Nissan 350z 2005 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, we will be glad to assist you with the extensive resources available to us.

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!

쐌 Never drive under the influence of

alcohol or drugs.

쐌 Always observe posted speed limits

and never drive too fast for conditions.

쐌 Always use the seat belts. Refer to

“Child safety” and “Child restraints” in the “Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system” section for precautions regarding children.

쐌 Always provide information about the

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

쐌 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”.

If you see a symbol similar to these in an illustration, it means the arrow points to the front of the vehicle.

Arrows in an illustration that are similar to these indicate movement or action.

Arrows in an illustration that are similar to these call attention to an item in the illustration.

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. In addition, certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain products of component wear contain or emit chemicals known to the 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, Inc. 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 NISSAN.

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 the NISSAN Consumer Affairs Department using our toll-free number:

For U.S. customers

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

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 (attached to the

top of the instrument panel on the driver’s

side) — 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. customers

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

For Canadian customers

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

Table of

Illustrated table of contents

Contents

Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

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

0 Illustrated table of contents

Exterior front ........................................................................... 0-2

Exterior rear ............................................................................ 0-3

Passenger compartment ...................................................... 0-5

Instrument panel ................................................................... 0-7

Engine compartment check locations ............................. 0-8

EXTERIOR FRONT

1. Hood (P.3-9)

2. Windshield wiper and washer — Switch (P.2-22) — Wiper replacement (P.8-20)

3. Interior light (P.2-40)

4. Power windows (P.2-38)

5. Towing hook installation (P.6-12) License plate installation (P.9-13)

6. Headlight, park and turn signal lights — Switch (P.2-24) — Bulb replacement (P.8-27)

7. Tires — Wheels and tires (P.8-31, P.9-9) — Flat tire (P.6-2)

8. Outside mirrors (P.3-18)

9. Doors — Keys (P.3-2) — Door locks (P.3-2) — Keyfob (P.3-4)

0-2 Illustrated table of contents

SSI0001

EXTERIOR REAR

Coupe models

1. Antenna (P.4-26)

2. Rear hatch release switch (P.3-10)

3. Rear window defroster (P.2-23)

4. High-mounted stop light (Bulb) (P.8-28)

5. Rear window wiper and washer (P.2-22)

6. License plate lights (Bulb replacement) (P.8-28)

7. Rear hatch release (secondary) (P.3-10)

8. Luggage compartment light (P.2-41, P.8-28)

9. Back-up, Turn signal light (Bulb replacement) (P.8-28)

10. Side marker, Stop/Tail light (Bulb replace-

ment) (P.8-28)

11. Fuel

— Fuel filler lid (P.3-13) — Fuel recommendation (P.9-3)

SSI0002

Illustrated table of contents 0-3

0-4 Illustrated table of contents

Roadster models

1. Antenna (P.4-26)

2. Trunk lid release switch (P.3-11)

3. Trunk light (P.2-41, P.8-28)

4. High-mounted stop light (Bulb) (P.8-28)

5. Rear window defroster (P.2-23)

6. Soft top (P.3-19)

7. Interior trunk lid release (P.3-12)

8. License plate lights (Bulb replacement) (P.8-28)

9. Back-up, Turn signal light (Bulb replacement) (P.8-28)

10. Side marker, Stop/Tail light (Bulb replace-

ment) (P.8-28)

11. Fuel

— Fuel filler lid (P.3-13) — Fuel recommendation (P.9-3)

SSI0003

PASSENGER COMPARTMENT

SSI0067

Coupe models

1. Coat hook (P.2-37)

2. Seat belts (P.1-10)

3. Seats

- Manual seats adjustment (P.1-3)

- Power seats adjustment (P.1-4)

4. Tilt lever for passenger seat (seatback) (P.1-7)

5. Power window switch (P.2-38)

6. Outside mirror remote control switch (P.3-18)

7. Extension sun visor (P.3-16)

8. Interior light (P.2-40)

9. Sunglasses holder (P.2-32)

10. Inside mirror (P.3-16)

- Automatic anti-glare inside mirror* (P.3-17)

