Nissan Frontier 2003 Owner's Manual

FOREWORD READ FIRST—THEN DRIVE SAFELY

The inside pages of this manual contain a minimum of 50% recycled fibers, including 10% post-consumer fibers.

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 sothat youmay enjoymany miles(kilometers) ofdriving 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 dealership knows your vehicle best. When you require any service or have any questions, they will be glad to assist you with the extensive resources available to them.

Before driving your vehicle please read this Owner’s Manual carefully. This will ensure familiarity with controls and maintenance 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!

● NEVER drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

● ALWAYS observe posted speed limits and never drive too fast for conditions.

●

ALWAYS use your seat belts and appropriate child restraint systems. Pre-teen children should be seated in the rear seat.

● ALWAYS provide information about the proper use of vehicle safety features to all occupants of the vehicle.

● ALWAYS review this owner’s manual for important safety information.

For descriptions specified for four-wheel drive models, a

mark is placed at the begin-

ning of the applicable sections/items.

As with other vehicles with features for off-road use, failure to operate four-wheel

drive models correctly may result in loss of control or an accident. Be sure to read “Driving safety precautions” in the “Starting and driving” section of this manual.

ON-PAVEMENT AND OFF-ROAD DRIVING This vehicle will handle and maneuver

differently from an ordinary passenger car because it has a higher center of gravity for off-road use. As with other vehicles with features of this type, failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or an accident.

Be sure to read “On-pavement and offroad driving precautions”, and “Avoiding collision and rollover”, and “Driving safety precautions”, in the “Starting and driving” section of this manual.

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 modifications may not be covered under NISSAN warranties.

WHEN READING THE MANUAL

The inside pages of this manual contain a minimum of 50% recycled fibers, including 10% post-consumer fibers.

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 without notice and without obligation.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS MANUAL

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

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.

APD1005

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.

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING

WARNING

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.

GARDENA, CALIFORNIA

All rights reserved. No part of this Owner’s Manual may be reproduced orstored ina retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Nissan North America, Inc., Gardena, California.

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 17countries 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 worldwide, collectively growing to becomethe 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 over $6 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, andengineering at Nissan Technical Center North America in Farmington Hills, Michigan. Additionally, NISSAN employs nearly 19,000 people throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. An additional 60,000 people work for the 1,250 NISSAN and INFINITI dealers across North America.

NISSAN is also a substantial contributor to the Canadian economy. Nissan Canada Inc., its suppliers and over 150 dealers employ approximately 4,500 people. These include company employees and thestaffs 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 the 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 waysto build qualityinto its vehicles at each stage of the production process, both through extensive use of automation and — most importantly — through an awareness that

are the central element in quality control.

people

From the time the parts arrived from our suppliers until you took delivery of your new NISSAN, dozens of checks were made toensure that only the bestjob was being done in producing and delivering your vehicle. NISSAN also takes greatcare toensure 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 builtinto 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 avehicle thatis builtwith 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 NISSANConsumer Affairs Department using our toll-free number:

For U.S. mainland and Alaska customers

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

For Hawaii customers

1-808-836-0888 (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 (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 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 Canadian 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 ....................1-2

Tilting rear bench seat (Crew Cab models

only) ..........................................1-4

Jump seat (if so equipped).......................1-5

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

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

Precautions on supplemental restraint sys-

tem...........................................1-6

Passenger supplemental air bag on/off

switch and light (except Crew Cab models) ......1-15

Supplemental air bag warning labels.............1-17

Supplemental air bag warning light ..............1-17

Seat belts .......................................1-19

Precautions on seat belt usage..................1-19

Child safety...................................1-21

Pregnant women ..............................1-23

Injured persons................................1-23

Three-point type seat belt with retractor..........1-23

Two-point type seat belt without retractor (jump seat in King Cab models and center of

rear seat in Crew Cab models)..................1-26

Seat belt extenders ............................1-28

Seat belt maintenance .........................1-28

Child restraints...................................1-29

Precautions on child restraints ..................1-29

Installation on rear bench seat center

position (Crew Cab models only)................1-31

Installation on rear bench seat outboard

positions (Crew Cab models only)...............1-34

LATCH ~lower anchors and tether for children!

system ..........................................1-38

Top tether strap child restraint ..................1-40

Installation on front passenger seat ..............1-41

SEATS

WARNING

● 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.

