Nissan 350z 2003 Owner's Manual

Foreword

Welcome to the growing family of new NISSAN owners. This vehicle is delivered to you with confidence. It was produced using the latest techniques and strict quality control.

This manual was prepared to help you understand the operation and maintenance of your vehicle so that you may enjoy many miles of driving pleasure. Please read through this manual before operating your vehicle.

A separate Warranty Information Booklet explains details about the warranties covering your vehicle. The NISSAN Service and Maintenance Guide explains details about maintaining and servicing your vehicle. Additionally, a separate Customer Care/Lemon Law Booklet (U.S. only) will explain how to resolve any concerns you may have with your vehicle, as well as clarify your rights under your state’s lemon law.

Your NISSAN dealer knows your vehicle best. When you require any service or have any questions, he will be glad to assist you with the extensive resources available to him.

READ FIRST — THEN DRIVE SAFELY

Before driving your vehicle please read your Owner’s Manual carefully. This will ensure familiarity with controls and main-

tenance requirements, assisting you in the safe operation of your vehicle.

WARNING

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION REMINDERS FOR SAFETY!

Follow these important driving rules to help ensure a safe and comfortable trip for you and your passengers!

I Never drive under the influence of

alcohol or drugs.

I Always observe posted speed limits

and never drive too fast for conditions.

I Always use your seat belts. Refer to

“Child safety” and “Child restraints” in the “Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems” section for precautions regarding children.

I Always provide information about the

proper use of vehicle safety features to all occupants of the vehicle.

I Always review this Owner’s Manual

for important safety information.

MODIFICATION OF YOUR VEHICLE

This vehicle should not be modified. Modification could affect its performance, safety or durability, and may even violate governmental regulations. In addition, damage or performance problems resulting from modification may not be covered under NISSAN warranties.

WHEN READING THE MANUAL

This manual includes information for all options available on this model. Therefore, you may find some information that does not apply to your vehicle.

All information, specifications and illustrations in this manual are those in effect at the time of printing. NISSAN reserves the right to change specifications or design at any time without notice.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS MANUAL

You will see various symbols in this manual. They are used in the following ways:

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING

WARNING

This is used to indicate the presence of a hazard that could cause death or serious personal injury. To avoid or reduce the risk, the procedures must be followed precisely.

CAUTION

This is used to indicate the presence of a hazard that could cause minor or moderate personal injury or damage to your vehicle. To avoid or reduce the risk, the procedures must be followed carefully.

SIC0697

If you see this symbol, it means Do not do this or Do not let this happen.

Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

All rights reserved. No part of this Owner’s Manual may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

TOKYO, JAPAN

Welcome To The World Of NISSAN

WFW0002

Your new NISSAN is the result of our dedication to produce the finest in safe, reliable and economical transportation. Your vehicle is the product of a successful worldwide company that manufactures cars and trucks in over 17 countries and distributes them in 170 nations.

NISSAN vehicles are designed and manufactured by Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. which was founded in Tokyo, Japan in 1933, and NISSAN affiliates world wide, collectively growing to become the fifth largest automaker in the world. In addition to cars and trucks, NISSAN also makes forklift trucks, marine engines, boats and other diversified products.

NISSAN has made a substantial and growing investment in North America. NISSAN’S commitment is nearly $4 billion dollars in capital investments in facilities across the continent. Some of

the facilities include the Nissan Manufacturing facility in Smyrna, Tennessee, vehicle styling design at Nissan Design America in San Diego, California, and engineering at Nissan Technical Center North America in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Additionally, NISSAN employs nearly 18,000 people throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. An additional 71,000 people work for the 1,500 NISSAN and INFINITI dealers across North America.

NISSAN is also a substantial contributor to the Canadian economy. Nissan Canada Inc., its suppliers and over 140 dealers employ approximately 4,500 people. These include company employees and the staffs of NISSAN dealers all across Canada. In addition, many Canadians work for companies that supply NISSAN and NISSAN dealers with materials and services ranging from operation of port facilities and transportation services

to the supply of lubricants, parts and accessories. NISSAN pioneered the use of electronics and

computers in automobiles, and has led the industry in improving both performance and fuel efficiency through new engine designs and the use of synthetic materials to reduce vehicle weight. The company has also developed ways to build quality into its vehicles at each stage of the production process, both through extensive use of automation and — most importantly — through an awareness that people are the central element in quality control.

From the time the parts arrived from our suppliers until you took delivery of your new Nissan, dozens of checks were made to ensure that only the best job was being done in producing and delivering your vehicle. NISSAN also takes great care to ensure that when you take your NISSAN to your dealer for maintenance, the service technician will perform his work according to the quality standards that have been established by the factory.

