Contents Section: Procedures All sections

Maintenance Information Nissan Pathfinder I

Procedures 5 illustrations ~1511 words

VIN LOCATION

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the left side of the dash panel at the base of the windshield. The VIN chart explains the code characters.

VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION

Numbers preceding the explanations in the legend below refer to the sequence of characters as listed on VIN identification label. See VIN example below.

VIN Code ID Explanation. Scheme 3

Scheme 3: VIN Code ID Explanation

SEVERE & NORMAL SERVICE DEFINITIONS

Note. Use the Severe Service schedule if the vehicle to be serviced is operated under ANY (one or more) of these conditions

Service is recommended at mileage intervals based on vehicle operation. Service schedules are based on the following primary operating conditions

Normal Service

  1. Driven More Than 10 Miles Daily
  2. No Operating Conditions From Severe Service Schedule

Severe Service (Unique Driving Conditions)

  1. Repeated Short Distance Driving
  2. Extensive Idling
  3. Driving In Dusty Conditions
  4. Driving On Rough, Muddy Or Salt-Spread Roads
  5. Towing A Trailer

CAMSHAFT TIMING BELT

CAUTIONFailure to replace a faulty camshaft timing belt may result in serious engine damage.

The condition of camshaft drive belts should always be checked on vehicles which have more than 50,000 miles. Although some manufacturers do not recommend belt replacement at a specified mileage, others require it at 60,000-100,000 miles. A camshaft drive belt failure may cause extensive damage to internal engine components on most engines, although some designs do not allow piston-to-valve contact. These designs are often called "Free Wheeling".

Many manufacturers changed their maintenance and warranty schedules in the mid-1980's to reflect timing belt inspection and/or replacement at 50,000-60,000 miles. Most service interval schedules in this manual reflect these changes.

Belts or components should be inspected and replaced if any of the following conditions exist

  1. Cracks Or Tears In Belt Surface
  2. Missing, Damaged, Cracked Or Rounded Teeth
  3. Oil Contamination
  4. Damaged Or Faulty Tensioners
  5. Incorrect Tension Adjustment

Replace camshaft timing belt on models equipped with 3.0L engine at 60,000 mile intervals.

Scheme 4

Scheme 4: SERVICE POINT LOCATIONS

Scheme 5

Scheme 5

Scheme 6

Scheme 6: INFORMATION LABEL LOCATIONS

SERVICE LABOR TIMES

Note. For 1990 and newer vehicles, labor times are provided, where available, within appropriate SERVICE INTERVAL table in SCHEDULED SERVICES article.

WHEEL TIGHTENING

Tighten wheel lug nuts to 87-108 ft. lbs. (118-147 N.m).

BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS

CAUTIONWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section.

Replace battery with one of same group number as shown on original battery's label.

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) AIR BAG SYSTEM

Note. See the AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Section.

The SRS has no user-servicable parts. Always have servicing done by an authorized dealer.

When performing maintenance on air bag equipped vehicles always observe proper safety precautions.

WARNINGTo avoid injury from accidental air bag deployment, read and carefully follow all warnings and service precautions. See appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT section.
CAUTIONDisconnect negative battery cable before servicing any air bag system, steering column or passenger side dash component. After any repair, turn ignition key to the ON position from passenger's side of vehicle in case of accidental air bag inflation

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS)

CAUTIONNever mix different diameter tires. On loose or uneven surfaces, the ABS system may require longer stopping distances than conventional brake systems. Exercise caution when removing mud or snow from the wheels so as not to damage the ABS wiring or speed sensors.

BATTERY WARNING

WARNINGWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See appropriate COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section below.

REPLACING BLOWN FUSES

CAUTIONBefore replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system overload.

BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR

CAUTIONIndicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning that brake pads need replacement.

CATALYTIC CONVERTER

CAUTIONContinued operation of vehicle with a severe malfunction could cause converter to overheat, resulting in possible damage to converter and vehicle.