FRONT MANUAL SEAT ADJUSTMENT

WARNING

● 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.

● After adjustment,gently rockin theseat to make sure it is securely locked.

ARS1152

● 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 properly. See “Precautions on Seat Belt Usage” later in this section.

1-2 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

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Forward and backward

Pull the lever up and hold it while you slide the seat forwardor backward to the desiredposition. Release the lever to lock the seat in position.

Reclining

Torecline the seatback, pull the lever up andlean back. To bring the seatback forward, pull thelever up and lean your body forward. Release the lever to lock the seatback in position.

WARNING

After adjustment, gently rock in the seatto make sure it is securely locked.

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-3

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Passenger seat only

Tilting

The front passenger’s seat can be tilted to make it easier for jump seat passengers to get in and out.

To tilt the seatback, pull the reclining lever up or push the tilt lever down. The seat automatically moves forward.

To return the seat, move the whole seat backward, then push the seatback up until it locks.

WARNING

After adjustment, gently rock in the seatto make sure it is securely locked.

WRS0131 WRS0165 WRS0212

Seat lifter (if so equipped for driver’s seat)

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

Lumbar support (if so equipped for driver’s seat)

The lumbar support feature provides lower back support to the driver. Move the lever up or down to adjust the seat lumbar area.

1-4 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

TILTING REAR BENCH SEAT (Crew Cab models only)

The rear bench seat can be tilted to remove the jacking tools from the storage area.

To tilt the seatback, pull the strap up

the seatback forward.

and tilt

WARNING

Never allow anyone to ride in the cargo area or on the rear seat when it is in the fold-down position. Use of these areas by passengers without proper restraints could result in serious injury in an accident or sudden stop.

JUMP SEAT (if so equipped)

WARNING

● Do not use a child restraint in the jump seats (King Cab model). These seats are not suitable for child restraint installation.

● When folding the jump seat, be careful not to squeeze your finger between the seat cushion and the body side.

ARS1026

HEAD RESTRAINT ADJUSTMENT

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

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.

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-5

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM

WRS0213 WRS0134

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

PRECAUTIONS ON SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM

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

Supplemental front impact air bag system:

This system can help cushion the impact force to the faceand chest of the driverand front passenger in certain frontal collisions.

The supplemental air bags are designed to supplement the crash protection provided by

1-6 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

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

The supplemental air bags operate only when the ignition switch is in the ON or START position.

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 system is operational.

WARNING

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

● The driver and front passenger seatbelt 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.

● 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.

WRS0031

● The seat belts and the supplemental front air bags are most effective when you are sitting well back and upright in the seat. The 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.

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-7

1-8 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

ARS1133 ARS1041

WARNING

Never let children ride unrestrained or extend their hands or face out of the window. Do not attempt to hold them in your lap or arms. Some examples of dangerous riding positions are shown in the illustrations.

ARS1042 ARS1043 ARS1044

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-9

ARS1045 WRS0256

WARNING

● Children may be severely injured or killed when the supplemental front air bags inflate if they are not properly restrained. Pre-teens and children should be properly restrained in the rear seat, if available.

● Never install a rear-facing child restraint in the front seat of a model equipped with a supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch unless you first turn OFF the air bag. An inflating supplemental air bag could seriously injure or kill your child. See “Child restraints” later in this section for details.

1-10 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

1. Diagnosis sensor unit

2. Seat belt pre-tensioner retractors

3. Supplemental air bag modules

4. Passenger air bag ON/OFF switch

5. Passenger air bag OFF indicator

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Supplemental front air bag system

The driversupplemental front air bag is located in the center of the steering wheel. The passenger supplemental front air bag is mounted in the dashboard above the glove box.

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-11

These systems are designed to meet optional certification requirementsunder U.S.regulations. They are also permitted in Canada. The optional certification allows the 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 supplemental front air bag system is designed to inflate in higher severity frontal collisions, although it may inflate if the forces in another type of collision are similar to those of a higher severity frontal impact. It may not inflate in certain frontal collisions. Vehicle damage (or lack of it) is not alwaysan indication of proper supplemental front air bag system operation.

King Cab models are equipped with a supplemental front passenger air bag ON/OFF switch. Because no rear seat exists where a rear facing child restraintcan be secured as inother models, the switch is designed to turn OFF the passenger supplemental air bag so that a rear facing child restraint can be used in the front passenger seat. See “Passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch and light” later in this section for details.