Safety has also been built into your NISSAN. As you know, seat belts are an integral part of the safety systems that will help protect you and your passengers in the event of a sudden stop or an accident. We urge you to use the seat belts every time you drive the vehicle.

The NISSAN story of growth and achievement reflects our major goal: to provide you, our customer, with a vehicle that is built with quality and craftsmanship — a product that we can be proud to build and you can be proud to own.

NISSAN CUSTOMER CARE PROGRAM

NISSAN CARES ...

Both NISSAN and your NISSAN dealer are dedicated to serving all your automotive needs. Your satisfaction with your vehicle and your NISSAN dealer are our primary concerns. Your NISSAN dealer is always available to assist you with all your automobile sales and service needs.

However, if there is something that your NISSAN dealer cannot assist you with or you would like to provide NISSAN directly with comments or questions, please contact our (NISSAN’s) Consumer Affairs Department using our toll-free number:

For U.S. mainland customers

1-800-NISSAN-1 (1-800-647-7261)

For Hawaii customers

(808) 836-0888 (Oahu Number)

For Canadian customers

1-800-387-0122

We appreciate your interest in NISSAN and thank you for buying a quality NISSAN vehicle.

The Consumer Affairs Department will ask for the following information: — Your name, address, and telephone

number — Vehicle identification number (on dash panel) — Date of purchase — Current odometer reading — Your NISSAN dealer’s name — Your comments or questions OR

You can write to NISSAN with the information on the left at:

For U.S. mainland and Alaska customers

Nissan North America, Inc. Consumer Affairs Department P.O. Box 191 Gardena, California 90248-0191

For Hawaii customers

Nissan Motor Corporation in Hawaii 2880 Kilihau St. Honolulu, Hawaii 96819

For Canada customers

Nissan Canada Inc. 5290 Orbitor Drive Mississauga, Ontario L4W 4Z5

Table of

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

Contents

Instruments and controls

Pre-driving checks and adjustments

Heater, air conditioner and audio systems

Starting and driving

In case of emergency

Appearance and care

Maintenance and do-it-yourself

Technical and consumer information

Index

1 Seats, restraints and supplemental air

bag systems

Seats......................................................................................... 1-2

Front manual seat adjustment....................................... 1-3

Front power seat adjustment (if so equipped)......... 1-4

Seat lifter (for driver’s seat)........................................... 1-5

Tilting and reclining passenger’s seat from driver’s

seat ...................................................................................... 1-5

Head restraint adjustment.............................................. 1-5

Supplemental restraint system ........................................... 1-6

Precautions on supplemental restraint system......... 1-6

Components of the supplemental restraint

systems ............................................................................ 1-11

Supplemental air bag warning labels....................... 1-16

Supplemental air bag warning light.......................... 1-16

Seat belts .............................................................................. 1-18

Precautions on seat belt usage................................. 1-18

Child safety ..................................................................... 1-20

Obtaining an air bag ON/OFF switch...................... 1-21

After an air bag ON/OFF switch is installed.......... 1-21

Pregnant women............................................................ 1-21

Injured persons............................................................... 1-22

Three-point type seat belt ........................................... 1-22

Seat belt extenders....................................................... 1-24

Seat belt maintenance ................................................. 1-24

Child restraints ..................................................................... 1-25

Precautions on child restraints................................... 1-25

Top tether strap child restraint................................... 1-27

Installation on front passenger seat.......................... 1-28

SEATS

SSS0133

WARNING

I Do not ride in a moving vehicle when

the seatback is reclined. This can be dangerous. The shoulder belt will not be against your body. In an accident you could be thrown into it and receive neck or other serious injuries. You could also slide under the lap belt and receive serious internal injuries.

I For most effective protection when

the vehicle is in motion, the seat should be upright. Always sit well back in the seat and adjust the seat belt properly. See “Precautions on seat belt usage” later in this section.

1-2 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

FRONT MANUAL SEAT ADJUSTMENT

WARNING

I Do not adjust the driver’s seat while

driving so full attention may be given to vehicle operation. The seat may move suddenly and could cause loss of control of the vehicle.

I After adjustment, gently rock in the

seat to make sure it is securely locked.

Forward and backward

Pull the lever up while you slide the seat forward or backward to the desired position. Release the lever to lock the seat in position.

When sliding the passenger’s seat backward, be careful not to knock something in the seatback pocket against the rear floor box.

SSS0200

Reclining

To recline the seatback, pull the lever up and lean back. To bring the seatback forward again, pull the lever and move your body forward. The seatback will move forward.

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-3

FRONT POWER SEAT ADJUSTMENT (if so equipped)

WARNING

I Do not adjust the driver’s seat while

driving so full attention may be given to vehicle operation.

