Nissan Xterra 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

Rear seat adjustment (Type A) ...................1-4

Rear seat adjustment (Type B) ...................1-6

Head restraint adjustment .......................1-7

Supplemental restraint system ......................1-8

Precautions on supplemental restraint

system ........................................1-8

Supplemental air bag warning labels.............1-19

Supplemental air bag warning light ..............1-19

Seat belts .......................................1-21

Precautions on seat belt usage..................1-21

Child safety...................................1-23

Pregnant women ..............................1-24

Injured persons................................1-24

Three-point type seat belt with retractor..........1-25

Two-point type seat belt without retractor

(center of rear seat)............................1-28

Seat belt extenders ............................1-29

Seat belt maintenance .........................1-30

Child restraints...................................1-30

Precautions on child restraints ..................1-30

Installation on rear seat center position...........1-32

Installation on rear seat outboard positions .......1-35

LATCH (lower anchors and tether for children) system

.......................................1-39

Top tether strap child restraint ..................1-41

Installation on front passenger seat ..............1-43

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

WRS0175 WRS0176 WRS0131

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

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.

WRS0165 WRS0180 WRS0181

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.

REAR SEAT ADJUSTMENT (Type A) Folding

Pull outward on the 2 straps at the bottom of

the seat cushions.

Lift the front of the seat cushion up and

remove the seat cushion. Store the seat cushion in a secure place.

1-4 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

Pull the ring on top of the seatback up.

Fold down the seatback.

To return the rearseat to the normal position,

push the seatback up until it latches.

WRS0182 WRS0183

Hold the seat belts above the seat cushion.

Slide the seat cushion back.

Push down the seat cushion until it latches.

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.

● It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area inside a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed.

● Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and seat belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a seat belt properly. Never ride in the rear seat unless the seat bottom cushions are in place and latched.

● Properly secure all cargo with ropes or straps to help prevent it from sliding or shifting. In a sudden stop or collision, unsecured cargo could cause personal injury.

● When returning the seatbacks to the upright position, be certain they are completely secured. If they are not completely secured in the latched position, passengers may be injured in an accident or sudden stop.

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-5

WRS0184 WRS0185 WRS0186

REAR SEAT ADJUSTMENT (Type B) Folding

Lift the front of the seat cushion up and

remove the seat cushion. Store the seat cushion in a secure place.

Pull the ring on top of the seatback up.

Fold down the seatback.

1-6 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

To return the rearseat to the normal position,

push the seatback up until latches.

WRS0187 WRS0133

Hold the seat belts above the seat cushion.

Slide the seat cushion back.

Push down the seat cushion until it latches.

WARNING

● It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area inside a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed.

● Properly secure all cargo with ropes or straps to help prevent it from sliding or shifting. In a sudden stop or collision, unsecured cargo could cause personal injury.

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 1-7

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM

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 head and chest of the driver and front passenger in certain frontal collisions.

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

cushion the impact force to the head of occupants infront andrear outboard seating positions in certainside impact collisions. The curtain sideimpact air bags are designedto inflate on the side where the vehicle is impacted.

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

1-8 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

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 seat belt buckles are equipped with sensors that detect if the seat beltsare fastened. The air bag system monitors the severity of a collision andthen 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 1-9

1-10 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 1-11

ARS1045 WRS0256 SSS0101

● Children may be severely injured or killed when the supplemental front air bags or curtain side-impact air bags inflate if they are not properly restrained. Pre-teens and children should be properly restrained inthe rearseat, if possible.

● Never install a rear-facing child restraint in the front seat. An inflating supplemental front air bag could seriously injureor kill your child. See “Child restraints” later in this section for details.

1-12 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

WARNING

Supplemental curtain side impact air bag:

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

WRS0236 SSS0159 SSS0162

WARNING

● The seat belts and the supplemental curtain side-impact air bags are most effective when you are sitting well back and upright in the seat. The curtain side-impact air bag inflates with great force. Do not allow anyone to place their hand,leg or face near the side roof rails or to extend their hand out of the window or lean against the door. Some examples of dangerous riding positions are shown in the previous illustrations.

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-13

1. Crash zone sensor

Passenger supplemental air bag module

3. Passenger seat belt buckle switch

4. Side curtain air bag

6. Driver seat belt buckle switch

7. Air bag diagnosis sensor unit

8. Front seat belt pre-tensioner

9. Driver supplemental air bag module

5. Front seat belt pre-tensioner

1-14 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

WRS0237

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.

