NISSAN GT R Owner's Manual 2011

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
(kilometers) of driving pleasure. Please read
through this manual before operating your
vehicle.

A separate Warranty Information Booklet
contains the warranties c overing your
vehicle (whose terms have control over
this Owner’s Manual or any other docu­ment or representation regarding warranty
coverage). 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.

READ FIRST — THEN DRIVE SAFELY

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 lim-

its and never drive too fast for
conditions.

. ALWAYS give your full attention to

driving and avoid using vehicle
features or taking other actions that
could distract you.

. 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 Man-

ual 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. See the 2011
NISSAN GT-R Warranty Information Book­let for details including applicable exclu­sions.

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:

WARNING

This is used to indicate a hazard that
could cause death or serious personal
injury. To avoid or reduce the risk,
follow the information and instructions
exactly.

CAUTION

This is used to indicate a hazard that
could cause minor or moderate perso­nal injury. To avoid or reduce the risk,
follow the information and instructions
carefully.

NOTICE

This is used to indicate a hazard that
could cause damage to property or your
vehicle. To avoid or reduce the risk,
follow the information and instructions.

If you see the symbol above, it means “Do not
do this” or “Do not let this happen”.

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

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

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

This indicates the title and reference page.

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 emi t
chemicals known to the State of Cali­fornia to cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive harm.

CALIFORNIA PERCHLORATE ADVI­SORY

Some vehicle parts, such as lithium bat­teries, may contain perchlorate material.
The following advisory is provided: “Per­chlorate Material - special handling may
apply, See www.dtsc.ca.gov/
hazardouswaste/perchlorate.”

C

*

2009 NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.

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.

NISSAN CUSTOMER CARE PROGRAM

NISSAN CARES ...

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

However, if there is something that your GT-R
certified 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

1-866-668-1GTR
(1-866-668-1487)

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 685003
Franklin, TN 37068-5003

For Canadian customers

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

Table of

GT-R Overview

GTR

Contents

Illustrated table of contents

Safety — Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

Instruments and controls

Pre-driving checks and adjustments

Display screen, 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

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

GT-R Overview

GT-R specific information ................................. GTR-2

Warranty information ................................... GTR-2

Maintenance information .............................. GTR-2

GT-R special specification parts ........................GTR-2

Engine oil ................................................. GTR-2

Transmission oil ......................................... GTR-2

Differential oil (front and rear)........................ GTR-3

Brake fluid ................................................ GTR-3

Tires and road wheels ................................. GTR-3

Suspension .............................................. GTR-3

Brake pad and disc rotor .............................GTR-3

Exhaust muffler and trunk carpet ....................GTR-4

Exterior parts (spoiler, etc.)........................... GTR-4

GT-R performance optimization services .............. GTR-5

Wheel alignment inspection and adjustment
(if necessary) (including tire pressure

adjustment)............................................... GTR-5

Engine settings (balancing right and left air

flow) ....................................................... GTR-5

Transmission settings .................................. GTR-5

Break-in schedule .......................................... GTR-6

Wheel alignment ........................................ GTR-6

Precautions before driving ................................GTR-6

Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) off mode ........ GTR-6

Summer tires ............................................ GTR-7

All-season tires.......................................... GTR-7

Fuel ............................................................GTR-7

Body repair................................................... GTR-8

Additional maintenance items ............................GTR-8

Fluids ...................................................... GTR-8

Recommended fluids and maintenance

interval................................................... GTR-10

Inspection and adjustments of tires,

suspension, clutch and brakes .................... GTR-11

Recommended adjustments for maximum

performance............................................ GTR-13

Replenishing coolant................................. GTR-14

Coolant mixture ratio ................................. GTR-14

Cool down ............................................. GTR-14

Brake pad .............................................. GTR-14

GT-R specific vehicle characteristics................. GTR-15

Refueling precautions................................ GTR-15

Gasoline smell......................................... GTR-15

Outside temperature display indicates higher

temperature ............................................ GTR-15

Idle speed is not steady............................. GTR-15

Engine speed is restricted .......................... GTR-15

Boost pressure is restricted........................ GTR-15

Distortion of rear wing............................... GTR-15

Uneven wear of tires................................. GTR-16

Noises are heard while driving..................... GTR-16

Cracks on brake pad ................................ GTR-17

Brake dust.............................................. GTR-17

Mechanical Limited Slip Differential (LSD)

characteristics ......................................... GTR-17

Dual clutch transmission ................................ GTR-18

Transmission operation characteristics ........... GTR-19

GT-R SPECIFIC INFORMATION

The GT-R is NISSAN’s first supercar category
vehicle. The GT-R is equipped with special
systems. These systems are different than those
used on conventional vehicles to allow for the
high performance driving characteristics of this
vehicle. Your vehicle should be maintained by a
GT-R certified NISSAN dealer. Special skills,
knowledge and equipment are necessary to
properly maintain your GT-R.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

Please read this Owner’s Manual carefully,
together with your Warranty Information Booklet
which describes a number of express limitations,
exclusions and ways to void your warranty for
failing to follow the instructions contained in this
Owner’s Manual, including, but not limited to:

. Failure to use proper parts, fuel and fluids,

. Driving with the VDC off,

. Racing,

. Any competitive driving of any sort whatso-

ever,

. Use on a track or driving on any airstrip,

. Modifications, including adding/replacing,

reprogramming, attempting to reprogram,
altering, disconnecting any computer, con­trol unit or electronic modules,

GTR-2 GT-R Overview

. Deleting any or all stored information in any

computer, control unit or electronic module
including VSDR,

. Failure to have required Performance Opti-

mization Services performed.