I Do not leave children unattended in-

side the vehicle. They could unknowingly activate switches or controls. Unattended children could become involved in serious accidents.

Operating tips

I The seat motor has an auto-reset overload

protection circuit. If the motor stops during operation, wait 30 seconds, then reactivate the switch.

I Do not operate the power support seat

for a long period of time when the engine is off. This will discharge the battery.

Forward and backward

Moving the sliding switch forward or backward will slide the seat forward or backward to the desired position.

When sliding the passenger’s seat backward, be careful not to knock something in the seatback pocket against the rear floor box.

SSS0201

Reclining (for driver’s seat)

Move the reclining switch backward until the desired angle is obtained. To bring the seatback forward, move the switch forward and move your body forward. The seatback will move forward.

Reclining (for passenger’s seat)

The passenger’s seat is equipped with a manual lever for reclining. See “Front manual seat adjustment” earlier in this section.

1-4 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

SSS0202 SSS0203 SSS0204

SEAT LIFTER (for driver’s seat)

Turn the dial and adjust the angle of the seat cushion to the desired position.

TILTING AND RECLINING PASSENGER’S SEAT FROM DRIVER’S SEAT

The passenger’s seatback can be adjusted from the driver’s seat to make it easier for the driver to use the rear parcel box or rear floor box, or to help the passenger get in the vehicle.

To tilt or recline the passenger’s seatback, pull up the lever move the seatback forward or backward.

located on the back side of it, and

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-5

HEAD RESTRAINT ADJUSTMENT

To raise the head restraint, just pull it up. To lower, push the lock knob restraint down.

and push the head

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM

PRECAUTIONS ON SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM

This Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) section contains important information concerning the driver and passenger front impact supplemental air bags, front seat side-impact supplemental air bags, curtain side-impact air bags and front seat pre-tensioner seat belts.

Supplemental front impact air bag system:

This system can help cushion the impact force to the face and chest of the driver and front

SSS0178

Adjust the head restraints so the center is level with the center of your ears.

WARNING

Head restraints should be adjusted properly as they may provide significant protection against injury in an accident. Do not remove them. Check the adjustment after someone else uses the seat.

passenger in certain frontal collisions.

Supplemental side-impact air bag system (if so equipped): This system can help cushion

the impact force to the chest area of the driver and front passenger in certain side impact collisions. The front seat side-impact supplemental air bags are designed to inflate on the side where the vehicle is impacted.

Supplemental curtain side-impact air bag system (if so equipped): This system can help

cushion the impact force to the head of occupants in certain side impact collisions. The curtain side-impact air bags are designed to inflate on the side where the vehicle is impacted.

These supplemental restraint systems are designed to supplement the crash protection provided by the driver and passenger seat belts

1-6 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

and are not a substitute for them. Seat belts should always be correctly worn and the occupant seated a suitable distance away from the steering wheel, instrument panel, door finishers and side roof rails. (See “Seat belts” later in this section for instructions and precautions on seat belt usage.)

After turning the ignition key to the ON position, the supplemental air bag warning light illuminates. The supplemental air bag warning light will turn off after about 7 seconds if the systems are operational.

WARNING

I The supplemental front air bags ordi-

narily will not inflate in the event of a side impact, rear impact, roll over, or lower severity frontal collision. Always wear your seat belts to help reduce the risk or severity of injury in various kinds of accidents.

I The seat belts and the supplemental

front air bags are most effective

SSS0131

when you are sitting well back and upright in the seat. Front air bags inflate with great force. If you are unrestrained, leaning forward, sitting sideways or out of position in any way, you are at greater risk of injury or death in a crash. You may also receive serious or fatal injuries from the supplemental front air bag if you are up against it when it inflates. Always sit back against the seatback and as far away as practical from the

steering wheel or instrument panel. Always use the seat belts.

I The driver and front passenger seat

belt buckles are equipped with sensors that detect if the seat belts are fastened. The air bag system monitors the severity of a collision and then inflates the air bags based on belt usage. Failure to properly wear seat belts can increase the risk or severity of injury in an accident.

I Keep hands on the outside of the

steering wheel. Placing them inside the steering wheel rim could increase the risk that they are injured when the supplemental front air bag inflates.

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-7

1-8 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

SSS0132 SSS0016

SSS0006

SSS0008

SSS0099

SSS0007

SSS0009

SSS0100

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-9

WARNING

I Never let children 12 or under ride in

this vehicle. Do not attempt to hold them in your lap or arms. Some examples of dangerous riding positions are shown in the previous illustrations.

