put the speed restriction label on the steering wheel pad, the speedometer or the warning light locations.

SCE0868

2. Take the hose

* and the power plug

* out of the air compressor. Remove the cap of the bottle holder from the air compressor.

SCE0869

3. Remove the cap from the tire sealant bottle, and screw the bottle clockwise onto the bottle holder. (Leave the bottle seal intact.

Screwing the bottle onto the bottle holder will pierce the seal of the bottle.)

4. Remove the cap from the tire valve on the flat tire.

In case of emergency 6-11

SCE0870

5. Remove the protective cap

* of the hose and screw the hose securely onto the tire valve. Make sure that the pressure release valve

* is securely tightened. Make sure that the air compressor switch is in the OFF

(

*

) position, and then insert its power plug into the power outlet in the vehicle.

SCE0871

6. Push the ignition switch to the “ACC” position. Then turn the compressor switch to the ON ( í ) position and inflate the tire up to the pressure that is specified on the tire and loading information label affixed to the driver’s side center pillar if possible, or to the minimum of 26 psi (180 kPa). Turn the air compressor off briefly in order to check the tire pressure with the pressure gauge.

If the tire is inflated to higher than the specified pressure, lower the tire pressure by releasing air with the pressure release valve.

NOTE:

The compressor tire pressure gauge may show a pressure reading of 87 psi

(600 kPa) for about 30 seconds while inflating the tire. The pressure gauge is indicating the pressure inside the sealant can. When the sealant has been injected into the tire the pressure gauge will drop and indicate actual tire pressure.

WARNING

.

To avoid serious personal injury while using the emergency tire puncture repair kit:

— Securely tighten the compressor hose to the tire valve. Failure to do so can cause the sealant to spray into the air and get into your eyes or on the skin.

.

Do not stand directly beside the damaged tire while it is being inflated because of the risk of the rupture. If there are any cracks or bumps, turn the compressor off immediately.

If the tire pressure does not increase to 26

6-12 In case of emergency

psi (180 kPa) within 10 minutes , the tire may be seriously damaged and the tire cannot be repaired with this tire repair kit.

Contact a NISSAN dealer.

7. When the tire pressure is at the specified amount, turn the air compressor off. If the pressure cannot be inflated to the specified amount, the air compressor can be turned off at the minimum of 26 psi (180 kPa).

Remove the power plug from the power outlet and quickly remove the hose from the tire valve. Attach the protective cap and valve cap. Properly stow the emergency tire puncture repair kit in the trunk.

CAUTION

To avoid serious personal injury when stowing the emergency tire puncture repair kit:

.

Keep the sealant bottle screwed into the compressor. Failure to do so can cause the sealant to spray into the air and get into your eyes or on the skin.

8. Immediately drive the vehicle for 10 minutes or 2 miles (3 km) at a speed of 50 MPH (80 km/h) or less.

9. After driving, make sure that the air compressor switch is in the OFF position, then screw the hose securely onto the tire valve.

Check the tire pressure with the pressure gauge. The temporary repair is completed if the tire pressure does not drop.

Make sure the pressure is adjusted to the pressure that is specified on the tire and loading information label before driving.

10. If the tire pressure drops, repeat the steps from 5 to 9. If the pressure drops again or under 19 psi (130 kPa), the tire cannot be repaired with this tire repair kit.

Contact a NISSAN dealer.

The sealant bottle and hose can not be reused to repair another punctured tire.

Contact a NISSAN dealer to purchase replacements.

After repairing tire

See a NISSAN dealer for tire repair/replacement as soon as possible.

WARNING

.

After using Emergency Tire Sealant to repair a minor tire puncture, do not drive the vehicle at speeds faster than 50 MPH (80 km/h).

.

Immediately after using Emergency

Tire Sealant to repair a minor tire puncture, take your vehicle to a

NISSAN dealer to inspect, and repair or replace the tire. The Emerg e n c y T i r e S e a l a n t c a n n o t permanently seal a punctured tire.

Continuing operation of the vehicle without a permanent tire repair can lead to a crash.

.

NISSAN recommends using only

Genuine NISSAN Emergency Tire

Sealant provided with your vehicle.

Other tire sealants may damage the valve stem seal which can cause the tire to lose air pressure. Visit a

NISSAN dealer as soon as possible after using tire repair sealant.