In addition, see your Dunlop/Goodyear and
Bridgestone tire warranties for specific limita­tions or exclusions for operating summer tires
below −208C(−48F).

MAINTENANCE INFORMATION

. Special skills, knowledge and equipment are

necessary to properly inspect and adjust the
GT-R engine, transmission, suspension and
brakes to maintain performance. A GT-R
certified NISSAN dealer has the GT-R
certified technical staff and the special
equipment to properly maintain your GT-R.

. NISSAN recommends maintenance items

that require the replacement of parts, engine
oil, oil filters and air filters should be
performed by a GT-R certified dealer. Make
sure the specified fluids and parts are used
when the maintenance is performed.
NISSAN also recommends the replacement
of parts such as brakes should be performed
by a GT-R certified NISSAN dealer.

GT-R SPECIAL SPECIFICATION
PARTS

NOTICE

Only use the following required fluids
and parts in the GT-R to avoid possible
vehicle damage.

ENGINE OIL

Mobil 1 (0W-40) (100% synthetic oil)

Mobil 1 (0W-40) (100% synthetic) is the factory
fill oil. The VR38 engine with its plasma-sprayed
bores was developed using this oil. NISSAN
cannot ensure proper engine operation and
durability if other 0W-40 synthetic oil is used.
If Mobil 1 (0W-40) is not available, Mobil 1
(10W-40) (100% synthetic) may be used;
however, some performance loss may be
noticed.

The use of additives, chemical materials or
abrasive compounds is prohibited.

The use of additives, chemical materials, abra­sive compounds or other high performance
engine oils may cause internal engine damage.

TRANSMISSION OIL

Genuine NISSAN Transmission Oil R35
Special (100% synthetic oil)

The GT-R uses a multiple-disc dual wet clutch
transmission. The specially developed transmis­sion oil maximizes the friction characteristics of

the clutch and the lubrication of the gear
bearings.

The use of additives is prohibited.

The use of additives or other transmission oil
may cause internal transmission or clutch
damage.

DIFFERENTIAL OIL (front and rear)

Castrol SAF-XJ 75W-140 (100% synthetic
oil)

The GT-R uses a 1.5-Way mechanical Limited
Slip Differential (LSD) to maximize driving power
under many operating conditions. Use the
specified differential oil to maximize the perfor­mance of the LSD. Also use the same oil for the
front differential.

The use of additives is prohibited.

Using additives or any other than the specified
differential oil may cause the oil temperature to
increase and the final drive damaged. Also it may
cause vibration and adversely the vehicle hand­ling characteristics.

BRAKE FLUID

Genuine NISSAN Brake Fluid R35 Special
II

Genuine NISSAN Brake Fluid R35 Special II is
the factory fill brake fluid. The Vehicle Dynamic
Control (VDC) unit and other related parts were

specially designed for this brake fluid. NISSAN
cannot ensure the best performance and proper
operation of the vehicle if other brake fluid is
used.

TIRES AND ROAD WHEELS

Genuine GT-R tires and road wheels

Use only genuine GT-R tires and road wheels.

Tires

The GT-R uses specially designed run-flat tires
and matching road wheels. Use of these
specially developed tires and wheels provides
the greatest potential for maximum performance.

— Using non-genuine GT-R tires may cause

powertrain system damage if the vehicle is
driven in a flat tire situation, even if run flat
tires are used.

— Using non-genuine GT-R tires may also

cause tire failure due to excessive heat
buildup caus ed by tire distortion while
driving.

— Using non-genuine GT-R tires may affect the

operation of the VDC system.

Road wheels

Using non-genuine GT-R wheels may cause the
following:

— vehicle vibration

— the tire coming loose from the wheel during

a flat tire

— reduced wheel lug nut tightness

SUSPENSION

Genuine GT-R special suspension

Use only genu ine GT-R special suspension
components.

Using non-genuine GT-R suspension compo­nents can affect vehicle performance and may
cause body damage when driving depending on
the road conditions.

BRAKE PAD AND DISC ROTOR

Genuine GT-R brake pads and disc rotors

Use only genuine GT-R brake pads and disc
rotors.

This vehicle is equipped with cross-drilled
floating rotors and radial-mounted six-piston
monoblock calipers. This helps to achieve
excellent stopping performance and fade-resis­tance. Replace all four sets of brake pads and
disc rot ors at the same time to maintain
maximum brake performance.

Using non-genuine GT-R Brake pads or rotors
can affect vehicle braking performance and the
operation of the ABS and VDC system.

GT-R Overview GTR-3

EXHAUST MUFFLER AND TRUNK
CARPET

Genuine GT-R special exhaust muffler and
trunk carpet.

Use only the genuine GT-R special exhaust
muffler and trunk carpet.

The GT-R exhaust system is designed to provide
the maximum vehicle performance and to
protect the vehicle from high exhaust gas
temperatures.

If non-genuine GT-R specification parts are
used it is possible that the muffler or other
exhaust system parts will deform and cause
damage to the underbody. Non-genuine GT-R
specification parts can also affect vehicle
performance and possibly lead to turbocharger
or engine damage.

Also, do not remove the trunk carpet from the
vehicle for any reason. The carpet insulates the
vehicle interior from the heat of the muffler and
from the noise of the transmission.

