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Home >> Nissan-Datsun >> 2004 >> Altima S, Standard >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 1011 (Maintenance) >> On-Vehicle Maintenance >> General Maintenance >> For North AMERICA >> FOR NORTH AMERICA: Explanation of General Maintenance >> Inside The Vehicle

Inside The Vehicle

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Nissan Maxima. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The maintenance items listed here should be checked on a regular basis, such as when performing periodic maintenance, cleaning the vehicle, etc.

MAINTENANCE REFERENCE CHART

Item Reference information
Warning lamps and chimes  Make sure that all warning lamps and chimes are operating properly. -
Windshield wiper and washer  Check that the wipers and washer operate properly and that the wipers do not streak. -
Windshield defroster  Check that the air comes out of the defroster outlets properly and in sufficient quantity when operating the heater or air conditioner. -
Steering wheel  Check that it has the specified play. Be sure to check for changes in the steering condition, such as excessive play, hard steering or strange noises.
Free play: Less than 35 mm (1.38 in) 
"INSPECTION "
Seats  Check seat position controls such as seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to make sure they operate smoothly and that all latches lock securely in every position. Check that the head restraints move up and down smoothly and that the locks (if equipped) hold securely in all latched positions. Check that the latches lock securely for folding-down rear seatbacks. -
Seat belts  Check that all parts of the seat belt system (e.g., buckles, anchors, adjusters and retractors) operate properly and smoothly, and are installed securely. Check the belt webbing for cuts, fraying, wear or damage. SEAT BELT RETRACTOR ON-VEHICLE CHECK
Accelerator pedal  Check the pedal for smooth operation and make sure the pedal does not catch or require uneven effort. Keep the floor mats away from the pedal. -
Brakes  Check that the brake does not pull the vehicle to one side when applied. -
Brake pedal and booster  Check the pedal for smooth operation and make sure it has the proper distance under it when depressed fully. Check the brake booster function. Be sure to keep the floor mats away from the pedal. BRAKE BOOSTER , BRAKE BOOSTER
Parking brake  Check that the lever or pedal has the proper travel and make sure that the vehicle is held securely on a fairly steep hill when only the parking brake is applied. PARKING BRAKE SYSTEM
CVT P (Park) position mechanism  On a fairly steep hill check that the vehicle is held securely with the selector lever in the P (Park) position without applying any brakes. -

UNDER THE HOOD AND VEHICLE

The maintenance items listed here should be checked periodically (e.g., each time you check the engine oil or refuel).

MAINTENANCE REFERENCE CHART

Item Reference information
Windshield washer fluid  Check that there is adequate fluid in the tank. -
Engine coolant level  Check the coolant level when the engine is cold. COOLING SYSTEM
Radiator and hoses  Check the front of the radiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves, etc., that may have accumulated. Make sure the hoses have no cracks, deformation, deterioration or loose connections. -
Brake fluid level  Make sure that the brake fluid level is between the "MAX" and "MIN" lines on the reservoir. BRAKE FLUID
Battery  Check the fluid level in each cell. It should be between the "MAX" and "MIN" lines. Vehicles operated in high temperatures or under severe conditions require frequent checks of the battery fluid level. BATTERY
Engine drive belts  Make sure that no belt is frayed, worn, cracked or oily. DRIVE BELTS 
Engine oil level  Check the level on the oil level gauge after parking the vehicle on a level spot and turning off the engine. ENGINE OIL 
Power steering fluid level and lines  Check the level on the dipstick with the engine off. Check the lines for improper attachment, leaks, cracks, etc. POWER STEERING FLUID AND LINES 
Exhaust system  Make sure there are no loose supports, cracks or holes. If the sound of the exhaust seems unusual or there is a smell of exhaust fumes, immediately locate the trouble and correct it. EXHAUST SYSTEM 
Underbody  The underbody is frequently exposed to corrosive substances such as those used on icy roads or to control dust. It is very important to remove these substances, otherwise rust will form on the floor pan, frame, fuel lines and around the exhaust system. At the end of winter, the underbody should be thoroughly flushed with plain water, being careful to clean those areas where mud and dirt can easily accumulate. -
Fluid leaks  Check under the vehicle for fuel, oil, water or other fluid leaks after the vehicle has been parked for a while. Water dripping from the air conditioner after use is normal. If you should notice any leaks or gasoline fumes are evident, check for the cause and correct it immediately. -