2012 MAXIMA OWNER'S MANUAL

®

2012 MA X I MA
OWNER’S MANUAL

For your safety, read carefully and keep in this vehicle.

FOREWORD READ FIRST—THEN DRIVE SAFELY

Welcome to the growing family of new NISSAN In addition to factory installed options, your ve- Before driving your vehicle, please read this
owners. This vehicle is delivered to you with hicle may also be equipped with additional ac- Owner’s Manual carefully. This will ensure famil-
confidence. It was produced using the latest cessories installed by NISSAN or by your iarity with controls and maintenance require-
techniques and strict quality control. NISSAN dealer prior to delivery. It is important ments, assisting you in the safe operation of your
that you familiarize yourself with all disclosures, vehicle.
This manual was prepared to help you under- warnings, cautions and instructions concerning
stand the operation and maintenance of your proper use of such accessories prior to operating WARNING
vehicle so that you may enjoy many miles (kilome- the vehicle and/or accessory. See a NISSAN
ters) of driving pleasure. Please read through this dealer for details concerning the particular ac- IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION RE-
manual before operating your vehicle. cessories with which your vehicle is equipped. MINDERS FOR SAFETY!
A separate Warranty Information Booklet Follow these important driving rules to
explains details about the warranties cov- help ensure a safe and comfortable trip
ering your vehicle. The “NISSAN Service for you and your passengers!
and Maintenance Guide” explains details ● NEVER drive under the influence of al-
about maintaining and servicing your ve- cohol or drugs.
hicle. Additionally, a separate Customer
Care/Lemon Law Booklet (U.S. only) will ● ALWAYS observe posted speed limits
explain how to resolve any concerns you and never drive too fast for conditions.
may have with your vehicle, as well as ● ALWAYS give your full attention to driving
clarify your rights under your state’s lemon and avoid using vehicle features or taking
law. other actions that could distract you.
Your NISSAN dealership knows your vehicle ● ALWAYS use your seat belts and appro-
best. When you require any service or have any priate child restraint systems. Preteen
questions, they will be glad to assist you with the children should be seated in the rear seat.
extensive resources available to them.
● 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.

WHEN READING THE MANUAL

MODIFICATION OF YOUR VEHICLE This manual includes information for all options
available on this model. Therefore, you may find
This vehicle should not be modified. some information that does not apply to your
Modification could affect its vehicle.
performance, safety or durability, and
All information, specifications and illustrations in
may even violate governmental this manual are those in effect at the time of
regulations. In addition, damage or per- printing. NISSAN reserves the right to change
formance problems resulting from modi- specifications or design without notice and with-
fications may not be covered under out obligation.
NISSAN warranties.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT
THIS MANUAL
You will see various symbols in this manual. They
are used in the following ways: APD1005
If you see this symbol, it means “Do not do this”
WARNING
or “Do not let this happen.”
This is used to indicate the presence of a
hazard that could cause death or serious
personal injury. To avoid or reduce the If you see a symbol similar to these in an illustra-
risk, the procedures must be followed tion, it means the arrow points to the front of the
precisely. vehicle.

CAUTION
This is used to indicate the presence of a Arrows in an illustration that are similar to these
hazard that could cause minor or moder- indicate movement or action.
ate personal injury or damage to your ve-
hicle. To avoid or reduce the risk, the pro-
cedures must be followed carefully. Arrows in an illustration that are similar to these
call attention to an item in the illustration.

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 BLUETOOTH௡ is a XM Radio௡ requires
WARNING
trademark owned by subscription, sold
WARNING Bluetooth SIG, Inc. separately. Not avail-
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents,
and licensed to Vis- able in Alaska, Ha-
and certain vehicle components contain teon and Clarion. waii or Guam. For
or emit chemicals known to the State of more information,
California to cause cancer and birth de- Gracenote௡ is a regis- visit www.xmradio-
fects or other reproductive harm. In addi- tered trademark of
tion, certain fluids contained in vehicles
.com.
and certain products of component wear Gracenote, Inc. The
contain or emit chemicals known to the Gracenote logo and
State of California to cause cancer and logo type, and the
birth defects or other reproductive harm. “Powered by
CALIFORNIA PERCHLORATE Gracenote” logo are
ADVISORY trademarks of
Some vehicle parts, such as lithium batter- Gracenote.
ies, may contain perchlorate material. The
following advisory is provided: “Perchlorate
Material – special handling may apply, See
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate/”. © 2011 NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
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 North America, Inc.

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 The Consumer Affairs Department will ask for the You can write to NISSAN with the information at:
dealer cannot assist you with or you would like to following information:
For U.S. customers
provide NISSAN directly with comments or Nissan North America, Inc.
– Your name, address, and telephone number
questions, please contact the NISSAN Con- Consumer Affairs Department
sumer Affairs Department using our toll-free – Vehicle identification number (attached to the P.O. Box 685003
number: top of the instrument panel on the driver’s Franklin, TN 37068-5003
side)
For U.S. customers For Canadian customers
1-800-NISSAN-1 – Date of purchase Nissan Canada Inc.
(1-800-647-7261) 5290 Orbitor Drive
– Current odometer reading
Mississauga, Ontario L4W 4Z5
For Canadian customers
– Your NISSAN dealer’s name
1-800-387-0122 or via e-mail at:
– Your comments or questions
For U.S. customers
OR nnaconsumeraffairs@nissan-usa.com
For Canadian customers
information.centre@nissancanada.com

We appreciate your interest in NISSAN and thank you for buying a quality NISSAN vehicle.