I Children may be severely injured or

killed when the supplemental front air bags or supplemental side and curtain side-impact air bags (if so equipped) inflate.

I Also never install a child restraint in

the front seat. An inflating supplemental front air bag could seriously injure or kill your child.

I For information about installing an

air bag ON/OFF switch in your vehicle so children can be transported, see “Obtaining an air bag ON/OFF switch” later in this section.

SSS0101

WARNING

Supplemental side air bag and curtain side-impact air bag (if so equipped):

I The supplemental side air bag and

curtain side-impact air bag ordinarily will not inflate in the event of a frontal impact, rear impact, rollover or lower severity side collision. Always wear your seat belts to help reduce the risk or severity of injury in various kinds of accidents.

SSS0159

I The seat belts, the supplemental side

air bag and curtain side-impact air bag are most effective when you are sitting well back and upright in the seat. The side air bag and curtain side-impact air bag inflate with great force. Do not allow anyone to place their hand, leg or face near the side air bag on the side of the seatback of the front seat or near the side roof rails. Do not allow anyone sitting in the front seat to extend their hand

1-10 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

SSS0162 SSS0205

out of the window or lean against the door. Some examples of dangerous riding positions are shown in the previous illustrations.

I Do not use seat covers on the front

seatbacks. They may interfere with supplemental side air bag inflation.

COMPONENTS OF THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEMS

1. Crash zone sensor

2. Supplemental front air bag modules

3. Supplemental curtain side-impact air bags

4. Supplemental curtain side-impact air bag modules

5. Diagnosis sensor unit

6. Satellite sensors

7. Seat belt pre-tensioner retractor

8. Supplemental side air bag modules

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-11

Supplemental front air bag system

The driver supplemental air bag is located in the center of the steering wheel; the front passenger supplemental air bag is mounted in the instrument panel. These systems are designed to meet optional certification requirements under U.S. regulations. They are also permitted in Canada. The optional certification allows front air bags to be designed to inflate somewhat less forcefully than previously. However, all of the

information, cautions and warnings in this manual still apply and must be followed.

The front air bags are designed to inflate in higher severity frontal collisions, although they

may inflate if the forces in another type of collision are similar to those of a higher severity frontal impact. They may not inflate in certain frontal collisions. Vehicle damage (or lack of it) is not always an indication of proper supplemental air bag operation.

The supplemental air bag system has dual stage inflators for both the driver and passenger air bags. The system monitors information from the crash zone sensor, the diagnosis sensor unit and seat belt buckle sensors that detect if the seat belts are fastened, inflator operation is based on the severity of a collision and whether the seat belts are being used. Only one front air bag may inflate in a crash, depending on the crash severity and whether the front occupants are belted or unbelted. This does not indicate improper performance of the system. If you have any questions about the performance of your air bag system, please contact your NISSAN dealer.

When the supplemental front air bag inflates, a fairly loud noise may be heard, followed by release of smoke. This smoke is not harmful and does not indicate a fire. Care should be taken not to inhale it, as it may cause irritation and choking. Those with a history of a breathing condition should get fresh air promptly.

Supplemental front air bags, along with the use of seat belts, help to cushion the impact force on

the face and chest of the front occupants. They can help save lives and reduce serious injuries. However, an inflating front air bag may cause facial abrasions or other injuries. Front air bags do not provide restraint to the lower body.

The seat belts should be correctly worn and the driver and passenger seated upright as far as practical away from the steering wheel or instrument panel. The supplemental front air bags inflates quickly in order to help protect the front occupants. Because of this, the force of the front air bag inflating can increase the risk of injury if the occupant is too close to, or is against, the air bag module during inflation. The air bag will deflate quickly after the collision is over.

I Do not place any objects on the

steering wheel pad or on the instrument panel. Also, do not place any objects between any occupant and

1-12 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

WARNING

the steering wheel or instrument panel. Such objects may become dangerous projectiles and cause injury if the supplemental front air bag inflates.

I Right after inflation, several air bag

system components will be hot. Do not touch them; you may severely burn yourself.

I No unauthorized changes should be

made to any components or wiring of the supplemental front air bag system. This is to prevent accidental inflation of the air bag or damage to the air bag system.

I Do not make unauthorized changes

to your vehicle’s electrical system, suspension system or front end structure. This could affect proper operation of the supplemental air bag system.

I Tampering with the supplemental

front air bag system may result in serious personal injury. Tampering

includes changes to the steering wheel and the instrument panel assembly by placing material over the steering wheel pad, above the dashboard, or by installing additional trim material around the air bag system.

I Work around and on the supplemen-

tal front air bag system should be done by a NISSAN dealer. Installation of electrical equipment should also be done by a NISSAN dealer. The yellow and orange Supplemental Restrain System (SRS) wiring and connectors should not be modified or disconnected. Unauthorized electrical test equipment and probing devices should not be used on the air bag system.