Crew Cab models are not equipped with a supplemental front passenger air bag ON/OFF switch because they have a rear seat for child restraint installation. Further, for Crew Cab mod-

els, 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 yourNISSAN dealer.

When the supplemental front air bag inflates, a fairly loud noise may be heard, followed by the release of smoke. This smoke is not harmful and does not indicate a fire. Care should be taken to not 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 theuse 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.

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 inflate 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 front air bag module during inflation.

The front air bags deflate quickly after a collision.

The supplemental front air bags operate only when the ignition switch is in the ON or START position.

WARNING

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

● Right after inflation, several front air bag system components will be hot. Do not touch them; you may severely burn yourself.

● No unauthorized changes should be made to any components or wiring of the supplemental air bag system. This is to prevent accidental inflation of the supplemental air bag or damage to the supplemental air bag system.

● 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 front air bag system.

● 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 and above the instrument panel or by installing additional trim material around the air bag system.

1-12 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

● Work around and on the supplemental front air bag system should be done by a NISSAN dealer. Installation of electrical equipment should also be done by a NISSAN dealer. The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) wiring should not be modified or disconnected. Unauthorized electrical test equipment and probing devices should not be used on the air bag system.

● A cracked windshield should be replaced immediately by a qualified repair facility. A cracked windshield could affect inflation of the supplemental air bag system.

● 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.

Pre-tensioner seat belt system (For front seats)

WARNING

● The pre-tensioner seat belt cannot be reused after activation. It must be replaced together with the retractor and buckle as a unit.

● If the vehicle becomes involved in a frontal collisionbut the pre-tensioner is not activated, be sure to have the pretensioner system checked and, if necessary, replaced by your NISSAN dealer.

● 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.

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-13

● Work around and on the pre-tensioner system should be 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.

● If you need to dispose of the pretensioner or scrap the vehicle, contact a NISSAN dealer. Correct pre-tensioner 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 noisemay beheard. This smokeis not harmful and does not indicate a fire. Care shouldbe takennot to inhaleit, asit 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 system, the supplemental air bag warning light tion key is turned tothe ON or STARTposition. In this case, the pre-tensioner seat belt will 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 thepre-tensioner seatbelt system and guide the buyer to the appropriate sections in this Owner’s Manual.

will flash intermittently after the igni-

WRS0111

1-14 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

PASSENGER SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG ON/OFF SWITCH AND LIGHT (except Crew Cab models)

WARNING

Air bags and seat belts are designed to work as a unit. Do not switch the air bag OFF unless you meet federal government criteria. Switching off the air bag may increase the risk of serious or fatal injuries in a collision where the air bag would have inflated.

In rare instances, some passengers are exposed to serious injury risks from inflating air bags, especially if not properly restrained. The U.S. and Canadian federal governments recognize other limited circumstances in which an air bag could reduce safety. The passenger air bag ON/OFF switch is, therefore, allowed inmodels withoutfull rear seats. Because the overall benefits of air bags are great, in most situations air bagsshould not be switched off unless special government criteria exist.

The passengerair bagON/OFF switchis located in the center of the instrument panel, near the ashtray. It can be used to turn the passenger supplemental air bag OFF.

The ON/OFF switch should ONLY be used to turn the passenger supplemental air bag OFF when the following government criteria exists:

● Infants (lessthan 1year old) in rear facingchild restraints MUST be placed in the front passenger seat.

● Children ages 1-12 years MUST be placed in the front passenger seat.

● The passenger has a medical condition which, according toa physician, causes the air bag to pose a special risk and makes the potential harm from the air baggreater than the potential harm from turning off the air bag.

Seat belts and child restraints should always be properly used. See “Precautions on seat belt usage” and “Child restraints” later in this section for details.

To turn the passenger supplemental air bag OFF, insert the ignition key in the passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch and turn the switch clockwise to the OFF position. Then remove the key. When the ignition is turned to the ON or START position the passenger air bag OFF indicator light will illuminate to indicate the air bag is OFF. To turnthe passenger supplemental air bag ON, insert the ignition key in the passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch and turn the switch counter clockwise to the ON

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-15

position. Then remove the key. When the ignition is turned to the ON or START position the passenger air bag OFF indicator light will illuminate for 7 seconds to indicate the system is working properly and then go out to indicate that the passenger supplemental air bag is ON.