Table of Illustrated table of contents 0
Contents Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1
Instruments and controls 2
Pre-driving checks and adjustments 3
Monitor, climate, audio, phone and voice recognition systems 4
Starting and driving 5
In case of emergency 6
Appearance and care 7
Maintenance and do-it-yourself 8
Technical and consumer information 9
Index 10

0 Illustrated table of contents

Air bags, seat belts and child restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-2 Instrument panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-6
Exterior front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-3 Engine compartment check locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-8
Exterior rear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-4 Warning/indicator lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-9
Passenger compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-5

AIR BAGS, SEAT BELTS AND CHILD
RESTRAINTS

1. Top tether strap anchor (P. 1-33)
2. Head restraints (P. 1-7)
3. Rear seat belts (P. 1-11)
4. Roof-mounted curtain side-impact
supplemental air bag (P. 1-37)
5. Front seat-mounted side-impact
supplemental air bags (P. 1-37)
6. Head Restraints (P. 1-7)
7. Front seat belts (P. 1-11)
8. Supplemental front-impact air bags
(P. 1-37)
9. Seats (P. 1-2)
10. Occupant classification sensor
(pattern sensor) (P.1-44)
11. Seat belts with pretensioners (P. 1-50)
12. LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for
CHildren) system (P. 1-21)
See the page number indicated in paren-
theses for operating details.

LII0065

0-2 Illustrated table of contents

EXTERIOR FRONT

1. Engine hood (P. 3-18)
2. Windshield wiper and washer switch
(P. 2-28)
3. Windshield (P. 8-19)
4. Moonroof (if so equipped) (P. 2-46)
5. Power windows (P. 2-43)
6. Door locks, NISSAN Intelligent Key™,
keys, request button
(P. 3-4, 3-2, 3-2, 3-2)
7. Mirrors (P. 3-26)
8. Tire pressure (P. 8-32)
9. Flat tire (P. 6-2)
10. Tire chains (P. 8-40)
11. Headlight and turn signal switch
(P. 2-29)
12. Replacing bulbs (P. 8-30)
13. Fog light switch (if so equipped)
(P. 8-27)

WII0155

Illustrated table of contents 0-3

EXTERIOR REAR

1. Rear window defroster switch (P. 2-29)
2. Interior trunk lid release (P. 3-20)
3. Trunk lid (P. 3-18)
4. Vehicle loading (P. 9-12)
5. Exterior trunk lid release/request button
(P. 3-13)
6. Replacing bulbs (P. 8-30)
7. Fuel-filler cap, fuel recommendation
(P. 3-21, P. 9-3)
8. Fuel-filler door (P. 3-21)
9. Child safety rear door locks (P. 3-6)

WII0156


PASSENGER COMPARTMENT

1. Interior trunk access (P. 1-5)
2. Moonroof (if so equipped) (P. 2-46)
3. Sun visors (P. 3-25)
4. Interior lights, illuminated entry (P. 2-51)
5. HomeLinkா universal transceiver
(if so equipped) (P. 2-53)
6. Interior mirrors (P. 3-26)
7. Glove box (P. 2-41)
8. Cup holders (P. 2-40)
9. Console box (P. 2-42)
10. Front seat (P. 1-2)
11. Rear seat (P. 1-5)

WII0126


INSTRUMENT PANEL

8. Shift paddles (if so equipped) (P. 5-15)
9. Windshield wiper/washer switch
(P. 2-28)
10. Display screen/Navigation system*
11. Display screen/Navigation system*
controls (if so equipped) (P. 4-16)
12. Front passenger supplemental air bag
(P. 1-51)
13. Glove box (P. 2-41)
14. Display screen (models without
Navigation system) (P. 4-4)
15. Climate controls (models without
avigation system) (P. 4-41)
16. Audio system controls (models without
Navigation system) (P. 4-47)
17. Front passenger air bag status light
(P. 1-44)
18. Audio system controls (P. 4-47)
19. Climate controls (models with
WIC1535 Navigation system) (P. 4-44)
1. Side and center vents (P. 4-40) 4. Meters and gauges (P. 2-3) 20. Shift selector (P. 5-11)
2. Headlight/fog light (if so equipped)/turn 5. Driver supplemental air bag/horn 21. Hazard warning flasher switch (P. 2-34)
signal switch (P. 2-29) (P. 1-37, P. 2-35) 22. Ignition switch (behind the steering
3. Steering wheel switch for audio control 6. Security indicator light (P. 2-25) wheel) (P. 5-7)
and Bluetoothா Hands-Free Phone 7. Cruise control main/set switches 23. Tilt/telescopic steering wheel controls
System (P. 4-113, 4-116) (P. 5-18) (if so equipped) (P. 3-23)


24. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) OFF
switch (P. 2-38)
Outside mirror controls (P. 3-28)
Heated steering wheel switch
Trunk lid release switch (P. 3-20)
* Refer to the separate Navigation System Own-
er’s Manual (if so equipped).