I A cracked windshield should be re-

placed immediately by a qualified repair facility. A cracked windshield could affect inflation of the supplemental air bag system.

I The SRS wiring harness connectors

are yellow and orange for easy

identification.

When selling your vehicle, we request that you inform the buyer about the supplemental front air bag system and guide the buyer to the appropriate sections in this Owner’s Manual.

SSS0209

Supplemental side air bag and curtain side-impact air bag systems (if so equipped)

The supplemental side air bags are located in the outside of the seatback of the front seats. The supplemental curtain side-impact air bags are located in the side roof rails. These systems are designed to meet voluntary guidelines to help reduce the risk of injury to out-of-position occupants. However, all of the information,

cautions and warnings in this manual still apply and must be followed. The supplemen-

tal side air bags and curtain side-impact air bags are designed to inflate in higher severity side

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-13

collisions, although they may inflate if the forces in another type of collision are similar to those of a higher severity side impact. They are designed to inflate on the side where the vehicle is impacted. They may not inflate in certain side collisions. Vehicle damage (or lack of it) is not always an indication of proper supplemental side air bag and curtain side-impact air bag operation.

When the supplemental side air bag and curtain side-impact air bag inflate, a fairly loud noise may be heard, followed by release of smoke. This smoke is not harmful and does not indicate a fire. Care should be taken not to inhale it, as it may cause irritation and choking. Those with a history of a breathing condition should get fresh air promptly.

Supplemental side air bags, along with the use of seat belts, help to cushion the impact force on the chest of the front occupants. Curtain sideimpact air bags help to cushion the impact force to the head of occupants. They can help save lives and reduce serious injuries. However, an inflating side air bag and curtain side-impact air bag may cause abrasions or other injuries. Supplemental side air bags and curtain sideimpact air bags do not provide restraint to the lower body.

The seat belts should be correctly worn and the driver and passenger seated upright as far as

practical away from the side air bag, and seated as far away as practical from the door finishers and side roof rails. The side air bags and curtain side-impact air bag inflate quickly in order to help protect the front occupants. Because of this, the force of the side air bag and curtain side-impact air bag inflating can increase the risk of injury if the occupant is too close to, or is against, these air bag modules during inflation. The side air bag and curtain side-impact air bag will deflate quickly after the collision is over.

After turning the ignition key to the ON position, the supplemental air bag warning light illuminates. The air bag warning light will turn off after about 7 seconds if the systems are operational.

I Do not place any objects near the

seatback of the front seats. Also, do not place any objects (an umbrella, bag, etc.) between the front door finisher and the front seat. Such objects may become dangerous projectiles and cause injury if the side air bag inflates.

I Right after inflation, several side air

1-14 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

WARNING

bag and curtain air bag system components will be hot. Do not touch them; you may severely burn yourself.

I No unauthorized changes should be

made to any components or wiring of this side air bag and curtain sideimpact air bag system. This is to prevent accidental inflation of the side air bag and curtain side-impact air bag or damage to the side air bag and curtain side-impact air bag system.

I Do not make unauthorized changes

to your vehicle’s electrical system, suspension system or side panel. This could affect proper operation of the supplemental side air bag and curtain side-impact air bag system.

I Tampering with the supplemental

system may result in serious personal injury. For example, do not change the front seat by placing material near the seatback or by installing additional trim material, such as

seat covers, around the side air bag.

I Work around and on the side air bag

and curtain side-impact air bag system should be done by a NISSAN dealer. Installation of electrical equipment should also be done by a NISSAN dealer. The SRS wiring harnesses* should not be modified or disconnected. Unauthorized electrical test equipment and probing devices should not be used on the side air bag system.

* The SRS wiring harnesses are cov-

ered with yellow insulation either just before the harness connectors or over the complete harness for easy identification.

When selling your vehicle, we request that you inform the buyer about the side air bag and curtain side-impact air bag system and guide the buyer to the appropriate sections in this Owner’s Manual.

Pre-tensioner seat belt system

WARNING

I The pre-tensioner seat belt cannot be

reused after activation. It must be replaced together with the retractor as a unit.

I If the vehicle becomes involved in a

frontal collision but the pre-tensioner is not activated, be sure to have the pre-tensioner system checked and, if necessary, replaced by your NISSAN dealer.

I No unauthorized changes should be

made to any components or wiring of the pre-tensioner seat belt system. This is to prevent accidental activation of the pre-tensioner seat belt or damage to the pre-tensioner seat belt operation. Tampering with the pre-tensioner seat belt system may result in serious personal injury.