In case of emergency 6-13

JUMP STARTING

To start your engine with a booster battery, the instructions and precautions below must be followed.

WARNING

.

If done incorrectly, jump starting can lead to a battery explosion, resulting in severe injury or death.

It could also damage your vehicle.

.

Explosive hydrogen gas is always present in the vicinity of the battery.

Keep all sparks and flames away from the battery.

.

Do not allow battery fluid to come into contact with eyes, skin, clothing or painted surfaces. Battery fluid is a corrosive sulphuric acid solution which can cause severe burns. If the fluid should come into contact with anything, immediately flush the contacted area with water.

.

Keep the battery out of the reach of children.

.

The booster battery must be rated at

12 volts. Use of an improperly rated battery can damage your vehicle.

.

Whenever working on or near a battery, always wear suitable eye protectors (for example, goggles or industrial safety spectacles) and remove rings, metal bands, or any other jewelry. Do not lean over the battery when jump starting.

.

Do not attempt to jump start a frozen battery. It could explode and cause serious injury.

.

Your vehicle has an automatic engine cooling fan. It could come on at any time. Keep hands and other objects away from it.

6-14 In case of emergency

CAUTION

.

Always connect positive (+) to positive (+) and negative ( í ) to body ground (as illustrated) — not to the battery.

.

Make sure the jumper cables do not touch moving parts in the engine compartment and that clamps do not contact any other metal.

WARNING

Always follow the instructions below.

Failure to do so could result in damage to the charging system and cause personal injury.

1. If the booster battery is in another vehicle

*

, position the two vehicles (

* and

*

) to bring their batteries into close proximity to each other.

Do not allow the two vehicles to touch.

SCE0791

2. Apply parking brake. Move the shift lever to the P (Park) position (Automatic transmission models). Move the shift lever to the N

(Neutral) position (Manual transmission models). Switch off all unnecessary electrical systems (light, heater, air conditioner, etc.).

3. Remove vent caps on the battery (if so equipped). Cover the battery with a firmly wrung out moist cloth

* to reduce explosion hazard.

4. Connect jumper cables in the sequence as illustrated (

*

?

?

?

).

5. Start the engine of the booster vehicle and let it run for a few minutes.

6. Keep the engine speed of the booster vehicle

* at about 2,000 rpm, and start the engine of the vehicle being jump started

*

.

CAUTION

Do not keep the starter motor engaged for more than 10 seconds. If the engine does not start right away, push the ignition switch to the OFF position and wait 10 seconds before trying again.

In case of emergency 6-15

PUSH STARTING

7. After starting your engine, carefully disconnect the negative cable and then the positive cable (

* ?

* ?

* ?

*

).

8. Replace the vent caps (if so equipped). Be sure to dispose of the cloth used to cover the vent holes as it may be contaminated with corrosive acid.

9. Put the battery cover on.

Do not attempt to start the engine by pushing.

CAUTION

.

Automatic transmission models cannot be push-started or towstarted. Attempting to do so may cause transmission damage.

.

Three way catalyst equipped models should not be started by pushing since the three way catalyst may be damaged.

.

Never try to start the vehicle by towing it; when the engine starts, the forward surge could cause the vehicle to collide with the tow vehicle.

IF YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS

CAUTION

.

Do not continue to drive if your vehicle overheats. Doing so could cause engine damage or a vehicle fire.

.

To avoid the danger of being scalded, never remove the radiator cap while the engine is still hot.

When the radiator cap is removed, pressurized hot water will spurt out, possibly causing serious injury.

.

Do not open the hood if steam is coming out.

If your vehicle is overheating (indicated by an extremely high temperature gauge reading), or if you feel a lack of engine power, detect abnormal noise, etc., take the following steps:

1. Move the vehicle safely off the road, apply the parking brake and move the shift lever to the P (Park) position (Automatic transmission models). Move the shift lever to the N

(Neutral) position (Manual transmission models).

Do not stop the engine.

6-16 In case of emergency

2. Turn off the air conditioner. Open all the windows, move the heater or air conditioner temperature control to maximum hot and fan control to high speed.

3. If engine overheating is caused by climbing a long hill on a hot day, run the engine at a fast idle (approximately 1,500 rpm) until the temperature gauge indication returns to normal.