ENGINE COMPARTMENT CHECK
LOCATIONS

1. Power steering fluid reservoir (P. 8-12)
2. Engine oil filler cap (P. 8-9)
3. Brake fluid reservoir (P. 8-13)
4. Air cleaner (P. 8-18)
5. Fuse block (P. 8-21)
6. Battery (P. 8-14)
7. Fuse/fusible link box (P. 8-21)
8. Engine oil dipstick (P. 8-9)
9. Radiator cap (P. 8-7)
10. Drive belt location (P.8-17)
11. Engine coolant reservoir * (P. 8-7)
12. Windshield-washer fluid reservoir *
(P. 8-14)
NOTE:
* Side covers removed for clarity.

WDI0662


WARNING/INDICATOR LIGHTS

Warning Name Page Warning Name Page Indicator Name Page
light light light

Anti-lock Braking 2-11 Seat belt warning 2-13 High beam indicator 2-15
System (ABS) light and chime light (blue)
or warning light
Supplemental air 2-14 Malfunction Indica- 2-15
bag warning light tor Light (MIL)

Brake warning light 2-11 Indicator Name Page Security indicator 2-15
light light
or
Continuously Vari- 2-14 Side light and head- 2-16
able Transmission light indicator light
(CVT) indicator light (green)
Charge warning 2-11 Continuously Vari- 2-10 Slip indicator light 2-16
light able Transmission
(CVT) position indi-
Engine oil pressure 2-12
cator light Turn signal/hazard 2-16
warning light
indicator lights
Cruise main switch 2-14
Low tire pressure 2-12 indicator light
warning light Vehicle Dynamic 2-16
Control OFF indica-
Front passenger air 2-14
Master warning light 2-13 tor light
bag status light


MEMO


1 Safety—Seats, seat belts and
supplemental restraint system

Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2 LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for
Front power seat adjustment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 CHildren) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
Folding rear seat (if so equipped). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5 Rear-facing child restraint installation using
Head restraints. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7 LATCH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23
Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11 Rear-facing child restraint installation using
Precautions on seat belt usage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11 the seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
Pregnant women . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14 Forward-facing child restraint installation
Injured persons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14 using LATCH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
Three-point type seat belt with retractor . . . . . . . . . . 1-14 Forward-facing child restraint installation
Seat belt extenders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17 using the seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29
Seat belt maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17 Installing top tether strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33
Child safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17 Booster seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33
Infants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18 Supplemental restraint system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-37
Small children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18 Precautions on supplemental restraint
Larger children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18 system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-37
Child restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19 Supplemental air bag warning labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-51
Precautions on child restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19 Supplemental air bag warning light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-51

SEATS

● The seatback should not be reclined
any more than needed for comfort. Seat
belts are most effective when the pas-
senger sits well back and straight up in
the seat. If the seatback is reclined, the
risk of sliding under the lap belt and
being injured is increased.

CAUTION
When adjusting the seat positions, be
sure not to contact any moving parts to
avoid possible injuries and/or damage.

ARS1152

WARNING ● For the most effective protection when
the vehicle is in motion, the seat should
● Do not ride in a moving vehicle when
be upright. Always sit well back in the
the seatback is reclined. This can be
seat with both feet on the floor and
dangerous. The shoulder belt will not
adjust the seat properly. See “Precau-
be against your body. In an accident,
tions on seat belt usage” later in this
you could be thrown into it and receive
section.
neck or other serious injuries. You
could also slide under the lap belt and ● After adjustment, gently rock in the seat
receive serious internal injuries. to make sure it is securely locked.
● Do not leave children unattended inside
the vehicle. They could unknowingly ac-
tivate switches or controls. Unattended
children could become involved in seri-
ous accidents.

1-2 Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system

The reclining feature allows adjustment of the
seatback for occupants of different sizes for
added comfort and to help obtain proper seat
belt fit. See “Precautions on seat belt usage” later
in this section. Also, the seatback can be reclined
to allow occupants to rest when the vehicle is
stopped and the shift selector is in P (Park).

WRS0860

FRONT POWER SEAT ADJUSTMENT Forward and backward
Operating tips Moving the switch forward or backward will slide
the seat forward or backward to the desired
● The power seat motor has an auto-reset position.
overload protection circuit. If the motor
stops during operation, wait 30 seconds, Reclining
then reactivate the switch. Move the recline switch backward until the de-
● Do not operate the power seat switch for a sired angle is obtained. To bring the seatback
long period of time when the engine is off. forward again, move the switch forward and
move your body forward. The seatback will move
This will discharge the battery.
forward.
See “Automatic drive positioner” in “Pre-driving
checks and adjustments” for automatic drive po-
sitioner operation.

Safety—Seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system 1-3

WRS0861 LRS0862 LRS0238

Seat lifter (driver’s seat) Manual (if so equipped) Power (if so equipped)
Lumbar support (driver’s seat)
Push the front or rear end of the switch up or
down to adjust the angle and height of the seat The lumbar support feature provides lower back
cushion. support to the driver. Move the lever up or down
(manual) or move the switch forward or backward
(power) to adjust the seat lumbar area.


Interior trunk access
For models without a rear center console, the
trunk can be accessed from the passenger side
of the rear seat for loading and unloading, as
shown.
᭺
1 Press down on the button on the rear parcel
shelf.
᭺
2 Fold down the passenger side seatback.