I Work around and on the pre-

tensioner seat belt system should be

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-15

done by a NISSAN dealer. Installation of electrical equipment should also be done by a NISSAN dealer. Unauthorized electrical test equipment and probing devices should not be used on the pre-tensioner seat belt system.

I If you need to dispose of the pre-

tensioner or scrap the vehicle, contact a NISSAN dealer. Correct pretensioner disposal procedures are set forth in the appropriate NISSAN Service Manual. Incorrect disposal procedures could cause personal injury.

The front seat pre-tensioner seat belt system activates in conjunction with the supplemental front air bag. Working with the seat belt retractor, it helps tighten the seat belt the instant the vehicle becomes involved in certain types of collisions, thereby restraining seat occupants.

The pre-tensioner is encased with the seat belt’s retractor. These seat belts are used the same as conventional seat belts.

When the pre-tensioner seat belt activates, smoke is released and a loud noise may be

heard. The smoke is not harmful, but care should be taken not to inhale it as it may cause irritation and choking. Those with a history of a breathing condition should get fresh air promptly.

If any abnormality occurs in the pre-tensioner seat belt system, the supplemental air bag warning light

mittently or will turn on for 7 seconds and remain on after the ignition key has been turned to the ON or START position. In this case, the pretensioner seat belt may not function properly. They must be checked and repaired. Take your vehicle to the nearest NISSAN dealer.

When selling your vehicle, we request that you inform the buyer about the pre-tensioner seat belt system and guide the buyer to the appropriate sections in this Owner’s Manual.

will not come on, will flash inter-

SSS0206

SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG WARNING LABELS

Warning labels about the supplemental air bag system are placed in the vehicle as shown in the illustration.

1-16 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

SPA1097

SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT

The supplemental air bag warning light, displaying

circuits of the supplemental front air bag, supplemental side air bag (if so equipped) and curtain side-impact air bag (if so equipped) systems, and pre-tensioner seat belt. The circuits monitored by the air bag warning light are the diagnosis sensor unit, satellite sensors, front air bag modules, side air bag modules, curtain side-impact air bag modules, pre-tensioner seat belt and all related wiring.

After turning the ignition key to the ON position,

in the instrument panel, monitors the

the supplemental air bag warning light illuminates. The supplemental air bag warning light will turn off after about 7 seconds if the system is operational.

If any of the following conditions occur, the supplemental front air bag, supplemental side air bag (if so equipped) and curtain side-impact air bag (if so equipped) systems, and pre-tensioner seat belt need servicing:

I The supplemental air bag warning light re-

mains on after approximately 7 seconds.

I The supplemental air bag warning light

flashes intermittently.

I The supplemental air bag warning light does

not come on at all.

Under these conditions, the supplemental front air bags, supplemental side air bags, curtain side-impact air bags and/or pre-tensioner seat belt may not operate properly. They must be checked and repaired. Take your vehicle to the nearest NISSAN dealer.

WARNING

If the supplemental air bag warning light is on, it could mean that the

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-17

supplemental front air bag, supplemental side air bag, curtain side-impact air bag systems and/or pre-tensioner seat belt will not operate in an accident.

Repair and replacement procedure

The supplemental front air bags, supplemental side air bags (if so equipped), curtain sideimpact air bags (if so equipped) and pretensioner seat belt are designed to inflate on a one-time-only basis. As a reminder, unless it is damaged, the supplemental air bag warning light will remain illuminated after inflation has occurred. Repair and replacement of these systems should be done only by a NISSAN dealer.

When maintenance work is required on the vehicle, the supplemental front air bags, side air bags, curtain side-impact air bags, related parts and pre-tensioner seat belt should be pointed out to the person conducting the maintenance. The ignition key should always be in the LOCK position when working under the hood or inside the vehicle.

WARNING

I Once the supplemental front air bag,

side air bag or curtain side-impact air bag has inflated, the air bag module will not function again and must be replaced. Additionally, if any of the supplemental front air bags inflate, the activated pre-tensioner seat belt must also be replaced. The air bag module and pre-tensioner seat belt system should be replaced by a NISSAN dealer. The air bag modules and pre-tensioner seat belt system cannot be repaired.

I The supplemental front air bag and

side air bag, curtain side-impact air bag systems and pre-tensioner seat belt system should be inspected by a NISSAN dealer if there is any damage to the front end or side portion of the vehicle.

I If you need to dispose of these

supplemental systems or scrap the vehicle, contact a NISSAN dealer.

Correct disposal procedures are set forth in the appropriate NISSAN Service Manual. Incorrect disposal procedures could cause personal injury.