- HomeLink

11. Rear parcel box (P.2-10)

12. Rear parcel box or Navigation system*1

13. Rear floor box (P.2-35)

14. Power outlet (P.2-31)

15. Console box (P.2-34)

16. Parking brake

- Operation (P.5-14)

- Parking/Parking on hills (P.5-18)

- Checking (P.8-21)

17. Driving with automatic transmission (P.5-9)

18. Driving with manual transmission (P.5-12)

*: if so equipped *1: Refer to the separate Navigation System

Owner’s Manual.

universal transceiver* (P.2-42)

Illustrated table of contents 0-5

0-6 Illustrated table of contents

SSI0068

Roadster models

1. Seat belts (P.1-10)

2. Seats

- Power seats adjustment (P.1-5)

- Net seats* (P.1-6).

3. Power seatback tilt switch (P.1-8)/Cancel switch (P.1-9) for passenger seat

4. Power window switch (P.2-38)

5. Outside mirror remote control switch (P.3-18)

6. Soft top latch lever (P.3-22)

7. Safety switch for soft top latch lever (P.3-22)

8. Interior light (P.2-40)

9. Inside mirror (P.3-16)

- Automatic anti-glare inside mirror* (P.3-17)

- HomeLink

10. Rear parcel box (P.2-10)

11. Rear parcel box or Navigation system*1

12. Rear floor box (P.2-35)

- Trunk lid cancel switch (P.3-12)

- Secondary trunk lid release (P.3-13)

13. Power outlet (P.2-31)

14. Console box (P.2-34)

15. Parking brake

- Operation (P.5-14)

- Parking/Parking on hills (P.5-18)

- Checking (P.8-21)

16. Driving with automatic transmission (P.5-9)

17. Driving with manual transmission (P.5-12)

*: if so equipped *1: Refer to the separate Navigation System

Owner’s Manual.

universal transceiver* (P.2-42)

INSTRUMENT PANEL

1. Headlight/turn signal switch (P.2-24)

2. Instrument brightness control switch (P.2-26)

3. Driver supplemental air bag (P.1-29)/Horn (P.2-27)

4. Meters/gauges (P.2-3)

SIC2268

5. Cruise control main/set switch* (P.5-15)

6. Trip computer mode/setting switch (P.2-8)

7. Windshield wiper/washer switch (P.2-22)

8. Center ventilator (P.4-7)

9. Cup holder (P.2-33)

10. Passenger supplemental air bag (P.1-29)

11. Side ventilators (P.4-7)

12. VDC (Vehicle dynamic control) OFF switch* (P.2-29) or TCS (Traction control system) OFF switch* (P.2-29)

13. Soft top operating switch (for Roadster models) (P.3-19)

14. Fuel filler lid opener switch (P.3-13)

15. Hood lock release handle (P.3-9)

16. Fuse box (P.8-22)

17. Tilting steering wheel lock lever (P.3-15)

18. Ignition switch (P.5-6)

19. Navigation system display (P.4-2)*1 or Instrument pocket (P.2-32)

20. Rear window and outside mirror defroster switch (P.2-23)

21. Heater/air conditioner control (P.4-8)

22. Audio system (P.4-11)/Clock (P.2-30)

23. Heated seat switch* (P.2-28)

24. Hazard warning flasher switch (P.2-27)

25. Tray (P.2-33)

26. Power outlet (P.2-31)

*: if so equipped *1: Refer to the separate Navigation System

Owner’s Manual.

Illustrated table of contents 0-7

ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK LOCATIONS

1. Fuse/fusible link holder (P.8-22)

2. Battery (P.8-15)

3. Engine oil filler cap (P.8-10)

4. Brake fluid reservoir (P.8-13)

5. Clutch fluid reservoir (M/T models) (P.8-14)

6. Window washer fluid reservoir (P.8-14)

7. Power steering fluid reservoir (P.8-13)

8. Engine coolant reservoir (P.8-8)

9. Radiator filler cap (P.8-9)

10. Engine oil dipstick (P.8-10)

11. Air cleaner (P.8-18)

Do not tamper with the strut tower bar adjustment been adjusted to the most suitable position at the factory.