WARNING
● Never allow anyone to ride in the cargo
area or on the rear seat when it is in the
LRS0863
fold-down position. Use of these areas
Thigh extension (driver’s side only, if by passengers without proper restraints
so equipped) could result in serious injury in an acci-
dent or sudden stop.
Pull up and hold the lever to extend the front
portion to the desired position. ● Properly secure all cargo with ropes or
straps to help prevent it from sliding or
shifting. Do not place cargo higher than
the seatbacks. In a sudden stop or col-
WRS0866 lision, unsecured cargo could cause
personal injury.
FOLDING REAR SEAT (if so
equipped)


● When returning the seatbacks to the
upright position, be certain they are
completely secured in the latched posi-
tion. If they are not completely secured,
passengers may be injured in an acci-
dent or sudden stop.
● Closely supervise children when they
are around cars to prevent them from
playing and becoming locked in the
trunk where they could be seriously in-
jured. Keep the car locked, with the rear
seatback and trunk lid securely latched
when not in use, and prevent children’s
access to car keys. WRS0867 LPD0459
To fold down the driver side of the rear seat, reach Secondary trunk lid release (if so
through the opening and pull on the strap ᭺ 1
equipped)
located behind the seat.
For models with a rear center console, the trunk
The rear seats can be locked using the mechani- can be accessed through the access panel be-
cal key to prevent unauthorized access. tween the rear seats, as shown.
● Fold down the center arm rest.
● Insert the mechanical key into the trunk com-
partment access lid lock. Fold down the
trunk compartment access lid. For more in-
formation on the mechanical key, see
“NISSAN Intelligent Key™” in the Pre-driving
checks and adjustments chapter.
● Pull the rear seat trunk release handle ᭺.
1


HEAD RESTRAINTS
WARNING
Head restraints supplement the other ve-
hicle safety systems. They may provide
additional protection against injury in cer-
tain rear end collisions. Adjust the head
restraints properly, as specified in this
section. Check the adjustment after
someone else uses the seat. Do not attach
anything to the head restraint stalks or
remove the head restraint. Do not use the
seat if the head restraint has been re-
WRS0868
moved. If the head restraint was removed, LRS2000
reinstall and properly adjust the head re-
Center armrest straint before an occupant uses the seat- The illustration shows the seating positions
ing position. Failure to follow these in- equipped with head restraints. All of the head
Pull the armrest down until it is horizontal. restraints are adjustable.
structions can reduce the effectiveness of
the head restraints. This may increase the ᭡ Indicates the seating position is equipped with
risk of serious injury or death in a a head restraint.
collision.
+ Indicates the seating position is not equipped
with a head restraint.


LRS0887 WRS0134 LRS0888
Components Adjustment To raise the head restraint, pull it up.
1. Head restraint Adjust the head restraint so the center is level
with the center of the seat occupant’s ears.
2. Adjustment notches
3. Lock knob
4. Stalks


LRS0889 LRS0890 LRS0891
To lower, push and hold the lock knob and push Removal Install
the head restraint down.
Use the following procedure to remove the ad- 1. Align the head restraint stalks with the holes
justable head restraints. in the seat. Make sure the head restraint is
facing the correct direction. The stalk with
1. Pull the head restraint up to the highest
the adjustment notches ᭺ must be installed
1
position.
in the hole with the lock knob ᭺.2
2. Push and hold the lock knob.
2. Push and hold the lock knob and push the
3. Remove the head restraint from the seat. head restraint down.
4. Store the head restraint properly so it is not 3. Properly adjust the head restraint before an
loose in the vehicle. occupant uses the seating position.
5. Reinstall and properly adjust the head re-
straint before an occupant uses the seating
position.


Active Head Restraints operate only in certain
rear-end collisions. After the collision, the head
restraints return to their original position.
Adjust the Active Head Restraints properly as
described in this section.

SPA1025
Front-seat Active Head Restraints
The Active Head Restraint moves forward utiliz-
ing the force that the seatback receives from the
occupant in a rear-end collision. The movement
of the head restraint helps support the occu-
pant’s head by reducing its backward movement
and helping absorb some of the forces that may
lead to whiplash-type injuries.
Active Head Restraints are effective for collisions
at low to medium speeds in which it is said that
whiplash injury occurs most.


SEAT BELTS

SSS0136
PRECAUTIONS ON SEAT BELT
USAGE
If you are wearing your seat belt properly ad-
justed and you are sitting upright and well back in
your seat with both feet on the floor, 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 supple-
mental air bag.
Most U.S. states and Canadian provinces
or territories specify that seat belts be worn
at all times when a vehicle is being driven.


SSS0134 SSS0016

WARNING WARNING
● Every person who drives or rides in this ● The seat belt should be properly ad-
vehicle should use a seat belt at all justed to a snug fit. Failure to do so may
times. Children should be properly re- reduce the effectiveness of the entire
strained in the rear seat and, if appro- restraint system and increase the
priate, in a child restraint. chance or severity of injury in an acci-
dent. Serious injury or death can occur
if the seat belt is not worn properly.