EXTERIOR PARTS (spoiler, etc.)

Do not modify exterior parts.

The GT-R was developed using a special wind
tunnel to help make sure the vehicle is
aerodynamically balanced. Additionally, the wind
tunnel was used to help make sure cool air flows
to the brakes, radiator and other components.

GTR-4 GT-R Overview

Additions of non-genuine GT-R specific acces­sory exterior parts can change the air flow over
and around the body. This can affect vehicle
balance and cooling of various systems.

For example, if the front bumper is modified,
there is a possibility that brake cooling perfor­mance may be reduced due to the decrease of
the air flow to the brake system.

Use only GT-R special specification parts.

Front bumper

The shape of the bumper helps pull air into the
engine compartment through the front wheel
housing to cool the radiator and brakes. Instal­ling an aftermarket bumper may affect the air
flow in the engine compartment and decrease
the brake and engine cooling performance. An
aftermarket bumper may also change vehicle
balance by reducing front down force.

Rear wing

Installing an aftermarket rear wing may change
the down force balance between front and rear
of the vehicle. This can affect the handling
characteristics of the vehicle and affect the
operation of the ABS and VDC systems.

NOTICE

Modifications to exterior parts may
affect engine and transmission cooling

performance which can increase the
temperature in the engine compart­ment. This can affect the operation or
damage parts located in the engine
compartment.

GT-R PERFORMANCE
OPTIMIZATION SERVICES

In addition to the regular maintenance recom­mended by NISSAN, the GT-R requires the
following special inspections:

. Wheel alignment inspection and adjustment

(if necessary) (including tire pressure ad­justment)

. Engine settings (balancing right and left air

flow)

. Transmission settings

These inspections are required at the following
intervals:

. 1,000 miles

. 12 months

. 24 months

. 36 months

NOTE:

. These inspections will be performed

free of charge for labor at a GT-R
certified NISSAN dealer only. Inspec­tions thereafter are recommended
every 12 months or 12,000 miles
(whichever comes first) at the custo­mer’s expense. See the 2011 NISSAN
GT-R Warranty Information Booklet for
details.

. Repairs and adjustments involving

parts replacement, etc. determined to
be necessary as a result of these
inspections are performed at the cus­tomer’s expense.

. See the 2011 NISSAN GT-R Warranty

Information Booklet for significant lim­itations, exclusions and possible void­ing of your warranty resulting from
failure to have these necessary inspec­tions, repairs and/or adjustments per­formed.

. See the 2011 NISSAN GT-R Service and

Maintenance Guide for a detailed ex­planation of the GT-R Performance
Optimization Services.

WHEEL ALIGNMENT INSPECTION
AND ADJUSTMENT (if necessary)
(including tire pressure adjustment)

This vehicle is equipped with a high perfor­mance suspension. The vehicle’s wheel align­ment needs to be measured and adjusted (if
necessary) by a GT-R certified NISSAN dealer
as necessary as the vehicle is driven and the
suspension parts break-in.

ENGINE SETTINGS (balancing right
and left air flow)

Each cylinder bank of this engine operates
independently due to the vehicle’s twin turbo­charger design. Each side of the engine must
operate at the same level of performance. The air
flow of each bank must be checked and
adjusted as necessary by a GT-R certified
NISSAN dealer.

TRANSMISSION SETTINGS

The design of the clutch and transmission
requires inspection and adjustment of the clutch
and shift forks by a GT-R certified NISSAN
dealer at the recommended intervals. Depend­ing on the driving conditions, more frequent
adjustments may be necessary to help maximize
vehicle performance.

GT-R Overview GTR-5

BREAK-IN SCHEDULE PRECAUTIONS BEFORE DRIVING

NOTICE

Follow these recommendations to ob­tain maximum engine performance and
ensure the future reliability and econo­my of your new vehicle. Failure to
follow these recommendations may
result in shortened engine life and
reduced engine performance.

Please observe the following types of driving
until the mileage shown below has been
reached.

Until 300 miles (500 km):

. Do not depress the accelerator pedal more

than halfway and avoid rapid acceleration.

. Drive with the engine speed kept at less

than 3,500 RPM.

. Avoid unnecessary quick steering, abrupt

braking and driving on poor roads.

300 to 600 miles (500 to 1,000 km)

. Avoid rapid acceleration in a low gear (1st to

3rd gears) with the accelerator pedal fully
depressed. Depress the pedal slowly.

. Avoid unnecessary quick steering and

abrupt braking.

GTR-6 GT-R Overview

. Drive with the suspension setup switch in

the COMF mode to allow more suspension
stroke.

600 to 1,200 miles (1,000 to 2,000 km)

. Drive with the engine speed kept relatively

high. Shifting is recommended between 1st
and 4th gears.

. Avoid unnecessary quick steering and

abrupt braking.

. Drive with the suspension setup switch in

the COMF mode to allow more suspension
stroke.

Even though the mileage reaches over 1,200
miles (2,000 km), the clutch may take longer to
properly engage if the vehicle is mainly driven in
town at a low speed. NISSAN recommends
breaking in the clutch at a GT-R certified
NISSAN dealer.

WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Do not adjust the wheel alignment until the
mileage reaches 1,000 miles (1,600 km). Until
then, the suspension may not engage enough
and the height may be higher.

However, make sure to adjust the alignment
after 1,000 miles (1,600 km).

VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC)
OFF MODE

Always make sure the VDC is ON before driving
the vehicle by checking that the VDC OFF
indicator lights on the meter and the VDC set-up
switch are not illuminated. The GT-R is a high
performance vehicle and the VDC must be on/
activated to provide proper powertrain operation
and intended drivability.

WARNING

. The VDC OFF mode should ONLY be

used briefly to help free the vehicle
if stuck in snow or mud by tempora­rily stopping operation of the VDC
to maintain wheel torque.

. Driving the GT-R with the VDC off

may lead to handling issues related
to steering maneuvers, acceleration,
or deceleration. Moreover, driving
with the VDC off can result in an
inoperative vehicle by causing ser­ious damage to the powertrain,
including damage to the Transaxle
Assembly including Transfer, Clutch,
Gears, Transaxle case and all of its
components and other drivetrain
component(s) by overheating or ex­cessive force.

. Damage to the powertrain or any

drivetrain component(s) that occurs
when there is a record in the Vehicle
Status Data Recorder (VSDR) that
the vehicle was driven with VDC off
during the period when the damage
was incurred is excluded from war­ranty coverage.

See your 2011 Warranty Information Booklet for
important related information and warranty
coverage exclusions. See also section 2 (page
2-28) and section 5 (page 5-42) of this Owner’s
Manual, “Transmission Clutch Temperature
High” and “Vehicle Dynam ic Control (VDC)
System” for important additional related informa­tion.

SUMMER TIRES

The GT-R summer tires are made from a
specially formulated rubber t o maximize the
vehicle’s performance capabilities. Performance
of summer tires is substantially reduced when
temperatures are less than 328F(08C) so you
must drive carefully. NISSAN recommends the
use of winter or all-season tires on all four
wheels if you plan to operate your vehicle in
snowy or icy conditions when temperatures are
less than 328F(08C).

WARNING

Never use summer tires when the
temperature is below −48F(−208C) to
prevent permanent tread deformation
which may cause tire damage or tire
failure. This may cause a loss of vehicle
control which can resul t in serious
personal injury or death.

ALL-SEASON TIRES

Do not exceed the speed rating of the tire that is
installed on the vehicle.

FUEL

NISSAN recommends using fuels that contain
no alcohol. However, fuels containing up to 10%
alcohol may be used, if necessary. Do not use E­85 in your vehicle. (
DATION” page 9-3).

“FUEL RECOMMEN-

NOTICE

To avoid serious engine damage due to
increased cylinder temperatures, do not
use fuels that contain more alcohol
than indicated in “Gasoline containing
oxygenates” in the “9. Technical and
consumer information section. Also, do
not use fuel additives, fuel stabilizers or
fuel deicers that contain alcohol.

GT-R Overview GTR-7

BODY REPAIR ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE ITEMS

The body of the GT-R has been manufactured
on special fixtures utilizing a hybrid structure
with aluminum die cast parts for the frame work.
Special skills, information and equipment are
required to correctly repair the body. Contact a
GT-R certified NISSAN dealer if the vehicle is
damaged, such as in a collision, and they will
recommend an appropriate body shop.

Only certified body shops using CELETTE
advanced collision repair equipment are ap­proved by NISSAN for repairing structural body
damage. Contact a GT-R certified NISSAN
dealer or NISSAN Consumer Affairs for a
referral or list of certified body shops.

The information and specifications in this
section apply only when engaging in
performance driving.

The following information applies only if you
engage in performance driving such as driving
your GT-R for extended periods under the
following conditions.

. Higher-RPM (approaching redline) opera-

®

tion

. Frequent high pedal force bra king from

moderate and higher speeds

. Frequent throttle activation

. Fast revving throughout the RPM range

In such cases, the following additional main­tenance guidelines apply.

However, you should also carefully read
your 2011 NISSAN GT-R Warranty Informa­tion Booklet for important information
concerning warranty coverage, limitations
and exclusions.

We recommend that maintenance be performed
at a GT-R certified NISSAN dealer. NISSAN will
only pay for GT-R Performance Optimization
Services performed at a GT-R certified NISSAN
dealer.

FLUIDS

The information and specifications in this
section apply only when engaging in
performance driving.

. Before driving, check the fluid levels and

adjust as necessary using the specified fluid
as described under the conditions listed in
ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE ITEMS. If you
do not drive under the conditions listed, refer
to the 2011 Service Maintenance Guide.

GTR-8 GT-R Overview

. Be sure to change the fluids with the

specified fluids after driving.

“RECOMMENDED FLUIDS AND

(
MAINTENANCE INTERVAL” page GTR-10).

. Fluid temperature can be checked on the

multi function display.

— Engine Coolant Temperature
— Engine Oil Temperature
— Transmission Oil Temperature

See the separate Multi Function Display Own­er’s Manual.

. NISSAN recommends to adjust the engine

oil level
below the H mark on the engine oil dipstick.

3

(

*

checking the oil level, run the engine until it
reaches operating temperature and wait at
least 5 minutes after turning off the engine.
Make sure the oil level always remains above
the L mark.

1

to be 0.39 in (10 mm)

*

range is 1.18 in (30 mm)) Before

*

2

. Adjust the power steering fluid level to the R

5

mark
when the fluid temperature is hot or
when the fluid temperature is cold.

Fluid temperature:

Hot: 122 to 1768F (50 to 808C): between

1

*

Cold: 32 to 868F(0to308C): between
and

on the power steering dipstick

*

5

and

*

6

*

GT-R Overview GTR-9

*

*

6

3

RECOMMENDED FLUIDS AND
MAINTENANCE INTERVAL

The information and specifications in this section apply only when engaging in
performance driving.