1. Do not operate the passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch when the ignition is ON.

2. Fully turn the passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch to either the ONor OFF position.

3. Always remove the ignition key after using the passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch.

4. The passenger air bag OFF indicator light should illuminate for 7 seconds after the ignition is turned to the ON or START position. If not, the vehicle should be taken to a NISSAN dealer.

Items 2 and 3 above are intended to prevent improper use of the ignition key.

When the switch is turned to the ON position, the passenger supplemental air bag is enabled and could inflate in a frontal collision. When the switch is turned to the OFF position, the passenger supplemental air bag is disabled and will not inflate in a frontal collision. The passenger

supplemental air bag OFF indicator light on the instrument panel illuminates when the passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch is turned to the OFF position. The driver’s side supplemental air bag always remains enabled and is not affected by the passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch.

The passenger supplemental air bag light, displaying OFFin the center of the instrument panel, monitors the position of the passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch. When the ignition key is in the ON or START position, the light illuminates forabout 7seconds andthen turnsoff if the air bag ON/OFF switch is in the ON position, orstays on if the passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch is in the OFF position.

WARNING

● Do not switch the air bag OFF unless you meet the federal government criteria outlined previously. This vehicle (except Crew Cab models) is equipped with seat belts with a “load limiter” feature. The seat belts are designed to work with the air bags to reduce the risk of injury in a collision. The seat belts are designed to release additional belt webbing during some collisions to reduce the concentration of force on the occupant’s chest area. In a collision with the airbag turned OFF, the seat belt may allow the occupant enough forward movement to incur serious or fatal injuries.

● Keep the passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch turned ON unless a rear-facing child restraint must be used in the front seat, if children ages 1-12 must be placed in the front seat,or ifthe passenger has a medical condition, which, according to a physician, causes the air bag to pose a special risk of harm (the federal government criteria). If the switch is OFF, the air bag will not inflate in a collision as designed and the extra protection provided by the air bag may be lost.

● Be sure to turn the passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch OFF when using a rear facing child restraint in the front passenger seat. If it is not OFF, the air bag may inflate in a collision. The force of the rapidly inflating air bag could cause serious injury or kill the child in the child restraint. Children ages 1-12 and persons with special medical conditions may also be at risk from an inflating air bag.

1-16 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

● If the supplemental air bag warning light located in the instrument panel next to the speedometer comes on when the passenger supplemental air bag OFFlight is also illuminated, something may be wrong with the air bag system. Infants, children ages 1-12 or persons with special medical conditions should not use the front passenger seat until the system is checked by your NISSAN dealer.

WRS0215 LRS0100

SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG WARNING LABELS

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

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-17

SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT

The supplemental air bag warning light, displaying tors the circuits of the supplemental air bag and pre-tensioner seat belt systems. The circuits monitored by the supplemental air bag warning light are the diagnosis sensor unit, crash zone sensor, supplemental air bag modules, pretensioner seat belts and all related wiring.

When the ignition key is in the ON or START position, the supplemental air bag warning light illuminates for about 7 seconds and then turns off. This means the system is operational.

in the instrument panel, moni-

If any of the following system conditions occur, the supplemental air bag and pre-tensioner seat belt systems need servicing:

● The supplemental air bag warning light remains on after approximately 7 seconds.

● The supplemental airbag warning light flashes intermittently.

● The supplemental air bag warning light does not come on at all.

Under these conditions, the Supplemental Restraint System (supplemental front air bag or pre-tensioner seatbelt systems) may not operate properly. It 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 supplemental front air bag or pre-tensioner seat belt systems will not operate in an accident.

Repair and replacement procedure

The supplemental front air bag and pre-tensioner seat belts are designed to inflate on a one-timeonly basis. As a reminder, unless it is damaged, the supplemental air bag warning light remains illuminated after inflation has occurred. Repair

and replacement of these supplemental air bag systems should be done only by a NISSAN dealer.

When maintenance work is required on the vehicle, the supplemental front air bags, pretensioner seat belts and related parts should be pointed out to the person performing the maintenance. The ignition key should always be in the LOCK position when working under the hood or inside the vehicle.

WARNING

● Once a supplemental front air bag has inflated, the air bag module will not function and must be replaced. Additionally, ifany of the supplemental front air bags inflate, the activated pretensioner seat belts must also be replaced. The air bag module and pretensioner seat belt system should be replaced by a NISSAN dealer. The air bag module and pre-tensioner seat belt system cannot be repaired.