● Be sure the seat belt tongue is securely ● Once a seat belt pretensioner has acti-
fastened to the proper buckle. vated, it cannot be reused and must be
replaced together with the retractor.
● Do not wear the seat belt inside out or
See your NISSAN dealer.
twisted. Doing so may reduce its
effectiveness. ● Removal and installation of preten-
sioner system components should be
● Do not allow more than one person to
done by a NISSAN dealer.
use the same seat belt.
● All seat belt assemblies, including re-
● Never carry more people in the vehicle
tractors and attaching hardware,
than there are seat belts.
should be inspected after any collision
● If the seat belt warning light glows con- by a NISSAN dealer. NISSAN recom-
tinuously while the ignition is placed in mends that all seat belt assemblies in
the ON position with all doors closed use during a collision be replaced un-
SSS0014 and all seat belts fastened, it may indi- less the collision was minor and the
cate a malfunction in the system. Have belts show no damage and continue to
WARNING the system checked by a NISSAN operate properly. Seat belt assemblies
● Always route the shoulder belt over dealer. not in use during a collision should also
your shoulder and across your chest. ● No changes should be made to the seat be inspected and replaced if either
Never put the belt behind your back, belt system. For example, do not modify damage or improper operation is noted.
under your arm or across your neck. The the seat belt, add material, or install ● All child restraints and attaching hard-
belt should be away from your face and devices that may change the seat belt ware should be inspected after any col-
neck, but not falling off your shoulder. routing or tension. Doing so may affect lision. Always follow the restraint
● Position the lap belt as low and snug as the operation of the seat belt system. manufacturer’s inspection instructions
possible AROUND THE HIPS, NOT THE Modifying or tampering with the seat and replacement recommendations.
WAIST. A lap belt worn too high could belt system may result in serious per- The child restraints should be replaced
increase the risk of internal injuries in sonal injury. if they are damaged.
an accident.


PREGNANT WOMEN THREE-POINT TYPE SEAT BELT
NISSAN recommends that pregnant women use WITH RETRACTOR
seat belts. The seat belt should be worn snug and
always position the lap belt as low as possible WARNING
around the hips, not the waist. Place the shoulder ● Every person who drives or rides in this
belt over your shoulder and across your chest. vehicle should use a seat belt at all
Never run the lap/shoulder belt over your ab- times.
dominal area. Contact your doctor for specific
recommendations. ● Do not ride in a moving vehicle when
the seatback is reclined. This can be
INJURED PERSONS dangerous. The shoulder belt will not
be against your body. In an accident,
NISSAN recommends that injured persons use
you could be thrown into it and receive
seat belts. Check with your doctor for specific
neck or other serious injuries. You
recommendations. WRS0864
could also slide under the lap belt and
receive serious internal injuries. Front seat shown
● For the most effective protection when Fastening the seat belts
the vehicle is in motion, the seat should
be upright. Always sit well back in the
᭺
1 Adjust the seat. See “Seats” earlier in this
section.
seat with both feet on the floor and
adjust the seat belt properly.


The Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) mode
allows the seat belt to extend and retract to allow
the driver and passengers some freedom of
movement in the seat. The ELR locks the seat belt
when the vehicle slows down rapidly or during
certain impacts.
The Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode
(child restraint mode) locks the seat belt for child
restraint installation.
When the ALR mode is activated, the seat belt
cannot be extended again until the seat belt
tongue is detached from the buckle and fully
retracted. The seat belt returns to the ELR mode
WRS0137 WRS0138 after the seat belt fully retracts. See “Child re-
᭺
2 Slowly pull the seat belt out of the retractor ᭺
3 Position the lap belt portion low and snug straints” later in this section for more information.
and insert the tongue into the buckle until on the hips as shown. The ALR mode should be used only for
you hear and feel the latch engage.
᭺
4 Pull the shoulder belt portion toward the child restraint installation. During normal
seat belt use by an occupant, the ALR mode
● The retractor is designed to lock dur- retractor to take up extra slack. Be sure the
ing a sudden stop or on impact. A shoulder belt is routed over your shoulder should not be activated. If it is activated, it
slow pulling motion permits the seat and across your chest. may cause uncomfortable seat belt ten-
belt to move, and allows you some sion.
The front passenger seat and the rear seating
freedom of movement in the seat.
positions three-point seat belts have two modes WARNING
● If the seat belt cannot be pulled from of operation:
its fully retracted position, firmly pull When fastening the seat belts, be certain
● Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) that the seatbacks are completely se-
the belt and release it. Then
smoothly pull the belt out of the re- ● Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) cured in the latched position. If they are
tractor. not completely secured, passengers may
be injured in an accident or sudden stop.


To increase your confidence in the seat belts,
check the operation as follows:
● Grasp the shoulder belt and pull forward
quickly. The retractor should lock and re-
strict further belt movement.
If the retractor does not lock during this check or
if you have any questions about seat belt opera-
tion, see a NISSAN dealer.

WRS0139 LRS0242
Unfastening the seat belts Shoulder belt height adjustment (front
᭺
1 To unfasten the seat belt, press the button on seats)
the buckle. The seat belt automatically re- The shoulder belt anchor height should be ad-
tracts. justed to the position best for you. See “Precau-
Checking seat belt operation tions on seat belt usage” earlier in this section. To
adjust, pull out the adjustment button ᭺ and 1
Seat belt retractors are designed to lock seat belt move the shoulder belt anchor to the desired
movement by two separate methods: position ᭺, so the belt passes over the center of
2
● When the seat belt is pulled quickly from the the shoulder. The belt should be away from your
retractor. face and neck, but not falling off your shoulder.
Release the adjustment button to lock the shoul-
● When the vehicle slows down rapidly.
der belt anchor into position.