ITEMS Engine Oil

GT-R SPECI­FIED FLUIDS

MAINTENANCE
INTERVAL

ITEMS Transmission Oil

GT-R SPECI­FIED FLUIDS

MAINTENANCE
INTERVAL

Mobil 1 (0W-40)*1

. When the oil temperature stays

below 2308F (1108C) while driving

. When the oil temperature reaches

between 2308F (1108C) and 2668F
(1308C) while driving

. When the oil temperature exceeds

2668F (1308C) while driving

Genuine NISSAN Transmission Oil R35 Special

. When the oil temperature stays

below 2488F (1208C) while driving

. When the oil temperature reaches

between 2488F (1208C) and 2848F
(1408C) while driving

. When the oil temperature exceeds

2848F (1408C) while driving

Change engine oil and engine oil filter at the same
interval as Schedule 1 and 2 in the 2011 NISSAN
GT-R Service and Maintenance Guide section.

Change engine oil and engine oil filter every 3,000
miles (5,000 km).

Change engine oil and engine oil filter immediately
after stopping.

Change transmission oil at the same interval as
Schedule 1 and 2 in the 2011 NISSAN GT-R
Service and Maintenance Guide section.

Change transmission oil every 3,000 miles (5,000
km).

Change both transmission oil and differential oil
immediately after stopping. Differential oil tempera­ture usually increases concurrently.

GTR-10 GT-R Overview

The information and specifications in this section apply only when engaging in
performance driving.

ITEMS Differential Oil (front and rear)*2
GT-R SPECIFIED FLUIDS Castrol SAF-XJ 75W-140

MAINTENANCE INTERVAL

ITEMS Brake Fluid
GT-R SPECIFIED FLUIDS Genuine NISSAN Brake Fluid R35 Special II*3

MAINTENANCE INTERVAL

*1: Mobil 1 (0W-40) (100% synthetic) is the factory fill oil. The VR38 engine with its plasma-sprayed bores was

developed using this oil. NISSAN cannot ensure proper engine operation and durability if other 0W-40
synthetic oil is used. If Mobil 1 (0W-40) is not available, Mobil 1 (10W-40) (100% synthetic) may be used;

however, some performance loss may be noticed.
*2: The differential oil temperature cannot be displayed on the multi function display.
*3: Genuine NISSAN Brake Fluid R35 Special II is the factory fill brake fluid. The Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)

unit and other related parts were specially designed for this brake fluid and NISSAN cannot ensure the best

performance and proper operation of the vehicle if other brake fluid is used.

Change differential oil every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) .

Change brake fluid every 3,000 miles (5,000 km).

INSPECTION AND ADJUSTMENTS
OF TIRES, SUSPENSION, CLUTCH
AND BRAKES

The information and specifications in this
section apply only when engaging in
performance driving.

. Measure and adjust the wheel alignment.

. Check tire wear and cracking.

. Check the tire pressure and adjust the

pressure as necessary when the tires are
cold. (

“Tire pressure” page GTR-13)

GT-R Overview GTR-11

*The chart above indicates an example of the
change in tire pressure (air) when measured and
adjusted with tire pressure at 778F (258C),
according to the change in outside air tempera­ture of the modified tire inner pressure.

The tire pressure changes depending on the
outside temperature or altitude. Check the tire
pressure regularly and when the climate condi­tions change.

WARNING

Keep your tires inflated to the correct
tire pressure. Drivin g with low tire
pressure can damage some powertrain
systems and affect the operation of the

GTR-12 GT-R Overview

ABS and VDC systems. Low Tire pres­sure may also cause tire failure and
result in serious personal injury or
death.

. Make sure the tire valve stem cap is installed

and that the valve stem is tight.

. Make sure the wheel nuts are tight.

(

“WHEELS AND TIRES” page 8-28)

. Make sure the drive shaft nuts are tight.

. Check wheel hub run out and that the wheel

rotates smoothly without any friction. Check
these with the tires removed whenever an
inspection is performed with the vehicle
jacked up.

. Secure road wheel balance weights with

aluminum tape or equivalent.

. Check that the wheel nuts are not stripped.

. Make sure the tire has not slipped on the

wheel causing the assembly to be out of
balance. The reference marks on the tire and
wheel should be aligned. If the reference
marks are not aligned, the tire has slipped on
the wheel. Have the wheels/tires reba­lanced. Make sure the old reference marks
are erased and new reference marks are
applied to the wheel and tire. When instal­ling new tires on the wheels, make sure new
reference marks are applied to the wheels
and tires.

. Check for the heat deterioration of the

brakes and parts around the brakes.

. NISSAN recommends that the brakes

should be bled before engaging in perfor­mance driving and when replacing the brake
fluid. It is recommended that bleeding the
brake be performed when the brake calipers
are hot (about 2128F (1008C)).

. Check the engine, transmission, differential

and under the vehicle for oil and coolant
leaks.

. Before engaging in performance driving, the

clutch clearance may need to be adjusted.
See your GT-R certified NISSAN dealer for
information.

NOTICE

Failure to have the clutch properly
adjusted before performanc e driving
may cause the transmission oil tem­perature to increase which may cause
transmission damage.

. Check the steering and suspension system

and other links for loose and/or damaged
parts before and after driving.

