2002 Nissan Sentra Owner's Manual - Page 132

COLD WEATHER DRIVING FREEING A FROZEN DOOR LOCK To prevent a door lock from freezing, apply de-icer or glycerin through the key hole. If the lock becomes frozen, heat the key before inserting it in the key hole. opening the drain valves located under the radiator and on the engine block. Refill before operating the vehicle. See ''Changing engine coolant'' in the ''Maintenance and do-it-yourself'' section of this manual. 3. Tire chains may be used. Make sure they are of proper size for the tires on your 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 TEMPORARY USE ONLY spare tires. Do not use tire chains on dry roads. TIRE EQUIPMENT 1. SUMMER tires are of a tread design 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, most 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. ANTI-FREEZE In the winter when it is anticipated that the temperature will drop below 32°F (0°C), check the anti-freeze (ethylene glycol base) to assure proper winter protection. For details, see ''Engine cooling system'' in the ''Maintenance and do-it-yourself'' section of this manual. BATTERY If the battery is not fully charged during extremely cold weather conditions, the battery fluid may freeze and damage the battery. To maintain maximum efficiency, the battery should be checked regularly. For details, see ''Battery'' in the ''Maintenance and do-it-yourself'' section of this manual. DRAINING OF COOLANT If the vehicle is to be left outside without anti-freeze, drain the cooling system by Starting and driving 5-21