1998 Nissan Altima Owner's Manual - Page 126

before operating the vehicle. See ''Changing engine coolant'' in the ''Do-it-yourself'' section. vehicle and are installed according to the chain manufacturer's suggestions. Use of tire chains may be prohibited according to location. Check the local laws before installing tire chains. When installing tire chains, make sure they are of proper size for the tires on your vehicle and are installed according to the chain manufacturer's suggestions. Use only SAE Class ''S'' chains. Other types may damage your vehicle. Use chain tensioners when recommended by the tire chain manufacturer to ensure a tight fit. Loose end links of the tire chain must be secured or removed to prevent the possibility of whipping action damage to the fenders or underbody. If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle when using tire chains. In addition, drive at a reduced speed. Otherwise, your vehicle may be damaged and/or vehicle handling and performance may be adversely affected. Never install tire chains on T-type spare tires. Do not use tire chains on dry roads. move ice and snow from the windows and wiper blades. 2. A sturdy, flat board to be placed under the jack to give it firm support. 3. A shovel to dig the vehicle out of snowdrifts. 4. Extra window washer fluid to refill the reservoir tank. Tire equipment 1. SUMMER tires have a tread designed to provide superior performance on dry pavement. However, the performance of these tires will be substantially reduced in snowy and icy conditions. If you operate your vehicle on snowy or icy roads, NISSAN recommends the use of MUD & SNOW or ALL SEASON tires on all four wheels. Please consult an authorized NISSAN dealer for the tire type, size, speed rating and availability information. 2. For additional traction on icy roads, studded tires may be used. However, some U.S. States and Canadian Provinces prohibit their use. Check local, state and provincial laws before installing studded tires. Skid and traction capabilities of studded snow tires, on wet or dry surfaces, may be poorer than that of non-studded snow tires. 3. Tire chains may be used. Make sure they are the proper size for the tires on your Driving on snow or ice WARNING ● Wet ice (32°F, 0°C and freezing rain), very cold snow or ice can be slick and very hard to drive on. The vehicle will have a lot less traction or ''grip'' under these conditions. Try to avoid driving on wet ice until the road is salted or sanded. ● Whatever the condition, drive with caution. Accelerate and slow down with care. If accelerating or downshifting too fast, the drive wheels will lose even more traction. Special winter equipment It is recommended that the following items be carried in the vehicle during winter: 1. A scraper and stiff-bristled brush to re- Starting and driving 5-19