RECOMMENDED ADJUSTMENTS FOR MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE

The information and specifications in this section apply only when engaging in
performance driving.

Tire pressure

Condition Pressure PSI (kPa)
Starting to drive (Tires are cold) All: 29.0 (200)

Increasing tire pressure (Tires are hot)

Front: 39.2 (270), Rear: Not exceeding 37.7 (260)

GT-R Overview GTR-13

REPLENISHING COOLANT

The information and specifications in this
section apply only when engaging in
performance driving.

Check the coolant level in the pressurized
coolant reservoir. Adjust the level so that the
fluid is between the MAX and MIN markings. For
the coolant, use genuine NISSAN Long Life
coolant. (On delivery of new vehicle, the
reservoir is filled to the MIN level. Be sure to
replenish approximately 0.3 to 0.4 US quart (0.3
to 0.4 liter) of coolant.)

NOTICE

Do not overfill the coolant. This may
increase the pressure in the cooling
system and cause coolant leaks.

COOLANT MIXTURE RATIO

The information and specifications in this
section apply only when engaging in
performance driving.

To maximize vehicle performance, the coolant
mixture ratio should be a combination of 30%
antifreeze and 70% demineralized or distilled
water for maximum cooling system performance
regardless of ambient temperatures.

If ambient temperatures are anticipated below
58F(−158C), make sure a proper mixture ratio of

GTR-14 GT-R Overview

50% antifreeze and 50% demineralized or
distilled water mix is used.

COOL DOWN

The information and specifications in this
section apply only when engaging in
performance driving.

Cool down the vehicle to help extend the life of
the vehicle if coolant temperatures are extremely
high. Drive the vehicle at 37 to 50 MPH (60 to
80 km/h), in 5th or 6th gear for 2 to 3 miles (3 to
5 km) and then stop the engine.

BRAKE PAD

The information and specifications in this
section apply only when engaging in
performance driving.

NISSAN recommends adding an additional
cross spring to the front calipers before enga­ging in performance driving. The additional
spring reduces brake pad movement resulting
from cornering forces and will reduce the stroke
of the brake pedal. Contact a GT-R certified
NISSAN dealer to purchase the spring and
arrange installation.

Break-in procedure

NISSAN recommends that a special brake pad
break in procedure be performed before enga­ging in performance driving. Contact a GT-R
certified NISSAN dealer for details.

NOTICE

At the completion of performance driv­ing, all fluid and other adjustments
should be returned to the normal fluid
specifications as shown in the “Main­tenance and do-it-yourself” section of
this manual.

GT-R SPECIFIC VEHICLE
CHARACTERISTICS

REFUELING PRECAUTIONS

WARNING

Do not attempt to top off the fuel tank
after the fuel pump nozzle shuts off
automatically. Continued refueling may
cause fuel overflow, resulting in fuel
spray and possibly a fire. The fuel tank
is full at the first automatic shutoff.

To maximize vehicle performance, the fuel tank is
located as low as possible to lower the vehicle
center of gravity. The tank is also divided into
two parts. This fuel tank design causes higher
pressures inside the tank than other vehicles so
fuel spillage is possible by trying to top off the
fuel tank after automatic shutoff.

The fuel tank pressure is higher when the vehicle
is hot, especially if the tank is more than half full.
If the cap is opened when the vehicle is hot, it
may cause fuel spray and there may be a hissing
noise. Open the cap slowly, releasing the
pressure from the tank gradually. Also, if the
vehicle is refueled when the vehicle is hot, the
fuel pump may automatically shut off before the
tank is full. This does not indicate that there is a
malfunction. Refuel slowly or refuel after the
vehicle has cooled.

GASOLINE SMELL

The fuel temperature is higher when the vehicle
is hot. This may cause a gasoline smell from the
vehicle. This does not indicate that there is a
malfunction. The smell will go away when the
fuel temperature has cooled.

OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE DISPLAY
INDICATES HIGHER TEMPERATURE

Heat from the engine compartment, radiator and
intercoolers can affect the outside temperature
display. The outside temperature display may
indicate a higher than actual temperature while
driving or stopped. This is normal.

IDLE SPEED IS NOT STEADY

The idle speed may not be steady when the
engine compartment is extremely hot. This is
normal. The engine speed will be steady when
the engine cools down.

In this case, the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
may come on. After a few driving trips, the MIL
should turn off. If the light remains on after a few
driving trips, have the vehicle inspected by a
GT-R certified NISSAN dealer.

ENGINE SPEED IS RESTRICTED

To help protect the engine, the maximum engine
speed is automatically controlled in the following
conditions:

. Revving the engine with the shift lever in the

P

&

or &Nposition: The maximum engine

speed is 5,000 RPM

. Revving the engine when the engine oil is at

a low (below 378F(08C)) or extremely high
(over 2758F (1358C)) temperature: The
maximum engine speed is 4,000 RPM (The

M

&

position will automatically change to the

A

&

position.)

BOOST PRESSURE IS RESTRICTED

To help protect the engine, the boost pressure is
automatically controlled not to increase when
the engine coolant is at a low or extremely high
temperature.

DISTORTION OF REAR WING

When the vehicle is parked in direct sunlight on
a hot day, the center of the rear wing may
become distorted. This is normal. When the
surface temperature of the rear wing is reduced,
the shape of the wing should return to normal.