1-18 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

SEAT BELTS

PRECAUTIONS ON SEAT BELT USAGE

Your chances of being injured or killed in an accident and/or the severity of injury may be greatly reduced if you are wearing your seat belt and it is properly adjusted. NISSAN strongly encourages you and all of your passengers to buckle up every time you drive, even if your seating position includes a supplemental air bag.

Most states, provinces or territories require that seat belts be worn at all times when a vehicle is being driven.

SSS0136

WARNING

I Every person who drives or rides in

this vehicle should use a seat belt at all times.

I The belt should be properly adjusted

to a snug fit. Failure to do so may reduce the effectiveness of the entire restraint system and increase the

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-19

chance or severity of injury in an accident. Serious injury or death can occur if the seat belt is not worn properly.

I Always route the shoulder belt over

your shoulder and across your chest. Never run the belt behind your back under your arm or across your neck. The belt should be away from your face and neck, but not falling off your shoulder.

I Position the lap belt as low and snug

as possible around the hips, not the waist. A lap belt worn too high could increase the risk of internal injuries in an accident.

I Be sure the seat belt tongue is se-

curely fastened to the proper buckle.

I Do not wear the belt inside out or

twisted. Doing so may reduce its effectiveness.

I Do not allow more than one person

to use the same belt.

I Never carry more people in the ve-

hicle than there are seat belts. This vehicle has only two seating positions. Do not allow anyone to ride in the cargo area.

I If the seat belt warning light glows

continuously while the ignition is turned ON with all doors closed and all seat belts fastened, it may indicate a malfunction in the system. Have the system checked by a NISSAN dealer.

I Once the pre-tensioner seat belt has

activated, it cannot be reused and must be replaced together with the retractor. See your NISSAN dealer.

I Removal and installation of the pre-

tensioner seat belt system components should be done by a NISSAN dealer.

I All seat belt assemblies including re-

tractors and attaching hardware should be inspected after any collision by your NISSAN dealer. NISSAN recommends that all seat belt as-

SSS0134

semblies in use during a collision be replaced unless the collision was minor and the belts show no damage and continue to operate properly. Seat belt assemblies not in use during a collision should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted.

1-20 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

moving. The child could be seriously injured or killed in an accident or sudden stop.

AFTER AN AIR BAG ON/OFF SWITCH IS INSTALLED

WARNING

SSS0016

CHILD SAFETY

Children need adults to help protect them. They need to be properly restrained.

WARNING

I Never let children 12 or under ride in

this vehicle. Do not attempt to hold them in your lap or arms.

I Never let children stand or kneel on

any seat and do not allow a child in the cargo areas while the vehicle is

Your vehicle is equipped with a supplemental front impact air bag system for the front passenger. See “Supplemental restraint system” earlier in this section. Therefore, children 12 or under should not ride in this vehicle without installing an air bag ON/OFF switch.

OBTAINING AN AIR BAG ON/OFF SWITCH

If you must transport a child in this vehicle, you may be eligible to have an air bag ON/OFF switch installed. US and Canadian governments have procedures that allow you to apply for permission to have your vehicle fitted with an air bag ON/OFF switch. Such a switch is available for purchase from NISSAN. If you have questions about the government application procedures, contact the NISSAN Consumer Affairs Department listed earlier in this manual.

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-21

Infants and children need special protection. The vehicle’s seat belts may not fit them properly. The shoulder belt may come too close to the face or neck. The lap belt may not fit over their small hip bones. In an accident, an improperly fitting seat belt could cause serious or fatal injury. Always use appropriate child restraints.

All US states and provinces of Canada require the use of approved child restraints for infants and small children. (See “Child restraints” later in this section.)

In addition, there are many types of child restraints available for larger children which should be used for maximum protection.

Infants and small children

NISSAN recommends that infants and small children be placed in child restraints that comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. You

should choose a child restraint that fits your vehicle and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use.

Larger children

Children who are too large for child restraint systems should be seated and restrained by the seat belts which are provided.

If the child’s seating position has a shoulder belt that fits close to the face or neck, the use of a booster seat (commercially available) may help overcome this. The booster seat should raise the child so that the shoulder belt is properly positioned across the top, middle portion of the shoulder and the lap belt is low on the hips. The booster seat should fit the vehicle seat and have a label certifying that it complies with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Once the child has grown so the shoulder belt is no longer on or near the face and neck, use the shoulder belt without the booster seat.

your abdominal area. Contact your doctor for specific recommendations.

INJURED PERSONS

NISSAN recommends that injured persons use seat belts, depending on the injury. Check with your doctor for specific recommendations.