CHILD SAFETY

● Adults and children who can use the Children need adults to help protect them.
WARNING
standard seat belt should not use an They need to be properly restrained.
● After adjustment, release the adjust- extender. Such unnecessary use could
ment button and try to move the shoul- In addition to the general information in this
result in serious personal injury in the manual, child safety information is available from
der belt anchor up and down to make event of an accident.
sure it is securely fixed in position. many other sources, including doctors, teachers,
● Never use seat belt extenders to install government traffic safety offices, and community
● The shoulder belt anchor height should child restraints. If the child restraint is organizations. Every child is different, so be sure
be adjusted to the position best for you. not secured properly, the child could be to learn the best way to transport your child.
Failure to do so may reduce the effec- seriously injured in a collision or a sud-
tiveness of the entire restraint system den stop. There are three basic types of child restraint
and increase the chance or severity of systems:
injury in an accident. SEAT BELT MAINTENANCE ● Rear-facing child restraint
SEAT BELT EXTENDERS ● To clean the seat belt webbing, apply a
mild soap solution or any solution recom- ● Forward-facing child restraint
If, because of body size or driving position, it is mended for cleaning upholstery or carpet. ● Booster seat
not possible to properly fit the lap/shoulder belt Then wipe with a cloth and allow the seat belts
and fasten it, an extender that is compatible with to dry in the shade. Do not allow the seat belts The proper restraint depends on the child’s size.
the installed seat belts is available that can be to retract until they are completely dry. Generally, infants up to about 1 year and less
purchased. The extender adds approximately 8 in than 20 lbs (9 kg) should be placed in rear-facing
● If dirt builds up in the shoulder belt
(200 mm) of length and may be used for either guide of the seat belt anchors, the seat child restraints. Forward-facing child restraints
the driver or front passenger seating position. belts may retract slowly. Wipe the shoulder are available for children who outgrow rear-
See a NISSAN dealer for assistance with pur- belt guide with a clean, dry cloth. facing child restraints and are at least 1 year old.
chasing an extender if an extender is required. Booster seats are used to help position a vehicle
● Periodically check to see that the seat lap/shoulder belt on a child who can no longer
belt and the metal components, such as use a forward-facing child restraint.
WARNING buckles, tongues, retractors, flexible wires
● Only NISSAN seat belt extenders, made and anchors, work properly. If loose parts,
by the same company which made the deterioration, cuts or other damage on the
original equipment seat belts, should webbing is found, the entire seat belt as-
be used with NISSAN seat belts. sembly should be replaced.


tem (air bag system) for the front passen- restraint that fits your vehicle and always follow
WARNING
ger. See “Supplemental restraint system” the manufacturer’s instructions for installation
Infants and children need special protec- later in this section. and use.
tion. The vehicle’s seat belts may not fit
them properly. The shoulder belt may INFANTS LARGER CHILDREN
come too close to the face or neck. The
Infants up to at least 1 year old should be placed Children who are too large for child restraints
lap belt may not fit over their small hip
bones. In an accident, an improperly fit- in a rear-facing child restraint. NISSAN recom- should be seated and restrained by the seat belts
ting seat belt could cause serious or fatal mends that infants be placed in child restraints which are provided. The seat belt may not fit
injury. Always use appropriate child that comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety properly if the child is less than 4 ft 9 in (142.5
restraints. Standards or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety cm) tall and weighs between 40 lbs (18 kg) and
Standards. You should choose a child restraint 80 lbs (36 kg). A booster seat should be used to
All U.S. states and Canadian provinces or terri- that fits your vehicle and always follow the manu- obtain proper seat belt fit.
tories require the use of approved child restraints facturer’s instructions for installation and use.
for infants and small children. See “Child re- NISSAN recommends that a child be placed in a
straints” later in this section. SMALL CHILDREN commercially available booster seat if the shoul-
der belt fits close to the face or neck or if the lap
A child restraint may be secured in the vehicle by Children that are over 1 year old and weigh at portion of the seat belt goes across the abdo-
using either the LATCH (Lower Anchor and Teth- least 20 lbs (9 kg) should remain in a rear-facing men. The booster seat should raise the child so
ers for CHildren) system or with the vehicle seat child restraint as long as possible up to the height that the shoulder belt is properly positioned
belt. See the “Child restraints” section for more or weight limit of the child restraint. Forward- across the top, middle portion of the shoulder
information. facing child restraints are available for children and the lap belt is low on the hips. A booster seat
who outgrow rear-facing child restraints and are can only be used in seating positions that have a
NISSAN recommends that all pre-teens at least 1 year old. Refer to the manufacturer’s
and children be restrained in the rear seat. three-point type seat belt. The booster seat
instructions for minimum and maximum weight should fit the vehicle seat and have a label certi-
Studies show that children are safer when and height recommendations. NISSAN recom-
properly restrained in the rear seat than in fying that it complies with Federal Motor Vehicle
mends that small children be placed in child Safety Standards or Canadian Motor Vehicle
the front seat. restraints that comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Once the child has grown so
This is especially important because your Safety Standards or Canadian Motor Vehicle the shoulder belt is no longer on or near the face
vehicle has a supplemental restraint sys- Safety Standards. You should choose a child and neck, use the shoulder belt without the
booster seat.

CHILD RESTRAINTS

WARNING
Never let a child stand or kneel on any
seat and do not allow a child in the cargo
area. The child could be seriously injured
or killed in a sudden stop or collision.