4. Get out of the vehicle. Look and listen for steam or coolant escaping from the radiator before opening the hood. (If steam or coolant is escaping, turn off the engine.)

Do not open the hood further until no steam or coolant can be seen.

5. Open the engine hood.

WARNING

Be careful not to allow your hands, hair, jewelry or clothing to come into contact with, or get caught in, engine belts or the engine cooling fan. The engine cooling fan can start at any time.

7. After the engine cools down, check the coolant level in the reservoir with the engine running. Add coolant to the reservoir if necessary. Have your vehicle repaired at the nearest NISSAN dealer.

WARNING

If steam or water is coming from the engine, stand clear to prevent getting burned.

6. Visually check if the cooling fan is running.

The radiator hoses and radiator should not leak water. If coolant is leaking or the cooling fan does not run, stop the engine.

In case of emergency 6-17

TOWING YOUR VEHICLE

When towing your vehicle, all State (Provincial in

Canada) and local regulations for towing must be followed. Incorrect towing equipment could damage your vehicle. Towing instructions are available from a NISSAN dealer. Local service operators are familiar with the applicable laws and procedures for towing. To assure proper towing and to prevent accidental damage to your vehicle, NISSAN recommends that you have a service operator tow your vehicle. It is advisable to have the service operator carefully read the following precautions.

.

Always attach safety chains before towing.

For information about towing your vehicle behind a recreational vehicle (RV), see “Flat towing”

(P.9-21) of this manual.

WARNING

.

Never ride in a vehicle that is being towed.

.

Never get under your vehicle after it has been lifted by a tow truck.

CAUTION

.

When towing, make sure that the transmission, axles, steering system and drivetrain are in working condition. If any unit is damaged, dollies must be used.

6-18 In case of emergency

TOWING RECOMMENDED BY

NISSAN (except for NISMO models)

NISSAN recommends that your vehicle be towed with the driving (rear) wheels off the ground or place the vehicle on a flat bed truck as illustrated.

CAUTION

.

Never tow automatic transmission models with the rear wheels on the ground or four wheels on the ground (forward or backward), as this may cause serious and expen-

SCE0792 sive damage to the drivetrain. If it is necessary to tow the vehicle with the front wheels raised, always use towing dollies under the rear wheels.

.

When towing rear wheel drive models with the front wheels on the ground or on towing dollies: Push the ignition switch to the ACC or ON position, and secure the steering wheel in a straight-ahead position with a rope or similar device.

.

If you have to tow manual transmission models with the rear wheels on the ground (if you do not use towing dollies) or four wheels on the ground:

— Push the ignition switch to the

ON position and turn off all accessories.

— Always release the parking brake.

— Move the transmission shift lever to the N (Neutral) position.

— Observe the following restricted towing speeds and distances for manual transmission models only:

.

.

Rear wheels on the ground:

Speed: Below 50 MPH (80 km/h)

Distance: Less than 50 miles

(80 km)

Four wheels on the ground:

Speed: Below 70 MPH (112 km/h)

Distance: Less than 500 miles

(800 km)

— If the speed or distance must necessarily be greater, remove the propeller shaft before tow-

In case of emergency 6-19

ing to prevent damage to the drivetrain.

6-20 In case of emergency

TOWING RECOMMENDED BY

NISSAN (NISMO models)

CAUTION

Do not tow NISMO models with any wheel on the ground, or with the front or rear wheels raised, because this may cause damage to the front bumper with an aerodynamic splitter, rear bumper with an aerodynamic diffuser or exhaust pipes.

NISSAN recommends that you place the vehicle on a flatbed truck as illustrated.

SCE0836

VEHICLE RECOVERY (freeing a stuck vehicle)

WARNING

.

Stand clear of a stuck vehicle.

.

Do not spin your tires at high speed.

This could cause them to explode and result in serious injury. Parts of your vehicle could also overheat and be damaged.

Pulling a stuck vehicle

If your vehicle is stuck in sand, snow, mud, etc., use a tow strap or other device designed specifically for vehicle recovery. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the recovery device.

SCE0793

1. Access the mounting hole for the recovery hook.

Except for NISMO models: To remove the cover

*

, first unhook the claws

* using a suitable tool wrapped in a cloth, and then pull the lower side of the cover .

For NISMO models: When the front license plate and bracket are installed, temporarily remove them. (See “Installing front license plate” (P.9-14) for the installation procedures.) A screwdriver is supplied with the jacking tools for removal.