GT-R Overview GTR-15

UNEVEN WEAR OF TIRES

The GT-R is equipped with high performance,
low profile, run-flat tires that are optimized for
performance and handling. The life of these tires
will be less than those of tires installed on a
typical vehicle, and you are likely to experience
uneven tire wear and tire noise regardless of the
type of tire used.

NOISES ARE HEARD WHILE DRIV­ING

. The GT-R brake pads use material that

provides a high amount of braking power
even in high temperatures. This material can
cause an intermittent screeching noise just
before the vehicle comes to a stop when the
brakes are gently applied. The noise de­creases as the brake pads wear. However,
the additional brake pad break-in may
decrease the noise. Contact a GT-R certi­fied NISSAN dealer.

. A screeching noise may be heard when the

brake pedal is depressed:

— When driving the vehicle for the first time

in the morning,

— After leaving the vehicle parked for

extended periods of time, or

— When the vehicle is damp following rain

showers or washing the vehicle.

These sounds are normal. The noise is

GTR-16 GT-R Overview

caused when the brake pads absorb moist­ure, and the noise stops after the brake is
applied several times.

. A screeching noise may also be heard when

the brake pedal is depressed:

— When repeatedly applying gentle brak-

ing, especially on a curve at a low
speed, or

— When the brake rotors have circular

scores with the brake temperature high.

WARNING

Follow the instructions below when
parking the vehicle to help prevent the
brake rotor and brake pads from rust­ing together. Failure to follow the
instructions could cause the rotor and
pads to rust together. If the rotor and
pads rust together, there may be a
popping noise and some vibration
when the vehicle is driven, a wheel
may not roll correctly, or the brake pads
could be damaged. If the pads are
damaged, this may reduce the effec­tiveness of the brake system which
could cause a collision, serious perso­nal injury or death.

. The GT-R uses brake pad materials that

have high metallic content. The brake pad
material helps maintain braking performance
in a wide range of weather and driving
conditions.

For the first 3,000 miles (5,000 km) of the
vehicle’s service life, and for the first 3,000
miles (5,000 km) after a brake replacement,
the brake pad to brake rotor clearance is
very small. When parking, apply the parking
brake and move the shift lever to the
position. Idle the engine for more than 20
seconds without depressing the brake
pedal. This allows the brake pads to move
away from the rotor so the pad does not
contact the rotor.

Additionally, the brakes must be dry before
parking the vehicle after driving on wet roads
or after washing the vehicle. If the roads are
wet, lightly apply the brakes for a short
distance before parking the vehicle to dry
the brakes. After washing the vehicle, dry the
brakes by driving on a dry road for a few
miles and apply the brakes normally based
on traffic and road conditions.

The metallic brake pads and brake disc rotor
may rust together when the brakes are not
applied:

— If the vehicle is not idled for 20 seconds

without the brakes applied, or if the

&

P

brakes are applied when the vehicle is
shut off, the rotor and pads can rust
together, even when the brake pads are
dry.

— If the brakes are wet when the vehicle is

parked and the parking brake is applied
for a long time.

— The hill start assist system can apply the

brakes even if the brake pedal is not
depressed. The brake pads and rotors
can rust together if the parking proce­dure previously descri bed is not fol­lowed.

Contact a GT-R certified NISSAN dealer if
the brake pads and brake rotor have rusted
together.

NOTICE

Have the brake pads and/or rotors
quenched when the brake pads are
replaced to reduce the possibility of
the rotors and brake pads rusting. For
detailed information about quenching,
contact a GT-R certified NISSAN dealer.

. To maintain steady braking performance in

both extremely high and low temperatures,
the gap between the brake pad and caliper
is larger than normal and large-size brake
pads are used. When driving over a bump, a

light rattling sound may be heard from the
brake pad. This does not indicate that there
is a malfunction.

. When the brake disc r otor undergoes

thermal expansion, a ticking noise may be
heard from the engaging portion of the
wheel and the brake disc rotor. This does
not indicate that there is a malfunction. The
noise will reduce when the temperature
decreases.

. In addition to noise resulting from uneven

tire wear discussed in the previous section,
the GT-R tires are more rigid than a typical
passenger car tire and are made from a
specially formulated rubber to maximize the
vehicle’s performance capabilities. These
characteristics cause the GT-R tires to have
more road noise than a typical passenger
car tire. This road noise is normal.

. Due to the performance capabilities and

requirements of the GT-R, the sequential 6­speed dual clutch transmission is unlike a
typical automatic transmission. You will likely
hear mechanical sounds from the transmis­sion, particularly at slow speeds and at idle.
This condition is normal.

CRACKS ON BRAKE PAD

The friction material of the GT-R disc brake pad
is bonded to the pad backing plate more

strongly than conventional brake pads to with­stand the high brake temperatures. The friction
material and backing plate expand due to heat at
different rates. Some cracks may be on the
surface of the friction material due to the
differences in expansion rates and the strong
bond between the friction material and backing
plate. The cracks do not indicate the brake pads
need to be replaced.

BRAKE DUST

This vehicle is equipped with high performance
brakes, and the characteristics of the brake pad
material may cause more brake dust than other
vehicles. NISSAN recommends a wheel coating
that helps prevent the brake dust from sticking
to the wheels. Contact a GT-R certified NISSAN
dealer for more details.