ARS1098 WRS0256
PRECAUTIONS ON CHILD WARNING
RESTRAINTS
● Failure to follow the warnings and in-
structions for proper use and installa-
tion of child restraints could result in
serious injury or death of a child or
other passengers in a sudden stop or
collision:
– The child restraint must be used and
installed properly. Always follow all
of the child restraint manufacturer’s
instructions for installation and use.


– Infants and children should never be – Child restraint anchor points are de- This vehicle is equipped with a universal child
held on anyone’s lap. Even the stron- signed to withstand loads from child restraint anchor system, referred to as the LATCH
gest adult cannot resist the forces of restraints that are properly fitted. (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) sys-
a collision. tem. Some child restraints include rigid or
– Never use the anchor points for adult webbing-mounted attachments that can be con-
– Do not put a seat belt around both a seat belts or harnesses. nected to these anchors. For details, see “LATCH
child and another passenger.
– A child restraint with a top tether (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) sys-
– NISSAN recommends that all child strap should not be used in the front tem” later in this section.
restraints be installed in the rear passenger seat.
seat. Studies show that children are If you do not have a LATCH compatible child
– Keep seatbacks as upright as pos- restraint, the vehicle seat belts can be used.
safer when properly restrained in the
sible after fitting the child restraint.
rear seat than in the front seat. If you Several manufacturers offer child restraints for
must install a forward-facing child – Infants and children should always infants and children of various sizes. When se-
restraint in the front seat, see be placed in an appropriate child re- lecting any child restraint, keep the following
“Forward-facing child restraint in- straint while in the vehicle.
points in mind:
stallation using the seat belts” later ● When the child restraint is not in use,
in this section. keep it secured with the LATCH system ● Choose only a restraint with a label certifying
– Even with the NISSAN Advanced Air or a seat belt. In a sudden stop or colli- that it complies with Federal Motor Vehicle
Bag System, never install a rear- sion, loose objects can injure occu- Safety Standard 213 or Canadian Motor
facing child restraint in the front pants or damage the vehicle. Vehicle Safety Standard 213.
seat. An inflating air bag could seri- ● Check the child restraint in your vehicle to be
ously injure or kill a child. A rear- CAUTION sure it is compatible with the vehicle’s seat
facing child restraint must only be and seat belt system.
used in the rear seat. A child restraint in a closed vehicle can
become very hot. Check the seating sur-
– Be sure to purchase a child restraint face and buckles before placing a child in
that will fit the child and vehicle. the child restraint.
Some child restraints may not fit
properly in your vehicle.


● If the child restraint is compatible with your LATCH lower anchor
vehicle, place your child in the child restraint
and check the various adjustments to be WARNING
sure the child restraint is compatible with
your child. Choose a child restraint that is Failure to follow the warnings and instruc-
designed for your child’s height and weight. tions for proper use and installation of
Always follow all recommended procedures. child restraints could result in serious in-
jury or death of a child or other passen-
All U.S. states and Canadian provinces or gers in a sudden stop or collision:
territories require that infants and small
children be restrained in an approved child – Attach LATCH system compatible
restraint at all times while the vehicle is child restraints only at the locations
being operated. Canadian law requires the shown in the illustration.
top tether strap on forward-facing child – Do not secure a child restraint in the
restraints be secured to the designated an- center rear seating position using
WRS0718
chor point on the vehicle. the LATCH lower anchors. The child
LATCH system lower anchor locations restraint will not be secured properly.
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers – Inspect the lower anchors by insert-
for CHildren) SYSTEM ing your fingers into the lower anchor
Your vehicle is equipped with special anchor area. Feel to make sure there are no
obstructions over the anchors such
points that are used with LATCH (Lower Anchors
as seat belt webbing or seat cushion
and Tethers for CHildren) system compatible
material. The child restraint will not
child restraints. This system may also be referred be secured properly if the lower an-
to as the ISOFIX or ISOFIX compatible system. chors are obstructed.
With this system, you do not have to use a vehicle
seat belt to secure the child restraint.


WRS0700 LRS0661 LRS0662
LATCH lower anchor location LATCH webbing-mounted attachment LATCH rigid-mounted attachment
LATCH lower anchor location Installing child restraint LATCH lower When installing a child restraint, carefully read
and follow the instructions in this manual and
The LATCH lower anchors are located at the rear anchor attachments those supplied with the child restraint.
of the seat cushion near the seatback. A label is LATCH compatible child restraints include two
attached to the seatback to help you locate the rigid or webbing-mounted attachments that can
LATCH lower anchors. be connected to two anchors located at certain
seating positions in your vehicle. With this sys-
tem, you do not have to use a vehicle seat belt to
secure the child restraint. Check your child re-
straint for a label stating that it is compatible with
LATCH. This information may also be in the in-
structions provided by the child restraint manu-
facturer.


REAR-FACING CHILD RESTRAINT
INSTALLATION USING LATCH
Refer to all Warnings and Cautions in the “Child
safety” and “Child restraints” sections before in-
stalling a child restraint.
Follow these steps to install a rear-facing child
restraint using the LATCH system:
1. Position the child restraint on the seat. Al-
ways follow the child restraint manufactur-
er’s instructions.