쎻

. The strut tower bar has

0-8 Illustrated table of contents

SDI1519

1 Safety — Seats, seat belts and supple-

mental restraint system

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

Front manual seat adjustment

(for Coupe models) ........................................................ 1-3

Front power seat adjustment

(for Coupe models — if so equipped) ...................... 1-4

Front power seat adjustment

(for Roadster models) .................................................... 1-5

Seat lifter (for driver’s seat) ......................................... 1-7

Tilting and reclining passenger’s seat from driver’s

seat ..................................................................................... 1-7

Head restraint adjustment ............................................ 1-9

Seat belts ............................................................................. 1-10

Precautions on seat belt usage ................................ 1-10

Child safety .................................................................... 1-12

Obtaining an air bag ON/OFF switch...................... 1-13

After an air bag ON/OFF switch is installed.......... 1-13

Pregnant women .......................................................... 1-14

Injured persons ............................................................. 1-14

Three-point type seat belt with retractor ............... 1-14

Seat belt extenders ...................................................... 1-16

Seat belt maintenance ................................................ 1-16

Child restraints ................................................................... 1-17

Precautions on child restraints ................................. 1-17

Child restraint installation on front passenger

seat.................................................................................... 1-19

Top tether strap child restraint

(Coupe models) ............................................................ 1-24

Booster seats ....................................................................... 1-25

Precautions on booster seats .................................... 1-25

Booster seat installation on front passenger

seat.................................................................................... 1-28

Supplemental restraint system ....................................... 1-29

Precautions on supplemental restraint system ...... 1-29

Components of the supplemental restraint

system .............................................................................. 1-35

Supplemental air bag warning labels ....................... 1-40

Supplemental air bag warning light .......................... 1-40

SEATS

SSS0133

WARNING

쐌 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.

쐌 For the 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 Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

FRONT MANUAL SEAT ADJUSTMENT (for Coupe models)

WARNING

쐌 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.

쐌 After adjustment, gently rock in the

seat to make sure it is securely locked.

쎻

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 crush items in the seatback pocket against the rear floor box.

SSS0394

쎻

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.

The reclining feature allows adjustment of the seatback for occupants of different sizes for added comfort and to help obtain proper seat belt fit. (See “Precautions on seat belt usage” later in this section.) The seatback may also be reclined to allow occupants to rest when the vehicle is parked.

Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-3

FRONT POWER SEAT ADJUSTMENT (for Coupe models — if so equipped)

WARNING

쐌 Do not adjust the driver’s seat while

driving so full attention may be given to vehicle operation.

쐌 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

쐌 The seat motor has an auto-reset overload

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

쐌 Do not operate the power support seat

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

쎻

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 crush items in the seatback pocket against the rear floor box.

쎻

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.

SPA1793

쎻

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 Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

FRONT POWER SEAT ADJUSTMENT (for Roadster models)

WARNING

쐌 Do not adjust the driver’s seat while

driving so full attention may be given to vehicle operation.

쐌 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

쐌 The seat motor has an auto-reset overload

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

쐌 Do not operate the power support seat

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

쎻

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 crush items in the seatback pocket against the rear floor box.

쎻

Reclining

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.

Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-5

SSS0271

Automatic passenger seatback tilt function

The passenger seatback will automatically tilt forward and backward during the soft top open/close operation. If you need to cancel this function or when a child restraint is installed in the passenger’s seat, push the seatback tilt

cancel switch to the CANCEL position. For more information about operation conditions, see “Soft top” in the “3. Pre-driving checks and adjustments” section. For the cancel switch, see “Tilting and reclining passenger’s seat from driver’s seat” later in this section.

쐌 When using these seats, avoid wear-

ing clothing with soft fabrics (wool, etc.). Clothing may be damaged as it rubs against the netted material.

SSS0272

Ventilated net seats (if so equipped)

The ventilated net seats are designed for good ventilation while driving. Net cloth is used on the surface of the seatback and the cushion as shown.

CAUTION

쐌 The seat is made of netted materials.