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.

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 ina crash,depending on the crash severity and whether the front occupants are belted or unbelted. Thisdoes not indicate improper performance of the system. If you have any questions about the performance of your air bag system, please contact your NISSAN dealer.

When the supplemental front air bag inflates, a fairly loud noise may be heard, followed by 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.

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-15

● No unauthorized changes should be made to any components or wiring of the supplemental air bagsystem. Thisis 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.

● Maintenance aroundand 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.

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

The supplemental curtain side-impact air bags are located in the roof side rails. This system is designed to meet voluntary guidelines to help reduce the risk of injury to out-of-position occupants. However, all of the information, cau-

tions and warnings in this manual still apply and must be followed. The curtain side-

impact air bags are designed to inflate in higher severity side collisions, although they may inflate if the forces in anothertype of collision are similar to thoseof a higher severity side impact. They are

1-16 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

WRS0235

designed to inflate on the side where the vehicle is impacted. They may not inflate in certain side collisions.

Vehicle damage (or lack of it) is not always an indication of proper supplemental curtain sideimpact air bag operation.

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

Supplemental curtain side-impact air bags help to cushion the impact force to the head of occupants in the front and rear outboard seating positions. They can help save lives and reduce serious injuries. However, an inflating curtain side-impact airbag maycause abrasionsor other injuries. Supplemental curtain side-impact air bags do not provide restraint to the lower body.

Rear seat passengers should be seated as far away aspractical fromthe doorfinishers andside roof rails. The curtain side-impact air bag inflate quickly in order to help protect the occupants. Because of this, the force of the curtain sideimpact air bag inflating can increase the risk of injury if the occupant is too close to,or is against,

these air bag modules during inflation. The curtain side-impact air bag will deflate quickly after the collision is over.

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

WARNING

● Right after inflation, several curtain side-impact 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 curtain side-impact air bag system. This is to prevent accidental inflation of the curtain side-impact air bag or damage to the curtain side-impact air bag system.

● Do not make unauthorized changes to your vehicle’s electrical system, suspension system or side panel. This could affect proper operation of the supplemental curtain side-impact air bag system.

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

* The SRS wiring harness connectors are yellow and orange for easy identification.

When selling your vehicle, we request that you inform the buyer about the supplemental side air bag and curtain side-impact air bag system and guide the buyer to the appropriate sectionsin 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 1-17

● 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 scrapthe 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-

1-18 Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems

1. SRS Air Bag Warning Labels

2. SRS Curtain Side-impact Air Bag Warning Labels (located on the door pillar) (if so equipped)

WRS0188

SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG WARNING LABELS

Warning labels about the supplemental front air bag and curtain side-impact air bag systems are placed in the vehicle as shown in the illustration.

Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-19

LRS0100

SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT

The supplemental air bag warning light, displaying tors the circuits of the supplemental front air bag, supplemental curtain side-impact air bag (if so equipped) 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 front air bag modules, supplemental curtain side-impact air bag modules (if so equipped), pre-tensionerseat belts and all related wiring.

in the instrument panel, moni-

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.

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

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

● The supplemental air bag 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, supplemental curtain side-impact air bag or pretensioner seat belt 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 bags, supplemental curtain side-impact air bags (if so equipped) and pre-tensioner seat belts are designed to inflate on a one-time-only 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, supplemental curtain side-impact 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 or supplemental curtain side-impact air bag has inflated,the airbag module will not function again and must be replaced. Additionally, if any of the supplemental front air bags inflate, the activated pre-tensioner seat belts must also be replaced. The air bag module and pre-tensioner 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 and curtain side-impact air bag systems, and the pre-tensioner seat belt system should be inspected by a NISSAN dealer if there is any damage to the front end or side portion of the vehicle.

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

1-20 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.

SSS0136

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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 and, if appropriate, in a child restraint.

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SSS0134 SSS0016

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.

SSS0014

WARNING

● Always route the shoulder belt over your shoulder and across your chest. Never run the belt behind your back, under your armor 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.

● Never allow anyone to ride in the cargo area while the vehicle is in motion. It does 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.

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

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

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● 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

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

All 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. 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.

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.

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 beseriously injured or 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.

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