1998 Nissan Altima Owner's Manual - Page 51

Key reminder chime A chime sounds if the driver's door is opened while the key is left in the ignition switch. Remove the key and take it with you when leaving the vehicle. Operation The malfunction indicator light will come on in one of two ways: 1. Malfunction indicator light on steady - An emission control system malfunction has been detected. Have the vehicle inspected by an authorized NISSAN dealer. You do not need to have your vehicle towed to the dealer. 2. Malfunction indicator light blinking - An engine misfire has been detected which may damage the emission control system. To reduce or avoid emission control system damage: ● do not drive at speeds above 45 MPH (72 km/h). ● avoid hard acceleration or deceleration. ● avoid steep uphill grades. ● if possible, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled or towed. The malfunction indicator light may stop blinking and come on steady. Have the vehicle inspected by an authorized NISSAN dealer. You do not need to have your vehicle towed to the dealer. Light reminder chime A chime sounds when the driver's door is opened if the headlight switch is turned on (ignition switch is turned OFF). Turn the headlight switch OFF when leaving the vehicle. CAUTION Continued vehicle operation without having the emission control system checked and repaired as necessary could lead to poor driveability, reduced fuel economy, and possible damage to the emission control system. Some conditions may cause the malfunction indicator light to come on steady or blink. Examples are as follows: ● vehicle ran out of fuel, which caused the engine to misfire. ● fuel filler cap was left off or improperly installed, allowing fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. If you suspect that you experienced one or both of the above conditions, drive the vehicle to an authorized NISSAN dealer and have the vehicle inspected. Avoid any unnecessary diagnosis during the service by informing the dealer of the condition that may have occurred. Malfunction indicator light (MIL) If the malfunction indicator light comes on steady or blinks while the engine is running, it may indicate a potential emission control problem. The malfunction indicator light may also come on steady or blink if the fuel filler cap has not been closed tightly or if the fuel tank is nearly empty. Check to make sure the fuel cap is secure and that you have at least three gallons of fuel in the fuel tank. After driving for a while, the light should remain off if no other potential emission control system problem exists. 2-8 Instruments and controls