1997 Nissan Maxima Owner's Manual - Page 105

PRECAUTIONS WHEN STARTING AND DRIVING ¼ Do not park the vehicle with the engine running for any extended length of time. Do not leave children, unreliable adults, or pets alone in your vehicle. They could accidentally injure themselves or others through inadvertent operation of the vehicle. Also, on hot, sunny days, temperatures in a closed vehicle could quickly become high enough to cause severe or possibly fatal injuries to people or animals. ¼ Keep the trunk lid, or back door closed while driving, otherwise exhaust gases could be drawn into the passenger compartment. If you must drive in this manner for some reason, take the following steps. 1. Open all the windows. 2. Set the air recirculate switch "OFF" and the fan control at "high" to circulate the air. 3. Be sure the rear seat armrest and tray are closed. Do not breathe exhaust gases; they contain colorless and odorless carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is dangerous. It can cause unconsciousness or death. ¼ If you suspect that exhaust fumes are entering the vehicle, drive with all windows fully open, and have the vehicle inspected immediately. ¼ Do not run the engine in closed spaces such as a garage. ¼ If electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass to a trailer through the seal on the trunk lid or the body, follow the manufacturer's recommendation to prevent carbon monoxide entry into the vehicle. ¼ If a special body or other equipment is added for recreational or other usage, follow the manufacturer's recommendation to prevent carbon monoxide entry into the vehicle. (Some recreational vehicle appliances such as stoves, refrigerator, heaters, etc. may also generate carbon monoxide.) ¼ The exhaust system and body should be inspected by a qualified mechanic whenever: a. The vehicle is raised for service. b. You suspect that exhaust fumes are entering into the passenger compartment. c. You notice a change in the sound of the exhaust system. d. You have had an accident involving damage to the exhaust system, underbody, or rear of the vehicle. EXHAUST GAS (Carbon Monoxide) THREE WAY CATALYST The three way catalyst is an emission control device installed in the exhaust system. Exhaust gases in the converter are burned at high temperatures to help reduce pollutants. 4-2