2. Securely install the vehicle recovery hook

*

(stored with jacking tools) as illustrated.

Attach the tow strap to the recovery hook.

Do not use the tie down hooks vehicle recovery.

for towing or

Make sure that the hook is properly secured in the original place after use.

Replace the recovery hook cover (except for

NISMO models) or the front license plate (for

NISMO models).

CAUTION

.

Tow chains or cables must be attached only to the vehicle recovery hooks or main structural members of the vehicle. Otherwise, the vehicle body will be damaged.

.

Do not use the vehicle tie downs to free a vehicle stuck in sand, snow, mud, etc.

.

Never tow a vehicle using the vehicle tie downs or recovery hooks.

In case of emergency 6-21

.

Always pull the cable straight out from the front of the vehicle. Never pull on the vehicle at an angle.

.

Pulling devices should be routed so they do not touch any part of the suspension, steering, brake or cooling systems.

.

Pulling devices such as ropes or canvas straps are not recommended for use in vehicle towing or recovery.

Rocking a stuck vehicle

If your vehicle is stuck in sand, snow, mud, etc., use the following procedure:

1. Turn off the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system.

2. Make sure the area in front and behind the vehicle is clear of obstructions.

3. Turn the steering wheel right and left to clear an area around the front tires.

4. Slowly rock the vehicle forward and backward.

.

Shift back and forth between R (Reverse) and D (Drive) (automatic transmission models) or 1st and R (Reverse) (manual transmission models).

6-22 In case of emergency

.

.

.

Apply the accelerator as little as possible to maintain the rocking motion.

Release the accelerator pedal before shifting between R (Reverse) and D

(Drive) (automatic transmission models) or 1st and R (Reverse) (manual transmission models).

Do not spin the tires above 35 MPH (55 km/h).

5. If the vehicle cannot be freed after a few tries, contact a professional towing service to remove the vehicle.

7 Appearance and care

Cleaning exterior ....................................................................... 7-2

Washing ................................................................................. 7-2

Soft top care and cleaning (Roadster models) ........... 7-3

Waxing ................................................................................... 7-3

Removing spots ................................................................... 7-4

Underbody ............................................................................. 7-4

Glass ...................................................................................... 7-4

Wheels ................................................................................... 7-4

Chrome parts ....................................................................... 7-5

Tire dressing ......................................................................... 7-5

Cleaning interior ....................................................................... 7-5

Air fresheners ..................................................................... 7-6

Floor mats ........................................................................... 7-6

Seat belts ............................................................................ 7-7

Corrosion protection ................................................................ 7-7

Most common factors contributing to vehicle corrosion ............................................................... 7-7

Environmental factors influence the rate of corrosion ........................................................................ 7-7

To protect your vehicle from corrosion ....................... 7-8

CLEANING EXTERIOR

In order to maintain the appearance of your vehicle, it is important to take proper care of it.

To protect the paint surface, wash your vehicle as soon as you can:

.

after a rainfall to prevent possible damage from acid rain

.

after driving on coastal roads

.

when contaminants such as soot, bird droppings, tree sap, metal particles or bugs get on the paint surface

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when dust or mud builds up on the surface

Whenever possible, store or park your vehicle inside a garage or in a covered area.

When it is necessary to park outside, park in a shady area or protect the vehicle with a body cover.

Be careful not to scratch the paint surface when putting on or removing the body cover.

WASHING

Wash dirt off the vehicle with a wet sponge and plenty of water. Clean the vehicle thoroughly using a mild soap, a special vehicle soap or general purpose dishwashing liquid mixed with clean, lukewarm (never hot) water.

CAUTION

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Do not use car washes that use acid in the detergent. Some car washes, especially brushless ones, use some acid for cleaning. The acid may react with some plastic vehicle components, causing them to crack. This could affect their appearance, and also could cause them not to function properly. Always check with your car wash to confirm that acid is not used.

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Do not wash the vehicle with strong household soap, strong chemical detergents, gasoline or solvents.

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Do not wash the vehicle in direct sunlight or while the vehicle body is hot, as the surface may become water-spotted.

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Avoid using tight-napped or rough cloths, such as washing mitts. Care must be taken when removing caked-on dirt or other foreign substances so the paint surface is not scratched or damaged.