COOLANT (PROPYLENE-GLYCOL FORMULATIONS)

CAUTIONTo avoid possible damage to vehicle use only ethylene-glycol based coolants with a mixture ratio from 44-68% anti-freeze. DO NOT use 100% anti-freeze as it will cause the formation of cooling system deposits. This results in coolant temperatures of over 300° F (149°C) which can melt plastics. 100% anti-freeze has a freeze point of only -8° F (-22°C).
CAUTIONPropylene-Glycol Mixtures has a smaller temperature range than Ethylene-Glycol. The temperature range (freeze-boil) of a 50/50 Anti-Freeze/Water Mix is as follows: Propylene-Glycol -26° F (-32°C) - 257° F (125°C) Ethylene-Glycol -35° F (-37°C) - 263° F (128°C)
CAUTIONPropylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol Mixtures can cause the destabilization of various corrosion inhibitors. Also Propylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol has a different specific gravity than Ethylene-Glycol coolant, which will result in inaccurate freeze point calculations.

ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS

WARNINGMany solid state electrical components can be damaged by static electricity (ESD). Some will display a warning label, but many will not. Discharge personal static electricity by touching a metal ground point on the vehicle prior to servicing any ESD sensitive component.

ENGINE OIL

CAUTIONNever use non-detergent or straight mineral oil.

FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE

WARNINGRelieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel system component (fuel injection models).

HALOGEN BULBS

WARNINGHalogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which may explode if overheated. DO NOT touch glass portion of bulb with bare hands. Eye protection should be worn when handling or working around halogen bulbs.

RADIATOR CAP

CAUTIONAlways disconnect the fan motor when working near the radiator fan. The fan is temperature controlled and could start at any time even when the ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap when cooling system is hot.

RADIATOR FAN

WARNINGKeep hands away from radiator fan. Fan is controlled by a thermostatic switch which may come on or run for up to 15 minutes even after engine is turned off.

SPARE TIRE USAGE

Ensure correct lug nuts are used when the spare tire is fitted. DO NOT use lug nuts from alloy wheels on steel wheels.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

CAUTIONAlways refer to customer's copy of warranty information for specific model application and/or coverage limitations.

NEW VEHICLE LIMITED WARRANTY

Covers the cost of all parts and labor needed to repair or adjust any item (except tires) on vehicle that has been proven defective in material or workmanship for 36 months or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

PERFORATION WARRANTY

Covers any body sheet metal panel found to have developed perforation (rust-through) due to corrosion in normal use for 60 months from date of delivery, regardless of mileage.

POWERTRAIN WARRANTY

Takes effect upon expiration of New Vehicle Limited Warranty and extends coverage up to a maximum of 60 months or 60,000 miles, whichever occurs first, on 1991-96 models. Powertrain on earlier model years is covered for 36 months or 36,000 miles. See copy of warranty for specific components covered.

RADIO, TAPE DECK, & AMPLIFIER WARRANTY

Covers repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship for 12 months from date of delivery, regardless of mileage.

AIR CONDITIONING WARRANTY

Covers the sealed refrigerant portion of the air conditioning system for 12 months, regardless of mileage.

EMISSION SYSTEM DEFECTS WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)

Manufacturer warrants its emission components in vehicle to be free of defects in material and workmanship and that vehicle is designed, built and equipped to conform to all applicable Federal standards for emission control system at the time of sale. Warranty begins on the date vehicle is delivered or first put in use and is effective for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

EMISSIONS PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)

Vehicle is warranted to comply to all applicable emissions standards as judged by an EPA-approved emissions test, for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. After 24 months or 24,000 miles, only primary emission components which cause vehicle to fail an emissions test are covered. Refer to customer's copy of warranty information for specific details.

EMISSION SYSTEM DEFECTS WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

Warrants that vehicle is designed, built and equipped to conform to all applicable requirements of California Air Resources Board and that emission control system in vehicle is free of defects in material and workmanship which would cause it to fail to meet those requirements. Warranty period is 5 years or 50,000 miles on 1988-89 models, 3 years or 50,000 miles on 1990 models and 5 years or 50,000 miles on 1991-96 models. On 1990 and later models, certain primary emissions control components are warranted for 7 years or 70,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Maintenance items are only warranted until time of first scheduled replacement. Refer to customer copy of warranty for specific details.

EMISSIONS PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

Vehicle is warranted against any defects that would cause failure to pass a California Smog Check test for 2 years or 24,000 miles, whichever occurs first. (3 years/50,000 miles on 1990 and later models). Warranty coverage is extended to a maximum of 5 years or 50,000 miles (7 years/70,000 miles on 1990 and later models) on only those primary components which affect the vehicle's emissions performance, and on defects in materials or workmanship which would cause vehicle to fail a required Smog Check Test. Refer to customer's copy of warranty information for specific details.