Be careful not to snag your jewelry, such as a ring, bracelet or watch, on the seat.

1-6 Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

Type A

SPA1715

SEAT LIFTER (for driver’s seat) Type A (except for ventilated net seat)

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

Type B

SSS0202

Type B (for ventilated net seat)

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

Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-7

Coupe models

SSS0203

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

The passenger 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.

Coupe models (manual type)

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

쎻

located on the back side of it, and

Roadster models (power type)

Roadster models — Type A

The power seatback tilt switch 쎻Band the seatback tilt cancel switch back side of the passenger seatback as shown.

Tilting/reclining operation:

To tilt the passenger seatback forward, push the top (

switch

side) of the power seatback tilt

쎻

for more than 0.5 seconds. The seatback will automatically tilt forward. To stop the movement, push the top or bottom of the switch.

To tilt or adjust the seatback backward, push and hold the bottom (

쎻

are located on the

side) of the power

SSS0273

seatback tilt switch. While the switch is held

Roadster models — Type B

down, the seatback will move backward to the original position that was last selected using the reclining switch (located on the seat cushion). Release the switch to stop the movement.

Operation conditions:

The power seatback tilt switch does not activate under the following conditions.

쐌 when the passenger seat sliding/reclining

switches on the seat cushion are being operated.

쐌 when the seat tilt cancel switch is in the

CANCEL position. (See “Seatback tilt cancel

1-8 Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

SSS0274

switch” later in this section.)

쐌 when the passenger seat belt is fastened.

쐌 when the vehicle speed reaches 4 MPH (7

km/h) and more.

The automatic tilting/reclining movement will be stopped:

쐌 when any of the above 4 conditions occur.

쐌 when the power seatback tilt switch (top or

bottom) is pushed again.

쐌 when the seatback is moved with the soft top

open/close operation.

When this interruption occurs, you cannot move the seatback backward from the stopped position with the power seatback tilt switch. Use the reclining switch (on the seat cushion) to select the seatback position.

SSS0275 SSS0204

Seatback tilt cancel switch:

When the seatback tilt cancel switch pushed to the CANCEL position, the tilting/reclining operation using the power seatback tilt switch sliding/reclining switches (located on the seat cushion) are operational. Push the seatback tilt cancel switch to the AUTO position to reactivate the power seatback tilt switch.

This cancel switch is linked with the automatic passenger seatback tilt function of the soft top operation. See “Soft top” in the “3. Pre-driving checks and adjustments” section.

쎻

will be cancelled. Only the

쎻

CAUTION

When a child restraint is installed in the passenger seat, be sure to turn the seatback tilt cancel switch to the CANCEL position. Otherwise, the child restraint may be damaged.

HEAD RESTRAINT ADJUSTMENT

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

The ventilated net seats (if so equipped for Roadster models) have non-adjustable head restraints.

쎻

and push the head

Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-9

SSS0178A

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.

SEAT BELTS

PRECAUTIONS ON SEAT BELT USAGE

If you are wearing your seat belt properly adjusted and you are sitting upright and well back in your seat, your chances of being injured or killed in an accident and/or the severity of injury may be greatly reduced. 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.

1-10 Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

WARNING

쐌 Every person who drives or rides in

this vehicle should use a seat belt at all times.

쐌 The seat belt should be properly ad-

justed to a snug fit. Failure to do so may reduce the effectiveness of the entire restraint system and increase the chance or severity of injury in

SSS0136

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

쐌 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.

쐌 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.

쐌 Be sure the seat belt tongue is se-

curely fastened to the proper buckle.

쐌 Do not wear the seat belt inside out

or twisted. Doing so may reduce its effectiveness.

쐌 Do not allow more than one person

to use the same seat belt.

쐌 Never carry more people in the ve-

hicle than there are seat belts. This vehicle has only two seating positions. Never allow anyone to ride in the luggage area.

쐌 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.

Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-11

SSS0134 SSS0016

쐌 Once the pre-tensioner seat belt has

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

쐌 Removal and installation of the pre-

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

쐌 All seat belt assemblies, including

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

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.