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For Roadster models, observe the following:

7-2 Appearance and care

— Do not use an automatic car wash or a high pressure car wash. The soft top may be damaged.

— Avoid applying direct water pressure, such as high pressured water from household hoses, on the lining of the soft top and vehicle body. Avoid applying continuous water on the parts around the soft top and the windows. These may cause water to leak into the inside of your vehicle.

Rinse the vehicle thoroughly with plenty of clean water.

Inside flanges, seams and folds on the doors, hatches and hood are particularly vulnerable to the effects of road salt. Therefore, these areas must be regularly cleaned. Make sure that the drain holes in the lower edge of the door are open. Spray water under the body and in the wheel wells to loosen the dirt and wash away road salt.

Avoid leaving water spots on the paint surface by using a damp chamois to dry the vehicle.

JVA0019X

NISMO models

CAUTION

Do not use an automatic car wash for

NISMO models. The rear spoiler may be damaged.

SOFT TOP CARE AND CLEANING

(Roadster models)

Proper care and handling should be observed to maintain a good appearance of the soft top.

Improper care may cause the top cloth’s surface to stiffen, stain, or mat. Follow the instructions shown in this section.

It is not necessary to wash the soft top every time you wash the vehicle body, but clean the top regularly before it becomes quite dirty.

Leaving the soft top dirty or soiled for a long period will cause deterioration to the quality of the top material.

Remove dust or dirt on the soft top with a soft brush or sponge, then rinse it with plenty of clean water. When the top is quite dirty, wash using a mild detergent, such as a general cleaner especially made for a cloth top or a general purpose dish-washing liquid, mixed with clean, lukewarm (never hot) water. Rinse the top again with plenty of clean water to remove all traces of soap.

CAUTION

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Do not use strong household soap, strong chemical detergents, gasoline or solvents.

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If glass cleaner gets on the soft top, immediately wash it off with clean water.

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Do not apply direct water pressure, such as high pressured water from household hoses, on the lining of the soft top and vehicle body, as this may cause water to leak into the inside of your vehicle.

After cleaning, always be sure the top and its storage are completely dry before opening the top. Opening the top while it is wet or damp may cause interior water damage, water stains or mildew on the top.

WAXING

Regular waxing protects the paint surface and helps retain new vehicle appearance. Polishing is recommended to remove built-up wax residue and to avoid a weathered appearance before reapplying wax.

A NISSAN dealer can assist you in choosing the proper product.

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Wax your vehicle only after a thorough washing. Follow the instructions supplied with the wax.

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Do not use a wax containing any abrasives, cutting compounds or cleaners that may

Appearance and care 7-3

damage the vehicle finish.

Machine compound or aggressive polishing on a base coat/clear coat paint finish may dull the finish or leave swirl marks.

REMOVING SPOTS

Remove tar and oil spots, industrial dust, insects, and tree sap as quickly as possible from the paint surface to avoid lasting damage or staining. Special cleaning products are available at a NISSAN dealer or any automotive accessory stores.

UNDERBODY

In areas where road salt is used in winter, the underbody must be cleaned regularly. This will prevent dirt and salt from building up and causing the acceleration of corrosion on the underbody and suspension. Before the winter period and again in the spring, the underseal must be checked and, if necessary, re-treated.

GLASS

Use glass cleaner to remove smoke and dust film from the glass surfaces. It is normal for glass to become coated with a film after the vehicle is parked in the hot sun. Glass cleaner and a soft cloth will easily remove this film.

CAUTION

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When cleaning the inside of the windows, do not use sharp-edged tools, abrasive cleaners or chlorinebased disinfectant cleaners. They could damage the electrical conductors, radio antenna elements or rear window defroster elements.

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If glass cleaner gets on the soft top, immediately wash it off with clean water (Roadster models).

WHEELS

Wash the wheels when washing the vehicle to maintain their appearance.

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Clean the inner side of the wheels when the wheel is changed or the underside of the vehicle is washed.

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Inspect wheel rims regularly for dents or corrosion. Such damage may cause loss of pressure or poor seal at the tire bead.

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NISSAN recommends that the road wheels be waxed to protect against road salt in areas where it is used during winter.

CAUTION

Do not use abrasive cleaners when washing the wheels.

Aluminum alloy wheels

Wash regularly with a sponge dampened in a mild soap solution, especially during winter months in areas where road salt is used. Salt could discolor the wheels if not removed.