LRS0243 WRS0801

Top tether anchor point locations Rear-facing web-mounted – step 2
2. Secure the child restraint anchor attach-
The child restraint top tether strap must be used ments to the LATCH lower anchors. Check
when installing the child restraint with the LATCH to make sure the LATCH attachment is prop-
lower anchor attachments or seat belts. See “In- erly attached to the lower anchors.
stalling top tether strap” later in this section.
If you have any questions when installing a
top tether strap child restraint on the rear
seat, consult your NISSAN dealer for de-
tails.
Anchor points ᭺ are located on the rear parcel
1
shelf.


WRS0802 LRS0673 LRS0674
Rear-facing rigid-mounted – step 2 Rear-facing – step 3 Rear-facing – step 4
3. For child restraints that are equipped with 4. After attaching the child restraint, test it be-
webbing-mounted attachments, remove any fore you place the child in it. Push it from side
additional slack from the anchor attach- to side while holding the child restraint near
ments. Press downward and rearward firmly the LATCH attachment path. The child re-
in the center of the child restraint with your straint should not move more than 1 inch (25
hand to compress the vehicle seat cushion mm), from side to side. Try to tug it forward
and seatback while tightening the webbing and check to see if the LATCH attachment
of the anchor attachments. holds the restraint in place. If the restraint is
not secure, tighten the LATCH attachment as
necessary, or put the restraint in another seat
and test it again. You may need to try a
different child restraint or try installing by
using the vehicle seat belt (if applicable). Not
all child restraints fit in all types of vehicles.

5. Check to make sure the child restraint is
WARNING
properly secured prior to each use. If the
child restraint is loose, repeat steps 1 The three-point seat belt with Automatic
through 4. Locking Retractor (ALR) must be used
when installing a child restraint. Failure to
use the ALR mode will result in the child
restraint not being properly secured. The
restraint could tip over or be loose and
cause injury to a child in a sudden stop or
collision. Also, it can change the opera-
tion of the front passenger air bag. See
“Front passenger air bag and status light”
later in this section.

WRS0256

REAR-FACING CHILD RESTRAINT
INSTALLATION USING THE SEAT
BELTS


WRS0256 WRS0761 LRS0669
Rear-facing – step 1 Rear-facing – step 2 Rear-facing – step 3
Refer to all Warnings and Cautions in the “Child 2. Route the seat belt tongue through the child 3. Pull the shoulder belt until the belt is fully
safety” and “Child restraints” sections before in- restraint and insert it into the buckle until you extended. At this time, the seat belt retractor
stalling a child restraint. hear and feel the latch engage. Be sure to is in the Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR)
Follow these steps to install a rear-facing child follow the child restraint manufacturer’s in- mode (child restraint mode). It reverts to the
restraint using the vehicle seat belts in the rear structions for belt routing. Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) mode
seats: when the seat belt is fully retracted.

1. Child restraints for infants must be
used in the rear-facing direction and
therefore must not be used in the front
seat. Position the child restraint on the seat.
Always follow the restraint manufacturer’s
instructions.


LRS0670 WRS0762 WRS0763
Rear-facing – step 4 Rear-facing – step 5 Rear-facing – step 6
4. Allow the seat belt to retract. Pull up on the 5. Remove any additional slack from the seat 6. After attaching the child restraint, test it be-
shoulder belt to remove any slack in the belt. belt; press downward and rearward firmly in fore you place the child in it. Push it from side
the center of the child restraint to compress to side while holding the child restraint near
the vehicle seat cushion and seatback while the seat belt path. The child restraint should
pulling up on the seat belt. not move more than 1 inch (25 mm), from
side to side. Try to tug it forward and check
to see if the belt holds the restraint in place.
If the restraint is not secure, tighten the seat
belt as necessary, or put the restraint in
another seat and test it again. You may need
to try a different child restraint. Not all child
restraints fit in all types of vehicles.


7. Check to make sure that the child restraint is
properly secured prior to each use. If the
seat belt is not locked, repeat steps 1
through 6.
After the child restraint is removed and the seat
belt fully retracted, the ALR mode (child restraint
mode) is canceled.
FORWARD-FACING CHILD
RESTRAINT INSTALLATION USING
LATCH
Refer to all Warnings and Cautions in the “Child
safety” and “Child restraints” sections before in-
stalling a child restraint. WRS0799 WRS0800
Forward-facing web-mounted – step 2 Forward-facing rigid-mounted – step 2
Follow these steps to install a forward-facing
child restraint using the LATCH system: 2. Secure the child restraint anchor attach- 3. The back of the child restraint should be
ments to the LATCH lower anchors. Check secured against the vehicle seatback.
1. Position the child restraint on the seat. Al- to make sure the LATCH attachment is prop-
ways follow the child restraint manufactur- If necessary, adjust or remove the head re-
erly attached to the lower anchors. straint to obtain the correct child restraint fit. If
er’s instructions.
If the child restraint is equipped with a top the head restraint is removed, store it in a
tether strap, route the top tether strap and secure place. Be sure to reinstall the head
secure the tether strap to the tether anchor restraint when the child restraint is re-
point. See “Installing top tether strap” in this moved. See “Head restraints” in this section
for head restraint adjustment information.
section. Do not install child restraints that
require the use of a top tether strap in seat- If the seating position does not have an
ing positions that do not have a top tether adjustable head restraint and it is interfering
anchor. with the proper child restraint fit, try another
seating position or a different child restraint.


2012 MAXIMA OWNER'S MANUAL

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2012 MAXIMA OWNER'S MANUAL