PREGNANT WOMEN

NISSAN recommends that pregnant women use seat belts. The seat belt should be worn snug, and always position the lap belt as low as possible around the hips, not the waist. Place the shoulder belt over your shoulder and across your chest. Never run the lap/shoulder belt over

1-22 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

SSS0018B

THREE-POINT TYPE SEAT BELT

WARNING

I Every person who drives or rides in

this vehicle should use a seat belt at all times.

I Do not ride in a moving vehicle when

the seatback is reclined. This can be dangerous. The shoulder belt will not be against your body. In an accident you could be thrown into it and re-

SSS0020B

ceive neck or other serious injuries. You could also slide under the lap belt and receive serious internal injuries.

I For most effective protection when

the vehicle is in motion, the seat should be upright. Always sit well back in the seat and adjust the seat belt properly.

Fastening the seat belts

1. Adjust the seat.

2. Slowly pull the seat belt out of the retractor and insert the tongue into the buckle until it clicks.

The retractor is designed to lock during a sudden stop or on impact. A slow pulling motion will permit the belt to move, and allow you some freedom of movement in the seat.

3. Position the lap belt portion low and snug on the hips as shown.

4. Pull the shoulder belt portion toward the retractor to take up extra slack.

The front passenger seat belt has a cinching mechanism for child restraint installation. It is referred to as the automatic locking mode. (Also remember, if you need to install a child restraint, first obtain an air bag ON/OFF switch and turn the passenger air bag OFF.)

When the cinching mechanism is activated the seat belt cannot be withdrawn again until the seat belt tongue is detached from the buckle and fully retracted. For additional information, see “Child restraints” later in this section.

The automatic locking mode should be used only for child restraint installation.

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-23

During normal seat belt use by a passenger, the locking mode should not be activated. If it is activated it may cause uncomfortable seat belt tension.

WARNING

When fastening the seat belts, be certain that seatbacks are completely secured in the latched position. If they are not completely secured in the right position, passengers may be injured in an accident or sudden stop.

ward. The retractor should lock and restrict further belt movement.

If the retractor does not lock during this check or if you have any questions about belt operation, see your NISSAN dealer.

SSS0021 SSS0210

Unfastening the seat belts

To unfasten the belt, press the button on the buckle. The seat belt will automatically retract.

Checking seat belt operation

Your seat belt retractors are designed to lock belt movement using two separate methods:

I when the belt is pulled quickly from the

retractor. I when the vehicle slows down rapidly. You can check their operation as follows: I grasp the shoulder belt and pull quickly for-

1-24 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

Seat belt hook

Hook the seat belt and its tongue qAat the belt hook when it is not in use or when opening the rear floor box lid.

SEAT BELT EXTENDERS

If, because of body size or driving position, it is not possible to properly fit the lap-shoulder belt and fasten it, an extender is available which is compatible with the installed seat belts. The extender adds approximately 8 inches (200 mm) of length and may be used for either the driver or passenger seating position. See your NISSAN dealer for assistance if the extender is required.

CHILD RESTRAINTS

WARNING

I Only NISSAN seat belt extenders,

made by the same company which made the original equipment belts, should be used with NISSAN seat belts.

I Persons who can use the standard

seat belt should not use an extender. Such unnecessary use could result in serious personal injury in the event of an accident.

I Never use seat belt extenders to in-

stall child restraints. If the child restraint is not secured properly, the child could be seriously injured in a collision or a sudden stop. (Also remember never to use a child restraint unless an air bag ON/OFF switch has been installed and is being used properly.)

SEAT BELT MAINTENANCE

I To clean the seat belt webbings, apply a

mild soap solution or any solution recom-

mended for cleaning upholstery or carpets. Then brush the webbing, wipe it with a cloth and allow it to dry in the shade. Do not allow the seat belts to retract until they are completely dry.

I If dirt builds up in the shoulder belt guide of

the seat belt anchors, the seat belts may retract slowly. Wipe the shoulder belt guide with a clean, dry cloth.

I Periodically check to see that the seat

belt and the metal components such as

buckles, tongues, retractors, flexible wires and anchors work properly. If loose parts, deterioration, cuts or other damage on the webbing is found, the entire belt assembly should be replaced.

PRECAUTIONS ON CHILD RESTRAINTS

WARNING

The information in this section is provided only for those owners who have received permission to install an air bag ON/OFF switch and the switch has been installed. See “Obtaining an air bag ON/OFF switch” earlier in this manual. Never let children 12 or under ride in this vehicle unless an air bag ON/OFF switch is installed and it is being properly used.

WARNING

I Infants and small children should al-

ways be placed in an appropriate child restraint while riding in the vehicle. Failure to use a child restraint can result in serious injury or death.

I Infants and small children should

never be carried on your lap. It is not

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