FUSE PANEL LOCATION

The fuse box is located beneath the instrument panel to the left of the steering column. The fuse specifications are on a decal on the inside of the fuse box lid.

Scheme 7

Scheme 7: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1987-89)

Fuse & Circuit Breaker Identification

  1. 1 - 10 Amp Rear Wiper & Washer
  2. 2 - 20 Amp (1987) Rear Window Defogger
  3. 2 - Not Used (1988-89)
  4. 3 - 15 Amp Cigarette Lighter, Door Mirror
  5. 4 - 15 Amp Blower Motor
  6. 5 - 15 Amp Blower Motor
  7. 6 - 10 Amp Audio, Air Conditioner, Clock Illumination
  8. 7 - 15 Amp Wiper & Washer
  9. 8 - 10 Amp Fuel Pump
  10. 9 - 15 Amp ECCS System
  11. 10 - 20 Amp (1987) Rear Window Defogger, Seat Heater
  12. 10 - 10 Amp (1988-89) Cruise Control, A/T Control System, Power Steering Oil Pressure Switch, Bulb Check Relay, Interlock Emergency Relay, Inhibitor Switch
  13. 11 - 10 Amp Gauges, Warning Lights, Turn Signal Lights, Back-Up Light, Seat Belt Timer, Inhibitor Switch, Rear Window Defogger
  14. 12 - 10 Amp (1987) Bulb Check Relay, ACCD, A/T Control System, Power Steering, Oil Pressure Switch, Interlock Emergency Relay, Inhibitor Switch
  15. 12 - 20 Amp (1988-89) Rear Window Defogger
  16. 13 - 15 Amp Power Window, Adjustable Shock Absorber
  17. 14 - 15 Amp Power Window, Adjustable Shock Absorber
  18. 15 - 10 Amp Interior Light, Key Switch, Audio, Clock, Room Light Timer, Luggage Compartment Light
  19. 16 - 10 Amp Taillights, Clearance Lights, License Lights, Side Marker Lights, Illumination Lights, Key-In Switch
  20. 17 - 10 Amp Hazard Warning, A/T Control System
  21. 18 - 10 Amp Horn, Door Lock
  22. 19 - 10 Amp Stoplight
  23. 20 - 20 Amp Back Window Opener
  24. 21 - 15 Amp Left Headlight
  25. 22 - 15 Amp Right Headlight
  1. 1 - 10 Amp Audio
  2. 2 - 10 Amp Rear Wiper & Washer, Door Mirror
  3. 3 - 15 Amp Cigarette Lighter, Air Conditioner
  4. 4 - 15 Amp Blower Motor
  5. 5 - 15 Amp Blower Motor
  6. 6 - 10 Amp Audio, Air Conditioner, Clock, Illumination Light Power Antenna
  7. 7 - 20 Amp Wiper & Washer
  8. 8 - 10 Amp Fuel Pump
  9. 9 - 15 Amp ECCS (ECM)
  10. 10 - 10 Amp Hazard, Turn Signal Lights, Bulb Check Relay
  11. 11 - 10 Amp Meter & Gauges, Warning Lights, Interlock Emergency Relay, Inhibitor Switch, Cruise Control (ASCD), ECM, Back-Up Light, Seat Belt Timer, Air Conditioner, Rear Window Defogger, A/T Control System, A/T Shift Lock, Power Antenna Daytime Running Light Control Unit (Canada)
  12. 12 - 15 Amp Front Seat Heater
  13. 13 - 20 Amp Rear Window Defogger
  14. 14 - 20 Amp Rear Window Defogger
  15. 15 - 15 Amp (1990) Left Headlight
  16. 15 - Not Used (1991-96)
  17. 16 - 15 Amp (1990) Right Headlight
  18. 16 - 20 Amp (1991-96) Rear Wheel Anti-Lock Brake System
  19. 17 - 10 Amp Horn
  20. 18 - 10 Amp Hazard Warning, A/T Control System, Turn Signal
  21. 19 - 10 Amp Stoplight, Cruise Control, Shift Lock, Rear Wheel ABS
  22. 20 - 10 Amp Interior Light, Luggage Compartment Light, Clock, Audio Stop Lamp, Power Antenna
  23. 21 - 10 Amp Warning Chime, Power Door Lock, A/T Shift Lock
  24. 22 - 10 Amp Taillights, Clearance Lights, License Lights, Illumination Lights, Warning Chime, A/T Indicator Light, Vanity Mirror