CAUTION

Follow the directions below to avoid staining or discoloring the wheels:

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Do not use a cleaner that uses strong acid or alkali contents to clean the wheels.

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Do not apply wheel cleaners to the wheels when they are hot. The wheel temperature should be the same as ambient temperature.

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Rinse the wheel to completely remove the cleaner within 15 minutes after the cleaner is applied.

7-4 Appearance and care

CLEANING INTERIOR

CHROME PARTS

Clean chrome parts regularly with a nonabrasive chrome polish to maintain the finish.

TIRE DRESSING

NISSAN does not recommend the use of tire dressings. Tire manufacturers apply a coating to the tires to help reduce discoloration of the rubber. If a tire dressing is applied to the tires, it may react with the coating and form a compound. This compound may come off the tire while driving and stain the vehicle paint.

If you choose to use a tire dressing, take the following precautions:

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Use a water-based tire dressing. The coating on the tire dissolves more easily with an oil-based tire dressing.

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Apply a light coat of tire dressing to help prevent it from entering the tire tread/ grooves (where it would be difficult to remove).

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Wipe off excess tire dressing using a dry towel. Make sure the tire dressing is completely removed from the tire tread/ grooves.

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Allow the tire dressing to dry as recommended by tire dressing manufacturer.

Occasionally remove loose dust from the interior trim, plastic parts and seats using a vacuum cleaner or soft bristled brush. Wipe the vinyl and leather surfaces with a clean, soft cloth dampened in mild soap solution, then wipe clean with a dry soft cloth.

Regular care and cleaning is required in order to maintain the appearance of the leather.

Before using any fabric protector, read the manufacturer’s recommendations. Some fabric protectors contain chemicals that may stain or bleach the seat material.

Use a cloth dampened only with water, to clean the meter and gauge lens.

WARNING

Do not use water or acidic cleaners (hot steam cleaners) on the seat. This can damage the seat or occupant classification sensor. This can also affect the operation of the air bag system and result in serious personal injury.

CAUTION

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Never use benzine, thinner, or any similar material.

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For cleaning, use a soft cloth, dampened with water. Never use a rough cloth, alcohol, benzine, thinner or any kind of solvent or paper towel with a chemical cleaning agent.

They will scratch or cause discoloration to the lens.

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Do not spray any liquid such as water on the meter lens. Spraying liquid may cause the system to malfunction.

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Small dirt particles can be abrasive and damaging to the leather surfaces and should be removed promptly. Do not use saddle soap, car waxes, polishes, oils, cleaning fluids, solvents, detergents or ammonia-based cleaners as they may damage the leather’s natural finish.

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Only use fabric protectors approved by NISSAN.

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Do not use glass or plastic cleaner on meter or gauge lens covers. It

Appearance and care 7-5

may damage the lens cover.

AIR FRESHENERS

Most air fresheners use a solvent that could affect the vehicle interior. If you use an air freshener, take the following precautions:

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Hanging-type air fresheners can cause permanent discoloration when they contact vehicle interior surfaces. Place the air freshener in a location that allows it to hang free and not contact an interior surface.

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Liquid-type air fresheners typically clip on the vents. These products can cause immediate damage and discoloration when spilled on interior surfaces.

Carefully read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions before using air fresheners.

FLOOR MATS

WARNING

To avoid potential pedal interference that may result in a collision or injury:

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NEVER place a floor mat on top of another floor mat in the driver front position.

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Use only genuine NISSAN floor mats specifically designed for use in your vehicle model. See your

NISSAN dealer for more information.

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Properly position the mats in the floorwell using the floor mat positioning aid. See “Floor mat positioning aid” (P.7-6).

The use of genuine NISSAN floor mats can extend the life of your vehicle carpet and make it easier to clean the interior. Mats should be maintained with regular cleaning and replaced if they become excessively worn.

SAI0044

Floor mat positioning aid

This vehicle includes front floor mat brackets to act as floor mat positioning aid. NISSAN floor mats have been specially designed for your vehicle model. The front floor mats have grommet holes in them. To install, simply position the mat by placing the floor mat bracket hook through the floor mat grommet hole while centering the mat in the floorwell.

Periodically check to make certain that the mats are properly positioned.

7-6 Appearance and care