● The supplemental front air bag system and pre-tensioner seat belt system should be inspected by a NISSAN dealer if there is any damage to the front end portion of the vehicle.

● If you need to dispose of the supplemental air bag, pre-tensioner seat belt system or scrap the vehicle, contact a NISSAN dealer. Correct supplemental air bag and pre-tensioner seat belt system disposal proceduresare 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

If you are wearing your seat belt properly adjusted, 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 U.S. states and Canadian provinces or territories specify that seat belts beworn at all times when a vehicle is being driven.

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WARNING

● Every person who drives or rides in this vehicle should use a seat belt at all times. Children should be properly restrained in the rear seat (Crew Cab models) and, if appropriate, in a child restraint.

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WARNING

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

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WARNING

● 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.

● 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.

● Be sure the seat belt tongue is securely fastened to the proper buckle.

● Do not wear the seat belt inside out or twisted. Doing so may reduce its effectiveness.

● Do not allow more than one person to use the same seat belt.

● Never carry more people in the vehicle than there are seat belts.

● Once the pre-tensioner seat belt has activated, it cannot be reused and must be replaced together with the retractor. See your NISSAN dealer.

● Never allow anyone to ride in the cargo area or in a slide-in camper or other type cargo area cover while the vehicle is inmotion. These areas do not contain seat belts.It is not designed for passengers. They could be injured in sudden braking or a collision.

● 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.

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● Removal and installation of the pretensioner seat belt system components should be done by a NISSAN dealer.

● 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 assemblies 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 orimproper operation is noted.

● All child restraints and attaching hardware should be inspected after any collision. Always follow the restraint manufacturer’s inspection instructions and replacement recommendations. The child restraints should be replaced if they are damaged.

CHILD SAFETY

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

The proper restraint depends on the child’s size. Generally, infants up to about 1 year and less than 20 pounds, (9 kg) should be placed in rear

facing child restraints. Front facing child restraints are available for children who outgrow rear facing child restraints.

WARNING

● Be sure to turn the passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch OFF when using a rear facing child restraint in the front passenger seat in models so equipped. If it is not OFF, the air bag may inflate in a collision. The force of the rapidly inflating air bag could cause serious injury or kill the child in the child restraint. See “Passenger supplemental air bag ON/OFF switch and light” earlier in this section.

● In Crew Cab models, never install a rear facing child restraint in the front passenger seat. An inflating supplemental air bag could seriously injure or kill your child. A rear facing child restraint must only be used in the rear seat.

● Do not install a child restraint in the jump seats (King Cab model). These seats are not suitable for child restraint installation.

● Infants and children need special protection. The vehicle’sseat 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 U.S. states and Canadian provinces or territories 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.

NISSAN recommends that all pre-teens and children be restrained in the rear seat if available (Crew Cab models). According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seat than in the front seat. This is especially important because your vehicle has a supplemental restraint system (Air bag system) for the front passenger. See “Supplemental restraint system” earlier in this section. Also, see “Passenger air bag ON/OFF switch and light” earlier in this section.

Infants and small children

NISSAN recommends that infants and small children be placed in childrestraints thatcomply 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 restraints should beseated andrestrained 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 SafetyStandards or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Once the child has grown sothe shoulder belt is no longer on or near the face and neck, use the shoulder belt without the booster seat.

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WARNING

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 injuredor killed in an accident or sudden stop.

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. Check with your doctor for specific recommendations.

THREE-POINT TYPE SEAT BELT WITH RETRACTOR

WARNING

● Every person who drives or rides in this vehicle should use a seat belt at all times.

● 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.

Fastening the seat belts

Adjust the seat.

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Slowly pull the seat belt out of the retractor

and insert the tongue intothe buckleuntil you hear and feel the latch engage.

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

Position the lap belt portion low and snug

on the hips as shown.

Pull the shoulder belt portion toward the

retractor to take up extra slack.

The front passenger seat belt and the rear threepoint seat belts (Crew Cab only) have a cinching mechanism for child restraint installation. It is referred to as the automatic locking mode.

When automatic locking mode is activated the seat belt cannot be withdrawn again untilthe seat belt tongue is detached from the buckle and fully retracted. Once retracted, the seat belt is in the emergency locking mode. See “Child restraints” later in this section for more information.

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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.

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