1-12 Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

CHILD SAFETY

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

In addition to the general information in this manual, child safety information is available from many other sources, including doctors, teachers, government traffic safety offices, and community organizations. Every child is different, so be sure to learn the best way to transport your child.

There are three basic types of child restraint systems:

쐌 Rear facing child restraint

쐌 Front facing child restraint

쐌 Booster seat

WARNING

쐌 Never let a child 12 or under ride in

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

쐌 Never let a child stand or kneel on

any seat and do not allow a child in the cargo areas while the vehicle is moving. The child could be seriously injured or killed in an accident or sudden stop.

Your vehicle is equipped with a supplemental front impact air bag system for the front passenger. See “Supplemental restraint system” later 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.

AFTER AN AIR BAG ON/OFF SWITCH IS INSTALLED

WARNING

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.)

Also, there are other types of child restraints

Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-13

available for larger children for additional protection.

Infants

Infants up to at least one year old should be placed in a rear facing child restraint. NISSAN recommends that infants 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.

Small children

Children that are over one year old and weigh between 20 lbs (9 kg) and 40 lbs (18 kg) can be placed in a forward facing child restraint. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for minimum and maximum weight and height recommendations. NISSAN recommends that 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. The seat belt may not fit properly if the child is less than 4 feet 9 inches (142.5 cm) tall and weighs between 40 lbs (18 kg) and 80 lbs (36 kg). A booster seat should be used to obtain proper seat belt fit.

NISSAN recommends that a child be placed in a commercially available booster seat if the shoulder belt in the child’s seating position fits close to the face or neck or if the lap portion of the seat belt goes across the abdomen. 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. A booster seat can only be used in seating positions that have a three-point type seat belt. 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.

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 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.

THREE-POINT TYPE SEAT BELT WITH RETRACTOR

WARNING

쐌 Every person who drives or rides in

this vehicle should use a seat belt at all times.

쐌 Do not ride in a moving vehicle when

1-14 Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

쐌 For the 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.

SSS0292A SSS0020C

Fastening the seat belts

1. Adjust the seat. See “Seats” earlier in this

section.

2. Slowly pull the seat belt out of the retractor

and insert the tongue into the buckle until it clicks.

쐌 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.

쐌 If the seat belt cannot be pulled from its

fully retracted position, firmly pull the

belt and release it. Then smoothly pull the belt out of the retractor.

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. Be sure the shoulder belt is routed over your shoulder and across your chest.

The front passenger seat belt has a locking 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.)

Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-15

When the locking mechanism is activated the seat belt cannot be extended 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. 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 the seatbacks are completely secured in the latched position. If they are not completely secured, 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 a NISSAN dealer.

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. The extender adds approximately 8 inches (200 mm) of length and may be used for either the driver or passenger seating position. See a NISSAN

SSS0021A

Unfastening the seat belts

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

쎻

on the

Checking seat belt operation

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

쐌 when the belt is pulled quickly from the

retractor.

쐌 when the vehicle slows down rapidly.

You can check their operation as follows:

쐌 grasp the shoulder belt and pull quickly for-

dealer for assistance if the extender is required.

WARNING

쐌 Only NISSAN seat belt extenders,

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

쐌 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.

1-16 Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

쐌 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

쐌 To clean the seat belt webbings, apply a

mild soap solution or any solution recommended 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.

쐌 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.

쐌 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

CHILD RESTRAINTS

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

쐌 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.

쐌 Infants and small children should

never be carried on your lap. It is not

possible for even the strongest adult to resist the forces of a severe accident. The child could be crushed between the adult and parts of the vehicle. Also, do not put the same seat belt around both your child and yourself.

쐌 Never install a child restraint in the

front seat unless an air bag ON/OFF switch has been installed and the air bag has been turned OFF. An inflating supplemental air bag could seriously injure or kill your child.

쐌 An improperly installed child re-

straint could lead to serious injury or death in an accident.

CAUTION

For Roadster models, when installing a child restraint, be sure to turn off the automatic passenger seatback tilt function with the seatback tilt cancel switch (located on the back of the passenger

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