MECHANICAL LIMITED SLIP DIF­FERENTIAL (LSD) CHARACTERIS­TICS

The differential oil has a high viscosity and is
very thick when cold. If the vehicle accelerates
from a stop with the steering wheel turned in
cold temperatures, the inner wheel tire may slip
and some noise or vibration may be heard. This
phenomenon is unique to vehicles equipped
with the Limited Slip Differential (LSD). When
the steering wheel is returned to the straight­ahead position or the differential oil warms up,
the noise and vibration decrease.

GT-R Overview GTR-17

DUAL CLUTCH TRANSMISSION

The GT-R dual clutch transmission is a newly­developed system that uses an electronically
controlled multiple-disc wet clutch attached to
the highly efficient manual transmission. This
transmission has two driving modes.

A

&

position (Automatic gearshift):

.

allows automatic shifting of the manual
transmission.

M

.

&

position (Manual gearshift):
allows quick shifting of the manual transmis­sion.

NOTE:

. &Mposition driving is recommended

when driving up hills or accelerating
from a stop on a cold morning.

M

.

&

position driving is recommended if

you feel shift shocks or jerkiness in the

A

&

position in cold temperatures.

. When starting or driving on a steep

uphill grade, shift to the
and operate the paddle shifter to shift
down to 1st gear similar to a manual
transmission vehicle.

The GT-R dual clutch transmission was devel­oped specifically to maximize vehicle perfor­mance and driving enjoyment. The GT-R
transmission components were designed using
different engineering standards than typical

GTR-18 GT-R Overview

&

M

position

passenger car transmissions. Because of this,
the GT-R has different operating characteristics,
and various rattle noises may be heard during
some driving conditions because of the follow­ing items:

. Gear clearances

. Ultralight flywheel

. Dry sump lubrication

These noises do not indicate that there is a
malfunction.

TRANSMISSION OPERATION CHARACTERISTICS

Mechanism Operation characteristic s

. The GT-R transmission design is different from transmissions used in conventional passenger cars. The GT-R uses a transmission gear

Base Manual transmission

Multiple disc wet clutch

Electronic oil pressure
control

Changing modes

Gear clearances

Ultralight flywheel

Dry sump lubrication

design, light flywheel and a dry sump lubrication system to provide maximum vehicle performance. Because the GT-R Transmission design
is different, noises may be louder. When the transmission temperature is high, rattling, shaking and jarring noises may be heard.

. Clattering noises may be heard while shifting.
. When stopping the vehicle with the shift lever in the &

slowly move if the brake pedal is not depressed.

R

or &A↔&Mposition, be sure to firmly depress the brake pedal. The vehicle may

. Avoid depressing the brake and accelerator pedals at the same time. Depressing the brake and accelerator pedals at the same time could

cause the clutch to overheat and accelerate deterioration. Also, the engine may stall.

. When the vehicle is stopped on a hill, do not hold the vehicle in place by depressing the accelerator pedal. Doing so may cause the clutch

to overheat and result in transmission damage. Use the brakes to prevent the vehicle from moving.

The following conditions are caused due to changes in fluid viscosity as a result of temperature changes.

. When the transmission fluid is extremely cold or extremely hot, the transmission may feel like it is slipping during shifts or there may be hard

shifts. This is normal. Transmission shifting should return to normal when the transmission fluid returns to normal operating temperatures.

. When the transmission fluid temperature is extremely cold, the time required to run a system check may increase. During the system check,

P

&

the shift lever must stay in the
noises during the transmission systems check.

. The higher shift speeds in the &
. Quick shifting in the R mode with the transmission in the &

may shift more slowly when the engine speed is low.

Appropriate gaps are provided between gears to achieve smooth gear rotation and steady tooth surface lubrication under the high-load driving
condition. However, this causes a rattling noise.

position. Move the shift lever after turning off the system check display. Also, it is normal to hear clicking

M

position may result in shift shock and jerkiness when starting or shifting.

M

position is available when the engine speed is high. However, the transmission

. An ultralight flywheel is provided to achieve rapid engine response to the accelerator pedal operation. The engine rotation fluctuations

become larger than conventional vehicles. Rattling, shaking or jarring noises may be heard when idling or driving at a low speed.

. Rattling noises may be heard when the engine is started or stopped.

High-efficiency dry sump lubrication is provided to achieve low agitation resistance of lubricant oil and allows smooth transmission gear rotation
that contribute to obtain a perfect balance between outstanding driving performance and improved environmental performance. However, you
may notice some rattling noise due to engine rotation fluctuations.

GT-R Overview GTR-19

MEMO

GTR-20 GT-R Overview

0 Illustrated table of contents

Seats, seat belts and Supplemental Restraint System

(SRS).............................................................. 0-2

Front ........................................................... 0-2

Rear............................................................ 0-3

Exterior ............................................................ 0-4

Front ........................................................... 0-4

Rear............................................................ 0-5

Passenger compartment ...................................... 0-6

Cockpit............................................................ 0-7

Instrument panel ................................................ 0-8

Meters and gauges............................................. 0-9

Engine compartment ......................................... 0-10

Warning and indicator lights ............................... 0-11

SEATS, SEAT BELTS AND
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM (SRS)

FRONT

1. Seat belt (Page 1-6)

2. Rear seat walk-in lever (P.1-5)

3. Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental
air bag system (P.1-31)

4. Supplemental front-impact air bags (P.1-31)

0-2 Illustrated table of contents

5. Seat belt pretensioner (P.1-42)

6. Front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air
bag system (P.1-31)

7. Occupant classification sensor (pattern sensor)
(P.1-36)

8. Front seats (P.1-3)